Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education

🎧 Episode Synopsis (for notes/description)What if resilience isn’t something you “have”…but something that’s built—moment by moment, relationship by relationship?In this episode of Classroom Narratives, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Rob Martinez—educator, former superintendent, and author of Recipes for Resilience—to challenge everything we think we know about resilience in schools.From losing his mother at 13 to rebuilding his life through connection, mentorship, and education, Rob shares a deeply personal story that reshapes resilience as a process rooted in safety, care, and community—not grit alone.Together, Joey and Rob explore the tension between transactional education vs. human-centered learning, the dangers of toxic school cultures, and what it truly means to create classrooms where students feel safe enough to grow.This is a conversation about what schools get wrong, what great educators do differently, and why—at the end of the day—we’re never doing too much for kids..📌 Episodic show notes and resources✏️ Rob's website (@ResiliencyGuy) and link to social medias✏️ Recipes For Resilience✏️ The Story of Sparkle and Shine✏️ Dave Burgess: Teach Like a Pirate

📝 Episode SynopsisIn this deeply honest and affirming conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with clinical psychologist Dr. Claire Plumbly to explore the lived reality of burnout—what it is, how it shows up in the body, and why so many educators find themselves quietly unraveling while trying to hold everything together.Drawing from her work in trauma and her book The Trauma of Burnout, Dr. Plumbly breaks down the difference between stress and burnout, guiding listeners through the emotional, cognitive, and physical signs that often go unnoticed until it’s too late. Together, Joey and Claire reflect on the intersection of teaching, trauma, and identity—what happens when passion turns into depletion, and when caring deeply begins to cost too much.Through personal story, clinical insight, and practical tools, this episode offers something essential: permission. Permission to pause, to recalibrate, and to remember that being human in this work is not failure—it’s the foundation.At the heart of the episode is a simple but powerful reminder:“I’m doing my best. And that’s enough.”📝 Show Notes📌 Dr. Claire Plumbly website📌 Dr. Claire Plumbly "Feel Better" page📌 Dr. Claire Plumbly Burnout/Recovery book📌 Dr. Claire Plumbly instagram: @drclaireplumbly📌 Dr. Claire Plumbly linkedin📌 Follow here to understand the Yerkes-Dodson model📌 Two conversations with Christopher S Mukiibi on the nervous system (Classroom Narratives podcast-- Pt 1 and Pt 2)

📌Episode Synopsis In this powerful episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with literacy scholar and educator Dr. Katie Egan Cunningham to explore how stories shape the human experience—both inside and outside the classroom.Together, they examine why stories matter not only as texts but as lived experiences. From novels and playlists to social media and personal memory, stories help young people make sense of the world and themselves. Dr. Cunningham reflects on how literature allows students to see themselves and others through what educators call “windows and mirrors,” while also urging educators to think carefully about how stories are selected and taught.The conversation moves into deeply personal territory as Dr. Cunningham shares how navigating her son’s dyslexia reshaped her understanding of literacy systems and advocacy in education. She explains how school structures can unintentionally fail children who learn differently—and how educators can recognize early warning signs before students fall through the cracks.Dr. Weisler and Dr. Cunningham also discuss grief, vulnerability, and the emotional realities that students bring into classrooms. From experiences of trauma and loss to the pressures of school systems that prioritize certainty over humanity, the episode asks a critical question: What happens when educators create classrooms where students feel seen?Ultimately, this conversation reminds us that literacy instruction is not only about decoding words—it is about helping students navigate the stories of their own lives.📌 Show Notes🔗 Dr Katie Egan Cunningham's website 🔗 Dr. Cunningham's article: In Search of Hope and Healing: Guideposts for Whole-Hearted Living, Loving, and Teaching after Loss 🔗 Article: Catching Readers Before They Fall (Torgesen)🔗 PODCASTS: Dr. Susan B Neuman, Dr. Adam WolfsdorfTheorists and thinkers: Grace Enriques from Lesley University, Pam Allyn,

Episode SynopsisIn this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler speaks with Bruce Liebe, a retired Illinois State Police officer with over 30 years of law enforcement experience and a longtime instructor in active threat training and tactical response.Together, they explore the intersection between education and prevention—specifically how educators, administrators, and communities can recognize early warning signs that may indicate a student in distress or at risk of causing harm.Drawing from research, real cases, and decades of field experience, Bruce explains the five phases many active attackers move through, emphasizing that the earliest stages—fantasy, planning, and preparation—often contain visible signals that educators may encounter through student behavior, communication, or writing.Dr. Weisler reflects on his own teaching experiences following the Parkland tragedy, discussing the challenges educators face when trying to report concerning student behavior while navigating institutional pressure, stigma, and uncertainty.This conversation offers practical insights into threat assessment processes, school-community collaboration, and how educators can remain attentive without creating fear or trauma within school environments.Ultimately, the episode reminds listeners that prevention is rarely about a single person acting alone—it requires a village of educators, families, counselors, and community members willing to listen, observe, and act early.Show Notes Guest: Bruce Liebe Retired Illinois State Police officer (30 years of service) Former statewide SWAT coordinator and active threat instructor Contributor to The Tactical Edge and international law enforcement consultantFurther ReferencesBev JohnsSue Klebold – A Mother’s ReckoningPeter Langman – Research on School ShootersDave Cullen – Columbine and Parkland ReportingWhy Meadow Died – Andrew Pollack and Max Eden

📝 Episode Synopsis (for episode description)In this powerful conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with nationally recognized special education leader and behavioral consultant Bev Johns, whose four-decade career has helped shape special education law, classroom practice, and behavioral supports across the United States. Bev shares deeply personal stories—from teaching students who were once denied access to school altogether, to advocating for legislation protecting students from harmful disciplinary practices.Together, they explore what happens when behavior is misunderstood, why teachers’ calls for help often go unheard, and how trauma, anxiety, and invisible disabilities manifest in classrooms. Bev challenges punitive approaches and urges educators and systems alike to see behavior as communication—not defiance.This episode highlights the life-changing power of relationships, the necessity of documentation and advocacy, and the restorative role of the arts in helping students regulate emotion and reclaim dignity. Above all, Bev reminds us that supporting students begins with supporting teachers—and that education, at its core, is an act of human connection.🤞🏻A Message of HopeSupporting educators is key to sustaining the profession.Collaboration between families, schools, and community services is essential.Positive relationships remain the most powerful force for change in education.📌 Show Notes (Key Ideas and Highlights)Check out Bev Johns website here"Sally Sits On My Shoulder" article Classroom Narratives podcast segment with Dr. Lisa KayRestorative Practices in Education Through the Arts (Book)

🗒️ Episodic Synopsis In this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler speaks with Principal Robert Hinchcliffe—award-winning school leader, author of More Than Just Principals, and nationally recognized advocate for human-centered school leadership.Drawing on more than two decades as an elementary school administrator, Hinchcliffe shares what it truly means to lead a school in today’s climate. He reflects on servant leadership, the emotional complexity of guiding teachers and students, and why visibility, relationships, and trust must come before compliance. He challenges rigid curriculum systems, emphasizing the importance of differentiation, teacher autonomy, and honoring the individuality of every student.Together, they explore the tension between leadership and humanity—how principals balance accountability with compassion, how new teachers can be supported rather than judged, and why schools must stop “eating their own” through negativity and isolation. At its core, this conversation reframes leadership not as authority, but as presence—showing up for students, teachers, and communities every day.As Hinchcliffe reminds us, leadership isn’t clean or predictable—it’s messy, relational, and deeply human.🔗 Show Links and Resources 📌 Follow Principal Hinchliffe's Linktree for his books, social media, and ways to stay connected!📌 Brad Johnson's Memoir "Room 212"📌Learn more about the Ron Clark Academy (RCA)

