Let's Get Schooled: Recent Episodes
Emma Gentle
Hello beautiful Teachers! Welcome! Join host, Graduate Teacher Mentor and advocate, Emma Gentle (@thegradguide_) as she interviews experts and wonderful people making a positive impact in education. This podcast is here to educate, entertain and support you, whilst teaching you how to guide your students without punitive measures and question outdated beliefs, opinions and mindsets. We are here to change schools from the inside out!
www.thegradguide.com.au @thegradguide_
If you've been visualising, journalling, taking action and doing "all the right things," but still feel like your biggest desires aren't happening, this episode is for you.
Because if your body doesn't feel safe receiving the very thing you're asking for, you'll often find yourself pushing it away without even realising it.
It's about understanding the subconscious beliefs, protective parts and nervous system patterns that shape what you create in your life.
I also give you a simple exercise to uncover what might really be blocking your desires
Enjoy!
Resources for you
If you've ever felt like you're doing everything right but still aren't getting the results you want, take the free quiz here to figure out why.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m talking about the hidden beliefs that can drive ambition in business.
Many women go into business because they want more freedom, choice, flexibility and purpose. But over time, the business can start to feel heavy, urgent and completely dependent on them.
Sometimes this happens because the business is being built from an old wound rather than a genuine desire.
You might be working hard to prove that you are good enough, smart enough, worthy enough or capable enough. That drive can create results, but it often comes with a cost.
If you started your business for more freedom but now feel like it controls your life, this episode will help you look at what may be happening underneath the surface.
Resources for you
Take the free quiz here to explore the beliefs that may be shaping how you work the hidden pattern shaping how you pursue success after motherhood, and learn to create ambition without pressure, proving or self-abandonment.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I'm sharing one of the biggest mindset shifts I've experienced since becoming a mother.
For a long time, I believed success looked like climbing the ladder, achieving more, earning more, becoming more and constantly proving myself.
Motherhood changed that.
Not overnight, but through matrescence, healing, building a business and learning what truly matters to me, I realised that so much of my ambition wasn't actually coming from my deepest values. It was coming from old wounds that believed achievement would finally make me feel enough.
In this episode, I talk about:
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How my definition of success completely changed after becoming a mother
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The hidden ways achievement can become tied to self-worth
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Why high-achieving women often struggle to slow down
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Why every season of life asks us to redefine success
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How I'm learning to build a business that supports my family instead of competing with it
If you've ever felt torn between building your career, growing your business and being the mother you want to be, I think this episode will remind you that success doesn't have to look the way you've always been taught.
Sometimes the greatest success is building a life you don't need to escape from.
Resources for you
Redefining Success After Motherhood Quiz: Discover the hidden pattern shaping how you pursue success after motherhood, and learn to create ambition without pressure, proving or self-abandonment. TAKE THE QUIZ HERE
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I'm talking about fear, because if you have audacious goals, whether that's starting a podcast, showing up on social media, running workshops or taking the stage as a speaker, fear is coming along for the ride. This one is about learning to move with it instead of waiting for it to disappear.
In this episode, I talk about:
- Why fear is a completely normal nervous system response to visibility and vulnerability
- The stories we tell ourselves and where they actually come from
- Where fear shows up in your body and why your nervous system responds the way it does
- The question to ask instead of "how do I stop being scared?"
- How to work with the parts of you that have felt judged in the past, and why this is where the real healing happens
- Moving-toward motivation vs moving-away motivation, and why doing things from pain only gets you so far
- How gradual exposure gives your nervous system evidence that you can do the thing
- Why the fear never fully goes away when you're growing, and why that's not a problem
If there's a bold move you've been circling because fear keeps talking you out of it, this episode is your reminder that the fear isn't a sign to stop. You build the capacity for it, and the feeling on the other side of doing the scary thing is like nothing else.
Resources for you
If fear is sitting between you and a decision you know you need to make, come and join my live workshop, Make Your Next Bold Move in 30 Days, on July 23. In 90 minutes of live coaching and EFT tapping, I'll help you move through the fear so you can go
and make that next move in your business. Early bird is $47.
[Save your spot HERE]
Connect with Em
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I sit down with former Assistant Principal, Primary Teacher and homeschool advocate, Ally Blanch, for a really honest conversation about homeschooling, self trust and what happens when you stop outsourcing your parenting decisions.
Rather than interviewing each other, we simply explore the questions both of us have been sitting with as former educators who have chosen very different paths from the traditional system.
This isn’t an episode about convincing anyone to homeschool.
We talk about learning to trust yourself enough to make decisions that feels right for your family. We talk openly about our own journeys through teaching, motherhood, business and the inner work that led us here. We explore the fears, the conditioning, the nervous system responses and the courage it takes to choose a path that looks different from everyone around you.
If you’ve been questioning schooling, homeschooling or simply wondering how to make decisions that genuinely align with your family, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
Connect with Ally
Instagram: @allyyblanch_
Why would a former Assistant Principal and Primary Teacher choose to homeschool?
It’s a question I’ve been asked a lot lately, and in this episode, I’m sharing my honest thoughts about why our family is seriously considering homeschooling.
After spending 14 years in the education system as a teacher, leader, consultant and behaviour specialist, I never imagined this would be something I’d consider.
But motherhood has completely changed the way I see children, learning and what young kids actually need to thrive.
This conversation isn’t not about criticising schools or teachers. This is not a conversation about whether homeschooling is better than school. I have so much respect for educators and know first-hand how hard they work within a system that places enormous demands on them every day.
Instead, this episode is about asking a different question: What is the best fit for our family?
I share my experience working in schools, what I’ve learned through studying child development, attachment, nervous system development and emotional intelligence, and why those experiences have led me to rethink what education could look like for my own children.
In this episode, I talk about:
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What I believe young children need most in the early years
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The gaps I see between child development research and mainstream schooling
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Why emotional intelligence has become one of my biggest priorities for my children
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The myths around homeschooling and socialisation
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Why I think the future of work and learning is changing rapidly
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The importance of trusting your own family values when making big decisions
It’s a conversation about having the courage to question what’s right for your family, even when it looks different from what everyone else is doing.
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
LinkedIn
In this episode, I’m joined by Dr Anthea Todd, chiropractor, women’s health practitioner, bestselling author and founder of Female Fundamentals.
We talk about the gap so many women find themselves in when they know something doesn’t feel right, but keep being told their tests are normal and there’s nothing wrong.
Anthea shares how years of working with women led her to question why so many symptoms were being dismissed and how that journey took her from chiropractic into women’s health, functional medicine, nervous system work and energy healing.
We also talk about:
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Why common doesn’t always mean normal when it comes to women’s health
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How symptoms are often messages from the body, not problems to silence
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What happens when we stay stuck in overthinking and avoid what we’re feeling
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The nervous system impact of rapid business growth and visibility
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Supporting yourself through motherhood, business and the different seasons of life
Anthea also shares the story of how a simple Instagram video unexpectedly changed everything, growing her audience from 2,000 followers to over 100,000 almost overnight and what that experience taught her about nervous system capacity, success and sustainability.
The more connected you are to your body, the easier it becomes to understand what you need, what is driving your behaviour and how to support yourself in a way that actually feels good.
Connect with Dr Anthea Todd:
Instagram: @drantheatodd
Website: www.femalefundamentals.com.au
Book: What’s My Body Telling Me?
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m joined by psychologist and mum, Jacquie Ward, for a really honest conversation about attachment, motherhood and the pressure modern mums are carrying right now.
There’s so much noise online about what “good” parenting should look like.
And for a lot of mothers, it’s creating anxiety, guilt and the feeling that no matter what they do, they’re getting it wrong.
So in this episode, we unpack what attachment actually is, what secure attachment really means, and why so many women are feeling torn between wanting to be deeply present mothers while also wanting purpose, ambition and fulfilment outside of parenting too.
We talk about:
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The difference between attachment and temperament
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Why secure attachment does not mean being with your child 24/7 and what research actually says about secure attachment
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How to create strong connection with your children while also honouring yourself
If you’re a mother who constantly feels pulled between wanting to do everything “right” for your children while also wanting something for yourself too, I know this episode will help.
You do not have to lose yourself to be a good mother.
Connect with Jacquie:
Instagram: @jacquieward
Website: www.jacquieward.com.au
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I'm getting into belief systems, because we don't realise how much they're running the show. They shape how we turn up in our business, how we parent our kids, how we see our partners, how we see ourselves.
In this episode, I talk about:
- Why your beliefs shape everything from your income to how you parent
- How core beliefs form in childhood and why so many of them aren't even yours
- The reticular activating system and how your brain filters reality to match what you believe
- Confirmation bias and why you keep finding evidence for the story you're already telling yourself
- How beliefs become self-fulfilling prophecies in your business and your motherhood
- Why "I am only lovable when I achieve" is running so many high-achieving women
- Why affirmations on their own don't work, and what you actually need to do alongside them
- The belief one of my clients was holding that was quietly sabotaging the exact success she said she wanted
If you've ever wondered why you keep self-sabotaging, or why the thing you say you want never seems to arrive, this one's for you. You can't change what you can't see, and this episode is about learning to see it.
Resources for you
- This is exactly what we're looking at inside my workshop, Success Without Self-Sacrifice, on June 18. It runs like a live coaching session. I'll be pulling people up into the hot seat to uncover the beliefs holding them back, whether you're starting a business, scaling one, going for a leadership role, or wanting to change how you see your kids and yourself. It's $47, and I'd love to have you in the room. [Save your spot HERE]
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m talking about performative healing on Instagram and why so many women are feeling more overwhelmed, disconnected and not “good enough” in the online healing space.
Somewhere along the way, healing became another thing women feel pressure to do perfectly.
Between journalling every day, waking up at 5am, cold plunging, meditating, healing your inner child… the list goes on.
And if you’re not doing all of that? It can feel like you’re failing.
I wanted to have a real conversation about what healing actually looks like in real life because so much of what we see online is polished, curated and performative.
In this episode, I talk about:
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Why healing has become another form of pressure for women
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The difference between real healing and performative healing
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Why nervous system work is often misunderstood online
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The problem with trying to “look healed”
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Why being emotionally intelligent doesn’t mean being calm all the time
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My thoughts on social media wellness culture and why I think so many people are disconnected from themselves while trying so hard to “fix” themselves.
If you’ve ever felt like you’re doing healing “wrong” or like everyone else online has it together except you, this episode is for you.
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m chatting with the beautiful Belinda Bailey from Pinnacle Kinesiology about motherhood, burnout, mental health, healing, and what happens when your body finally says “enough”.
If you’ve ever felt exhausted, numb, disconnected from yourself, or like you’re constantly pushing through, I think this episode will really resonate.
One of the biggest things I took away from this conversation was how many women are functioning while completely disconnected from themselves. So many of us were taught to keep going, push through and hold it all together.
Connect with Belinda:
We talk about the gaps in women’s healthcare, what so many mums carry silently, and why so many women end up running on empty for years before they realise something has to change.
Instagram: @pinnaclekinesiologyWebsite: Pinnacle Kinesiology
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m joined by Gab, founder of Sis The Label, after watching her business absolutely explode online overnight.
This conversation is about what people don’t see before the “big moment”. It’s about the blend of motherhood, ambition, business and everything that comes with it.
Gab shares the real story behind building Sis The Label while raising two girls, working behind the scenes, wearing every hat in the business and figuring things out as she goes.
We also talk about:
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Why overnight success usually comes after years of groundwork
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The pressure that comes after your business blows up online
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Building a business while raising young children
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Mum guilt, ambition and wanting more for yourself
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Why social media comparison is exhausting for mothers
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The difference between success that looks good and success that actually feels good
Gab also shares the story behind how Adam Sulllivan discovered Gab and Sis The Label on Instagram and how one bold marketing idea changed everything overnight.
This episode is such a good reminder that building something meaningful takes time. Most people only see the moment things take off. They don’t see the years of backing yourself before anyone else does.
You can connect with Gab and Sis The Label here:
Instagram: @sisthelabelWebsite: www.sisthelabel.com.au
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m joined by my incredible mentor and friend, Lael Stone for a conversation about the stories we carry, where they come from, and how they can shape the way we parent, teach, work, love and show up in the world.
We talk about “imprints”. The beliefs and patterns we absorb in childhood become our normal. The stories around success, emotions, money, relationships, achievement, belonging and worthiness.
So many of the reactions we have as adults make sense when we understand what was modelled to us growing up.
We also talk about why parenting often brings unresolved wounds to the surface and how childhood experiences shape the way we respond to stress and behaviour.
Lael also shares openly about writing her new book Owning Your Story and how it brought up her own imprints and old belief systems.
This episode is such an important reminder that behaviour, stress, reactions and relationship struggles rarely come out of nowhere. There is always a story underneath.
You can connect with Lael here:Website: www.laelstone.com.auInstagram: @laelstoneBook: Owning Your Story
Resources for you
Wanting to understand your nervous system better so you can focus on responding rather than reacting? Download ‘Map Your Nervous System States’ HERE as a beautiful starting point.
Connect with Em
Website: emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
Hey, I’m baaaaaack!!
My second babe is now 12 months old, we’ve launched our company Hooked Up and now that is in full swing, and I finally feel like I have the space and time to give my business again.
In this episode, I’m sharing my vision moving forward in my business and the deeper direction I’m heading in. This season is centred around The Modern Day Mum Movement!
