Shows
The Joyous ClassroomSmall Moments, Big Joy: Finding Light in JanuaryTwo veteran teachers share how tiny wins — shorter weeks, homecoming fun, a simple STEM night, and presenting at TCEA — bring joy during a chilly January.
They also reflect on students facing hardship during school closures, the importance of community and caring adults, and encourage educators to look for one small joyful moment each day.
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2026-01-2719 minThe Joyous ClassroomEp.23: Scoot, Roll, Build: Creating Classroom Joy with Games & EngineeringA bonus solo episode celebrating "Joy in January" with short, heartwarming classroom moments including poetry debates, an audiobook read-aloud of Harry Potter, math games (scoot and dice multiplication), and a hands-on cardboard robot engineering project that practices area and perimeter.
We invite you to a FREE evening Zoom every Monday from January 19th - April 6th as we kick-off The Joyous Journey course — a faith-centered class on finding more joy, gratitude, and healthier habits for this year. Rewrite your year with us in a supportive community where we share our lives, our goals, encourage & support each other, an...
2026-01-1916 minThe Joyous ClassroomEp. 22: Joy in January: Permission to Begin AgainIn this episode, veteran teachers Angela & Brandy reframe January as a month of permission to begin again, not pressure. They discuss slowing down to reconnect with students, reteaching routines, and using small, intentional steps to build momentum for the rest of the year.
Practical ideas include community-building activities, goal-setting with students, and simple classroom projects. The hosts also invite listeners to join a 12-week Joyous Journey Bootcamp focused on mindset, gratitude, achievable goals, and supportive community.
The Joyous Journey Bootcamp Link
2026-01-0620 minThe Joyous ClassroomThink Alouds Made Easy: Build Readers Who Write with ConfidenceJoin veteran teachers Angela and Brandy as they unpack insights from Kristina Smekens on the power of read-alouds, think-alouds, and scaffolded writing. Learn practical, classroom-ready strategies—start small, model thinking voices, use pictures and cross-modal experiences, and teach students to choose the best text evidence.
This episode shows how making thinking visible turns readers into confident writers and offers simple steps teachers can implement tomorrow to create a more joyous classroom.
Smekens Reading Comprehension: https://www.smekenseducation.com/reading-comprehension-strategies/
Smekens Free Resources: https://www.smekenseducation.com/free-resources/
2025-11-2822 minThe Joyous ClassroomE20:Hit the Reset: Simple Classroom Refreshes That WorkAngela and Brandy discuss practical, and quick ways teachers can reset their classrooms at the end of the first grading period. From visiting other rooms for fresh ideas to re-establishing routines, positive behavior incentives, and small organizational systems that save time, you’ll be set to make the most out the next part of your year.
The episode emphasizes starting small, prioritizing high-impact changes, balancing expectations with relationships, and sharing tips to renew teacher energy and classroom culture.
Random Name Picker: Claw Machine & More: https://www.online-stopwatch.com/random-name-pickers/crane-machine-name-picker/full-screen/
2025-11-0331 minThe Joyous ClassroomHeartfelt Classrooms: Nikki Jordan on Relationships, SEL, and Teacher JoyHosts Brandy and Angela open with light Halloween jokes before welcoming Nikki Jordan, an alt-certified teacher turned entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, consultant, personal business coach, and founder of Confidence at Any Size.
Nikki shares her journey into education, her belief in building authentic relationships with students and colleagues, and practical social-emotional strategies—like greeting students at the door and 60-second intentional moments—that improve classroom culture, behavior, and learning.
She also describes her workshops (Art of Teaching, Art of Mentoring, From Vision to Victory) and where listeners can connect with her on social media.
Conn...
2025-10-2943 minThe Joyous ClassroomBeat the ECR Blues: Creative Strategies for Stronger Student WritingVeteran teachers Angela and Brandy share joyful, research-backed strategies to make writing less scary and more effective—especially for Texas ECRs.
Learn quick creative writing routines like Color Your Sentence, Spoken Word, Figurative Language Friday, and the Because–So–Which Means expansion technique for depth, PLUS organization ideas like storyboard planning to build voice, clarity, and stamina in student writing. See how building classroom community with peer “WOW” cards and leaning into spotlighting student work can lead to joy as a pathway to rigor, increased participation, and better student writing.
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2025-10-2021 minThe Joyous ClassroomEp. 17: Get Kids Hooked on Reading: Creative Reading-Engagement IdeasJoin veteran teachers Angela and Brandy on The Joyous Classroom as they share playful, practical strategies to get kids excited about reading.
Great tried & true reading engagement & Interest-building ideas are shared on this episodes. Everything from Mystery Bags to build inference skills, running a digital 'Elite Eight' book bracket to inspire school wide reading engagement, and ideas like Read Around the School, Reading Under the Stars, and hands-on book activities.
