Shows
Middle School Mary PoppinsS2 EP 8 - Tweens & Money: The Secret of My Success In this episode, child therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW, dives into a topic that makes many of us squirm—money management for neurodivergent kids. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or another form of neurodiversity, Suzanne shares practical ways to help them build a healthy relationship with money, understand value, and learn how effort connects to reward. From creating chore charts and setting short- and long-term financial goals to exploring kid-friendly debit cards, Suzanne walks parents and educators through empowering strategies that teach independence, responsibility, and confidence around money. She also touches on Masl...
2025-11-1114 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 EP 7 - Masculinity: Let’s Hear It for the BoysIn this heartfelt and necessary episode, Suzanne dives into the topic of masculinity and emotional safety, exploring how adolescent boys communicate, why they struggle to open up, and how we can help them feel seen and supported. With warmth and humor, she shares classroom stories, insights on nonverbal communication, and practical ways to nurture emotional intelligence in young men.If you’ve ever wondered how to help the boys in your life express themselves and feel safe doing it, this episode offers a compassionate, eye-opening perspective.Contact Suzanne Swain:Email: su...
2025-10-2126 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 Ep 6: Educational Epic Fails - Insane in the BrainWhat do Abraham Lincoln, a dead bird, and the local Fire Department have in common? Believe it or not—Suzanne’s teaching career. In this episode, kid therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain spills her epic teaching fails—the kind of stories you can only laugh at in hindsight. From leading a group of 10-year-olds astray in the U.S. Capitol, to accidentally becoming part of the Ford’s Theater tour (yes, involving projectile vomiting in the most historically inappropriate place), to clocking herself out cold during state testing and triggering a full-on firefighter rescue—Suzanne proves teac...
2025-08-2016 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 Ep. 5: ADHD Goes Back to School: Take on MeWelcome back to the chaos and charm of back-to-school season! In this episode, therapist and former middle school teacher Suzanne M. Swain (EDS, LMSW) dives into one of her most requested topics—ADHD. Suzanne flips the script on the usual narrative, showing why ADHD isn’t a deficit but a secret superpower packed with bravery, creativity, and genius.From hilarious back-to-school night stories to clever tips on organization and coping strategies, she shares how students (and adults) with ADHD can thrive. You’ll also hear about the three types of ADHD she encounters in her practice, her concep...
2025-08-0527 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 Ep. 4: Technology VR/ AI Killed the Radio StarIn this jam-packed, joy-filled episode, Suzanne Swain dives headfirst down the digital rabbit hole to share her lifelong love of tech—and how it’s changing the game for kids and families alike. From her first VGA monitor to today’s AI-powered tools, Suzanne walks listeners through fun, interactive ways to turn screen time into meaningful play and connection. She explores how to use AI to generate personalized coloring pages, DIY Pokémon cards, and even full-on board games. She explains how Trello can help kids (and parents) stay organized with fun, drag-and-drop checklists. Suzanne shares how virtual reality has tra...
2025-07-0121 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 EP 3: Trauma - When Bad Things Happen: The LabyrinthAt 3:18 AM, Suzanne Swain found herself wide awake, anxious, and overwhelmed. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how a late-night rewatch of Labyrinth became the unexpected comfort she needed.Blending nostalgia, humor, and reflection, Suzanne explores the film’s timeless message of resilience and imagination—offering listeners a gentle reminder that even on the hardest days, there’s always light ahead. Contact Suzanne Swain:Email: suzanneswain@gmail.comFacebook: Suzanne SwainProduced By: StellaMix Podcast ProductionSend Suzanne a Question or Comment...
2025-06-2716 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 EP 2: Grandparents: A Coat of Many Colors What’s the grandest thing you’ve ever done? Built a treehouse? Made a birthday cake from scratch? Raised a child… twice? In this heartwarming episode, Suzanne Swain (aka your favorite rural kid therapist) dives into the grand world of grandparents—from Rockettes at Radio City to blueberry summers in Alabama. With stories that range from Purple Hearts and polio to blueberry bushes and Jeopardy nights, Suzanne shines a light on the unsung heroes raising millions of children today. If you've got a “Glammy,” “TT,” or just good old “Grandma,” this episode’s for you. So grab a donut (sprinkl...
2025-06-1013 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsS2 EP 1: Test Anxiety: This One's For the ChildrenWelcome back, clever little foxes! Season 2 of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast is officially here, and Suzanne M. Swain—your go-to guide for all things educational, emotional, and real—is kicking things off with a deep dive into test anxiety. This episode is packed with practical tips, thoughtful encouragement, and just the right amount of sass to help students (and their grown-ups) face testing season with confidence.Suzanne reflects on a whirlwind school year filled with everything from pre-K energy to fourth-grade insights, sharing what she's learned from her students and how we can all rethink the...