Episodic SynopsisIn Part II of this conversation with Jeremy Brooks, Classroom Narratives shifts from leadership identity to leadership responsibility — exploring school safety, crisis response, and the systems that support students, educators, and families during difficult moments.Jeremy reflects on guiding school communities through loss, the importance of transparent communication during crises, and the responsibility educators carry in balancing emotional care with professional boundaries. Together, he and Dr. Joey Weisler discuss proactive safety planning, SEL practices across disciplines, and the role of and PBIS frameworks in creating supportive school climates.At the center of this conversation is a powerful leadership principle: meaningful change in schools happens through servant leadership, shared responsibility, and what Jeremy calls “radical interdependence.” While schools cannot prevent every crisis, they can build systems of care that help communities respond with compassion and connection.Jeremy Brooks' extended bioJeremy Brooks is the CEO of Brooks Broadcasting LLC and the host of The Education Talk Show with Jeremy Brooks, an international education media platform that has reached more than 1.5 million viewers from around the world and over 295,000 subscribers.Under his leadership, The Education Talk Show with Jeremy Brooks has earned five Communicator Awards from the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts as well as the YouTube Silver Creator Award, establishing it as a leader in digital education media. Brooks Broadcasting LLC also produces The Weekly Recess, an award-winning live, panel-style show that expands conversations around education, leadership, and culture.Jeremy is also a published author and contributor, having written “7 Effective Steps to Improve Your School’s Attendance” for Leadership magazine. He is featured in the book More Than Just Principals by Robert Hinchliffe, which highlights educators who go above and beyond in service to students and school communities.In addition to his media work, Jeremy is a former school administrator who has served in key professional leadership roles, including past president of a county charter of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and former Chair of Legislative Policy, representing five counties on ACSA’s State Public Policy Committee. Through this work, he has contributed to statewide and national education policy conversations in Washington, D.C.Alongside his leadership and media roles, Jeremy still finds time to play an active role as a classroom educator, teaching courses like Psychology and college-level Advanced Placement American Government and Politics for high school students. He is a recipient of the Crystal Apple Award, recognizing his work for going above and beyond for students.🔗 Show LinksMore Than Just Principals (Robert Hinchliffe)Seven Effective Steps to Improve Your School’s Attendance (ACSA Leadership Article)Jeremy Brooks — The Ed Talk WebsiteThe ED Talk Show — YouTube ChannelThe Anxious Generation (book by Jonathan Haidt)

Episode SynopsisIn Part I of this two-part conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with educator, former principal, doctoral researcher, and media host Jeremy Brooks to explore what leadership truly looks like during difficult moments in education.Drawing from his journey from classroom teacher to administrator to founder of Brooks Broadcasting, Jeremy reflects on how leadership is not defined by titles, but by presence, integrity, and service to students and educators. Together, Joey and Jeremy discuss teacher burnout, compassion fatigue, the importance of visible leadership in school communities, and how trauma-informed practices can shape healthier school cultures.This episode centers on a powerful idea: strong leadership keeps educators in the profession — especially when systems feel overwhelming and teachers are asked to support students while carrying their own emotional weight. Part II will continue the conversation by examining school safety, accountability, and the shared responsibility of building supportive educational systems.Jeremy Brooks' extended bioJeremy Brooks is the CEO of Brooks Broadcasting LLC and the host of The Education Talk Show with Jeremy Brooks, an international education media platform that has reached more than 1.5 million viewers from around the world and over 295,000 subscribers.Under his leadership, The Education Talk Show with Jeremy Brooks has earned five Communicator Awards from the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts as well as the YouTube Silver Creator Award, establishing it as a leader in digital education media. Brooks Broadcasting LLC also produces The Weekly Recess, an award-winning live, panel-style show that expands conversations around education, leadership, and culture.Jeremy is also a published author and contributor, having written “7 Effective Steps to Improve Your School’s Attendance” for Leadership magazine. He is featured in the book More Than Just Principals by Robert Hinchliffe, which highlights educators who go above and beyond in service to students and school communities.In addition to his media work, Jeremy is a former school administrator who has served in key professional leadership roles, including past president of a county charter of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA) and former Chair of Legislative Policy, representing five counties on ACSA’s State Public Policy Committee. Through this work, he has contributed to statewide and national education policy conversations in Washington, D.C.Alongside his leadership and media roles, Jeremy still finds time to play an active role as a classroom educator, teaching courses like Psychology and college-level Advanced Placement American Government and Politics for high school students. He is a recipient of the Crystal Apple Award, recognizing his work for going above and beyond for students.🔗 Show LinksMore Than Just Principals (Robert Hinchliffe) Seven Effective Steps to Improve Your School’s Attendance (ACSA Leadership Article) Jeremy Brooks — The Ed Talk Website The ED Talk Show — YouTube Channel Principal Earnshaw segment

📌 Episode Synopsis In this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with storyteller and teaching artist Rachael Harrington to explore how storytelling can rebuild connection, imagination, and community in the aftermath of isolation and disruption.Drawing from her background as a middle school art teacher and illustrator, Rachael shares how the “invitation to play” became central to her teaching philosophy and later evolved into her storytelling work with schools, libraries, and families. She reflects on creating Morning Circle during the COVID shutdown, using stories and art-making to provide routine, creativity, and emotional respite for children and educators navigating uncertainty.Together, Joey and Rachael discuss storytelling as a deeply human act—one that strengthens listening skills, builds shared language and memory, and fosters empathy across communities. Through folktales, imagination, and interactive performance, storytelling becomes more than entertainment—it becomes a pathway toward reconnection.As Rachael reminds us, rebuilding community often begins with something simple: sharing our stories with one another🔗 Link here to Rachael's website🔗 Rachael's podcast: The Fairytale Art Cart

📝 Episodic SynopsisWhat does it really mean to rise when the special education system feels overwhelming, opaque, and emotionally exhausting?In this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing and Education, Dr. Joey Weisler is joined by Mark Ingrassia, longtime special education advocate, former teacher, parent-coach, and founder of Special Ed Rising: No Parent Left Behind. Together, they explore what families are facing behind the scenes—burnout, fear, withheld information, and the constant pressure to advocate without clear guidance.Mark shares both professional insight and lived experience, offering a compassionate look at why parents need trusted allies, why educators need better support and training, and how true collaboration between schools and families can change outcomes for students. This conversation moves beyond policy and paperwork to center humanity, presence, and the quiet, daily work of rising—together.This episode is for parents, teachers, school leaders, and caregivers who believe that advocacy is not about conflict, but about connection.📌 Show Notes / Key TakeawaysParents carry more than paperwork Families navigating special education are managing daily emotional labor, fear for the future, burnout, and uncertainty—often unseen by schools.The school–home connection is everything Progress happens when parents are treated as partners and experts on their own children, not as adversaries.The IEP is a living, legal roadmap Mark emphasizes the importance of early, consistent advocacy—starting as early as age 14—to ensure families are prepared for post–high school transitions.Advocacy doesn’t have to mean confrontation Advocates can be parents, retired educators, professionals, or community members who help families understand their rights and the process.Information gaps harm trust When schools withhold or fail to fully communicate information, families are left reacting instead of participating proactively.Mainstreaming without training hurts everyone New and general education teachers are often placed in high-need classrooms without adequate preparation, leading to burnout and inequitable outcomes.Teacher retention is tied to feeling valued Recognition, mentorship, collaboration, and simple affirmation (“you did a good job”) matter deeply—and are often missing.Rising is not performative Rising means getting out of bed, meeting the moment imperfectly, pausing before reacting, and choosing compassion over fear.Knowledge empowers families Each piece of understanding helps parents rise—reducing isolation and restoring agency.Community is the antidote to exhaustion No parent, teacher, or student is meant to navigate this system alone.🔗 Links to Include in Show Notes🌐 Special Ed Rising – Home Page https://specialedrising.com/home-page/🎧 Special Ed Rising Podcast https://special-ed-rising.captivate.fm/