Right now, I feel so aligned with mothers in business and leadership who are holding a lot, building, leading, raising conscious kids and also wanting more from life than just getting through it.
In this episode, I share more of my own journey. Starting my business when my daughter was little, navigating early motherhood, trying to do everything “right”, and realising pretty quickly that a lot of what I was doing didn’t actually feel aligned.
That’s what led me into the deeper work.
The emotional intelligence and nervous system work, because if I wanted something different for my kids, I had to start with myself. And I know I’m not the only making that choice!
This episode is really about what it means to be a modern day mum — not as a label, but as a way of living. One where you get to choose differently, question things, and actually design a life that feels good for you.
In this episode, I cover:
→ What The Modern Day Mum means to me and why it’s become the focus of my work
→ Why motherhood looks different for this generation of women
→ My experience starting a business in early motherhood
→ The pressure to “get it right” and why that doesn’t actually work
→ Why doing your own inner work matters if you want to parent differently
→ How patterns and beliefs get passed down if we don’t look at them
→ Why more women are choosing a different way of living and working
→ How business, motherhood and personal growth are all connected
If this episode resonated and you know you’re ready to actually move on an idea or direction in your business…
I’d love to support you inside my upcoming free workshop From Idea to Execution.
It’s a live workshop where we look at what’s been holding you back, what you actually want, and how to start taking action in a way that works for your life.
JOIN HERE
Connect with Em
Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Substack: Em Gentle
In this episode, I'm pulling back the curtain on what it really looks like to burn down a business and rebuild it from the inside out.
After three years of working with teachers and leaders, running workshops, consulting, memberships, and courses, I realised something big — the life and business I had built no longer aligned with who I was becoming as a woman, a mother, and a leader.
This episode is a raw and honest reflection on alignment, motherhood, identity, and change. I share why I'm shifting direction, what's next for my brand, and how I'm learning to prioritise myself and my family without guilt.
If you've ever felt like you've outgrown what you built, or that your success started to feel misaligned — this one's for you.
What You'll Learn in This Episode:
→ Why I decided to pause Lead with EQ and parts of my education work
→ How motherhood changed everything — my priorities, pace, and purpose
→ What alignment actually looks and feels like in real life (not just online)
→ The fears and discomfort that come with burning things down to rebuild
→ How I'm creating space for The Modern Day Mum and what's next
→ Why emotional intelligence and nervous system regulation still sit at the core of my work
→ What it means to choose yourself and how it transforms your family
If you're a mum, educator, or business owner who feels pulled to create a life that actually feels good — this episode will remind you that it's safe to change direction.
Change doesn't mean failure. It means growth, evolution, and choosing to live in alignment with your values and the season you're in.
Work With Me
I currently have two 1:1 coaching spaces open for the rest of the year.
These sessions are for modern-day mums who are ready to regulate, realign, and rebuild their lives and businesses with emotional intelligence and nervous system awareness.
Connect with Em
Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
Instagram: @em_gentle
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Are you an educator feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or like you’re surviving from one school holiday to the next? Wondering how to stay in this profession you love without sacrificing your wellbeing?
In this powerful and deeply personal episode, I share from the heart, recording with my newborn snuggled up on my chest, about why emotional intelligence and nervous system regulation are not “nice-to-haves”… but essential tools for educators and school leaders today.
We dive into the real root causes of burnout, why so many teachers feel like they're drowning, and how we can begin shifting school culture from the inside out, without adding more to your already overloaded plate. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or support staff, you’ll walk away with clarity, validation, and real next steps.
What you’ll hear in this episode:
- Why regulation is the missing link in education reform
- How stress and unresolved trauma show up in the classroom
- What happens when your nervous system leads the way
- Why inner work is non-negotiable for teachers and leaders
- The real impact of emotionally intelligent educators on students
- How to shift your classroom and your life—starting with you
If you're ready to create a ripple effect in your classroom, school and home, this episode is your starting point.
✨ Ready to do the work? Join The EMotionally Intelligent Educator and DM me “READY” on Instagram for $100 off.
Resources + Links Mentioned:
- DM me “ready” on Instagram for your discount code
- Learn more about The EMotionally Intelligent Educator
- Follow on Instagram: @em_gentle
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
In this episode, I’m breaking down how behaviour is actually a nervous system response, not a discipline issue.
You’ll learn how to recognise what’s going on underneath the behaviour so you can respond in a way that actually helps your students come back to a calm, connected, ready to learn state.
I’ll also share the three nervous system states (based on polyvagal theory), what they look like in real classrooms, and why learning to regulate your own nervous system is one of the most powerful things you can do as an educator.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why some kids “flip their lid” over tiny things like a pencil
- What nervous system dysregulation looks like in your classroom
- How shutdown, fight, flight and freeze actually show up in real students
- Why regulation always comes before expectations
- How your energy shapes the safety and behaviour in your room
- The difference between being calm vs being regulated
- How to support kids before they lose control
If you’re struggling with constant behaviour issues and it feels like nothing is working, this episode will help you shift your lens and show you what to focus on first.
Free Training for Teachers
Feeling overwhelmed, burnt out or just not enjoying teaching the way you used to?
Download my free training: Teaching without the Overwhelm
It’s short, practical and will help you feel more calm, confident and in control, without needing a perfect classroom.
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, Olivia from Mindful Hearts Wellbeing shares how you can bring mindfulness into your classroom in simple, realistic ways without it feeling like “one more thing” on your to-do list.
She’ll walk you through what mindfulness actually is (in teacher language), how it helps both students and teachers, and a four-step method you can use to set the tone for a calm and connected classroom especially in the mornings when things feel rushed or unsettled.
You’ll also hear a short guided grounding practice at the end of the episode, so you can experience how calming it feels for yourself.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why mindfulness helps kids with focus, emotions, learning and behaviour
- How to use movement, breath and sensory activities to settle your class
- A simple 4-step method to use during morning transition or after lunch
- Why mindfulness starts with you and how to fit it into your day too
- Easy ideas for calming activities, grounding strategies and classroom routines
Connect with Olivia
Instagram: @mindfulheartswellbeing
Free Resources for Teachers
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want to get back to enjoying teaching, download my free training for Teachers here → Teaching without the Overwhelm
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m talking about how to support neurodivergent learners in your classroom without having to create a hundred individual plans.
Most classrooms aren’t built with neurodivergence in mind.
And when kids can’t meet the expectations, we often fall back on the same old behaviour labels of “lazy,” “disruptive,” “off task.”
But what if it’s not about the behaviour? What if it’s about the environment?
This episode gives you practical, realistic whole class strategies that help students who find things like noise, transitions, verbal instructions or social stuff hard, especially kids who are autistic, ADHD, or have sensory differences.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- What’s really going on for students who “can’t sit still,” interrupt, or shut down
- Simple tweaks that make your classroom feel safer and calmer for every child
- What to do when kids can’t start tasks or forget instructions
- How visuals, routines and chunking support working memory
- Why movement, quiet corners and regulation stations are essential
- What to reflect on if your classroom feels off, and where to begin
It’s about small, smart shifts that help all kids, not just neurodivergent ones to feel more calm, capable and connected.
Free Resources for Teachers
- If you’re feeling overwhelmed and want to get back to enjoying teaching, download my free training for Teachers here → Teaching without the Overwhelm
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Today, we’re joined by Dr. Amie Fabry, an early childhood educator, academic, researcher, policy consultant, and Director of Early Childhood at The Learning Future. Amie’s work focuses on building the confidence, knowledge, and skills of early childhood educators and leaders to create responsive and trusting cultures where both educators and children can thrive. She is also the author of Lead with Intention, the first leadership framework designed for early years education.
Leadership isn’t about titles or power, it’s about developing potential in others. In this episode, Amie shares how to cultivate a strong team culture, lead with self-awareness, and build trust so that educators feel confident, valued, and supported.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: * Why leadership isn’t just about titles, it’s about impact. * How to develop self-awareness as a leader. * The power of knowing your ‘why’ and using it to guide decision-making. * How to foster collaboration and build shared values within your team. * Practical ways to create psychological safety so educators feel valued and empowered. * Why real leadership happens in the small, everyday moments not just in formal roles.
Want to go deeper? If today’s conversation resonated with you, Amie offers several ways to support your leadership journey:
Lead with Intention Framework – A practical guide breaking down these ideas with actionable steps.
1:1 Coaching – Work with Amie to build clarity and confidence in your leadership.
Professional Learning Programs – Join a cohort of like-minded leaders for deeper growth.
Find all the details at The Learning Future.
Connect with Dr. Amie Fabry: * Instagram: @thelearningfuture * LinkedIn: Amie Fabry * Email: amy@thelearningfuture.com
Resources for You: Inspired by this episode? If you’re ready to start developing your self awareness and leading with purpose, check out The EMotionally Intelligent Educator
Connect with Em: * Website: emmagentle.com.au * Instagram: @em_gentle * LinkedIn
Some student behaviours feel harder to handle than others. Some classroom management strategies don’t sit right with you, even though they’re supposed to “work.” Ever wondered why?
Your mindset shapes everything about how you teach, how you see behaviour, how you respond to challenges, and even how you feel at the end of the day. But most of us have never stopped to think about where those beliefs come from.
In this episode, I’m talking about → Why certain behaviours get under your skin more than others → How your own school experience shapes the way you teach → How your subconscious beliefs might be keeping you stuck in outdated classroom management approaches → Simple shifts that can change the way you respond in the classroom
The way you see behaviour shapes how you deal with it. When you start noticing the beliefs behind your reactions, you can handle things with more confidence and less stress.
Shifting how you see student behaviour changes everything. When you move from control and compliance to curiosity and connection, your whole classroom dynamic shifts.
If you’re ready to go further, The Emotionally Intelligent Educator gives you the tools to break old patterns and feel more in control. Find out more HERE
On the EMpowered Podcast Takeover Series, psychologist Jacquie Ward joins us to talk about something every teacher needs to know. How to support highly sensitive children in the classroom.
Some children feel things more deeply, notice the smallest details, and get overwhelmed more easily.
These students aren’t being “too sensitive” or “overdramatic”. They’re wired this way. Up to 20% of kids are highly sensitive, and when we understand them, we can support them in ways that actually work.
Jacquie Ward is a Psychologist who works with Children, Adolescents & their Families.
It was a deep love of learning, combined with a fascination for developmental psychology and attachment theory that led Jacquie to pursue a career change after the birth of her first child.
She returned to University and almost 10 years, another two babies, and approximately 5,000 textbooks later, found herself immersed in her dream job. For Jacquie, working with children, teens and their families as they navigate challenges with mental health and wellbeing, is the ultimate privilege.
In this episode, Jacquie explains:
- What high sensitivity really is (and what it’s not)
- How to recognise highly sensitive children in your classroom
- Why they get overwhelmed and struggle with change or noise
- The power of connection, safety, and predictable routines
- Simple ways to help them self-regulate and build confidence
When you support highly sensitive children the right way, they feel safer, happier, and more able to learn. And let’s be honest, it makes your job easier too.
Connect with Jacqui Ward
- [Course] Helping your highly sensitive child to thrive
If this episode resonates, check out Jacquie’s online course “Helping Your Highly Sensitive Child to Thrive” at www.jacquieward.com.au.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
If you’ve ever felt like something is missing in your school community, whether it’s student engagement, teacher retention, or just a general sense of belonging, this episode is for you.
Guest host Matt Pittman is talking about one of the most overlooked solutions in education.
Instead of sticking with bandaid fixes for disengagement, behaviour, or burnout, Matt shares how prioritising connection can shift your entire school culture and actually make teaching feel good again.
Matt is the Head of Senior School at Catholic Regional College Caroline Springs, a Catholic secondary school in the western suburbs of Melbourne, Victoria, and the author of The Connection Curriculum.
An experienced educational leader and a doctoral student researching connections across school communities, Matt’s experience is varied, from the leadership of curriculum teams and programs to student wellbeing, student improvement and community engagement portfolios.
He has led Positive Education and student support programs and has a passion for working with students, parents, and staff to develop new understandings of the needs of young people in the 21st century.
What you’ll get from this episode:
- Why connection is the actual foundation of behaviour, well-being, and engagement.
- How relationships, belonging, and meaning work together to create a thriving school community.
- What empathic curiosity looks like in practice (and how to ask better questions).
- Why emotional intelligence isn’t just a buzzword.
- The difference between inclusivity as a policy vs. inclusivity as a practice (and why most schools get this wrong).
- How school leaders can create real, lasting culture change (without burning out their staff).
Teaching should feel good. Connection is how we get there.
A huge shoutout to Matt for taking over the podcast. If this episode resonated with you, make sure you hit follow or subscribe. We are just getting started.
Connect with Matt Pittman
- LinkedIn: mattlukepitman
- Instagram: mattlukepitman
- Bluesky: @mattpitman.com.au
- [BOOK] The Connection Curriculum - Igniting Positive Change in Schools Through Sustainable Connection
Upcoming events Matt will be speaking at
- NEAA Staff Conference, Melbourne: 15 May
- EDUtech, Sydney: 11-12 June
- National Education Summit, Melbourne: 28-29 August
Go to his website and social media for more information
Resources for you
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $47 and full of actionable, real world strategies.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Behaviour is communication and children act out when their needs aren’t met.
But what does that actually mean? And how do we meet their needs in the classroom in a way that helps them feel safe, connected, and engaged?
In this episode, I’m talking about what it really means to meet children’s needs (beyond the buzzwords) so you can shift from reacting to behaviour to understanding what’s underneath it.
