Episode Summary This episode centers on the story of David and Goliath and what it reveals about faith that is bigger than fear. I reflect on this familiar scripture with a focus on trusting God rather than relying on strength, experience, or perfection. The moment David stands before Goliath is explored through the lens of
Sunday School for Teachers: David And Goliath: Faith Bigger Than Fear Read More »
Episode Summary This special message pauses the usual podcast rhythm to reflect on the end of the first semester and the weight educators carry into winter break. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I speak directly to fellow teachers about the mixed emotions that often surface at this point in the school year, including relief,
A Pause Before Winter Break: Gratitude, Reflection, And Taking Care Of What Matters Read More »
Episode Summary This episode flips the lens on connection in the classroom by focusing on why listening to student interests matters just as much as sharing our own. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on the idea that relationships grow strongest when connection moves in both directions and students feel genuinely known. Gratitude
Listening To Student Interests Matters Just As Much: Why Connection Is A Two Way Street Read More »
Episode Summary This episode explores the power of letting students see the human side of their teacher and why that connection matters so deeply. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how sharing appropriate parts of who we are helps students see us as real people they can trust, not just a title
Let Kids See You’re Human: Why Sharing Your Interests Build Stronger Relationships Read More »
Episode Summary This episode addresses a heavy but necessary truth in education: the fear and responsibility teachers carry in a world shaped by school violence. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I speak openly about how safety concerns quietly follow educators into classrooms, hallways, and daily routines, even when nothing feels immediately wrong. Moments of
The Weight Teachers Carry: Fear, Safety, And Showing Up In A World Of School Shootings Read More »
Episode Summary I share a grounding reminder in this episode that as Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I believe deeply matters for educators: you are not failing just because you cannot fix everything placed in front of you. Teaching has quietly carried impossible expectations, and I want to name that out loud for teachers who
You Don’t Have To Fix Everything To Make A Difference Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on the reality that while school breaks are joyful for many students, they can be difficult and even destabilizing for others. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about why school often serves as a safe, predictable place where students feel seen, fed, regulated, and cared for.
School Is A Safe Place And Breaks Aren’t Always Easy For Every Kid Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on the story of Esther and what it means for teachers who find themselves in moments that feel uncomfortable, risky, or uncertain. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explore how faith is not just something we talk about on Sundays, but something we live out Monday through
Sunday School or Teachers: Esther: For Such A Time As This Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about why kids don’t learn when adults are out of sync and how our energy sets the emotional tone of the classroom before any lesson even begins. I explain how students absorb who we are in the moment, not just what we say, and why our presence matters
Kids Don’t Learn When Adults Are Out Of Sync: Why Your Energy Sets The Tone Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I talk about what students truly remember from their time in school and why it’s not the curriculum, worksheets, or benchmark tests that stay with them. I explain how students remember moments, emotions, and how they felt in our classrooms long after specific lessons fade. I share reflections on gratitude,
What Students Really Remember: Hint It’s Not The Curriculum Read More »