Episode Summary In this episode, I celebrate two beginnings at once: another school year and episode 300 of the Be a Funky Teacher podcast. When I recorded my first episode, I never imagined reaching this milestone, and I’m proud of what those 300 episodes represent—300 opportunities to encourage educators and talk about a profession I
A New School Year, A New Chapter Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on how quickly summer has passed and the importance of slowing down to appreciate the people who matter most. As my family prepares for an eight-day cruise with friends we first met on a cruise two years ago, I’m reminded how simple conversations can grow into lifelong friendships.
Summer Check-In 4: Gratitude for Family and Looking Ahead Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I begin a new series of weekly summer check-ins by reflecting on a family canoe trip through the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness in northern Minnesota. With nine family members carrying everything we needed, paddling across lakes, and navigating difficult conditions, the experience reminded me that meaningful memories are not
Summer Check-In 1: The Power of Shared Experiences Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on my first year at Winnebago Public Schools after spending 22 years in South Sioux City. Starting over wasn’t easy, but looking back, I realize this year changed me in ways I never expected. It challenged me, stretched me, and reminded me why I became a teacher in
Looking Back on My First Year at Winnebago: What I Learned Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I explore why the conversation around AI in education feels different and why it matters right now for teachers. This is not just another passing trend—it’s a shift that is beginning to shape expectations, conversations, and decision-making in schools. There is real pressure building as teachers are asked to respond
Why This Conversation About AI Matters for Teachers Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I explore a part of teaching that often goes unspoken—the tension. It is the feeling of being pulled in different directions, trying to do what is best for students while also meeting expectations that do not always align. This tension shows up in daily decisions, in moments where teachers must
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on the idea that teaching is not a collection of separate tasks, but a connected body of work. Over time, what may feel like individual responsibilities begins to reveal a deeper thread—a through line that connects everything we do as educators. As I look back on the past
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on the moments in teaching when the work begins to feel heavy and disconnected. Over time, the pressure, pace, and expectations can cause teachers to shift from purpose-driven work to simply getting through the day. It is easy in those moments to question whether the work still matters
Why This Work Still Matters Read More »
Episode Summary In this episode, I focus on one of the most powerful yet simple ideas in teaching—keep showing up. Teaching can feel overwhelming at times, with constant pressure, expectations, and moments that challenge confidence and energy. It can be tempting on those harder days to pull back or go through the motions. But what
Episode Summary In this episode, I reflect on the idea that teaching is not just something we do—it is something we become over time. Through experiences, challenges, and reflection, teachers begin to shape their identity based on what they believe truly matters in the classroom. There are many pressures in education, from content demands to
This Is the Teacher I Choose to Be Read More »