If you’ve ever wondered why certain students seem to be in constant meltdown mode, why some avoid tasks or disrupt lessons, or why connection is such a big deal, this episode will give you a clear framework to start working with.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why children’s behaviour is often linked to unmet needs or skill gaps.
- The five core needs that drive behaviour
- How to shift from seeing behaviour as “good” or “bad” to recognising what children are trying to communicate.
- Why focusing on connection and safety first leads to fewer behaviour challenges.
- Practical ways to create a classroom culture where children feel safe, capable, and seen.
Free Resources for Teachers
- Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle—10 comprehensive guides (including one on meeting needs) plus bonus resources like brain break guides and behaviour scripts. It's packed with actionable strategies to create a trauma-informed, non-punitive classroom.
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Boundaries are often misunderstood, but when done right, they create safety, structure, and predictability. The key ingredients for a classroom where children feel secure and engaged.
If you’ve ever struggled with feeling like kids are walking all over you or wondered how to hold firm boundaries without resorting to control or punishment, this episode is for you.
This episode is part of the EMpowered Podcast Take Over Series, where incredible educators take the mic to share their expertise on creating conscious and connected classrooms.
Danica is an early childhood educator, university lecturer, practicum supervisor and mama of two. She is also the owner of Little Bloom, a platform that shares a multitude of information about child development, social-emotional learning and, most significantly, supporting children’s behaviour and big feelings for early childhood professionals who support young children.
After working in the early childhood space for over 16 years, Danica has recognised a fundamental need for a shift in the way that we support children’s behaviour - people are seeking help with how to effectively support young children’s behaviour and emotional development but are unsure of where to find this information.
Through Little Bloom, Danica has made it her mission to bridge the divide between theory and practice by bringing evidence-informed information to early childhood educators by sharing personal anecdotes, camaraderie, current research and strategies.
Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode:
- The difference between boundaries and limits (and why most people get this wrong).
- Why firm and fair boundaries create emotional safety for children.
- How to hold a boundary without yelling, shaming, or threatening.
- What to do when children push back against a boundary
- How boundaries actually support self-regulation and emotional growth.
- A simple framework to help you set boundaries effectively.
Want more support with boundaries? Danica is running a workshop in April on limits, boundaries, and consequences, helping you use each of them as a tool to support behaviour, not control it. You'll walk away with a whole toolkit of practical strategies and a clear plan to make boundaries work in your classroom or home. Find the links on her instagram below!
To keep in touch, you can find Danica here: Instagram: @littlebloom.consultancy Website – https://www.littlebloomconsultancy.com.au/ Email – hello@littlebloomconsultancy.com.au
Resources for you
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $47 and full of actionable strategies.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Trauma affects how children learn in the classroom. When children don’t feel safe, they cannot access the part of the brain required for learning. If you've ever wondered why some students seem constantly dysregulated, reactive, or withdrawn, this episode will give you the missing piece.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why trauma leaves a lasting impact on a child’s behaviour, emotions, and ability to learn.
- The difference between simple, complex, and developmental trauma and why it matters.
- How trauma keeps children stuck in fight, flight, freeze, or fawn states.
- Why traditional behaviour management strategies (like rewards and punishments) don’t work, particularly for children with trauma.
- How to create a safe, predictable classroom environment that supports regulation.
- Why your own emotional regulation is key to helping students feel safe.
Free Resources for Teachers
- Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
Want to learn how to implement trauma-informed practices step by step? Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle for practical strategies to support students holistically.
If you’re ready to focus on your own regulation and stress management, my Signature Online Program ‘The Emotionally Intelligent Educator’ will teach you how to stay grounded, balanced, and responsive in the classroom. Check it out here
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Rewards and punishments might seem like an easy way to manage behaviour, but do they actually work?
In this episode of the Beyond Behaviours series, I’m talking about why extrinsic rewards and punitive consequences don’t create long term behaviour change, and what to do instead.
If you’ve ever relied on sticker charts, prize boxes, or detentions but found they don’t really shift behaviour, this episode will give you a new way to think about it.
What you’ll learn in this episode:
- Why rewards and punishments control behaviour in the short term but don’t teach long-term skills.
- How extrinsic rewards undermine intrinsic motivation and create a “what’s in it for me” mindset.
- Why punishments don’t address the root cause of behaviour and often leads to shame and disconnection.
- How understanding stress responses, unmet needs, and skill gaps changes the way we support behaviour.
- What to do instead—effective feedback, setting boundaries, and holding space for emotions while keeping the classroom safe.
Free Resources for Teachers
- Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
Need step-by-step guidance on replacing rewards and punishments with approaches that actually work? Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. Only $47. It’s packed with practical tools to help you build a connected, non-punitive classroom.
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m focusing on how you can set up your classroom and learning environment for 2025. It’s not about Pinterest-perfect displays but creating a purposeful, functional space where children feel emotionally, physically, and mentally safe.
If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed trying to balance aesthetics with practicality or you’re unsure how your classroom setup impacts behaviour and learning, this episode is for you.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How to avoid overstimulating classrooms that overwhelm neurodivergent learners.
- Why clutter impacts focus and behaviour and how to create a calm, organised space.
- The importance of co creating your classroom setup with students for connection and ownership.
- Practical tips for incorporating flexible seating, clear pathways, and sensory tools.
- Why setting up for safety, functionality, and intention is the key to a successful school year.
Free Resources for Teachers
- Download the FREE Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
If you’re ready to learn everything about creating a classroom that’s trauma-informed, non-punitive, and built on connection, Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. Only $47.
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Welcome to the first episode of the Beyond Behaviours series, where I’m sharing quick and actionable steps to help you create a conscious classroom that feels safe, structured, and supportive from day one.
This episode is all about routines and expectations—the essential building blocks for a classroom where children feel secure and ready to learn.
If you’ve ever struggled with behaviours spiralling out of control or felt like your classroom just wasn’t flowing, this is where you need to start.
Here’s what you’ll take away from this episode:
- Why routines and expectations are the backbone of every successful classroom.
- How to create consistency and predictability to help children feel safe.
- The difference between routines and expectations—and why you need both.
- Why co-developing expectations with your class builds connection and engagement.
- How revisiting and practising routines all term long sets your classroom up for long-term success.
- Simple ways to get clear on your routines before the school year starts.
Free Resources for Teachers
- Download the Back to School Checklist here. A customisable checklist that walks you through setting up your classroom step by step. From routines to displays, lesson planning, and classroom organisation, this checklist will save you time and stress.
Resources Mentioned in the Episode
If you’re ready to dig deeper into creating a classroom that’s trauma-informed, non-punitive, and built on connection, Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle. It’s packed with 10 guides (including one on routines and expectations) and bonus tools to help you implement strategies that actually work. Only $47.
See you next week for episode two, where we’ll focus on setting up your classroom and learning environment.
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, you will learn how to set up your classroom this year to have a learning environment that’s safe and nurturing, where students can thrive both academically and socially.
If you’ve ever wondered how to move away from punitive measures and into a more responsive, emotionally aware teaching approach, this episode is for you.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How emotional intelligence, connection, and responsiveness can transform your classroom into a supportive space.
- Why self-awareness around your teaching beliefs and practices is the foundation for lasting change.
- How old habits and default reactions can block progress
- Why your regulation as a teacher directly impacts the emotional climate of your classroom.
- How co-regulation works and why it’s key for students’ emotional development.
- How to address unmet needs or lagging skills instead of resorting to punitive measures.
- Strategies to support behaviour rather than reacting with discipline.
- Why continuous growth and reflection are essential for conscious teaching.
- How focusing on what’s within your control allows you to show up as the teacher you want to be.
Resources for you
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $47 and full of actionable, real world strategies.
🗓️ FREE Upcoming Workshops:
- January 17th, 2025: Q&A for new teachers—your chance to ask all those questions you’ve been holding back. REGISTER HERE
- January 20th, 2025: Teaching Without the Overwhelm—a 60-minute workshop to help you manage stress and thrive in 2025. REGISTER HERE
You must be registered to get access.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I dive into the self-doubt and comparison trap that many educators, both new and experienced, find themselves stuck in.
If you’ve ever wondered why your brain zeroes in on what you’re lacking and why you keep comparing yourself to other teachers, this episode is here to help.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why comparing yourself to others is normal but unhelpful.
- Practical strategies to shift from ‘I can’t’ to ‘I’m learning,’ and how to consciously take steps toward confidence and competence.
- Why focusing on what you’re doing well and celebrating your growth can help you rewrite your inner narrative.
- The importance of bravery in rewriting your story and stepping into your power.
FREE WORKSHOPS IN JANUARY!
I’m hosting two FREE live workshops to help you start 2025 on the right foot
Teaching Without the Overwhelm: How to Reduce Stress and Thrive in 2025
🗓️ January 20th, 2025 at 3 PM AEDT
A 60-minute workshop to help you go from reactive to regulated. Register here
Q&A for New Teachers: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask
🗓️ January 17th, 2025
A chance for pre-service and graduate teachers to ask all the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask. Register here
I would LOVE to see you at BOTH of these workshops. You must be registered to get access.
Other links mentioned in the episode:
- The EMotionally Intelligent Educator Course
- FREE journal prompts to elevate your EQ.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- LinkedIn Em Gentle
In this episode, I’m reflecting on a massive 2024, both personally and professionally and sharing my intentions for 2025.
2024 was full of growth, messy moments, and beautiful lessons. I hope my reflections inspire you to take stock of your own year and step into 2025 with intention and purpose.
Here’s what you’ll hear:
- How I balanced personal growth, professional milestones and unexpected challenges
- Why aligning your work with your passions is key to avoiding burnout
- How reflecting on what worked and what didn’t helps you set meaningful intentions for the year ahead.
- How educators, parents, and leaders can build sustainable practices for growth and balance
- What role emotional intelligence and nervous system regulation plays in navigating life’s challenges and curveballs.
FREE WORKSHOPS IN JANUARY!
I’m hosting two FREE live workshops to help you start 2025 on the right foot
Teaching Without the Overwhelm: How to Reduce Stress and Thrive in 2025
🗓️ January 20th, 2025 at 3 PM AEDT
A 60-minute workshop to help you go from reactive to regulated. Register here
Q&A for New Teachers: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask
🗓️ January 17th, 2025
A chance for pre-service and graduate teachers to ask all the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask.
Register here
I would LOVE to see you at BOTH of these workshops. You must be registered to get access.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- LinkedIn Em Gentle
Welcome back beautiful human!
In this episode, I’m sharing three simple habits that can truly improve your wellbeing over the holidays and into 2025. These strategies are designed to help you relax, recharge, and step into the new year with clarity, calm, and purpose.
Here’s what you’ll learn
- How these three habits can help you process the year, find clarity, and connect with the person you want to become.
- Simple techniques to regulate your nervous system, reduce stress, and avoid burnout.
- How shifting your mindset can improve your relationships, reduce stress, and boost your overall happiness.
These habits are more than just ‘nice-to-haves.’
They are evidence-based practices that will help you reduce stress, build emotional resilience, and find more dare I say ‘balance’ in your personal and professional life.
These habits don’t take much time but can make a huge difference in how you feel, both now and in the year ahead.
FREE WORKSHOPS IN JANUARY!
Before I head on maternity leave, I’m hosting two FREE live workshops to help you start 2025 on the right foot:
Teaching Without the Overwhelm: How to Reduce Stress and Thrive in 2025
🗓️ January 20th, 2025 at 3 PM AEDT
A 60-minute workshop to help you go from reactive to regulated. Register here
Q&A for New Teachers: Everything You’ve Wanted to Ask
🗓️ January 17th, 2025
A chance for pre-service and graduate teachers to ask all the questions you’ve been too afraid to ask.
Register here
I would LOVE to see you at BOTH of these workshops. You must be registered to get access.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- LinkedIn Em Gentle
In this episode, I want to help you wrap up the school year with intention and positivity.
Whether 2024 has been your best year yet or one filled with challenges, this episode will guide you through reflecting, processing, and planning so you can head into the holidays rested and recharged.
Here’s what you’ll learn
- Learn how to celebrate your successes, process what didn’t go as planned, and uncover lessons to carry forward into 2025.
- Practical tips for closing the classroom from organising, letting go of emotions that no longer serve you because you deserve to start the new year with a clean slate.
- How you can truly disconnect, recharge, and make the most of your break.
- What reflection prompts to work through to set yourself up for an amazing break and new energy in the new year.
The work you do matters deeply.
Taking the time to rest, reflect, and recharge isn’t just for you, It’s for the students you’ll continue to show up for next year.
Give yourself the gift of joy, gratitude, and relaxation over the holidays, because you’ve earned it.
Resources for you
- New Teacher Toolkit is BACK! If you are a new teacher, this FREE guide is for you.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- LinkedIn Em Gentle
In this episode, I sit down with Marg Thorsborne and Joe Brummer, two incredible thought leaders in trauma-informed and restorative practices.
Together, they’ve written two books, Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator and Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative School - Practical Skills to Change Culture and Behaviour.
It’s all about creating safer, more connected classrooms that focus on collaboration and wellbeing rather than compliance and punishment.
We talk about the critical shift from punitive approaches to relational ones, how trauma-informed and restorative practices work together, and why this is essential for creating meaningful change in education.
What you’ll learn in the episode:
- Why trauma-informed and restorative practices must go hand in hand
- Learn how these approaches are intertwined and why schools can’t truly adopt one without the other.