Book Challenge Article with Timelines:
https://blog.tcea.org/digital-book-challenge-2025/
2025-10-0918 minThe Joyous ClassroomWhen Classrooms Become Stages: Teaching as Live TheaterVeteran teachers and community thespians pull back the curtain on the surprising connections between teaching and live theater — presence, improvisation, empathy, and collaboration — sharing stories from rehearsals, moments of hilarity & flexibility from live productions, and the importance of listening and collaboration.
Hear practical tips, joyful anecdotes, and how bringing performance, storytelling, and teamwork into the classroom can deepen student engagement, build empathy, and create positive classroom communities.
Our guests today include TaKisha Kegler, Elise Kimball, and Penny Tatum, fellow castmates, educators, and friends.
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2025-09-2830 minThe Joyous ClassroomPositive Parent Communication--Building Partnerships that Can Transform Your YearIn this episode of The Joyous Classroom, veteran teachers Angela and Brandy explain how intentional positive communication with families can transform your school year. They emphasize starting early to build trust so parents are more receptive when challenges arise.
It's short and to the point, because they are in the midst of practicing for their community play which opens in just two weeks. They are both starring in The Savannah Sipping Society and right now they are in the final weeks of long days and evenings with extra and much longer practice times.
Practical tips...
2025-09-0808 minThe Joyous ClassroomTeacher Tired; Surviving The Beginning of the Year: Part 5 of Our Back to School SeriesAngela and Brandy candidly discuss the special exhaustion of the early weeks of being back at school—migraines, tech issues, drills, extra duties, and decision fatigue—and remind teachers they are not alone.
They share simple, realistic recovery tips like five-minute resets, lowering weekday expectations, and learning to say no, encouraging listeners to protect their energy and find joy in small wins.
2025-09-0117 minThe Joyous ClassroomThe Science Behind Building Rapport: Part 4 of Our Back to School SeriesThis episode explains why greeting students at the door matters and reviews the neuroscience behind rapport—dopamine for motivation and oxytocin for safety—plus research showing long-term benefits like reduced aggression and improved engagement.
Hosts share practical actions (assess, address, respond, request, tell), the 5-to-1 positive-to-corrective interaction ratio, and a simple takeaway: start each day with warmth, a student’s name, and a quick connection to set the tone for learning.
The Science Behind Building Rapport: The How's & Whys
2025-08-1826 minThe Joyous ClassroomRoutines & Procedures; Part 3 of our Back to School SeriesWelcome to The Joyous Classroom, a podcast dedicated to educators passionate about fostering a positive learning environment. Join veteran teachers Brandy and Angela as they share practical tips and insights to help you establish effective routines, teach essential procedures, and build a nurturing classroom community. Discover strategies to create a culture of consistency, connection, and calm from the very first weeks of school. Learn how to model and teach key procedures, engage students through community-building activities, and prioritize social-emotional learning. Whether you're a seasoned teacher or new to the classroom, this episode offers inspiring and actionable advice to make...
2025-08-1111 minThe Joyous ClassroomTeacher Self-Care: Part 2 of our Back to School SeriesIn this enlightening episode of "The Joyous Classroom," Angela and Brandy dive deep into the importance of teacher self-care, especially during the hectic back-to-school season. They discuss simple, yet effective ways educators can take care of themselves without sacrificing much time or resources. From starting your day with intentionality to setting healthy boundaries, this episode is packed with practical tips that are easy to implement in your daily routine.
Learn how micro-moments can add up to significant changes and why gratitude is a game-changer for maintaining a positive outlook. Join Angela and Brandy as they share their...
2025-08-0428 minThe Joyous ClassroomConquering Back-to-School AnxietyWelcome to The Joyous Classroom, Episode 10, where veteran educators Angela and Brandy help teachers navigate the overwhelming back-to-school season with heart, humor, and practical advice. Join them as they share tips on resetting your mindset, preparing with purpose, and embracing grace during this busy time.
In this episode, discover how to find joy and purpose without the pressure for perfection, and learn mindset shifts and time-saving strategies to help you feel more prepared. Whether you're in denial or deep into your to-do list, "The Joyous Classroom" offers encouragement, actionable advice, and a reminder that readiness is about...
2025-07-2824 minThe Joyous ClassroomFrom Novice to Pro: 20 Classroom Secrets Shared by TeachersWelcome to The Joyous Classroom, a podcast crafted for passionate educators by two veteran teachers with a collective experience of over 60 years in the field. In this episode, we delve into the valuable advice and insights shared by our own Facebook group members, aimed at helping both new and seasoned teachers create a more joyful and effective classroom environment.
Join us as we explore top tips on nurturing student relationships, embracing flexibility, and maintaining a welcoming classroom atmosphere. From humorous jokes to serious discussions on professional growth, this episode is filled with practical wisdom and personal experiences...
2025-07-2334 minThe Joyous ClassroomBusting Myths About Tier 1 Instruction: Unveiling the TruthJoin veteran educators Angela and Brandy in this exciting episode of "The Joyous Classroom" as they unravel eight common myths surrounding Tier 1 instruction. Discover what Tier 1 truly entails beyond the buzzwords of RTI and MTSS meetings, and learn how it serves as the bedrock of effective education for all students.
