Tell Me a Teaching Story

Ep #10: Patience, Persistence, & Surprises: Conversations with Jordan & Mason Amundson, and Mary Findeis

In this episode, I sit down with Jordie and Mason Amundson, a dynamic teaching couple from my community—she’s a school psychologist, and he’s a phys ed teacher. They share how they approach education with their unique styles, but with the same goal: building meaningful connections with students. Stick around until the end for a delightful “dessert” story from Mary Findeis. Her you-won’t-believe-it tale that sticks out from a long career in teaching will leave you smiling, proving once again that teachers really do have the best stories.

Ep #9: Ten Tips for Joy in Teaching

In this episode, we explore 10 simple steps to help teachers move from stress to joy in the classroom. Inspired by an Instagram reel of a woman overcoming fear while tandem skydiving, we break down practical strategies—like using visual schedules, creating connections, and even ditching bad assignments—that can shift your teaching experience. Whether it's taking students outside or building community with food, these easy tips can help you rediscover the fun in teaching and bring more ease into your day. Tune in for small, actionable steps to help you soar in your teaching practice!

Ep #8: It's All About Relationships

This episode is all about relationships: how to build them, how to maintain them, and how to even have them with prickly people. Join Evi for some stories, tips, and tricks about building relationships in your classroom. This episode will leave you inspired, ready to put some energy out into the world, curious about others, curious to connect.

Ep #7: Inspiring Independence, an Interview with Austin Martin

Drawing from his military background, Austin shares classroom-tested tactics from his first year teaching. Through accountability and gradual release of structure, Austin shares a story of a struggling student going from failing four subjects to passing them all. This episode highlights the transformative power of personalized education, of listening to students and responding to their why. Listen in to find out which is harder: the Marine Corps or Teaching. The answer might just surprise you.

Ep #6: Groundhog Day Guffaws: Lessons in Laughter with Kendra Matkins

Kendra Matkins shares her infectious energy for teaching. Her hilarious tale of a Ground Hog Day project gone wrong will have you laughing. And listeners will find themselves nodding, relating to familiar struggles with classroom technology. This episode has it all, offering a blend of humor and heart, reminding listeners of the joy and absurdity that come with a lifetime spent in learning and laughing with students.