- The truth about punitive consequences and understanding the long-term costs of punishment on trust, mental health, and behaviour development.
- How co-regulation and relational neurobiology can transform classroom culture.
- Strategies and tools for educators for building trust, teaching skills, and holding boundaries without shame or compliance based tactics.
- How doing the work on ourselves as educators is the foundation for transforming our classrooms and communities.
The Books
- Building a Trauma-Informed Restorative School: Skills and Approaches for Improving Culture and Behaviour
- Building a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator: Skills and Approaches for Improving Culture and Behaviour
Connect with Marg and Joe
- LinkedIn: Joe Brummer
- LinkedIn: Margaret Thorsborne
Resources for you
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $77 and full of actionable, real world strategies.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- LinkedIn Em Gentle
In this episode of The EMpowered Podcast, we’re diving into a topic every teacher can relate to: stress.
While a little bit of stress can be healthy, chronic stress can leave us feeling overwhelmed, dysregulated, and depleted. I’ll share three actionable strategies to help you reduce your stress levels, balance your body, and feel more in control of your wellbeing.
What You’ll Learn:
- How to notice when your body budget is out of balance and what to do about it.
- How to regulate quickly using your breath
- Simple ways to decompress after school and leave work stress behind.
- How to reframe the connection between 'busy' and 'stress.'
- A clever tool I use to help me focus on what I can control and where my energy goes
Follow me on Instagram @em_gentle
Learn more about our Signature Online Program 'The EMotionally Intelligent Educator' HERE
In this episode of The EMpowered Podcast, I’m diving into some of the most common questions I hear from beginning teachers, especially as they prepare for their first year.
This one is for all my new and graduate teachers feeling the overwhelm of getting started, don’t worry, I’ve got you!
We cover everything from setting up your classroom and planning lessons to prioritising your wellbeing and navigating behaviour support. It’s a jam-packed episode filled with practical tips and encouragement to help you thrive in your first year of teaching.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How to approach the school holidays
What you should and shouldn’t be doing to prepare, and what should be your top priority. * Creating an intentional learning environment
How to design a space that is functional, calming, and welcoming. * Planning for success
What to plan over the holidays and how far in advance * Navigating behaviour management
How to align with your school’s policies while adopting a compassionate, non-punitive approach to behaviour support. * Setting boundaries and preventing burnout
How to protect your energy, set non-negotiables, and learn to switch off from work and why it is critical in your first year. * The growth mindset you need to succeed
How to reflect on your teaching, embrace imperfection, and focus on resilience and self-compassion as you navigate the challenges of being a new teacher.
I also share exciting updates about TGGM Grow, my Signature Program for Pre Service and Graduate Teachers, which is now available as a self-paced course to support you at any time.
Plus, keep an eye out for our Black Friday offers, and don’t forget to grab the New Teacher Toolkit—your free guide to setting yourself up for success in 2025.
Links and Resources: * Learn about TGGM Grow- Our Signature Program for PST’s and Beginning Teachers HERE * New Teacher Toolkit (FREE Guide) * Follow me on Instagram @em_gentle
If this episode has been helpful, I’d love for you to leave a review and share it with a friend or colleague who might need it.
Keep shining, and I’ll see you in the next episode.
Em x
Consequences in the classroom - where do you even start? In this episode, I'm diving into one of the biggest questions I get from teachers: “How can I support student behaviour without falling back on punishments?” I go through what really works (and what really doesn’t) when it comes to behaviour, boundaries, and creating a connected classroom. I know that as educators who are committed to supporting children’s wellbeing, there can be a lot of confusion around how to handle consequences, boundaries, and behavioural support without leaning into punitive methods. Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How traditional punitive consequences (think: timeouts, detentions, and taking away recess) affect student teacher relationships
- Why traditional consequences rarely address the root causes of behaviour.
- What logical and natural consequences can look like in the classroom, how they differ from punishments, and why understanding a student’s unmet needs is key to effective behaviour support.
- Why boundaries help students feel secure and connected rather than ashamed or anxious.
- Strategies to set up a classroom that minimises the need for reactive measures by promoting positive behaviour proactively.
- When and how to use boundaries effectively to create a culture of respect without relying on shame or control.
There are so many proactive behaviour strategies to support students to help make a classroom ‘management’ feel natural, and not forced
Resources for you
- Check out my Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms bundle, which is a 10-part guide to behaviour support grounded in connection and empathy. It’s packed with resources to help you create a trauma-informed, neuro-affirming classroom that supports students holistically. Just $47 and full of actionable, real world strategies.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Today, I’m diving into how to find a school that truly matches your philosophy on non-punitive, trauma-informed practices. If you want to work somewhere that values real student and teacher wellbeing, but don’t know where to start, this one’s for you.
Here’s what you’ll learn
- How to use CRT (Casual Relief Teaching) as a way to ‘test drive’ a school’s culture before committing long-term.
- Why the right leadership and wellbeing focus are essential in creating a school environment that truly supports teachers and students.
- What key questions to ask and what to look for in a school’s values, social media, and programs to ensure they align with a non-punitive, trauma-informed approach.
- How to leverage word of mouth and intuition to gather insights on a school, while avoiding common biases and misconceptions.
- Why it’s okay to prioritise your own wellbeing over job security when choosing a school environment that aligns with your values.
- Why its okay to switch schools if it doesn’t align with your values.
Resources for you:
- The RCG (Regulate, Connect, Guide) Framework is designed to help parents, educators, and leaders effectively support children during and after big emotions. DOWNLOAD HERE
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, we welcome Chelsea Luker, an Autistic ADHD psychologist, author, and advocate for neurodiversity-affirming practices. Chelsea dives deep into what it means to adopt a neurodiversity-affirming approach, her journey as a parent to neurodivergent children, and her impactful work at Connect Us Psychology. Chelsea also discusses her book, Square Me Round World, a collection of stories designed to reflect and validate the experiences of neurodivergent children. From addressing the challenges in mainstream education to advocating for more inclusive environments, Chelsea offers invaluable insights for educators, parents, and anyone interested in supporting neurodivergent individuals.
Resources Mentioned:
- Chelsea’s Book: Square Me Round World - Fictional stories designed to resonate with neurodivergent children and their families.
- Connect Us Psychology Website: Connect Us Psychology
- Yellow Ladybugs: Resources supporting autistic women and gender-diverse individuals in Australia.
- Reframing Autism: Free courses and materials on neurodiversity and autism for educators and parents.
Connect with Chelsea:
- Connect Us Psychology – Explore her services, book resources, and access the educator’s guide for neurodivergent support.
- If you’re a teacher, leader or work with children and you want to learn more about how to build your emotional intelligence, support your children or your students in the classroom with their emotions, and how to understand why you react the way you do to behaviours and emotions, then I have a course for you. You can find out more HERE
- ‘Creating Conscious and Compassionate Classrooms Bundle’ FIND HERE
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
This episode is a personal one about why we’re not meant to do it all, and what happens when we try to keep going without help.
Parenting isn’t meant to be a solo act. Especially when life throws in a few curveballs or even just the regular chaos of life.
If you’ve ever found yourself losing it with the kids or feeling like you’re juggling too many balls (and dropping a few), this episode is for you.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- Why knowing all the emotional intelligence tricks is one thing, but actually applying them is a different story.
- The importance of connection over correction when supporting your child’s behaviour (whether at home or in the classroom).
- How to use self-awareness to catch your own triggers before you react, and why this makes all the difference.
- Why it’s okay to drop some of the balls you’re juggling, and how to figure out what’s really important.
- Practical steps for making sure you’re filling up your own cup, because you can't pour from an empty one.
Even though it can feel like you’re the only one who’s overwhelmed and barely holding it together, you’re not. We’re all in this together, and we need each other’s support.
You might know all the techniques, but practicing them in the moment is the real challenge….and that’s okay.
Be kind to yourself as you work through it.
Resources Mentioned:
- If you missed the masterclass with Lael Stone and Dr. Billy Garvey, the replay is available. Find out more to see how we’re flipping behaviour support on its head – no more reactive strategies, no more bandaid solutions. Here’s the link!
- Learn more about my self paced course, The Emotionally Intelligent Educator, and how it can help you reduce stress, build confidence, and change the way you show up as a parent or teacher.
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I sit down with the incredible Michelle Mitchell, who’s spent years working with teens, tweens, and their families.
Supporting kids at this stage can feel overwhelming, especially when it seems like they’ve got that wall up and are shutting you out. There is so much more going on beneath the surface.
Michelle Mitchell is a former teacher turned tween and teenage expert, with years of experience running youth programs, mentoring young people, and supporting families.
She’s all about helping adults to see what’s really going on in the hearts and minds of tweens and teens and helping them build the kind of connections that truly make a difference.
We talk about how we can really see and support teens and tweens in this phase of their development. It’s not about being cool or getting it right all the time.
What you’ll learn from Michelle:
- Why what you see on the surface isn’t the full story when it comes to teenagers.
- The importance of connection and how teens are wired to crave it, even when they push you away.
- How play can help upper primary and secondary students regulate their emotions (and why we should never cut it out too soon)
- The differences between tweens and teens, and why treating them the same is a massive mistake.
- How to work with social media, not against it, and create a school environment where teens feel safe to unplug and actually be present. There are smart, compassionate ways to help teens balance their online and offline worlds, with boundaries that actually feel good to them.
- Why the shift from primary to secondary school is huge and why this transition needs more attention.
Michelle’s no stranger to the challenges of this developmental phase and she’s here to help you navigate them with compassion and clarity.
No matter how tough your teen or tween acts, what they need most is to feel connected to the adults around them.
Resources for you:
- If you missed the masterclass with Lael Stone and Dr. Billy Garvey, the replay is available. Find out more to see how we’re flipping behaviour support on its head. Here’s the link!
- Learn more about my self paced course, The Emotionally Intelligent Educator, and how it can help you reduce stress, build confidence, and change the way you show up as a parent or teacher.
Connect with Michelle
- Website: michellemitchell.org
- Instagram: @michellemitchell.author
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m joined by Jacquie Ward, a psychologist who specialises in child and adolescent mental health.
We talk about the realities of mental health in schools, and this conversation doesn't happen nearly enough.
If you’ve ever wondered how mental health and anxiety show up in your classroom or why children some children feel things so deeply, then this episode is for you.
Jacquie and I talk about:
- The real signs of mental health struggles in children often get missed.
- Why the ‘big behaviours’ might be masking anxiety and how to shift your lens to catch it early
- The difference between highly sensitive children and anxiety and how to support these kids without burning yourself out.
- How to catch the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signals that a child is struggling with anxiety, whether they’re acting out or quietly shutting down.
- What does it mean to be highly sensitive, and how is it different from anxiety
- How teachers can adjust their classroom environment to cater to anxious or highly sensitive children without adding more work or stress to your day.
- How to manage anxiety and help children self regulate so the whole classroom can function better.
The way we’ve been taught to support behaviour isn’t working because we are not addressing what’s going on underneath for these children. I am hosting a masterclass with two AMAZING guests leading the way in this space next week.
We’ll show you how you CAN create classrooms where kids feel safe, connected and ready to learn. Grab your ticket here
Resources Mentioned
- Hey Warrior by Karen Young - A brilliant book that breaks down how anxiety shows up in children and what we can do about it
Connect with Jacquie
- Website: jacquieward.com.au
- Instagram: @jacquie_ward_
- Billy’s Brilliant Butterflies - Jacquie’s new children's book
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I sit down with Marg Thorsborne, an international consultant specialising in the implementation of restorative and trauma-informed practices. Marg shares her journey from a biology teacher and school guidance officer to becoming a leading expert in creating positive cultural change in schools and workplaces. We dive deep into the principles of restorative practice, the importance of psychological safety, and why building a connected culture is crucial for both students and adults.
Connect with Marg:
- Linkedin: Margaret Thorsborne
- Website: thorsborne.com.au
- Marg’s new book: Restorative Educator: Practical Skills to Change Culture and Behavior, co-authored with Joe Brummer.
Connect with Em
- Website: Emma Gentle
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I dive into how both children and adults handle and express uncomfortable feelings and why it’s important to understand them, and how to express them in healthy ways.
As an emotional intelligence coach, working with both children and adults, I have seen firsthand the impact of understanding and navigating uncomfortable emotions.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Three ways both adults and children deal with uncomfortable behaviours.
- What behaviours can signal emotion suppression and how to recognise these to help us
- Why someone might respond to emotion with aggression, and what can be done to mitigate these reactions
- How expressing your emotions more effectively can improve your mental health and relationships
- How your upbringing and parental influence shapes your emotional responses.
Resources Mentioned:
- UPCOMING EVENT OCTOBER 8th: Changing Schools From The Inside Out: How educators and schools can implement a connected and compassionate approach to student behaviour and mental well being. I have two amazing guests, Lael Stone and Dr Billy Garvey joining me, you won’t want to miss it! Grab your ticket here
- If you’re a teacher, leader or work with children and you want to learn more about how to build your emotional intelligence, support your children or your students in the classroom with their emotions, and how to understand why you react the way you do to behaviours and emotions, then I have a course for you. You can find out more HERE
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I talk about the revelation that completely changed my approach to supporting children's behaviour.
