Be A Funky Teacher

Podcast Episodes

Classroom Systems And Procedures: Building Success Through Structure

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on classroom systems and procedures and how structure builds success. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why clear systems are essential for creating a learning environment where students and teachers can focus on learning instead of managing chaos. I begin by sharing gratitude for staying hydrated,

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Celebrating Small Wins, Building A Positive Classroom Culture

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on celebrating small wins as a powerful way to build a positive classroom culture. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how teaching can feel like an endless to-do list and how small celebrations shift our mindset from what’s missing to what’s working. I share personal

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Teacher Tips For Parent Phone Calls: Handling Ongoing Misbehavior Constructively

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on teacher tips for parent phone calls and how to handle ongoing misbehavior constructively. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why these conversations matter and how, when done thoughtfully, they can strengthen trust between teachers and families. I begin by sharing gratitude for my kind

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Teacher Collaboration: Building Strong Teams Through Collaborative Meetings

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on the power of teacher collaboration and how strong teams are built through purposeful collaborative meetings. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why teaching can feel isolating and why collaboration is essential for both educators and students. I share personal moments of gratitude, including hugs

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Classroom Routines For The First Weeks Of School: Teacher Tips For Consistency

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on the importance of classroom routines during the first weeks of school and why consistency matters so much. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how routines help students feel safe, supported, and ready to learn while also saving teachers time and energy. I share personal

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Classroom Management Tips: Handling Disrespectful And Talking Out Behavior

Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on classroom management tips for handling disrespectful behavior and students who talk out. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I walk through the reality that every teacher faces challenging behaviors and why how we respond matters more than the behavior itself. I share personal reflections, including gratitude for

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Back To School Teacher Overwhelm: How To Manage Stress And Stay Positive

Episode Summary I share how even after 20-plus years in education, the start of a new school year can still feel overwhelming, and I reflect on the difference between being productively busy and truly overwhelmed. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I open up about why these early weeks bring intensity and why that feeling

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Tips For Teachers Building Relationships From Day One

Episode Summary On the first day of school, I talk about the excitement, nerves, and anticipation that both teachers and students feel. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why the first day is less about perfect lessons and more about human connection. My goal is always to make students feel seen, safe, and

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Historical Trauma and Teaching: Reflections from Sarah Snake

Episode Summary In this episode, I, Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, reflect on what I am learning about historical trauma and the Winnebago Tribe through the stories and wisdom of elder Sarah Snake. I begin with three things I am thankful for—thrift shops, books, and problem solving—and connect them to my larger journey of noticing,

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Reviewing Allison Edwards’ “Growing Up Strong”: Mental Health & Soft Skills

Episode Summary In this episode, I, Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, reflect on mental health tips for teachers inspired by a professional development session with Allison Edwards and her work Growing Up Strong. I share how her ideas about emotions, resilience, soft skills, and short-term discomfort for long-term comfort are shaping the way I think

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