Teach, Task Box, Inspire: The Podcast (A Show for Special Educators)

113. The one where she says Goodbye

In this special highlight episode, Lisa looks back on the most powerful lessons from over 100 episodes of Teach, Task Box, Inspire. From the importance of visuals and independent work systems to understanding behavior as communication, preventing burnout, and building supportive classroom communities, this episode celebrates the heart of the podcast. As Lisa steps into a season of rest, she shares her gratitude with listeners and reminds educators that their work matters deeply — and they never have to do it alone. Resources Mentioned: Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom [https://courses.chalkboardsuperhero.com/3-ways-evergreen?_ga=2.75128539.835919478.1698334996-1434828290.1695923661&_gl=1*qw1vbl*_ga*MTQzNDgyODI5MC4xNjk1OTIzNjYx*_ga_L7R19GTVXM*MTY5ODMzNDk5Ni42LjEuMTY5ODMzNTAzMS4wLjAuMA..] Show Notes:

112. What to Do When You’ve Tried Every Behavior Strategy

In this episode, Lisa breaks down the real reasons behavior strategies “fail” and what to do when nothing seems to work. You’ll learn how misalignment — whether it’s the wrong function, ineffective reinforcement, or inconsistent implementation — can derail even the best plans, and how to recognize the red flags in your classroom, from over-prompting to mismatched expectations. Lisa shares why consistency, not perfection, is the true driver of behavior change and walks you through her personal reset process for when a student’s behavior suddenly takes a turn, including clearing the noise, simplifying expectations, rebuilding trust, and returning to essential supports. She also offers practical guidance for helping exhausted staff regroup, get on the same page, rebuild routines, and stay grounded during challenging behavior seasons. Resources Mentioned: Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom [https://courses.chalkboardsuperhero.com/3-ways-evergreen?_ga=2.75128539.835919478.1698334996-1434828290.1695923661&_gl=1*qw1vbl*_ga*MTQzNDgyODI5MC4xNjk1OTIzNjYx*_ga_L7R19GTVXM*MTY5ODMzNDk5Ni42LjEuMTY5ODMzNTAzMS4wLjAuMA..] Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode112

111. The Micro-Moments That Matter

In today’s episode, Lisa dives into one of the most underrated but most powerful parts of behavior support: the micro-moments. These are the quick 5-second decisions—tone, phrasing, proximity, visuals, and tiny choices—that turn chaotic days into calm ones. Instead of relying on complicated plans or intense interventions, Lisa breaks down how small, intentional shifts in your interactions can prevent escalation, strengthen connection, and create a smoother classroom environment. Whether you're in a 12:1:1 room, pushing into gen ed, or supporting students with a wide range of needs, these micro-moves are the tools you can put into action tomorrow. Resources Mentioned: Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom  [https://courses.chalkboardsuperhero.com/3-ways-evergreen?_ga=2.75128539.835919478.1698334996-1434828290.1695923661&_gl=1*qw1vbl*_ga*MTQzNDgyODI5MC4xNjk1OTIzNjYx*_ga_L7R19GTVXM*MTY5ODMzNDk5Ni42LjEuMTY5ODMzNTAzMS4wLjAuMA..] Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode111

110. The Real Reason Students Refuse Work

Work refusal is one of the most common challenges teachers face, but we often make the mistake of assuming all refusals are the same. In this episode, Lisa breaks down the powerful “Can’t Do or Won’t Do” framework, a simple way to identify why a student is refusing work so you can respond with strategies that actually stick. You’ll learn to recognize signs of overwhelm versus signs of avoidance, quickly assess the root cause, and adjust instruction, motivation, and support to help students build confidence and independence. This episode will leave you feeling clear, empowered, and ready to tackle work refusal with purpose and precision. Resources Mentioned: Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom [https://courses.chalkboardsuperhero.com/3-ways-evergreen?_ga=2.75128539.835919478.1698334996-1434828290.1695923661&_gl=1*qw1vbl*_ga*MTQzNDgyODI5MC4xNjk1OTIzNjYx*_ga_L7R19GTVXM*MTY5ODMzNDk5Ni42LjEuMTY5ODMzNTAzMS4wLjAuMA..] Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode110

109. Building Culture When Teaching Feels Lonely

In this heart-to-heart episode, Lisa opens up about what it’s like to feel isolated as a special educator and how to build school culture even when you’re the only one in your role. She shares practical strategies for creating visibility, connecting with general education staff, and finding your people — both inside and outside your building. From hallway hellos to collaborative projects, you’ll learn how small, intentional actions can change how you feel about your school and how your school sees you. If you’ve ever felt invisible, misunderstood, or alone in your work, this episode is for you. Resources Mentioned: Free training: 3 Simple and Powerful Ways to Cultivate Independence in Your Special Education Classroom [https://courses.chalkboardsuperhero.com/3-ways-evergreen?_ga=2.75128539.835919478.1698334996-1434828290.1695923661&_gl=1*qw1vbl*_ga*MTQzNDgyODI5MC4xNjk1OTIzNjYx*_ga_L7R19GTVXM*MTY5ODMzNDk5Ni42LjEuMTY5ODMzNTAzMS4wLjAuMA..] Show Notes: https://chalkboardsuperhero.com/episode109