In this episode you will learn:
- What exactly are belief systems, and how they influence your interactions
- The impact of understanding and changing belief systems on supporting children’s behaviour
- Why doing the deeper work, beyond surface level strategies is the key factor for lasting change in educators
- How to change your deep seated beliefs to improve your ability to support children effectively
- Why is it important to work on yourself for lasting personal and professional growth
Resources Mentioned:
- If you resonate with this episode, check out my course HERE, The EMotionally Intelligent Educator, available in self-paced study, group coaching, or VIP 1:1 sessions. We start next week so REGISTER now!
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
TW: This episode discusses childhood trauma, and abuse.
In this episode, I get the absolute privilege of talking with Beck Thompson. She is absolutely amazing, sharing her journey of resilience, transformation, and empowerment. As a teacher, author, and speaker, she brings a unique perspective shaped by her lived experience of trauma and abuse.
We discuss how transformative compassionate teaching can be and the impact educators can have on their students, often without even realising it.
This episode is not to highlight the difficulties that some of your students will go through, but how impactful you can be as an adult in their life, without even realising it. It’s to help you understand what it’s like in the classroom for a child with trauma and how important teachers really are.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How understanding trauma can help you support your students more effectively
- Why it is absolutely ok to prioritise compassion and safety before the curriculum
- How recognising and nurturing a child's strengths can make the world of difference and transform their educational experience
- Why small conversations and interactions can have a lasting impact on students' lives. It’s the micro-moments that make all the difference
- How the brain processes trauma and it affects what you are seeing in a student's behaviour.
- Why perceived and felt safety is the number one thing that needs to be prioritised for children to learn
- Why adults are so important in the development of resilience in a person's life.
It’s about giving educators permission to focus on creating a safe, supportive environment where every child feels seen, heard and valued.
There is so much more I could add to this list.
This is for you. To recognise and truly understand the impact you, as a teacher, has on a child in your classroom. Make sure you listen in, because this may open up a perspective and change the way you support your students, in the most simple but effective way.
Connect with Beck Thompson:
- Trauma Informed Teachers Page Facebook - Join her community here.
- Facebook: BECK Thompson - Author, Chasing Normal.
- Website: beckthompson.com.au
- Instagram: @beckthompson_teachersmatter
- Book
Connect with Em
- Website: Emma Gentle
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m talking about emotional coaching in education and how it can change how children behave and engage in your classroom.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How emotion coaching can change your classroom environment
- What it looks like to be emotionally attuned to your students.
- How to balance emotional support with setting necessary boundaries.
- The five steps of emotion coaching and how it can lead to happier, more focused students.
- Why it’s important to validate and role model emotions in the classroom.
If you're looking to improve how you support classroom emotions and behaviours, without rewards and punishments, take a listen!
Resources Mentioned:
- I’m hosting a FREE masterclass. If you're a teacher or a parent, I have a masterclass coming called - Supporting children's behaviour without rewards and punishments. Here’s the link to register!
- If you’re a parent, teacher, or leader and want to learn more about your emotional intelligence, how to support your children or your students in the classroom with their emotions, and how to really understand why you react the way you do, then this course is for you. Join the waitlist here! (The waitlist is the only way to get access to $100 off when the course is ready for you!)
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I talk about why it's difficult for teachers and parents to sit with children's emotions. I also discuss how self regulation and understanding our beliefs about emotions, influence how we react to children when they express big emotions.
Here's what you'll learn:
- Why your own childhood experiences can make it difficult to handle your children's emotions
- How understanding your reactions can help you co-regulate effectively with children.
- How to become more comfortable with the full range of emotions
- The benefits of embracing, rather than suppressing difficult emotions, in educational and parenting.
If you've ever found yourself struggling to maintain composure or felt overwhelmed by a child's emotional expression, this episode is for you.
Resources Mentioned:
- I’m hosting a FREE masterclass on 28th August called Supporting Children's Behaviour without Rewards and Punishments. Here’s the link to register!
- Join the waitlist here for my Emotional Intelligence course starting in September. (The waitlist is the only way to get access to $100 off when doors open!)
Connect with Em
- Website: www.emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I redefine what it means to be ‘regulated’. I talk about the misconception that staying calm is the goal of regulation. When children are having big feelings, big emotions, big behaviours in the classroom, our job is not always to stay calm.
True regulation is about connection and not just appearing cool, calm and collected. Children KNOW when we aren’t being authentic.
What you'll learn:
- Why connection is more important than staying calm when it comes to supporting children and big emotions.
- How understanding the real goal of regulation can change the way you handle big emotions
- What you can do to genuinely connect with your emotions during challenging moments with children
- Why it’s important to embrace and process your emotions rather than suppressing them
- How recognising what activates you can improve your ability to support children effectively
- What practical steps you can take to ensure you're genuinely present and supportive, rather than just appearing calm
Emotional regulation is so important for effective teaching, parenting, and leading. Learn how to connect with your emotions and those of children so that you can support the little people in your life.
Resources Mentioned:
- If you’re a parent, teacher, or leader and want to learn more about your emotional intelligence, how to support your children or your students in the classroom with their emotions, and how to really understand why you react the way you do, then this course is for you. Join the waitlist here! (The waitlist is the only way to get access to $100 off when the course is ready for you!)
- If you want more 1:1 personalised support - check out my coaching sessions HERE
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Welcome to EMpowered. The podcast for creating a new generation of emotionally intelligent humans.
In this episode, I am sharing my story into emotional intelligence and why I have rebranded from The Grad Guide to Emma Gentle.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- How my business started
- Why mentorship and coaching have been so important for me in the last three years and why I wanted to become a coach.
- How I went from teacher, to assistant principal to entrepreneur.
- Why being uncomfortable in experiences really creates growth and personal development.
- How emotional intelligence (EQ) is so important in supporting children
- Why learning about emotions on a deeper level is the best investment you can make for yourself as a parent, leader, coach and teacher.
If you want some help learning how to support children's emotions I have a framework for you, you can FIND IT HERE
If you'd like to join the WAITLIST for my emotional intelligence course and receive $100 off when it launches, CLICK HERE
Connect with Em
- Website: emmagentle.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Maggie Dent.
She shares her extensive experience and the need for a shift in how we approach teaching and parenting. We explore the importance of creating safe, nurturing environments in schools, understanding the unique needs of all children, especially in their early years, and how this can dramatically improve both learning outcomes and teacher satisfaction.
It is such a passionate conversation and one that I really enjoyed having!
Here’s what you are in for:
- The importance of meeting the needs of everyone in the classroom.
- The power of a flexible and engaging classroom environment.
- The six things you need to become an exceptional educator.
- How bias and assumptions can influence student performance
- Effective strategies and communication techniques for managing classroom behaviour.
- The critical role of relationships, connection, and play in education.
- Specific strategies to help boys thrive in the school environment.
- The importance of setting non-negotiable boundaries for your wellbeing.
This conversation is jam-packed and will no doubt empower you to reflect on how you teach, understand and support the children in your life.
Whether you're an educator or a parent, this episode is for you.
Resources Mentioned:Teachers Help on Maggie’s Website
Connect with Maggie
- Website: maggiedent.com
- Instagram: @maggiedentauthor
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I am talking about something I am so passionate about - emotional intelligence in education.
Emotional intelligence is often the overlooked cornerstone that can transform both teaching methods and student engagement.
But it’s not given the attention it deserves within our curriculum for preparing educators.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
- The impact of emotional intelligence on preventing teacher burnout, improving student relationships and workplace culture.
- Techniques for building emotional resilience and self-regulation.
- Strategies for developing self-awareness and understanding personal triggers in educational settings.
Educators with emotional intelligence are less prone to burnout, better at handling classroom challenges, and more effective at building a nurturing educational environment.
Want the full masterclass replay? DM me on Instagram and I will send it through to you.
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I sit down with Gen Muir, the founder of Connected Parenting. She shares her journey into connected parenting and discusses how her personal experiences as a social worker and mother of four boys led her to this approach.
This episode dives into the importance of connection over compliance, how to set and hold boundaries with kindness, and the role of emotional intelligence in parenting and teaching. We also touch on supporting neurodivergent children and the significance of understanding sensory needs and natural consequences.
Here’s what you’re in for:
- The foundational role of connection in parenting and teaching.
- Practical examples of connecting with children to address behaviour.
- The balance between kindness and firmness in discipline.
- Strategies for setting boundaries that children understand and respect.
- The concept of natural consequences versus punitive measures.
- The impact of mislabeling behaviours and the importance of an empathetic approach.
- The benefits of a non-punitive approach for neurodivergent children.
- The role of self-awareness and regulation for effective parenting and teaching.
- The importance of modelling emotional intelligence for children.
- Strategies for teachers to manage stress and connect with students.
If you have little people in your life, in any capacity, you will get so much out of this one. I cannot WAIT to hear what you think. Send me a DM on Instagram and let me know how this one landed for you.
Until next time, legends.
Resources & Other Amazing People Mentioned
- Lael Stone: Aware Parenting: @laelstone
- Maggie Dent: @maggiedentuthor
- Podcast Episode: Secure Attachments & Student Wellbeing with Dr Billy Garvey
- Mona Delahooke: @monadelahooke
Connect with Gen:
- Instagram: @connectedparentingau
- Website: connectedparenting.com.au
- Check out her book: Little People, Big Feelings.
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Today, I'm diving into mastering your teaching style and why adopting an authoritative approach is my go-to recommendation. This is a replay of my most recent masterclass for new teachers.
This episode is perfect for you if you're trying to balance developing positive relationships with students and effective boundary setting in your classroom.
In this episode, you’ll will learn
- The different teaching styles, their advantages, and drawbacks, and why the authoritative approach could be the most beneficial for you.
- What some common myths about teaching styles and how to implement an authoritative approach in your classroom.
- How to hold space for student feelings while maintaining clear boundaries and expectations to create a respectful and supportive classroom environment.
I share my journey from a teacher's aide to an assistant principal, and why I started my business to support the development of emotionally intelligent educators.
Resources Mentioned:
- TGM - The Grade Guide Membership. If doors are closed, and this is something that interests you, DM me on Instagram. This is the last time TGM will be offered as a coaching mentorship and I want to make sure that you have the support you need in your teaching career.
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I’m talking about the challenges of perfectionism that many teachers and leaders face and strategies you can use to show up how you want to both at home and at school.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why aiming for perfection can be detrimental, not only to your professional life but also to your mental health.
- The importance of embracing imperfections and focusing on progress rather than perfection.
- Practical strategies to reduce the pressure of perfectionism in your role as a teacher or leader.
- How to embody self-compassion and set realistic goals to prevent burnout.
Listen in to learn how to balance high expectations with personal well-being, so that you can be the best educator you can be, without compromising your health.
I’m hosting a FREE masterclass on How To Craft Your Teaching Style & Adopt An Authoritative Approach.
The details: Monday, June 3, 2024 7:00 PM AEST Replays will be available but you must be registered to get access.
Learn more and sign up here!
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Welcome back to Let's Get Schooled, beautiful people!
In this episode, we dive into the transformative power of mindset and how a simple shift can significantly impact your teaching and classroom dynamics. This discussion was inspired by a recent mentoring session where one of my grads experienced noticeable improvements in her teaching environment simply by changing her mindset.
Embracing a growth mindset allows you to view challenges as opportunities for growth. Instead of seeing children's behaviour as annoying or disruptive, understand it as a form of communication and approach it with curiosity rather than judgment.
The doors to TGGM, our Mentorship for new teachers and teachers in training, open for the last time this year on June 3rd. If you are not on the VIP list, jump on it HERE so you don’t miss out on your opportunity to get a FREE month. Download your JOURNAL PROMPTS here Join our FREE masterclass for new teachers and teachers in training HERE. We will cover: crafting your teaching style and we will look at how you can adopt an authoritative approach (fair, kind and firm) in the classroom. Connect with Em • Website: www.thegradguide.com.au • Instagram: @em_gentle • LinkedIn
In this episode, I’m speaking with my beautiful friend, Danica See from Little Bloom Consultancy.
Danica and I unpack the recent buzz and share our opinions around the potential implementation of a ‘Behaviour Curriculum’.
Here’s what we discuss:
- The media’s sensationalism of a behaviour curriculum and its potential harm to effective education.
- The implications of a behaviour curriculum and what it really means for teachers and students.
- The importance of holistic child development and proactive teaching methods
- The need for a shift towards relationship-based approaches in education that challenge punitive disciplinary measures
- Strategies for effectively supporting children's emotional and behavioural development without resorting to outdated punitive measures.
There is so much noise around this at the moment. This is something I am so passionate about and it’s such an important to talk about. So dive in, share it with your teacher friends because this conversation needs to happen.
We would both LOVE to hear how things have landed with this one so please reach out to us with your takeaways from this one!
Connect with Danica
- Website: littlebloomconsultancy.com.au/
- Instagram: @littlebloom.consultancy
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
This episode revisits a masterclass on handling those small but disruptive behaviours in the classroom. Because the truth is, every classroom has low level behaviours and it is so important that we normalise this, and learn how to manage these effectively, without punishment or rewards based systems.
In this episode, you’ll learn:
- Why rewards and consequences often fail to solve the real issues behind small disruptions.
- How to uncover and tackle the root causes of these behaviours.
- How simple solutions and adjusting your language, can make a huge difference in the classroom when dealing with these behaviours.
Tune in to refine your approach to classroom management and ensure you no longer get annnoyed at those small classroom disruptions.
Teaching strategies don’t have to be complicated. Learn how to really simplify management low level behaviour and classroom disruptions.