2025-05-2816 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 8 - Simply the Best Around: Blow Pops, Business, & The 8th Grade HustleNormieville Middle School’s eighth graders have taken entrepreneurship to a whole new level—by launching a booming Blow Pop business that’s causing a stir. Suzanne Swain steps in to unravel the sticky situation, using her background in behavioral psychology and leadership to guide these young hustlers toward a smarter, more ethical approach. With the help of Dr. Daria Morgan and Nanny the beloved school mascot, Suzanne taps into wolf pack dynamics to teach teamwork, responsibility, and the power of thinking ahead.In this engaging and unexpected journey, listeners will explore the fine line between leadership and ch...
2025-02-181h 06Middle School Mary PoppinsEP: 7 - Perception: The Hidden Emotional Struggles of TeachersEver thought about how traffic jams and middle school classrooms have more in common than you’d expect? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of perception—how it shapes our experiences, learning, emotions, and even society’s view of teachers. From navigating California freeways to the emotional chaos of adolescence, we explore why mental health and education must go hand in hand and why teachers are the unsung heroes battling burnout, low pay, and unrealistic expectations every day.Through personal stories, humor, and thought-provoking insights, we’ll unpack why teachers are often seen as both sup...
2025-02-1150 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 6 - Spirituality: The Wind Beneath My WingsIn this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, we explore the essence of spirituality—not through religion, but through the stories, characters, and moments that shape our understanding of kindness, bravery, and purpose. From the gentle wisdom of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood to the powerful symbolism of The Lion King and Watership Down, we reflect on how childhood influences stay with us, guiding us toward living an honest and meaningful life.Along the way, we dive into personal stories of loss, growth, and the unexpected teachers—whether human, animal, or animated—that have shaped a lifelong quest for understanding. With humor, n...
2025-02-0426 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 5 - Word Play: Nice Nice BabyThis year, we’re taking education to a whole new level—one playful idea at a time! From Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rap seminar bringing history to life, to eighth graders designing a better recess experience, this district meeting is packed with fresh ideas and fun initiatives. Dive into how Dungeons & Dragons campaigns are helping students build life skills, and how pop culture gems like Stranger Things are being used to connect learning styles with real-world applications.We’re also celebrating community heroes and businesses that keep our district thriving, unveiling exciting plans for Imagineering Labs, and sharing quirky a...
2025-01-3037 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 4: Teacher Education: You (Head)spin Me Like a Record - Dr. Akenson’s ClassStep into the extraordinary world of Dr. James Akenson, the educator who redefines what it means to teach. Known as the "Mr. Rogers of Teacher Education," Dr. Akenson blends visual thinking, storytelling, and thematic teaching (like country music!) to create immersive learning experiences that inspire students and teachers alike. Suzanne Akenson, deeply inspired by a former professor, took learning to a new graphically organized level, embodying his innovative approach in her own journey as an educator.From dismantling time-bound learning to championing the power of doodles and graphic organizers, Dr. Akenson is a master at turning complex...
2025-01-2138 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 3 - The Right Stuff: New Kids On The BlockJoin "Principal" Suzanne in this lively and heartwarming episode as she kicks off the school year with a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and kindness. From shouting out local sponsors like "Pretty Fly for a Wi-Fi" and "Curl Up and Dye," to introducing a remarkable new student, Hesse, Suzanne explores the beauty of seeing potential in every child.Hesse, a military kid with a love for dogs and a genius for inventing "glorts" (glamping forts), becomes a symbol of the untapped creativity and resilience in all of us. Suzanne dives deep into how we can rethink challenges like...
2025-01-1440 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsEP: 2 - Teachers: Nothing's Gonna Stop Us NowIn this heartwarming and thought-provoking episode, Suzanne explores the metaphor of the apple to uncover the often hidden struggles and strengths of both teachers and students. Just like an apple may appear perfect on the outside, but be bruised within, people carry unseen emotions and experiences beneath their surface. Drawing from her experiences as a professor of education and therapist, Suzanne shares a powerful story about connecting with a student through a simple apple experiment, revealing deep truths about mental health, resilience, and the impact teachers have on shaping young lives. As she reflects on the challenges educators face...