🧭 Episodic SynopsisIn Part II of this conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down again with educator-scholar Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf to examine what happens after disruption—when trauma, authority, and behavior collide in the classroom. Moving beyond theory, this episode focuses on the ethical decisions educators must make in real time: when to intervene, when to pause, and when restraint is the most powerful pedagogical move.Drawing from personal experience—including a formative moment as a Harvard undergraduate, classroom eruptions involving student crisis, and decades of teaching across secondary and higher education—Wolfsdorf interrogates how educators’ unresolved wounds can shape classroom dynamics, sometimes creating the very behaviors they seek to control. Together, Weisler and Wolfsdorf explore reflective functioning, countertransference, and the danger of reactive discipline in trauma-laden spaces.This episode reframes classroom management as a relational practice rather than a punitive one, arguing that trust, emotional regulation, and curricular flexibility are not signs of weakness—but prerequisites for meaningful learning. For educators navigating burnout, behavioral challenges, and ethical uncertainty, Teaching in the Riptide, Part II offers a grounded, humane approach to holding both students and ourselves to higher standards.📝 Show Notes: Key Ideas & TakeawaysWhen Teachers Create “Bad Students” Wolfsdorf revisits a pivotal experience as an 18-year-old Harvard student, illustrating how rigid authority and intellectual gatekeeping can wound learners and distort identity—often unintentionally. Trauma Does Not Stay Outside the Classroom Both educators and students bring lived experiences into learning spaces; unexamined trauma in teachers can quietly shape grading, discipline, and expectations. Countertransference in Education Borrowed from psychology, this concept helps explain why certain students trigger disproportionate reactions—and why self-awareness is essential for ethical teaching. Punishment vs. Empathy Not all misbehavior requires escalation. In moments of student crisis, empathy and delayed response often produce better long-term outcomes than immediate discipline. Reflective Functioning Under Pressure Wolfsdorf emphasizes the educator’s ability to regulate emotion before responding, especially after explosive incidents, as a defining professional skill. The Aftermath Matters More Than the Outburst How teachers handle follow-up conversations—tone, timing, and intent—shapes whether a rupture becomes a turning point or a lasting fracture. Reading the Room as Pedagogy Teaching requires the same situational awareness as performance—knowing when to pivot, slow down, or lean into what students are already carrying. Good Teaching Is Developmentally Flexible While structure varies across K–12 and higher education, the core principles of trust and intellectual respect remain constant. Holding Ourselves to High Standards Wolfsdorf closes by urging educators to be relentless with their own growth, arguing that teacher self-reflection is the most underused assessment tool in education.🔗 Learn More About Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf🔗 Get the Book: Teaching in the Riptide

🧭 Episodic SynopsisIn this return conversation (since spring 2025), Dr. Joey Weisler welcomes back Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf—English educator, scholar, and author of Teaching in the Riptide—for a deep exploration of the moments in education that pull teachers off balance and force reckoning, reflection, and growth. Drawing on vivid classroom narratives, Dr. Wolfsdorf introduces the metaphor of the “riptide”: those unpredictable, disorienting moments that no amount of lesson planning or graduate training can fully prepare educators for.Together, Weisler and Wolfsdorf examine obstructive and constructive subversions, unpacking how power shifts in classrooms when students challenge authority, disrupt norms, or exceed expectations in profound and unexpected ways. From a graduate seminar overtaken by cupcakes and balloons to a ninth grader’s devastatingly honest poem about loss, this episode interrogates what happens when teaching collides with humanity.At its core, this conversation asks educators to rethink control, creativity, and compliance—arguing that meaningful learning often emerges not from obedience, but from ethical risk-taking, reflective restraint, and a willingness to sit with uncertainty. For anyone teaching in today’s trauma-aware landscape, Teaching in the Riptide offers both a warning and an invitation: the work will unsettle you—and that may be precisely the point.📝 Show Notes: Key Ideas & TakeawaysThe Riptide as Pedagogical Reality Wolfsdorf defines “riptide moments” as those classroom experiences that disorient educators—moments where control dissolves and certainty disappears, yet reflection can transform futility into growth.The Illusion of Preparation Graduate seminars and teacher training often simulate idealized classrooms, failing to reflect the emotional, psychological, and social complexities students bring into real learning spaces.Obstructive Subversion When students challenge authority in ways that derail learning—such as boundary-crossing behavior—the educator is forced to navigate power, professionalism, and self-preservation in high-stakes moments.Constructive Subversion Not all disruption is harmful. Some of the most transformative learning emerges when students exceed expectations, reshape assignments, and radically reframe what is possible in the classroom.Power, Authority, and Fear The episode explores how evaluation culture, student ratings, and institutional pressure can make educators fearful of confrontation—sometimes leading to silence as a survival strategy.Creativity as Ethical Practice From poetry to video games to performance, creative freedom becomes a pathway for students to engage deeply without forcing therapeutic disclosure or retraumatization.Resisting Compliance Culture True learning, Wolfsdorf argues, is inherently radical. Obedience may feel safe, but subversion—when guided ethically—creates thinkers, not replicators.Educator Subversion The episode closes by challenging teachers to examine their own subversive identities, suggesting that comfort with personal nonconformity allows educators to better support student resistance and creativity.🔗 Learn More About Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf🔗 Get the Book: Teaching in the Riptide

📘 Episodic SynopsisIn Part II of this two-part conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler and Christopher S. Mukiibi turn toward the heart of the work: connection, burnout, courage, and the deep human need to feel seen. Chris shares what his burnout research revealed — that connection, not rest alone, is what keeps teachers alive in the work — and how isolation inside classrooms can quietly erode purpose.The conversation explores imposter syndrome, the nervous system in schools, public skepticism toward education, and why many educators still do the work despite misunderstanding or dismissal. Joey and Chris also reflect on the lifelong impact of mentors who make students feel seen, and how modeling courage and curiosity gives students permission to grow.This episode is for educators who are tired, hopeful, introverted, overwhelmed, committed — and still here.📝 Show Notes – Key Ideas & HighlightsConnection as the strongest protective factor against burnoutWhy rest alone doesn’t cure burnout — belonging doesThe isolating structure of K–12 classrooms and its emotional costImposter syndrome and why courage and faith are foundational virtuesHow mentors who see us change the trajectory of our livesBuilding campus relationships as a burnout antidoteThe nervous system in the classroom: regulation, safety, and presenceHow educators absorb student pain — and why it feels so heavyPublic skepticism about education and how teachers persist anywayReframing expertise: anyone can build competence and agencyEducation as a tool to alleviate unnecessary suffering“Feeling seen” vs. “being assessed” — and why the difference matters🔗 Links and ContactChristopher's Linkedin Username: Christopher MukiibiInstagram: @mrmukiibiEmail: [email protected]: https://stan.store/mrmukiibi

📘 Episodic Synopsis In this powerful conversation, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with educator, mentor, and creator Christopher S. Mukiibi to explore what real learning actually is—and why education must help students suffer less, not just perform better. Drawing from his own first year of teaching after the pandemic, his “Learning Compass” framework, and his experiences supporting students living through trauma, Chris speaks candidly about apathy, burnout, literacy, discipline, identity, and the deep human need for connection in schools.Together, Joey and Chris discuss how literacy gives language to pain, how students “act out” experiences they cannot yet express, and why connection—not perfection—protects both teachers and students. This episode is for anyone who believes education should change lives, not just test scores, and who is searching for meaning in the work again.📝 Show Notes – Key Ideas & HighlightsThe meaning of “real learning”—understanding, behavior change, and moving closer to the life we actually wantEducation as a path to reducing unnecessary sufferingWhy connection protects against burnout more than rest aloneThe crisis of apathy and disengagement post-pandemicHow students “act out” when they lack the vocabulary for their painThe role of literacy and writing in healing trauma and PTSDFirst-year teaching challenges: parenting, pandemic return, instability, and grief in studentsWhy teachers matter even when lessons “don’t land”The unseen curriculum: students learn who we are, not only what we teachReframing metrics of success: measuring growth instead of just participationThe danger of treating reading as punishment or complianceThe life-changing impact of safe adults who notice and interveneChemistry, language, and story: “We are made of stories more than atoms.”🔗 Links and ContactChristopher's Linkedin Username: Christopher MukiibiInstagram: @mrmukiibiEmail: [email protected]: https://stan.store/mrmukiibi

🧭 Episodic SynopsisIn this Weisler Alumni segment of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Tom —Army Reserve Staff Sergeant, communications specialist, husband, and returning college student—to explore what happens when education becomes a space for recovery rather than survival.Reflecting on his experience growing up in an underfunded rural school system, Tom shares how rigid, checkbox-driven classrooms pushed him away from higher education—and how the military unexpectedly reintroduced him to learning as a form of leadership, reflection, and meaning-making. Through trauma-informed writing, open classroom design, and mentorship-centered dialogue, Tom describes how returning to college in his mid-twenties allowed him to reclaim his voice and reframe trauma with nuance and respect.This episode is a powerful reminder that learning doesn’t follow a straight line—and that when classrooms invite humanity instead of rigidity, education can become a catalyst for healing, connection, and purpose.

🎧 Episodic Synopsis In this powerful alumni spotlight episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler reconnects with a former student, Dieunise, for an unfiltered conversation about what it truly means to be a student in today’s education system. From K–12 classrooms to college lecture halls, Dieunise reflects on how education has shifted from learning to survival—and why that shift is failing so many students.As a film and video student navigating an underfunded arts pathway, Dieunise shares the stark contrast between institutional support for STEM students and the isolation experienced by students in the humanities. She speaks candidly about being labeled “lazy” for learning differently, the emotional cost of rigid systems, and the resilience required to carve out one’s own path.This episode challenges educators, policymakers, and listeners alike to ask a critical question: Who is education really working for? And more importantly—who is being left out of the room when decisions are made?