The doors to TGGM open for the last time this year on June 3. If you are not on the VIP list, jump on it, so that you don’t miss out on your opportunity to get a free month.
Want the whole masterclass? DM me here (@em_gentle)
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Welcome back to another episode of Let's Get Schooled. In this episode, I give you three ways to significantly improve classroom engagement.
Have you ever wondered if you'd enjoy being a student in your own classroom? Effective teaching involves constant learning and adapting, and sometimes, it starts with asking ourselves tough questions to be the educators our students need us to be.
Incorporating just a few of the ideas in this episode will make a huge difference in the engagement from all the students in your classroom, especially with those who are currently disengaged.
In this episode, you’ll hear about
- The necessity of movement for students to self-regulate, helping them to focus better and actively participate in the classroom.
- How to include gamification in your classroom to increase engagement and motivation.
- The power of providing choice and autonomy to students, allowing students to feel empowered but not in control of the classroom dynamics.
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle. DM me to grab the brain breaks resource!
Today I am giving you three ways to build a classroom community that encourages connection, safety, and growth.
This episode is full of practical steps that you can implement into your classroom right from the start of the school day.
Here’s what you’ll learn.
- How starting each day with a morning meeting can set a positive tone, clarify expectations and strengthen connections.
- What it looks like to include fun and engaging activities into the day to build a strong classroom community
- The importance of modelling a growth mindset to your students
- How to shift the focus from what students can’t to, to celebrating what they excel at.
- Tools to help you identify and nurture each students unique strength so that you can build confidence and engagement in the classroom.
By embodying these principals, you can create an environment where students are supported.
I cannot wait for you to use these in your classroom.
Resources Mentioned
- Learn more about the ‘Learning Pit’.
- Check out The VIA Character Strengths Survey
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
Hello, beautiful educators! In this episode, I am talking about the proactive strategies you can use to ensure your classroom is supportive and inclusive for all students.
If you have students with ADHD, ADD, Autism, EAL/D, learning difficulties and/or trauma and are at a loss for how to manage and cater to all of these at once…this episode is for you!
You can absolutely support all your students in your classroom.
In this episode, you’ll learn
- How to implement proactive strategies for an inclusive classroom
- The 3 important aspects of an inclusive classroom
- How to build deep, meaningful relationships with students that goes past developing rapport.
- How to make sure your classroom is safe, and conducive to learning.
- Why it is important to practice self-regulation for yourself first
Holistic education is about prioritising the success and wellbeing of every child. Catering to all the students in your classroom is not as impossible as it seems. It is so important to build authentic relationships, ensure safety, and emotional regulation so that you can create a classroom where every child feels seen, heard, and valued.
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @em_gentle
In this episode, I chat with Jenny Cole all about educational leadership.
Jenny started her career as an Education Assistant and went on to become a teacher and finally a Principal for 12 years. She worked predominately in Education Support (special needs) with students with high support needs and challenging behaviours. Despite loving working with kids and passionate about education, she became overwhelmed and burnt out. She now runs her own business designed to support teachers and leaders to develop the leadership skills to build high performing teams. She is a coach, consultant, recovering Principal and cheerleader who loves the community she has built through Positively Beaming. When she is not working, she can be found scrolling Instagram and wrangling her very naughty puppy named Charlie. She is based in WA but works with and coaches educators across Australia
In This Episode, we discuss
- The challenges and realities of educational leadership, including the experiences that led Jenny to rethink her career.
- The importance of self-awareness, asking for help, and building confidence.
- Practical advice for educators aspiring to leadership roles.
- The importance of nurturing educators and leaders, providing them with the tools and support to thrive in their roles.
Her insights into overcoming burnout, establishing boundaries, and fostering positive environments in schools are invaluable for anyone in the educational space.
Until next time!
Connect with Jenny:
Website: positivelybeaming.com.au
Facebook: Positively Beaming with Jenny Cole
Instagram: @positivelybeamingjenny
Linkedin: Jenny Cole
In this episode of Let's Get Schooled, Em dives into the barriers hindering effective teaching and leading in today's educational landscape. Join her as she explores the challenges educators face and offers insights into navigating these obstacles.
Em highlights the overwhelming workload many educators contend with due to schools taking on too many initiatives at once. She emphasises the importance of focusing on one initiative at a time to ensure proper implementation and effectiveness
Discussing the detrimental impact of large class sizes, Em shares a concerning example of a teacher managing 31 students without adequate support. She advocates for smaller class sizes and increased support staff to enable teachers to provide better individualised attention to students.
Em addresses the crucial role of mentoring and support in educators' professional development. She underscores the need for strong mentorship programs to help new teachers navigate the challenges of the profession effectively.
Thanks for tuning in to Let's Get Schooled! Don't forget to share this episode with your fellow educators and continue the conversation online. Stay tuned for more insightful discussions in future episodes.
Until next time, keep shining bright in the classroom!
Today, let's talk about the pressure to be perfect as teachers.
I recently came across a school's risqué calendar debacle, which got me thinking: why do we feel the need to uphold this image of perfection?
Back in 1923, a teacher's contract banned things like marriage, bright colours, and even loitering in ice cream stores. While times have changed, the expectation of flawlessness remains.
But here's the truth: we're not perfect, and that's okay. We're human, with strengths and weaknesses.
I recently spoke with a fellow educator who bravely shared her autism diagnosis with her principal, highlighting the importance of authenticity in a system that often demands conformity.
So, let's shift the narrative. Let's embrace authenticity and celebrate our uniqueness. Less perfectionism, more fun, connection, and curiosity.
I'd love to hear your thoughts. Do you feel the pressure to be perfect? How do you navigate it? Drop me a message on social media or shoot me an email.
Thanks for tuning in! Stay real, stay imperfect, stay beautifully human.
Speak soon, Em
Hey educators! This episode of "Let's Get Schooled" introduces a tool for emotional and nervous system regulation - EFT Tapping with the amazing Lauren Brittain.
Lauren is a leading Australian Wellness Expert, Intuitive Transformational Business Coach and Clinical EFT Practitioner who combines evidence-based and energy psychology practices with her 12 years of business experience to deliver peak performance and wellbeing programs to people worldwide.
What's in this episode:
- The science behind EFT and its proven benefits for improving classroom dynamics.
- How EFT tapping can be seamlessly integrated into your daily classroom routine.
- How EFT tapping can support students to develop self awareness around their emotions
- How your energy and emotions have an affect on your students and classroom environment.
- The science and research backing EFT tapping as a modern stress management tool.
Connect with Lauren:
- Instagram: @laurenbrittain.eft
- Website: intuitivetappingacademy
- Website: laurenbrittain.com
Connect with Em:
- Instagram: @em_gentle
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
I’m here to support your journey in education, offering tools to guide students without punitive measures and challenge outdated mindsets. Let's transform schools from the inside out, together.
Stay tuned, stay schooled, and remember, you're exactly where you need to be. Catch you in the next episode!
In this episode, I get the privilege of sitting down to talk with Dr. Billy Garvey, a renowned developmental paediatrician who works for the Royal Children's Hospital. Billy shares invaluable insights on the critical role educators play in supporting children and how to create classrooms full of trust and emotional safety.
We explore how emotional intelligence, understanding, and connection can transform the classroom for vulnerable children. We talk about the significance of nurturing secure attachments, the role of resilience in learning, and the power of meeting kids where they are.
What You'll Learn:
- The importance of safety and trust and strategies for creating a supportive classroom environment.
- How to be curious and responsive to children’s behaviours so that you can truly understand social and emotional development.
- Why punitive measures fail and what to do instead.
- How teachers can lead by example in self-awareness and emotional regulation to model emotional intelligence.
- Why there needs to be a balance in educator well-being and student support and how schools are getting it wrong.
- The power of genuine connections between teachers and students and practical advice for handling trauma, building resilience, and setting developmentally appropriate expectations.
Join us for a conversation that will to enlighten, inspire, and empower educators to make a lasting difference.
Resources:
- Journal Article: Better support for children with additional health and developmental needs in school settings: Perspectives of education experts
- Want more guidance around how to support your students behaviour? Download the free guide
Connect with Dr. Billy Garvey
- Website: www.billygarvey.com
- Instagram: @drbillygarvey
- Instagram: @popcultureparenting
Connect with Em
- Website: thegradguide.com.au
- Instagram: @thegradguide_
Hello, Beautiful People! Welcome back to Let's Get School! Today's episode might stir some emotions, but stick around as we delve into a topic that's crucial for new teachers.
Have you ever felt like you're not cut out for teaching? That nagging feeling of inadequacy creeping in? Well, let's talk about it.
Imposter Syndrome is a psychological phenomenon where individuals doubt their accomplishments and have a persistent fear of being exposed as a "fraud" despite evidence of their competence. Interestingly, new teachers often experience a different set of challenges rather than classical Imposter Syndrome.
Why New Teachers Don't Typically Experience Imposter Syndrome: Lack of Previous Success: Imposter Syndrome often stems from a history of achievement and success. However, for new teachers, entering the field with limited experience can mean they haven't had the opportunity to establish a track record of accomplishments to doubt.
Unequipped Preparation: Many new teachers find themselves feeling inept not because they doubt their abilities but because they were ill-prepared by their university education. The feeling of being unequipped or unprepared for the job can overshadow feelings of being a "fraud."
So rather than having Imposter Syndrome, you are most likely feeling like a fraud and doubting yourself because you have been ill-prepared for your new role as a teacher!
This is the reason we have The Grad Guide Mentorship, our membership for teachers in their first 3 years. Join the WAITLIST
What resonated with you from today's episode? Share your feedback and reflections; your voice matters!
Until next time, legends! Keep shining bright and remember, you're exactly where you need to be. Catch you next week! 🌟
Today Em delves into 3 areas you need to focus on when adopting a holistic approach to classroom management.
We look at:
- Building relationships
- The learning environment
- Routines and expectations.
To adopt this holistic approach, we must look at supporting the whole child.
We cover these much more in-depth inside TGGM, our membership for PST's, New Teachers and Leaders. DOORS ARE CURRENTLY OPEN!
Click below to check them out!
TGGM Learn
TGGM Grow
TGGM Lead
Doors close January 25th 2024
To enter our podcast competition to win a yearly TGGM membership:
- Hit follow on your streaming platform
- Leave Em a rating and/or review and screenshot these and send them to her on socials
- Screenshot the episode you’re listening to, pop it on stories on your socials and tag @em.gentle or @thegradguide_
You can follow Em on Instagram @em.gentle
www.thegradguide.com.au
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
In today’s episode, Em speaks about how leaders can delegate and manage their time better so they can become more organised.
She discusses the importance of determining your glass and plastic balls so that you can prioritise the things that are most important to you in life.
She also speaks about using time and task management apps so that you can feel more organised in your life and lead from a place of clarity
We open doors to TGGM Lead this week (15th Jan to 26th Jan 2024), join our mailing list so that you get access to our Early bird bonuses
To enter our podcast competition to win a yearly TGGM membership:
- Hit follow on your streaming platform
- Leave Em a rating and/or review and screenshot these and send them to her on socials
- Screenshot the episode you’re listening to, pop it on stories on your socials and tag @em.gentle or @thegradguide_
You can follow Em on Instagram @em.gentle
www.thegradguide.com.au
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
In today's episode, Em provides valuable tips on organising your teaching life for success, focusing on three key areas: Classroom Environment and Physical Space, Lesson Planning, and general organisation outside of school.
Tune in to the full episode for a wealth of actionable tips and insights to organise your teaching life effectively.
For more inspiration and resources, follow Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ and @em.gentle or visit www.thegradguide.com.au. Don't miss out on upcoming episodes by clicking the follow button!
In this episode, Em delves into the fundamental aspects of nurturing wellbeing for teachers and leaders, focusing on setting boundaries, embracing self-care, and fostering a growth mindset in the realm of education.
Setting Boundaries:
- Em introduces the seven types of boundaries, highlighting their significance in maintaining balance and preserving personal and professional space.
- She explores mental, emotional, material, internal, conversational, physical, and time boundaries, emphasising their application in real-life contexts.
- Acknowledging the discomfort around setting boundaries, Em delves into the underlying reasons and the need for inner work to reinforce them effectively.
Self-Care Beyond Surface Level:
- Em unpacks the depth of self-care, advocating for its deeper significance beyond surface-level treatments like massages or indulgences.
- She underscores the importance of prioritising mindfulness, engaging in physical activities, nurturing hobbies, and seeking social connections for holistic wellbeing.
- Emphasising intentional rest, she discusses sleep hygiene and the impact of rest on emotional regulation and overall mental health.
Mindset and Self-Awareness:
- Em highlights the influence of mindset on educators' wellbeing, advocating for a growth mindset and the importance of self-awareness in navigating challenges.
- She addresses the negativity bias and the significance of rewiring the brain to focus on the positive aspects of teaching and learning.
- Reflecting on burnout as an illness, Em urges educators to maintain a positive perception of education and embrace a growth-oriented mindset to prevent burnout.
- Lastly, she discusses the role of self-awareness as a recurring theme in fostering wellbeing, urging educators to reflect and take stock of their daily experiences.
Join Em on this journey of nurturing holistic wellbeing in the education space, empowering educators to prioritise self-care, set boundaries, and cultivate a growth-oriented mindset for a fulfilling career.
Listen to the full episode for actionable tips and insights.
Follow Em @thegradguide_ and @em.gentle on Instagram for more inspiration and resources. Visit www.thegradguide.com.au for additional content and updates.
