Be A Funky Teacher Podcast
Real conversations for educators who care deeply about the work.
Classroom stories, practical ideas, teacher well-being, leadership, student voice, and honest reflection from Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve.
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309 episodes
Dec 3, 2025
Why Kids Don’t Learn When They Don’t Feel Safe
This episode explores why students cannot learn when they do not feel safe and how understanding the brain changes the way we approach behavior in the classroom. As…
Dec 2, 2025
Kids Are Not Mini Adults: Adjust Expectations, Not Compassion
This episode centers on the reminder that kids are not miniature adults and should not be expected to think, feel, or regulate emotions like grown-ups. As Mr. Funky…
Dec 1, 2025
The Power Of A Fresh Start: Why Monday Doesn’t Define The Week
This episode focuses on the power of a fresh start and the reminder that Mondays do not define the week. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect…
Nov 30, 2025
Sunday School for Teachers: Daniel Interprets Dreams
In this Sunday School for Teachers episode, I reflect on the story of Daniel and how his response to overwhelming pressure offers a powerful lesson for educators. As…
Nov 28, 2025
Why Classroom Culture Is More Important Than Classroom Control
This episode gets to the heart of how students actually learn and grow. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why classroom culture matters more than classroom…
Nov 27, 2025
Teachers Need Grace Too: Permission To Be Human
This episode speaks directly to the heart of teaching rather than the head. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why educators need grace just as…
Nov 26, 2025
Let Kids Try Hard Things: The Gift Of Struggle
This episode focuses on an essential truth about growth that applies to students, educators, and families alike. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why kids…
Nov 25, 2025
Start Where They Are, Not Where You Wish They Were
This episode centers on a truth that shapes real teaching and real learning. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why students must be met where…
Nov 24, 2025
Say Yes More: Why Kids Need Chances, Not Gatekeepers
This episode focuses on a belief that has shaped my teaching and leadership. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why kids thrive when educators choose…
Nov 23, 2025
Sunday School for Teachers: Train Up A Child In The Way He Should Go
This Sunday School for Teachers reflection focuses on the sacred calling of teaching through the lens of Proverbs 22:6. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how…
Nov 21, 2025
Stop Shrinking to Make Other People Comfortable
This episode centers on a personal and necessary truth I have lived and witnessed in schools. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on the moments when…
Nov 20, 2025
Don’t Take Advice From People Who’ve Never Done What You Want To Do
This episode centers on a powerful reminder I believe every educator needs to hear. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on why taking advice from people…