🧠 Episodic Synopsis In this student-voice segment of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with former student Florence Shirman, a neuroscience and behavior major at Florida Atlantic University, to reflect on what learning feels like when education moves beyond grades and toward meaning.Florence speaks candidly about her journey through school—from early experiences shaped by internal pressure rather than external expectations, to a college classroom where choice, conversation, and community transformed how she engaged with writing and learning. She shares how her semester-long Your Voice, Your Change project allowed her to respond academically and personally to the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel, using writing as a way to speak from identity, process real-world events, and contribute her voice beyond the classroom.Together, Florence and Dr. Weisler explore how classroom design, tone, and trust shape student participation—and why education is most powerful when students are seen, heard, and invited into genuine dialogue.LINKS AND RESOURCES: Dr. Joey Weisler on teaching to the HEART

🔗 Show Notes In this episode, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Lisa Kay—art therapist, professor, and national leader in art education—to unpack why classrooms can feel restorative but are not therapy rooms.Dr. Kay breaks down the essential differences between therapeutic spaces and clinical spaces, offers four pillars that make classrooms safer (predictability, flexibility, connection, empowerment), and explains how art-making helps students hold stress, regain control, and express what words can’t.She also draws a clear boundary between art facilitation and art therapy, while sharing practical, classroom-ready art practices like “Stress/De-Stress” and “Scribble It Out.” A must-listen for educators navigating dysregulation, creativity, and care—without crossing into clinical territory.🔗 Show ResourcesLisa Kay – Faculty Profile (Temple University)Learn more about Dr. Kay’s academic work as Professor and Chair of Art Education & Community Arts Practices at Temple University, where she also directs graduate studies in Art Therapy and leads national research at the intersection of art, trauma, and education. Dr. Lisa Kay's Official WebsiteExplore Dr. Kay’s full body of work, including her publications, research projects, courses, speaking engagements, and resources designed for educators, art therapists, and community practitioners. Restorative Practices in Education Through the Arts (Book)This edited collection shows how restorative principles and the arts work together to build connection, agency, and resilience in classrooms and community spaces. It offers real-world strategies for nurturing supportive, choice-based environments for learners of all ages. Therapeutic Approaches in Art Education (Book)Dr. Kay’s foundational text for educators who want to integrate therapeutic art-making into their classrooms without crossing into clinical practice. The book outlines trauma-sensitive approaches, explains key distinctions between art education and art therapy, and offers practical, classroom-ready activities. MA in Art Therapy – Temple UniversityThis graduate program prepares students to become credentialed art therapists through intensive studio practice, supervised clinical training, psychological theory, and ethical community-based work. 🔗 Referenced "Classroom Narratives" segments in this episode“Art as Lifeline: Traci Molloy on Collective Creation After 9/11 and Beyond”“Navigating Trauma in the English Classroom: Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf on Relational Teaching, Boundaries, and the Power of Story”

📘 Episodic SynopsisIn this powerful episode, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Susan B. Neuman—NYU Professor of Childhood Education, former U.S. Assistant Secretary for Elementary & Secondary Education, and one of the most influential voices in early literacy. Together they trace the complex landscape of American reading practices, the politicization of literacy, and what it truly takes to build lifelong readers.Dr. Neuman challenges traditional narratives about literacy by reframing it as both a social experience and a community-driven practice, while naming the systemic forces that shape how children learn. From laundromats to grocery stores, from multilingual classrooms to policymaking tables, she reminds us that literacy lives everywhere—and that teachers hold powerful keys to shaping children’s futures.This episode is essential listening for educators, literacy advocates, and anyone who believes reading is both a right and a relationship.

In this deeply personal solo segment, Dr. Joey Weisler traces the journey from his childhood dream of teaching, to the profound disillusionment he faced entering the classroom months after the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy, to the transformation that led him toward resilience, boundary-setting, and wholehearted teaching.Drawing on stories from his first year in the classroom, his doctoral research, and the wisdom of his kindergarten teacher Ms. Lynch, Dr. Weisler introduces The H.E.A.R.T. Mindset—a trauma-informed, relationship-centered approach rooted in Habits, Engagement, Awareness, Resilience, and Telling Stories.This episode reframes what it means to teach today: not with perfection, not with saviorhood, but with presence, authenticity, and humanity. Whether you’re a new teacher or a veteran craving renewal, this conversation reminds you that you can meet standards without becoming standardized, and that the connections you build will outlast anything printed in a pacing guide.Join Dr. Weisler as he shows how educators can turn scars into stars, lead with heart, and carry purpose through pain.H — HabitsCreate routines that regulate you and provide stability for students. In Joey’s classroom, this includes circles, choice-based discussions, and flexible methods of engagement. E — EngagementStudents engage when they feel invited, not commanded. Joey uses co-regulation, options for sharing (verbal or written), and “written alternative assignments” instead of punitive homework. A — AwarenessStudents grow when they connect learning to their own world. Projects like Your Voice, Your Change help students locate themselves inside bigger conversations — from mental health and substance use to gluten-free advocacy and athletic pressure. R — ResilienceResilience isn’t pushing through — it’s protecting your energy. Joey discusses the power of giving yourself permission to set boundaries, regulate, and refuse to be standardized by a pacing guide. T — Telling StoriesStories help us bridge meaning and reclaim truth. From students’ letters to intergenerational wisdom, Joey emphasizes how storytelling becomes “our day in court” — a way to honor impact and find clarity after trauma.ADDITIONAL INSIGHTS FROM THE SEGMENTSafety isn’t announced — it’s practiced through invitational language.You can meet standards while still being human, warm, and flexible.Students won’t remember every formula, but they’ll remember your grace.Perseverance after hardship is always possible.You are whole and enough as you are.RESOURCES:Contact Dr. Joey Weisler by visiting his website hereGet your free HEART poster with additional resources linked inside!

📘 Episode SynopsisIn this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing and Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with author and educator Lincoln James, whose work spans decades, genres, and emotional terrain. Known for his haunting thrillers and his compassionate presence in the classroom, Lincoln shares how his novels—We Are Human, Written Just for You, The Vanishing Eight, and more—explore the unspoken corners of grief, love, and identity. Together, they unpack how storytelling can be both a survival instinct and an act of healing, and why the same empathy that drives a good novel can transform how we teach, connect, and lead.🗝️ Show NotesGuest: Lincoln James — author of We Are Human, Written Just for You, The Vanishing Eight, Devils Like Us, and All the Time; Communication professor in New York City.Host: Dr. Joey Weisler, creator of Classroom Narratives: Healing and Education.Key Topics:Humanity in Horror: How We Are Human reframes Frankenstein-like themes to explore trauma, identity, and survival in a fractured world.Thrillers as Emotional Architecture: Why thrillers allow readers to confront fear, loss, and shame in “safe” emotional spaces—and why catharsis matters.Teaching Through Storytelling: Lincoln’s reflections on how his classroom work mirrors his fiction: guiding students to find voice, confidence, and meaning through narrative.From Fourth Grade to Fiction: A childhood teacher who said “yes” to his stories sparked a lifetime of creative courage—and shaped his teaching philosophy today.The Writer’s Craft: Lincoln’s meticulous research process—character sheets, historical detail, and authenticity that brings each era to life.Sustaining Creativity Without Burnout: Why writing “for himself” keeps him balanced while juggling teaching, editing, and nationwide book signings.Connection and Continuity: How all of Lincoln’s books exist within a shared universe of emotional echoes and Easter eggs, inviting readers to look deeper.Looking Ahead: Sneak peek into The Ninth Layer, his upcoming thriller set in 2002, where a college class finds itself trapped beneath the earth—both literally and psychologically.Emotion as the Goal: “If my words can make someone feel something—that’s all I could ever hope for.”Bridging Story and Humanity: Both the classroom and the written page become spaces where courage meets empathy, and where tension meets tenderness.🔗 Connect with Lincoln James🌐 Website: thelincolnjames.com📸 Instagram: @lincolnjjames📖 New Book: We Are Human (released Tuesday, 11/11/2025!)