BACK TO SCHOOL CHECKLIST- Download HERE
Today's podcast episode delves deep into the core essence of achieving your 2024 goals, targeting new teachers and leaders. It emphasises James Clear's insights from "Atomic Habits," stressing the pivotal role of identity over mere goal-setting or system implementation.
The focus shifts from 'how' to 'who,' highlighting that sustained change stems from aligning your identity with the desired habits and outcomes. Clear's three layers of behaviour change—outcomes, processes, and identity—are explored, spotlighting the transformative power of reshaping beliefs and self-image to become the person who naturally embodies those aspirations.
The episode intricately explores how behaviours mirror identity and the impact of self-narratives on goal attainment. It underscores the importance of rewriting limiting stories to empower oneself, especially for those aiming to embody traits conflicting with their current self-perception.
The culmination lies in not just cultivating daily habits but in reshaping one's belief systems to seamlessly step into the identity required for 2024 success.
If you're seeking guidance in mapping out your identity journey for the new year, DM me or email me and I'll send some prompts your way.
Em
NEW TEACHER TOOLKIT Free Guide
BUILDING YOUR EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE Free Guide for NEW LEADERS
Dr. Lori Desautels has been an Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016, teaching undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. She was also an Assistant Professor at Marian University in Indianapolis for 8 years where she founded the Educational Neuroscience Symposium. Currently, the Symposium is in its 10th year and is sponsored by Butler University College of Education. Through these conferences and symposiums, educators, parents and the community learn how adversity, trauma and resiliency impact the developing nervous system, helping our students feel a sense of autonomy and purpose along with social, emotional and cognitive well-being.
What we discussed:
- Lori’s inspiration to write her book- Intentional Neuroplasticity: Moving our Nervous Systems and Educational System Toward Post-Traumatic Growth
- What Educators need to know about neuroplasticity
- The repercussions of Covid on student and adult behaviour and nervous systems
- The polyvagal theory and its importance to educators
- How Educators can teach neuroception to their students
- How Restorative Practice fits into nervous system regulation
- The responsibility of leadership teams in moving towards this new paradigm
Connect with Lori Desautels the IG https://www.instagram.com/lori.desautels/ and
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/lori.l.desautels/
Find her work and book here: https://revelationsineducation.com/the-book/intentional-neuroplasticity-book/?v=4096ee8eef7d
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
2023 for me at The Grad Guide has been filled with special moments, memories, and highlights:
🎉 Launched TGGM and added a new tier for aspiring and new leaders supporting over 250 people
🎉 Delivered online and in person workshops for schools, conducting my first ever whole school professional development day
🎉 Delivered two presentations at a National Conference only 6 months into my business when public speaking *was my worst fear
🎉 Started a podcast and hit 15k downloads
🎉 Started a coaching course to become a qualified coach and to continue to prioritise my own inner work and nervous system regulation
🎉 Continually pushed myself out of my comfort zone to do things differently whilst committing to being a present mum to Raffi
My 3 biggest lessons:
- Relationships are everything
- self trust and confidence proceeds courage
- Emotional intelligence is a core pillar of fulfillment
Enjoy! Em x
In this episode, Em talks about the importance of reflecting on and processing the year we've had. It is very easy to look towards 2024 without spending time reflecting on the year you've had and feeling proud of all you've achieved.
Listen to this episode to give you prompts and suggestions about how you can reflect on the year just gone and look towards the year to come!
@thegradguide_ and @em.gentle on Instagram
www.thegradguide.com.au
Today's episode is a snippet of a Private Podcast that Em and Steph record every month for TGGM Members.
We explore interoception's role in emotional development, defining it as the understanding of internal body signals. We speak about the crucial link to emotional regulation and its significance in helping children recognise and manage their feelings.
Em and Steph share practical strategies for teachers to integrate interoception into classrooms, advocating for activities like body scans and discussing how bodily sensations link to emotions.
We emphasise the importance of extending these practices to upper primary and secondary students, creating a safe space for exploration.
Em and Steph highlight how prioritising well-being from early learning through university and workplaces positively impacts decision-making and self-trust, fostering lifelong emotional intelligence.
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Find Steph: https://www.sgroccupationaltherapy.com
IG: sgroccupationaltherapy
Dr Kristy Goodwin is on a mission to promote employee wellbeing and bolster workplace productivity in an always-on digital world. She's the author of ‘Dear Digital: We Need to Talk’ , a book that shares realistic, research-based micro habits that people can apply to tame their digital habits and thrive in the digital world. As one of Australia’s digital wellbeing and productivity experts, she shares practical brain-based hacks to tame tech habits and the latest evidence-based strategies to decode the neurobiology of peak performance in the technological era.
What we discussed:
- Dr Kristy Goodwin’s background and expertise
- The focus of Kristy’s work in the field of technology and education
- Kristy’s transition from Classroom Teacher to her current role
- Common misconceptions about technology use
- Addressing students' attention spans in the context of technology use in the classroom
- Practical advice for educators on how to navigate the challenges of integrating technology into the classroom effectively
- Tips for teachers to manage digital consumption and prevent digital burnout
- Systemic changes and individual accountability needed to improve teacher well-being
- The role of leaders in schools when setting an example for healthy technology use and work-life balance
- The potential negative impact of technology on time and attention
- How technology is influencing mental and physical well-being
- The need for setting digital guardrails at both school and personal levels
- The importance of being good digital role models for children
- The role of teachers in integrating technology into education effectively
- The importance of knowing students, curriculum, and making informed decisions about technology use
- Tips for graduate teachers to monitor their own tech habits, including having a digital curfew, managing notifications, and creating VIP lists
Connect with Dr Kristy Goodwin on most social media platforms:
https://www.instagram.com/drkristy/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kristy-goodwin/
https://www.facebook.com/drkristygoodwin
Visit her website: https://drkristygoodwin.com/
Order her book here: https://drkristygoodwin.com/deardigitalbook/
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Chrissie Davies is a child behaviour specialist, trauma informed educator, consultant, author, keynote speaker, loving mama of two and passionate advocate for understanding neurodivergent children. She is committed to empowering and supporting families to live their life with radical playfulness, acceptance, curiosity, and a bucket load of love. She has a particular passion for supporting the ADHD Community and creating Inclusive Educational communities.
What we discussed:
- Who is Chrissie Davies?
- What is a trauma informed lens?
- The challenges teachers face in classrooms when supporting neurodivergent students
- The importance of relationships between children, teachers and parents
- Chrissie's thoughts on teacher retention and recruitment
- Potential solutions to address the lack of support systems for teachers, especially in their first three years
- The role school leadership plays in shaping the education system
Connect with Chrissie Davies the IG https://www.instagram.com/chrissiechaostocalm and
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/chaostocalmconsultancy/
Check her website at https://www.chaostocalmconsultancy.com/
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Aimee Parkinson is the founder of Well-Nest, a passionate advocate for holistic well-being in education. With a background of 12 years as a teacher and school leader, she brings a wealth of experience to her work. Amy's journey led her to a career shift towards health and wellness, driven by a realization that her heart wasn't fully in the classroom anymore. She is now supporting teachers and middle leaders with their wellbeing via her business 'Well-Nest'.
What we discussed:
- A bit about Aimee
- How do you define well-being?
- Wellbeing is the responsibility of the individual and the school
- Aimee's opinion about what she thinks is the hardest thing for teachers to implement or achieve around well-being
- Wellbeing success stories
- Advice for new teachers who want to establish healthy wellbeing practices
Connect with Aimee Parkinson on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/aimee-parkinson/ and check her website at https://www.well-nest.com.au/ or send her an email at aimee@well-nest.com.au
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Ginny Lalieu has been teaching for 7 years and is currently on her way to becoming a Child Play Therapist. She is the founder of Courageous Cubs.
What we discussed:
- A little bit about Ginny
- Ginny's experience in the UK as a teacher
- Her desire to move out of teaching towards becoming a child play therapist
- The role of a Child Play Therapist within a school
- Why we need to embrace more opportunities for play in schools
- What play is and what it looks like in the classroom
- Tips and strategies for integrating more play into ALL classrooms, Kindergarten through to Secondary
- Ginny's 3 biggest tips for educators who are wanting to bring more play into their classrooms
- Ginny’s strategies for secondary teachers about how they can incorporate play or playfulness into their classrooms
Find Ginny Lalieu on https://www.instagram.com/courageous.cubs/
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
I've been pondering the concept of balance in teaching. Often, it implies an equal distribution of time and energy between work and personal life. But let's face it, the demands of teaching can make this challenging. Prioritising fulfilment over perfect balance acknowledges the different seasons in teaching.
In today's episode, I discuss bringing awareness to aspects of your wellbeing so that you can work towards fulfilment. I speak about non-negotiables, marigolds vs walnut trees, switching off in the digital age and why radical responsibility is crucial when looking at our own wellbeing.
If you're a new teacher and you want to join our Masterclass next Monday night (there will be a replay), JOIN US HERE
If you want to go into educational leadership or you're already there and you're struggling with self doubt, constantly questioning yourself at every corner THIS MASTERCLASS IS FOR YOU
If you would like to contact Em, you can find her here:
The Grad Guide Website
Elizabeth A. Sautter, MA, CCC- is a licensed speech and language pathologist and co-director and co-owner of Communication Works (CW), a practice providing speech, language, and social communication therapy in the San Francisco Bay Area.
After having her own children, Elizabeth followed her professional passion for supporting those with social, self-regulation, and executive functioning challenges and started CW as a private centre providing individual and group therapy.
Currently, Elizabeth provides training, consultation, supervision, and program development in schools and organizations as well as presentations on social communication and regulation in the US and Canada. She works closely with Leah Kuypers, who developed the Zones of Regulation curriculum®, and she is a collaborative trainer on the Zones.
What we discussed:
- Who is Elizabeth?
- How Elizabeth’s personal perspective allows her to be more passionate and compassionate with people she’s working with
- Elizabeth explains how she moved to the role of Speech and Language Pathologist.
- The real goal of supporting children with big behaviours. Elizabeth shares her experience with the son of her cousin.
- Revamping the traditional 'Whole Body Listening' strategy.
- What Elizabeth wishes teachers knew about The Zones of Regulation.
- The importance of interoception and teaching it every day.
- Elizabeth tells more about her book: Make Social and Emotional Learning Stick: Practical Activities to Help your Child Manage Emotions, Navigate Social Situations and Reduce Anxiety.
- Elizabeth’s top tips for supporting neurodivergent learners in the classroom.
Find Elizabeth Sautter on INSTAGRAM and you can everything about her work here.
FREE Whole Body Listening Poster Download HERE Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Today's episode is a podcast that I recorded with Em at Connected Kids.
If you’re someone who's always eager for the latest in teaching strategies, professional development, and lively debates on classroom management, today’s episode is a treat for you.
In this conversation, we delve into a topic that's gaining increasing attention: the shift towards whole-child education and emotional intelligence in the teaching landscape.
Em from The Grad Guide, a platform dedicated to mentoring and providing resources for both aspiring and current teachers and leaders, joins me for this enlightening discussion.
Em's advocacy for classroom innovation and her commitment to being a true ally to students offer a fresh perspective on education, challenging traditional paradigms. We explore the evolution from the dominance of behavioural approaches to a new era informed by child development and neuroscience.
Em emphasizes the importance of continuous, internally-driven professional development, moving beyond quick fixes to meaningful, actionable insights. She also highlights the delicate balance between structure and autonomy in teaching, recognising the diverse needs of different classrooms. Moreover, we address a critical issue: the departure of passionate, skilled teachers due to inadequate support.
Em underlines the vital role of leadership in nurturing and sustaining an empowered team of educators. And speaking of empowerment, Em's brainchild, The Grad Guide Mentorship (TGGM), is undergoing an exciting transformation this November. It's poised to offer support to new and pre-service teachers, teacher aides, and aspiring/current leaders, focusing on enhancing emotional intelligence and mastering holistic classroom management.
As Em and I only scratch the surface of this important conversation, I invite you to join us for a deep dive into the endless potential and possibilities for both teachers and learners.
Connect with Em at The Grad Guide or find her on Instagram at @thegradguide_.
Connect with Emma at Connected Kids on Instagram @connectedkids
Hayley is such a beautiful teacher who embodies and models emotional intelligence. She lives on the Gold Coast and has been teaching for almost 3 years in prep classrooms. I really wanted to speak with Hayley as she is a great role model for early career teachers and she has plenty of wisdom to share.
What we discussed:
- An introduction to Hayley
- Why Hayley became a teacher and her favourite part about teaching.
- Hayley’s first year experience.
- The most challenging part of teaching and Hayley’s funny stories.
- How Hayley looks after herself.
- Hayley promotes the importance of doing an emotional intelligence course.
- The one thing Hayley would change about education.
- Hayley’s message to pre-service and beginning teachers.
- Hayley’s three top tips for new teachers.
Find Hayley on https://www.instagram.com/hey.misshay/ and you can find some of her work here: www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Heymisshay
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Matt Eicheldinger wasn’t always a writer. He spent most of his childhood playing soccer, reading comics, and trying his best to stay out of trouble. Little did he know those moments would ultimately help craft his first novel, Matt Sprouts and the Curse of Ten Broken Toes.
Matt lives in Minnesota with his wife and two children and tries to create new adventures with them whenever possible. He has been teaching for 15 years. When he's not writing, you can find him telling students stories in his classroom, or trail running along the Minnesota River Bottoms.