2024-09-2449 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMiddle School Mary Poppins: Remixing Middle School by Utilizing DivergencyJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne! Support the show
2024-09-1927 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP Ep. 2: Teachers, Nothing's Gonna Stop Us NowJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1953 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP Ep. 3: The Right Stuff - New Kids on the BlockJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1943 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP Ep. 4: Pedagogy: Welcome to the JungleJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1940 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP: Ep. 5 - Wordplay - Nice, Nice BabyJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1937 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP Ep. 6: Spirituality - The Wind Beneath My WingsJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1928 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP: Ep. 7: Perception - Everybody Wants to Rule the WorldJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-1952 minMiddle School Mary PoppinsMMP Ep. 8: Discipline - Enter SandmanJoin the Conversation & Noodle Along with Suzanne & Erica! Send us a text! Can't wait to hear from you!Support the show
2024-09-191h 09Middle School Mary PoppinsEP: 1 - Mary Poppins 2.0: A Spoonful of Therapist SugarHey Gen Xers, remember when Mary Poppins seemed like the ultimate fix for everything? As a teacher and therapist, I’ve spent years wishing we had her magic back in the classroom. I’m Suzanne M. Swain, EDS/MSSW, and I've lived between the worlds of therapy and education, teaching emotions, middle school, and everything in between. In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the heart of teaching and how creativity, empathy, and a sprinkle of that "Mary Poppins" magic can revive education. Together, we’ll explore how teachers can reclaim their spark, bring joy back into lea...
2024-08-0525 min
A Wild New Work115. Remembering Our Love of Trees, with Heather DorfmanTrees hold a special and mythic place in the hearts of humans, and in this conversation with Heather Dorfman, the founder of Rose and Cedar Forest Therapy, we explore these amazing beings and how we can build relationships with them in a thoughtful way.
About Heather Dorfman:
Heather Dorfman, LMSW (she/her) is the founder of Rose and Cedar Forest Therapy. Heather guides groups and individuals in the practice of Forest Therapy; offers Grief Care; provides organizational consulting, training, and retreats; and is also an adjunct professor of social work. In all of these realms, Heather is co-creating a world...
2024-02-1349 min
The Good Dirt: Sustainability Explained154. Healing the Wounds of Trauma with Princess Manuel, Spiritual Life Coach, Community Herbalist and Founder of LUYA Healing and Herbs.TRIGGER WARNING: Princess Manuel briefly mentions her history with suicidal ideation. If you or someone you know needs help, please contact the National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988. Many of us have lost our connection to the Earth through decades of colonization and the pressures of a capitalistic system, and consequently we have lost connection to our community as well. How can we rediscover our way back to each other and the plant and animal life all around us? Princess Manuel, LMSW (she/they/siya/sila), has been pursuing the answer to this question...
2023-08-1153 min
From Heartache to Healing and HopeFrom Heartache to Healing and Hope with Guest Suzanne SummersFeatured Guest on Episode Seventeen
Suzanne Summers is a Reiki Master Teacher, practicing since the early ‘90s. Suzanne was trained locally, and also by John Harvey Gray, one of the original 12 Reiki Masters in the East.
Now practicing privately, Suzanne has taught classes at Hartwick College, SUCO, Bard College and has given multiple presentations about Reiki and other energy work.
She is a graduate of Michael Harner’s Foundation for Shamanic Studies, a two-year intensive program, as well as single training programs offered by the Foundation. She joyfully found her life’s work after a friend suggested she investigate shamanism.
Suzann...
2021-06-1300 min
Enlighten: Uplift & InspireSuzanne, TV Producer, Videographer, and Film Director My guest today is Suzanne. Suzanne had been a TV Producer, Videographer and Film Director, before her near fatal injury 3 1/2 years ago that created an opportunity for Suzanne to reset everything in her life. Suzanne has slowed down tremendously and is now living a more natural life, more in touch with the earth, animals, and people. She even says that her long road to recovery served as a warm up, preparing her well to face the Covid-19 pandemic. All our variations of lock down, quarantine, and shelter-at-home have collectively caught up to what Suzanne has been experiencing for 3 plus...
2020-05-1855 min
Enlighten: Uplift & InspireThe Reverend Mother Suzanne Toro, Episcopal Priest My guest today is Mother Suzanne Toro, one who embodies a compassionate and peaceful heart. In keeping with the necessary precautions to prevent the spread of COVID-19, we recorded my conversation with Suzanne via Zoom. Suzanne is an Episcopal Priest, rector of St. John's Episcopal Church in Cornwall, NY and although life has slowed down for many people, Suzanne admits that she has never worked harder since the outbreak of the coronavirus here in NY. Regardless of your religious/spiritual beliefs or non-beliefs, Mother Toro shares universal insights about connection, grace, courage, responsibility, growth and opportunity. She acknowledges that...
2020-03-3051 min
Psych Up LiveHelp for Children Caregivers: American Association of Caregiving YouthIn this Episode Dr. Connie Siskowski, founder of the American Association for Caregiving Youth awakens us to the reality that 1.4 million children in this country sacrifice their education, health, well-being and childhood to provide care for family members who are ill, injured, aging or have disabilities. Isolated, often facing tasks and medical responsibilities that would challenge adults, these children are often invisible to schools and communities. Dr. Siskowski, who was recognized as one of the CNN's Top Ten Heroes in 2012 offers a powerful answer. In the back and forth with host, Suzanne Phillips, she shares her personal history and the...
2016-06-0954 min