📘 Episode Synopsis In this deeply reflective episode, Dr. Joey Weisler welcomes Dr. Jamie Marich—trauma specialist, expressive artist, author of over a dozen books, and founder of the Institute for Creative Mindfulness. Together, they explore how trauma is not a life sentence but an unhealed wound that can mend through care, validation, and creative expression. From the limits of “safe space” language to the role of belonging, narrative, and authenticity in classrooms, this conversation bridges psychology and pedagogy with heart. Dr. Marich’s lived experience and clinical insight invite us to see healing as both personal and collective—a process of being safe enough to connect, express, and grow.🗝️ Show NotesFeatured Guest: Dr. Jamie Marich — Trauma specialist, EMDR educator, expressive artist, and founder of The Institute for Creative MindfulnessKey Discussion Points:Redefining Trauma: Trauma isn’t a death sentence—it’s an unhealed wound that can recover through proper care, presence, and validation.Beyond “Safe Spaces”: Why “safe enough” and “safe moments” may better honor the lived realities of students navigating trauma and identity.The Power of Invitation: How invitational language fosters belonging without forcing vulnerability.Belonging and Kindness: The small, daily gestures of empathy that build classroom trust—especially for marginalized students.Story as Healing: How narrative, expression, and creative arts bridge emotional and intellectual learning.Balancing Logic and Emotion: Dr. Marich and Dr. Weisler discuss blending emotional intelligence and academic rigor in writing and literature classrooms.Boundaries in Authentic Teaching: Sharing personal experience responsibly—being transparent without oversharing.Education and Collective Healing: “We’re all just walking each other home”—what it means to teach as an act of shared humanity.Narrative Medicine in Education: How writing, art, and reflection can become tools of safety and renewal for students.Cross-Disciplinary Healing: Dr. Marich calls for educators, clinicians, and artists to collaborate beyond silos to create cultures of compassion.Referenced Works and Connections:TEDx Youngstown Talk — “Healing the Public Health Crisis of Trauma”Navigating Trauma in the English Classroom by Dr. Adam Wolfsdorf Paula Reed’s Classroom Narratives episode Jamie’s primary sites: 🔹 www.jamiemarich.com 🔹 www.redefinetherapy.com

Episodic SynopsisIn Part Two, Dr. Matthew Arau shares practical ways to transform classrooms through circles, peer-to-peer leadership, and his Power of GET — a mindset of gratitude, enthusiasm, and treasure that helps teachers and students thrive🔗 Featured Links & ResourcesPower of GET Discover Dr. Arau’s signature mindset shift — moving from “have to” to “get to” — with resources, stories, and tools to help you bring gratitude, enthusiasm, and treasure into your daily practice.Power of GET – Leadership Quiz Take a free 4-question quiz to uncover your GET leadership style (Grower, Energizer, or Trailblazer) and receive tailored strategies for elevating your leadership.Upbeat Global Home of Dr. Arau’s Upbeat philosophy — connecting mindset, mindfulness, and leadership practices to reenergize teachers, transform classrooms, and build positive cultures worldwide.GIA Music – Upbeat Book Collection Order Matthew Arau’s books and resources, including Upbeat!, The Upbeat Daily Journal, Upbeat Daily Planner, and The Upbeat Leadership Workbook — with bundle pricing options.Upbeat Leaders Facebook Group Join thousands of educators and leaders in an uplifting community where members share authentic stories, resources, and encouragement for sustaining positivity in education.Lawrence University Faculty Profile Read about Dr. Arau’s role as Associate Professor of Music Education and Associate Director of Bands at Lawrence University.About Matthew Arau – Upbeat Global Learn more about Matthew’s journey, mission, and the development of his Upbeat leadership philosophy.VanderCook College of Music Profile View Dr. Arau’s faculty profile as part of the VanderCook College of Music, where he contributes to leadership and teacher development.Matthew Arau on LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Arau professionally and follow his updates on leadership, education, and speaking engagements.Upbeat! on Amazon Purchase Dr. Arau’s bestselling book, Upbeat: Mindset, Mindfulness, and Leadership in Music Education and Beyond.

Episodic SynopsisIn Part One, Dr. Matthew Arau shares how educators can find joy and trust even in the midst of burnout. He unpacks the six human needs, the difference between joy and happiness, and why the inner work of mindset sets the tone for our classrooms.🔗 Featured Links & ResourcesPower of GET Discover Dr. Arau’s signature mindset shift — moving from “have to” to “get to” — with resources, stories, and tools to help you bring gratitude, enthusiasm, and treasure into your daily practice.Power of GET – Leadership Quiz Take a free 4-question quiz to uncover your GET leadership style (Grower, Energizer, or Trailblazer) and receive tailored strategies for elevating your leadership.Upbeat Global Home of Dr. Arau’s Upbeat philosophy — connecting mindset, mindfulness, and leadership practices to reenergize teachers, transform classrooms, and build positive cultures worldwide.GIA Music – Upbeat Book Collection Order Matthew Arau’s books and resources, including Upbeat!, The Upbeat Daily Journal, Upbeat Daily Planner, and The Upbeat Leadership Workbook — with bundle pricing options.Upbeat Leaders Facebook Group Join thousands of educators and leaders in an uplifting community where members share authentic stories, resources, and encouragement for sustaining positivity in education.Lawrence University Faculty Profile Read about Dr. Arau’s role as Associate Professor of Music Education and Associate Director of Bands at Lawrence University.About Matthew Arau – Upbeat Global Learn more about Matthew’s journey, mission, and the development of his Upbeat leadership philosophy.VanderCook College of Music Profile View Dr. Arau’s faculty profile as part of the VanderCook College of Music, where he contributes to leadership and teacher development.Matthew Arau on LinkedIn Connect with Dr. Arau professionally and follow his updates on leadership, education, and speaking engagements.Upbeat! on Amazon Purchase Dr. Arau’s bestselling book, Upbeat: Mindset, Mindfulness, and Leadership in Music Education and Beyond.

📖 Episodic SynopsisIn this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler speaks with Dr. Alexander Fields—Assistant Professor of counselor education at Florida Atlantic University, licensed professional counselor, and nationally certified counselor. Together, they explore Dr. Fields' groundbreaking work in suicide prevention among young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs), his BEAM curriculum (Bias Exploration and Awareness in Mental health diagnosis), and why systemic change is urgently needed in both education and mental health care.Listeners will hear practical strategies for trauma-informed classrooms, stories that reveal the hidden signs students use when they can’t verbalize distress, and insights on how to challenge professional and personal bias in order to provide truly person-centered care. Whether you are a teacher, counselor-in-training, or community advocate, this conversation offers hope, actionable tools, and the reminder that care begins when we choose not to look away.📝 Show NotesAbout Dr. Alex Fields – Assistant professor at FAU whose research focuses on integrated behavioral health, disability justice, counselor preparation, and systems-level reform.Elevated Suicide Risk in IDD Populations – A landmark study co-authored by Dr. Fields uncovers the heightened risks faced by young adults with IDDs, challenging misdiagnosis, systemic silence, and exclusion.The BEAM Curriculum – Bias Exploration and Awareness in Mental health diagnosis helps counselors recognize their blind spots, challenge assumptions, and ground clinical reasoning in cultural humility.Practical Strategies for Educators – From daily “temperature checks” to reframing behavioral concerns as possible cries for help, Dr. Fields offers trauma-informed tools educators can use immediately in classrooms.Community and Connection – Why no educator or counselor should “work on an island,” and how collaboration, consultation, and empathy-building activities can transform school culture.COVID’s Lingering Impact – Understanding how disrupted early schooling continues to affect today’s learners, especially students with disabilities.Language That Heals – How simplifying clinical language, validating students’ lived experiences, and asking direct but compassionate questions can save lives.Key Takeaway – “It’s okay not to know something, but it’s not okay not to care.” Education and compassion are lifelong commitments that bridge the gap between systems and humanity.Resource LinksFeature: Advancing Integrated Mental Health Research Florida Atlantic University – First-Year Faculty Story on Dr. Alex Fields https://www.fau.edu/education/newsevents/documents/alex-fields-web-story-5.23.25.pdfDr. Alexander Fields — LinkedIn Profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexander-fields-5b286bb9/Article: Suicide Risk Elevated Among Young Adults with Disabilities FAU News Desk – Research on Suicidality in IDD Populations https://www.fau.edu/newsdesk/articles/suicide-risk-young-adults-disabilities