From differentiation to engagement and behavior management, this episode covers practical strategies to create a supportive and inclusive learning environment. With insights on using "hot data," fostering active discussion, and engaging students right from the start, you'll leave equipped with actionable tips to enrich your teaching practice.
2025-07-1427 minThe Joyous ClassroomConference Chronicles: Highlights from Get Your Teach On Nat'l Conference in Dallas, TexasWelcome to an exciting episode of The Joyous Classroom, where veteran educators Angela and Brandy share their experiences and insights from the Get Your Teach On conference in Dallas, Texas. With over 6,500 attendees from around the globe, this national event brought teachers, leaders, and educators of all kinds together for a celebration of learning and growth.
Set against the stunning backdrop of the Gaylord Texan Resort, the conference was a remarkable blend of educational sessions, concerts, and inspiring speakers. Our hosts delve into the sessions they attended, highlighting practical tips on data-driven instruction and innovative teaching strategies...
2025-07-0541 minThe Joyous ClassroomTech in Schools: Best Takeaways from the Elementary Technology ConferenceWelcome to the Joyous Classroom podcast, where veteran educators Angela and Brandy share their passion for teaching and learning. In this episode, join them as they dive into the highlights and key takeaways from the recent Elementary Technology Conference in Galveston, Texas. Featuring insights from guests Gwen Sharp, Tyler Johnson, and Jennifer Mitchell, this episode covers innovative approaches to integrating technology in education, from pre-K coding adventures to digital citizenship. Whether you're an educator looking to refresh your teaching strategies or simply interested in the latest educational trends, this episode has something for everyone.
4 Corners Match:
https://drive...
2025-06-2349 minThe Joyous ClassroomEmbracing Inclusivity: Strategies for Teaching Students with Autism with Author Eliza RudstonWelcome to The Joyous Classroom, where veteran educators Angela and Brandy, alongside their guest Eliza Rudston, explore effective strategies for teaching students with autism. In this episode, Eliza, an experienced teacher and author of 'Confidently Teach Students with Autism', shares her insights on creating empathetic and inclusive classrooms.
The conversation delves into practical strategies for teachers, such as using visual aids, managing sensory needs, and the importance of fostering understanding among students. Eliza emphasizes the significance of flexibility & consistency, the need for empathy, and the role of differentiation in promoting equity in education.
Listeners will...
2025-06-1627 minThe Joyous ClassroomUnlocking Affordable PD: Solutions for Every TeacherIn this episode of The Joyous Classroom, veteran educators Angela and Brandy tackle a pressing concern for teachers: the high cost of professional development (PD). They explore the challenges faced by educators in accessing valuable PD due to limited funds and share innovative and affordable solutions.
Listeners will discover various strategies to access quality PD without breaking the bank, including peer-led workshops, collaborations with local universities, and in-house learning walks. Angela and Brandy provide a wealth of ideas to foster continuous learning and professional growth in a cost-effective manner.
Join them as they discuss the...
2025-06-1124 minThe Joyous Classroom"Why We Still Teach: Celebrating Over 60 Years of Joyous Education"Welcome to The Joyous Classroom, a podcast for passionate educators led by seasoned teachers Angela and Brandy. With a combined 60+ years of experience, they delve into why they choose to keep teaching, sharing their passion and wisdom along the way. This episode explores their unique journey in education, their motivation to inspire, and how they continue to learn and grow. Be a part of their vibrant community, aimed at connecting, engaging, and bringing joy to educators everywhere. Join us as we celebrate the journey of teaching, learning, and finding joy in the classroom.
Join us at our...
2025-06-0119 minThe Joyous ClassroomSurviving May Madness: RESTORE Your Classroom Atmosphere!Welcome to The Joyous Classroom podcast, where passionate educators Angela and Brandy bring you over 60 combined years of educational wisdom and positivity. In this episode, they introduce RESTORE, a practical system designed to help teachers navigate May Madness with peace and sanity. From dealing with deadlines to student drama, they offer stress-busting techniques to bring calm and joy back to the classroom.
They also share personal highs and lows of the academic year and dive into insights about the power of gratitude and positive affirmations in teaching. Tune in for this enriching discussion packed with actionable tips...
2025-05-2626 min
The Joyous Classroom"Building Joy in the Classroom: Essential Tips for Educators"Welcome to the premiere episode of The Joyous Classroom, where veteran educators Angela and Brandy share their passion for teaching and insights into creating a more joyful classroom environment. With over 60 combined years in education, they are excited to share practical tips to transform your teaching experience. In this episode, they discuss the importance of building rapport with students, embracing creativity, and fostering a supportive and fun learning space. Join them each week for more tips, and don't miss out on their summer retreats and conferences. Connect with them on Facebook for daily inspiration, or reach them at hello...
2025-05-2006 min