Episodic SynopsisIn this powerful episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with award-winning musician, author, and youth empowerment coach Emma G. From surviving ten brain surgeries to transforming classrooms through songwriting, Emma shares how music can help students process emotions, confront trauma, and reclaim their voice. Drawing from her Māori heritage, teaching background, and her Youth Empowerment Through Songwriting program, Emma offers educators practical ways to move beyond compliance-driven teaching toward safe, creative, and student-centered learning. This conversation blends artistry, resilience, and practical strategy for anyone passionate about reimagining education.Show NotesKey Ideas & HighlightsFrom Survival to Songwriting: Emma G’s journey from living with hydrocephalus and undergoing ten brain surgeries to becoming an international performer and youth coach.The Healing Power of Music: How songwriting acts as both a therapeutic process and a tool for self-discovery, especially for teens navigating identity, trauma, and anxiety.Teaching the Student, Not the Curriculum: Emma’s philosophy of adapting teaching methods to meet individual needs—embracing creativity, autonomy, and non-conformist approaches.Trauma-Informed Creativity: Practical strategies for making emotional breakthroughs safe rather than overwhelming, including “naming” emotions and using music as a bridge to healing.Cultural Frameworks in Education: Incorporating Māori values (Aguwa principles) to create safe, non-judgmental, and reciprocal learning spaces.Music as a Classroom Anchor: Using intentional soundscapes and songs to set the tone, signal activities, and build an emotional rhythm for the day.Empowering Educators & Students Alike: Viewing the classroom as a mutual exchange where both teacher and student learn from each other, fostering respect and engagement.Breaking the Compliance Cycle: Why rigid standardization in teaching limits critical thinking and how educators can reframe standards without sacrificing creativity.A Toolkit for Emotional Engagement: Three essentials:Create a safe, judgment-free spaceShow up 110% and invite students to do the sameShare authority to build authentic relationshipsEmma G’s Call to Action: Be a disruptor in education—break boundaries, challenge norms, and give students the tools to become their “best baddest selves.”VISIT EMMA G's WEBSITE HERE

📘 **Episode Synopsis (for podcast directories):In this powerful episode, Dr. Joey Weisler welcomes Frances Shefter—former special education teacher turned education attorney—for a heartfelt conversation on what it means to advocate for students within (and often against) the system. As the founder of Shefter Law PA and the visionary behind the “Stress-Free IEP” method, Frances opens up about her journey from the classroom to the courtroom, shares the hard truths about bureaucratic barriers, and reminds educators and parents alike of the simple, radical idea: focus on the child. Whether you’re a teacher quietly trying to do what’s right, a parent learning to navigate IEPs and 504 plans, or a leader in search of human-centered solutions, this conversation will move you, challenge you, and equip you.📎 Show Notes & Links:Learn more about Frances Shefter and access free advocacy tools at 👉 https://shefterlaw.comWatch Frances’s weekly show Stress-Free IEP on YouTube: YouTube @shefterlawpaDownload her free parent resources and advocacy guides: https://shefterlaw.comConnect with Frances on Facebook: @ShefterLawPARecommended takeaway: Write a one-pager for your child’s teacher summarizing key emotional and behavioral supports before the school year begins.

📘 Episodic Synopsis (for episode notes):What does school safety look like beyond metal detectors and fire drills? In this gripping and deeply personal episode, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Chad Chaney—Marine Corps veteran, retired law enforcement sergeant, and current school safety manager for Florida Virtual School—to explore what it truly means to keep students safe. After walking through the preserved crime scene at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, Chad experienced a personal reckoning that redefined his mission: not just to prevent violence, but to hold systems accountable. From digital risk to trauma-informed strategy, this conversation calls on educators, parents, and leaders alike to notice the signs, act early, and rebuild trust.📚 Show Notes:🔹 Guest: Chad Chaney, School Safety Manager at Florida Virtual School🔹 Website: Triple C Security Consulting🔹 LinkedIn: Chad Chaney🔹 Article: "What I Saw in Parkland, and Why it Still Drives Me"🔹 Featured Tools and Resources:Interpreting Emojis Guide (Safer Schools Together)Raising Digitally Responsible Youth 2025 ToolkitKey Highlights:Chad’s emotional walkthrough of Building 12 at MSD—and how it transformed his leadership.How educators can detect early behavioral threat indicators.Why “that’s just Johnny being Johnny” is never a sufficient excuse.Navigating institutional silence and escalating when your concerns are dismissed.Safety in virtual schools: unseen risks and new opportunities.Peer accountability, classroom culture, and building a village of care.Why digital boundaries at home are not optional—and what parents need to know.The essential role of multidisciplinary threat assessment teams.The importance of identifying “leakage” and red flags before it’s too late.A call to all adults: If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t.

📖 Episodic Synopsis In this episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing and Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Eleni Webster—survivor of the Marjory Stoneman Douglas tragedy, Master's student, and Graduate Teaching Assistant for Public Speaking courses at Florida Atlantic University. Together, they explore how trauma shapes pedagogy, why culturally and emotionally informed teaching matters, and how classrooms can become spaces for both safety and transformation. From socratic circles in the classroom to bringing student voice into class conversation, Eleni shares how her past informs her present, and how every student deserves to be seen, heard, and valued.📌 Show NotesPersonal: eleniwebster.wixsite.com/eleniLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/eleni-webster-10296a17b#DoItForThe17 Blog: doitforthe17.wixsite.com

⚠️ Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of depression, suicidal ideation, and trauma, which may be distressing to some listeners.Disclaimer: The views expressed are not a substitute for professional mental health advice. Listener discretion is advised.📘 Episode SynopsisIn this powerful episode, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Stephanie Kunkel—leadership development expert, trauma-informed coach, and author of Perspectives Through Broken Glass—to explore the deep intersections of grief, resilience, and leadership. Stephanie shares her journey through suicidal ideation, motherhood, and healing, offering transformative insights into how we process trauma, reframe guilt, and rediscover our purpose. Educators, leaders, and anyone navigating burnout or personal loss will find encouragement in Stephanie’s candid reflections and the work she continues through Perspective Shifting LLC.📝 Show Notes and Resources~Joey Weisler's "The Throne in the Classroom" series trailer~Stephanie Kunkel's personal website with resources~Perspective Shifter's Website~Perspectives Through Broken Glass (Stephanie’s memoir on Amazon)~Stephanie's Newsletter~Stephanie's Youtube Channel~Stephanie's Rebel Dream Lab~Sue Klebold’s TED Talk, "My son was a Columbine shooter. This is my story."~Applied Suicide Intervention Skills (ASIST) training

✏️ Episodic SynopsisBrooklyn-based artist and educator Traci Molloy has spent over two decades creating collaborative art projects with youth impacted by trauma—from 9/11 to poverty, gun violence, and systemic injustice. In this deeply moving conversation, Traci reflects on her years as artist-in-residence at America’s Camp, her school-based healing initiatives post-COVID, and why collective artmaking is a sacred act of both mourning and joy. Through her mantra—“If you’re complacent, you’re complicit”—Traci reminds us that art is not a bonus in education; it’s essential.📚 Show NotesGet in touch with Traci and learn about her work:*Traci Molloy: Artist, Collaborator, Education Activist (Personal website)*Traci Molloy ~ Trauma informed pedagogy, workshops, and trainings (Cultivating Empathy platform)*EMAIL: [email protected]*Facebook Profile*Instagram: @tracimolloy📚 References and Resources*Through Their Eyes: Therapeutic Art for Grieving Children(View the full program here)*Tom DeMaria's segment on the Classroom Narratives podcast*Learn about AMERICA'S CAMP here and herePHOTOS OF THE PHOENIXAll photo credits and provisions: courtesy of Traci MolloyProvided two images--image 1 and image 2Title - The Feathers of the PhoenixDate - 2006Dimensions - 15'x20'x8'Materials - Wooden frame with chicken wire and paper mâché, acrylic paint, collaged drawings, glue, and glow in the dark paint. The piece is part of the Permanent Collection at the National September 11th Memorial and Museum. It will be on display for the first time at the NS11MM starting in September of 2026. Image 1 is a picture of the underbelly of the phoenix with all the campers' art pieces attached as feathers.Image 2 was taken at America's Camp, the night The Phoenix was first shared with the America's Camp community, with Traci Molloy featured in the foreground.

📘 Episodic SynopsisWhat does it mean to treat a story as sacred? In this powerful conversation, trauma-informed storyteller and strategist Maria Bryan joins Dr. Joey Weisler to reframe how educators, nonprofits, and changemakers gather and share stories—without causing harm. From concepts like story readiness and agency to classroom-based tools for nervous system regulation, this episode offers an honest, compassionate look at how to create storytelling spaces rooted in consent, care, and connection. Whether you're a teacher, nonprofit leader, or advocate, Maria’s words will challenge and ground your role as a listener and facilitator of lived experiences.📋 Show Notes and Resources~Learn about the BUTTERFLY TAPPING method here.~Check out Maria's WEBSITE here.~Learn about Maria's SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS AND SERVICES here

📘 Episodic Synopsis (for episode notes)When her son’s suicide attempt became the breaking point, Jheri South did what any mother would—she stepped in, learned everything she could about ADHD, and became the coach he needed to survive. In this gripping and compassionate conversation, Jheri opens up about raising seven neurodivergent children, confronting rejection sensitivity dysphoria (RSD), and the powerful overlap between trauma and ADHD. If you've ever wondered whether your classroom reactions are helping or harming, this episode will shift the way you see—and support—your students.📋 Show Resources~Visit Jheri South's Website here~Learn about Jheri's online ADHD Simplified Program ~Schedule a call with Jheri here~Learn about Dr. William Dodson here~Instagram:: @@msjherisouth~Jheri South Facebook

~SENSITIVE CONTENT WARNING~📘 Episodic Synopsis:When a fourth-grade student brought a weapon into her classroom, Amber—a dedicated teacher of 14 years—faced a decision no educator should ever have to make. Rather than "sweep it under the rug," she chose to speak up, advocate for her students, and walk away from a toxic system. In this deeply vulnerable episode, Amber (@beautifullyorganizedchaos) shares her harrowing experience, the emotional fallout that followed, and her powerful journey through post-traumatic growth. Now a graduate student in clinical mental health counseling, Amber is turning her pain into purpose—creating resources for educators, parents, and students across all 50 states.This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, courage, and connection at the intersection of education, trauma, and healing.Amber’s LinkTreeSocial Media Handle: @beautifullyorganizedchaos

🎧 Episode Synopsis: In this special roundtable episode—the first in a new, ongoing Weisler Alumni series—Dr. Joey Weisler reconnects with two of his former eighth-grade students: Mandy Lanier, a dance and neuroscience major at the University of Florida, and Ryan Romero (aka DJ Romi), a communications major and campus DJ at Nova Southeastern University.Together, they reflect on what it means to be a student within—and beyond—a school system shaped by testing, trauma, and transformation. Mandy and Ryan offer honest insights about what helped, what hurt, and what stuck with them, speaking candidly about the long-term impact of educational choices, teacher authenticity, and classroom memories.Part of a sporadic sequence of alumni conversations, this “Weisler Alumni” roundtable series offers former students a space to tell their truths, acknowledge the past, and help shape a better, more human-centered system for those still inside it.To learn about Mandy Lanier: Follow hereTo learn about Ryan "DJ Romi" Romero: Youtube channel and IG Handle @_djromi

📘 Episodic Synopsis:In this deeply reflective episode, Dr. Joey Weisler is joined by Professor Brenda Cowan—author, theorist, and educator at the Fashion Institute of Technology in New York city—to explore how everyday objects in classrooms, museums, and memory-laden spaces carry the power to heal. Through her groundbreaking framework Psychotherapeutic Object Dynamics, Cowan breaks down the seven ways people interact with objects in times of joy, trauma, and recovery—from associating and synergizing to releasing and composing. Together, they unpack how educators can build intentional, emotionally resonant environments that support both student and teacher well-being. Whether you're decorating your classroom or curating a moment of pause, this episode reminds us that objects can tell stories—and sometimes, they remember for us.🔗 Featured Links and Resources🔹 Brenda Cowan's FIT Faculty Profile https://www.fitnyc.edu/creative-nexus/faculty/directory/cowan-brenda.php📘 Recent Book: Museum Objects, Health and Healing: The Relationship Between Exhibitions and Wellness Available on Amazon🧠 Current Research: Psychotherapeutic Object Dynamics – A theory exploring the seven healing interactions we have with objects, including associating, giving, composing, and releasing.🌍 Fulbright Project: Stories from Syria Exhibition – An emotionally resonant exhibition exploring refugee narratives and healing through storytelling and design.🌳 Photo Reference: The Tree in Joey’s Classroom Click to View Image💼 Connect with Brenda Cowan on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenda-cowan-b29010a/🧵 Topics Covered in This EpisodeHow classroom design influences well-being and memorySeven psychotherapeutic dynamics of healing through objectsCreating Zen zones and memory walls in educational spacesHow educators can borrow lessons from museumsBuilding trust and emotional safety through student-centered designWhat it means to invite vulnerability through classroom keepsakes

📘 Episode SynopsisIn this powerful and resonant episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Guiliana Conti—music educator, researcher, and Director of Professional Development at Music Workshop—to explore how music transcends curriculum and becomes a lifeline for student connection, regulation, and identity. Through personal stories and practical insight, Dr. Conti reveals the neurological and emotional impact of music on trauma-affected learners and how even non-music educators can use sound to anchor safety and spark belonging in their classrooms. This episode is a must for anyone looking to deepen the emotional tone of their teaching practice—whether or not they can carry a tune.🎓 Resources for ListenersMusic Workshop: Free Curriculum A culturally responsive, standards-aligned library of free music curriculum for grades K–8 👉 Explore NowFree Professional Development Courses Including the highly recommended Music for Social Well-Being PD for both music and general educators 👉 Get CertifiedThe PERMA Model of Well-Being Learn how this five-part framework underpins Music Workshop’s trauma-informed strategies 👉 What is PERMA?Music Workshop Main Website Discover the mission, partners, and additional resources supporting music-centered education. 👉 Visit MusicWorkshopEDU.org

📄 Episodic SynopsisIn this powerful episode of Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with Dr. Andrea Mata (aka Dr. Dre), a clinical child psychologist and founder of Bright Spot Families. From her transition out of academia to launching a high-impact private practice, Dr. Dre shares how presence, consistency, and adaptability are foundational for both parenting and teaching. Whether you're managing a classroom or raising kids, this episode is packed with straight talk and actionable advice to help you connect, guide, and grow with young minds. Plus, hear about the poop-inspired parenting book that’s making waves in family psychology.📝 Show NotesGuest: Dr. Andrea Mata, Clinical Child Psychologist & Founder of Bright Spot Families Topic: Parenting tips, trauma-informed education, emotional regulation, and the psychology of consistency in schools and homes.Key Highlights:Dr. Dre’s journey from tenured professor to full-time psychologist.The inspiration behind The No. 2 Parenting Book: Practical Tips for the Pooped-Out Parent—readable in the time it takes to poop!Why presence and consistency are the top strategies for parenting and classroom management.How trauma-informed education sometimes misinterprets emotional needs.The importance of teaching kids emotional regulation using the psychology triangle (thoughts, behaviors, feelings).Classroom techniques that foster belonging, safety, and engagement (e.g., relationship banking model inspired by Goffman).Why adaptability is the “secret sauce” for thriving in education.Practical classroom examples, like icebreakers and student-led discussions, that help educators build trust and community.Resources Mentioned:Bright Spot Families – Book a SessionConnect with Dr. Dre on LinkedInFollow her on Instagram @drdremataPhil Januszewski’s Positive Growth Lounge (PGL) – Where this conversation first took root

📘 Episodic Synopsis:In this deeply reflective and empowering episode, Joey sits down with former educator and wellness guide Kim Brooks to unpack the reality of teacher burnout—and how educators can reclaim their energy without guilt. Drawing from nearly two decades in the classroom and her journey into breathwork, yoga, and healing, Kim shares practical tools and heartfelt wisdom to help educators slow down, set boundaries, and reconnect with themselves. Whether you’re in your first year or a seasoned teacher contemplating change, this conversation is your permission slip to pause and breathe.🔗 Resources & Links from This Episode🧘‍♀️ Kim Brooks – Guest Profile & Offerings • Connect with Kim on LinkedIn • The Energy Reset Program – Kim’s signature coaching framework for educators seeking renewal through breathwork, meditation, and mindful practices.🎧 Referenced Podcast Episodes • The Happier Teacher: Building Resilience Through SEL and Self-Care with Erin Shook 👉 Listen on RSS• Trauma-Informed Classrooms: Insights from a Caregiver and Therapist with Pamela Rosenblum 👉 Listen on RSS🫁 Mindfulness Tool Mentioned • Square Breathing Technique – A simple but powerful breathwork practice to regulate your nervous system.📚 For New Educators • Phases of a First-Year Teacher – Ellen Moir Framework – Understand the emotional arc of a teacher’s first year and how to navigate it with support.

📘 Episodic SynopsisIn this episode, Dr. Joey Weisler is joined by nationally recognized trauma expert Dr. Tom DeMaria to explore what it really means to support students and educators through loss. Drawing on decades of experience responding to crises like 9/11, Sandy Hook, and Parkland, Dr. DeMaria offers powerful insight into how grief shows up in schools—and how we can meet it with compassion, clarity, and care. As a senior consultant with the National Center for School Crisis and Bereavement (NCSCB), Dr. DeMaria shares proven strategies for creating emotionally safe spaces and helping school communities heal. Together, they unpack the difference between trauma and grief, the emotional ripple effects of tragedy, and what it takes to build communities that don't just survive crisis—but grow through it.Free tools for educators:National Center for School Crisis and BereavementCoalition to Support Grieving Students

📖 Episodic Synopsis What does it mean to keep students safe—and what happens when it costs you everything? In this episode, I sit down with Megan Farison, author of Dissonance and a passionate music educator, to unpack the delicate intersections of trauma, boundaries, and educator resilience. Together, we explore what it looks like to build trust in the classroom while navigating the invisible scars of your own past. From micro-moments of connection to the macro-systems that fail our youth, this is a raw and necessary conversation for anyone who’s ever tried to do the right thing in an imperfect world.📚 Referenced Resources:📖 Dissonance: A Memoir by Megan Farison → https://a.co/d/e4pTeGj🎙 Nathan Wray on Classroom Narratives Podcast with Joey Weisler → https://rss.com/podcasts/teachertestimony/2006242/🎧 Megan Farison & Leslie on Band Director Bootcamp Podcast with Lesley Moffat→ https://rss.com/podcasts/mpowerededucator/1994566/🧠 Teen Mental Health First Aid (ASIST Training) → https://cce.upmc.com/asist#group-tabs-node-course-default1🐘 Elephant Alliance: Preventing Educator Sexual Misconduct → https://www.theelephantalliance.com/about🎵 Sing, Coach, Conduct Podcast, hosted by Megan Farison → https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sing-coach-conduct/id1572166132

📘 Episode SynopsisIn this powerful and honest episode, Dr. Joey Weisler sits down with clinical psychologist and neurodiversity advocate Dr. Matt Zakreski for a transformative conversation about what it really means to teach and support gifted and neurodivergent students. Together, they unpack failure, challenge superhero narratives in education, and explore how flexible pedagogy can create spaces where all kinds of minds are seen, supported, and celebrated. With stories from the classroom and the clinic, this episode is a candid reflection on how to change the narrative—not just for our students, but for ourselves.📝 Show NotesGuest: Dr. Matt ZakreskiHost: Dr. Joey WeislerPodcast: Classroom Narratives: Healing in Education🎧 Listen to Related Conversations:Jen Rafferty with Dr. Joey Weisler: Teacher TestimonyJen Rafferty with Dr. Matt Zakreski: Unlock Your Teaching Potential🔍 Key Ideas from This Episode:Why “your brain is not a problem to solve—it’s a story to understand”The danger of the “gifted kid = superhero” mythUsing flexible pedagogy to honor different learning stylesA fresh take on failure: from shame to strategyInterest-Based Learning (IBL) as a tool for engagement and healingWhy rigid systems lead to burnout—for both students and educatorsCreating learning environments that invite student agencyEducator honesty and vulnerability as acts of transformationRethinking assessment: choice as a form of equityReimagining what success looks like in modern education🌐 Resources and Links Mentioned:Dr. Matt’s Website: drmattzakreski.comDr. Matt’s Book: The Neurodiversity PlaybookDr. Matt’s Podcast: Nerding Out on NeurodiversityNeurodiversity Collective (NDC): neurodiversitycollective.com

📝 Episode Synopsis What does trauma-informed education really look like on the front lines? In this eye-opening episode, Dr. Joey Weisler speaks with Supriya Budhiraja, an educational leader and former Teach For India fellow, who shares raw stories from her classrooms in India—stories of resilience, systemic challenge, and radical compassion. From navigating classrooms filled with 60+ students to witnessing the emotional aftermath of poverty and abuse, Supriya reveals the universal truths that connect educators across continents. This episode bridges global perspectives on student safety, empathy, and how educators everywhere can be that “one champion” every child needs.📚 Show NotesGuest: Supriya Budhiraja Topic: Trauma-Informed Education & SEL in Indian ClassroomsKey Themes & Highlights:Parallels between Teach For America and Teach For IndiaClassroom safety as a non-negotiable foundation for learningHow poverty intersects with school attendance and traumaThe powerful role of learning circles in student healingProject-based learning and equity through competency rubricsThe emotional toll on educators: teaching by choice vs. by chanceCultural and systemic barriers to implementing trauma-informed practicesTeachers as changemakers—even when the system pushes backUnderstanding educator trauma and burnoutCommunity-led solutions and parent engagement strategiesAdditional Resources:🎧 Listen to Monica Langer (NYC School Counselor) on Season 1: https://rss.com/podcasts/teachertestimony/1685025/🔗 Connect with Supriya on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/supriya-budhiraja-1789bab4/

📝 Episodic Synopsis In this powerful conversation, Rob McLeod—educator, podcaster, and author of the forthcoming book Schools That Give a F—joins Joey to unpack the hidden forces that shape educational systems. From his international teaching experience to his deep dives into school culture and leadership, Rob explores how misalignment in values can lead to burnout, and how understanding the "types" of schools—Expert, Coach, Counselor, and Facilitator—can help educators reclaim purpose and direction. Whether you’re a first-year teacher or a veteran leader, this episode offers an actionable roadmap to find meaning and sustainability in your educational journey.📚 Show Notes / HighlightsRob's journey: From rural Canada to international schools in Germany and Belgium.The origin story of his podcast and book, Schools That Give a F.Breakdown of the 4 school archetypes: Expert, Coach, Counselor, and the emerging Facilitator.How educators can use these archetypes to identify the environments where they thrive.The concept of alignment vs. misalignment in school culture and why it’s central to burnout and disengagement.Rob’s “Four Dimensions of a School”: Organizational, Relational, Actionable, and Personal.A helpful metaphor: The Blind Men and the Elephant Poem PDFThe educator’s arc: from passion to disillusionment—and the possibility of renewal.Why passionate educators are afraid of schools that "don’t give an F"—and what to do about it.How systems thinking, integral theory, and school leadership intersect to create (or destroy) meaningful educational spaces.Bonus resources: Check out Reinventing Education Podcast episode #124 for a deeper dive.🎧 Listen to more from Rob:Episode 124: Unpacking the 3 Types of SchoolsFull Reinventing Education Podcast 📖 Preorder or support the book: Schools That Give a F on Kickstarter

📘 Episode SynopsisWhat happens when a student who’s expelled just weeks before graduation becomes a national voice for youth mental health and suicide prevention? In this powerful episode, Nathan Wray shares his deeply personal story of addiction, adversity, and transformation. From hitting rock bottom to winning the Tennessee Governor’s Award for Suicide Prevention, Nathan now leads with vulnerability and purpose. Whether you're a teacher, student, or advocate, this conversation is a guide to healing through empathy, second chances, and systems that care.📝 Show NotesGuest: Nathan Wray — Motivational speaker, teen mental health first aid instructor, and prevention coordinator.In this episode:Nathan’s journey from expulsion and addiction to national mental health advocateHow micro-moments and one caring teacher made all the differenceReal-life struggles parenting a child with mental health needs — and what schools missWhy we must shift from punitive to restorative school policiesHow to build trauma-informed schools without burning out as an educatorThe importance of systems-level collaboration and “Handle With Care” protocolsWhy removing the stigma around mental health education is urgentWhat it means to be seen, heard, and valued in today’s schoolsKey Takeaways for Educators:You don’t need to be a therapist to help — but you do need to careStructure and consistency save lives — both in homes and classroomsInvest in micro-moments of connection; they can redirect a child’s lifeCollaborate across school, family, and community sectors to prevent future trauma🔗 Resources and Mentions from the Episode:🌐 Nathan Wray Official Website🎤 Nathan Wray – Youth Motivational Speaker Page📸 Follow Nathan on Instagram💼 Connect with Nathan on LinkedIn🧠 QPR Institute – Suicide Prevention Training✅ The 5 P’s: Proper Preparation Prevents Poor Performance🛡️ Handle With Care Program – New Jersey Example📚 Reaching and Teaching Children Exposed to Trauma by Barbara Sorrels (Amazon)