What we discussed:
- About Matt - his teaching career and why he became known on IG
- Matt tells his story; how he started and what he set out to achieve by telling these stories.
- Matt talks about his teaching philosophy (hint: he recommends slowing down!)
- Why did Matt go into teaching? What led him down that path?
- Did Matt’s why dictated how he approached teaching throughout his whole career?
- What is your funniest story that you've had with kids?
- Matt talks about how he was able to create a book in 30 days.
- Matt opinion on the most challenging part of teaching
- Matt’s tips for new teachers.
Find Matt’s book on https://matteicheldinger.com/ or more information about Matt here: https://linktr.ee/matt.eicheldinger
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Every month Amy Green and Emma Gentle are going to drop a BONUS episode on their podcasts.
They will be talking about all things education, teaching and leadership. They are particularly excited about touching on taboo topics as they believe it's time to have real discussions about education without the sugar coating!
Today's episode is an introduction to Amy and Em, where they started in education and where they are now. They also dive into some of those taboo topics in this episode and would love for you to get in touch with them and let them know what topics you'd like them to speak about.
Em apologises for the poor quality on her end. She forgot her podcasting microphone. Oops!
Enjoy!
I've been pondering the difference between working in teaching and working on teaching, and it struck me how it parallels running a business. See, I used to be all about the classroom, but now, with my membership launched this year, I've had to learn the ropes of being a business owner. It's not just about the day-to-day grind, it's about strategy too.
Teaching hours might be 9 to 3, but we all know the real work doesn't stop there. To truly excel, you've got to put in the extra hours. It's like personal development, digging into who you are, why you do things, and reflecting on your methods. But there's a professional side too. Continuous learning and upskilling is a must. No one enters teaching thinking a degree is all they need, right?
Yet, not all professional development hits the mark. Sometimes, it feels like box-ticking. That's why the format and follow-up matter. It's about embedding change, not just a one-time event. And as education evolves, so must we. Sure, it can be a challenge, especially with shifts like the science of reading. But growth requires adaptability.
But here's the real game-changer: personal development and professional development aren't separate entities. They're partners. Understanding yourself spills into the classroom, making you a better educator. This is why my membership blends both. It's a commitment, sure, but it's the key to staying fresh and effective.
So, are you in the camp of growth or the one stuck in the cycle? Let's chat about it. DM me on Instagram, shoot me an email, or connect on my website. I'm all ears. See you next week!
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Facebook//TikTok: The Grad Guide
www.thegradguide.com.au/mentorship
Building a classroom culture will transform the way you look at your classroom management. Focus your energy here, rather than putting all your energy into 'behaviour management' strategies that don't work!
Here is what I cover:
Emphasis on Classroom Culture over Control
- Focus on setting the tone and building a community for effective classroom management.
- Shift from vertical (authoritarian) to horizontal (facilitative) relationships with students.
Creating a Safe and Inclusive Classroom
- Importance of physical, emotional, and mental safety for optimal learning.
-
Tips for Creating Safety:
-
- Organizing and tidying up the classroom.
- Establishing clear routines and expectations.
- Providing emotional safety through relational discipline.
Teaching Social and Emotional Skills
- Incorporating Social and Emotional Learning (SEL) into daily practice.
- The significance of educators embodying these skills.
-
Strategies for Teaching SEL:
-
- Sharing personal experiences.
- Using mentor texts for discussions.
- Normalising a range of emotions and self-processing.
Embracing a Growth Mindset
- Aligning personal mindset with expectations for students.
- Encouraging resilience, risk-taking, and seeing setbacks as learning opportunities.
-
Benefits of a Growth Mindset:
-
- Easier acceptance of constructive feedback.
- Focus on continuous improvement and learning journey.
If you want out more, visit www.thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Tik Tok and Facebook: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Building your emotional intelligence will be the best thing that you ever do.
Today we cover:
- What is self awareness
- Why it's important for teachers and leaders
- How to start practising self awareness
If you'd like to go more in depth and start building your EQ, I have a fabulous Masterclass called 'EQ for Educators'. In this Masterclass we look at how to unpack your stories and limiting beliefs and how you can start to build your EQ. Access this Masterclass HERE
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Facebook: The Grad Guide
This is such a crucial part of teaching. We only have a limited amount of energy to give and when we focus on what we can't control all of the time, we give our power and energy away.
I know that this episode will help you reflect on where your energy is currently going.
Em x
The Grad Guide Website
@thegradguide_ on Instagram
This week I speak about the components of Emotional Intelligence and why we need as high EQ as teachers and leaders.
The 'overwhelm' trap can be a common one to fall into when becoming a teacher. The reality is teaching can be mentally and emotionally draining and each year more and more admin falls into our laps. Student behaviour can be challenging to work with you if you don't understand how to support your children. I get it! It can be a lot!
This episode will help you pinpoint where your overwhelm might stem from, so you can identify what's going on for you and determine how you can move forward.
Some of the themes I cover:
- Executive functioning
- Mindset
- Gratitude
- Utilising your planning time
- Asking for help
- Doing a life audit
- What are you choosing?
- The work of wellbeing
If you'd like to join the FREE MASTERCLASS mentioned in this episode click HERE
If you're a NEW TEACHER and you're looking for a free Teacher Toolkit Guide click HERE
If you're a PRE SERVICE TEACHER and you need some help preparing for placement click HERE
Follow Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
or head to www.thegradguide.com.au to find out how to work with Em
Chloe is an early years teacher, mentor and literacy leader located in rural Queensland. After a tumultuous first year of teaching, she has worked hard to find joy and fulfilment in her role again, which has ignited her passion for helping other new teachers do the same.
What we discussed:
- Chloe’s background into teaching
- Chloe’s challenging first year experience
- What Chloe needed in her first year of teaching that she didn’t receive
- How Chloe overcame her challenging teaching experience
- How Chloe used her experience to start thriving as a teacher
- Our thoughts on #teachergram
- Chloe’s early encounter with leadership and how she’s going in this position
- Why mentorship is so important, especially in teaching
- Chloe's top tips for new teachers.
You can catch Chloe on IG:
https://www.instagram.com/hellomisschlo_/
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
TikTok: @gradguide_
Jess is raisingresilience_mornington on Instagram. She’s on a mission to give children and young people the skills to develop resilience and emotional intelligence to navigate life's ups and downs with confidence.
We talked about:
- Get to know Jess
- The connection between emotions and resilience
- How to address emotions that come up with trauma
- Helping parents and teachers understand emotions
- The link between emotions and interoception
- Emotional regulation and what modelling that looks like in the classroom
- Mindfulness in the classroom
If you’d like to work with Jess and to know more about her offerings at the moment you can visit this link: https://www.raisingresiliencemp.com.au/
You can find Jess on IG: raisingresilience_mornington
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au Check out my new EQ for Educators Masterclass
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Dr. Emily King is a Child Psychologist and former School Psychologist who has worked with neurodivergent children and teens for the last 20 years. She received her Ph.D. in School Psychology from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Dr. Emily is also the founder of Learn with Dr. Emily™ where she shares online resources related to raising and educating neurodivergent youth. Dr. Emily is passionate about empowering parents and teachers to take care of themselves so they can grow into the adult that every neurodivergent child needs in their life.
What we discussed:
- Get to know Dr. Emily - Her passion for learning
- Dr. Emily explains neurodivergence
- Dr. Emily’s thoughts on neurodivergent diagnosis becoming ‘trendy’
- How to talk to parents about their child potentially being neurodivergent
- How do we ensure that our IEPs are neuroaffirming?
- Is Whole Body Listening still applicable?
- If there was one thing that you would want teachers to understand about supporting neurodivergent children in the classroom, what would that one thing be?
- Top tips for new teachers who are wanting to become more neuro affirming
Find Dr. Emily by reading her blog on Substack https://learnwithdremily.substack.com or listening to her podcast https://pod.link/1639929216
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
IG: thegradguide_
FB: The Grad Guide
Mel is the founder of Hiive Society and Inspire Happy Humans and a former primary school teacher. Mel’s passion and expertise lie in Positive Psychology and the neuroscience behind manifestation, which she currently teaches within her Hiive Society membership platform for women in business. Prior to Hiive Society, she aimed to get Positive Psychology interventions into as many classrooms as possible, by creating and selling downloadable teaching resources. This experience is what has brought her to the podcast today.
Mel and I discuss:
- Mel's teaching background and journey
- The in's and out's of Positive Psychology, in particular, the neuroscience behind manifestation and the steps you can undertake to manifest and visualise your goals and dreams and turn them into reality
- How Positive Psychology can contribute to becoming a confident and empowered teacher
- The four (4) steps to manifest: Ask, Believe, Act, and Receive.
- Character strengths and how to apply them in the classroom for both teachers and students
- Our passion for personal development
- How you can work with Mel
Find Em: www.thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Facebook: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Find Mel: Www.hiivesociety.com
Www.hiivesociety.mn.co (membership platform) https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Inspire-Happy-Humans Instagram.com/hiivesociety
Facebook.com/hiivesociety
Facebook.com/groups/hiivesociety
So many people want to see the education system change, but teachers feel hopeless and disempowered. People are ready for change but they don’t know where to start.
I want to remind you that teaching CAN be fun! Teaching is what you make it.
What I speak about:
- Teaching can be fun and fulfilling for you if you want it to be!
- How I’m going against the grain and what I think is important in education
- Why we need to change schools from the inside out: Foster safe, inclusive classrooms that support ALL learners. It starts with us! We create the change
- Why we need to support new teachers and see them as innovators and change makers
- How The Grad Guide is supporting and empowering new teachers and teachers in training
If you'd like to join our FREE Masterclass for New Teachers: Connected Classroom Management, July 13th, join here: https://www.thegradguide.com.au/pl/2147692187
If you are interested in joining The Grad Guide Mentorship, head over to Instagram @thegradguide_
When you have effective classroom transitions, your classroom runs a whole lot smoother! Trust me!
Join me in this episode for my top 3 tips for effective classroom transitions.
If you're a pre-service teacher or a new teacher in your first 3 years and you want to learn how to improve your classroom management, join us in The Grad Guide Mentorship, our online membership. Support, education and community in one place. You don't need to feel stressed, overwhelmed or alone on your teaching journey. If you want to feel empowered, inspired and confident in the classroom, join us in TGGM.
www.thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Tik Tok: thegradguide_
In this episode, I unpack some of the reasons as to why I don't use rewards or consequences in the classroom.
I'm talking behaviour charts, crosses on the board, marble jars, raffle tickets, and time in at recess. These strategies work to stamp out behaviour right then and there but they don't help support the child. So you will more than likely keep seeing these behaviours reappear unless you get to the bottom of them!
If you'd like to learn more about this and learn the important role you play in classroom management, join EQ for Educators here: https://www.thegradguide.com.au/offers/FajecqFf
If you're a pre-service teacher or a new teacher looking for community, support and education all in the one place, head to www.thegradguide.com.au/mentorship to learn more about our online membership
Today I am joined by the beautiful Kirby, an upper primary teacher who is also a mother to gorgeous twin girls.
We chat about:
- Kirby's background in education
- Navigating a full-time position in education with young kids
- How to unload your emotional backpack as a mother and a teacher
- Routines and how to stay organised
- Exercise and carving out time for yourself
- Setting personal and professional boundaries
- Tips for New Teachers on how they can manage teaching and parenting
Find Kirby on Instagram @lessons2learn_aus
Find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
www.thegradguide.com.au
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
There's so much more to classroom management than student behaviour. Managing the classroom so it flows like a well oiled machine requires us to look at ourselves, our environment and our student's behaviour. Today is a short episode explaining some of the reasons why I like to teach educators about the power of classroom management. Today I chat about:
- Why I don't teach behaviour management
- The low down on rewards and consequences and why I don't use them
- How our belief systems, the way we were parented and society impacts the way we see behaviour
- Why we need to get to the root cause of behaviour
My first solo episode. Learn a little bit more about me and how The Grad Guide came about.
The Grad Guide is here to help create a new generation of emotionally intelligent teachers who are here to change schools from the inside out.
www.thegradguide.com.au
Miss Williams is an Australian primary school teacher who uses her Instagram platform to share her experiences and knowledge of what has worked in the classroom for her so far. This is her third year teaching full-time in a Year 4 classroom.
We chat about:
- Her journey into teaching
- How her Instagram grew quite quickly
- The pressures of sharing on social media
- Her experiences in the classroom so far
- What she loves and what she has found to be challenging
- Her top tips for new teachers
Find Miss Williams on Instagram @_miss_williams_
Find Em @thegradguide_
www.thegradguide.com.au
FREE Connected Classroom Management Masterclass for PST's and New Teachers. REGISTER BELOW
https://www.thegradguide.com.au/pl/2147692187
NEW TEACHER FEATURE with Brooke Brooke is currently in her first year of teaching. She is in a full time secondary position in a rural setting in Victoria.
We chat about:
-
A bit of background on Brooke
-
Building relationships with teenagers
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Managing mum life/teacher life
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Brooke’s career change- Why she went into teaching
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What Brooke has loved most about teaching so far
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The challenges Brooke has faced in her first year
-
Advocating for yourself as a new teacher
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Why Brooke joined TGGM and what she’s loving about it
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Brooke’s top 3 tips for new teachers
You can find Brooke on Instagram HERE
You can find Em on Instagram HERE
Check out The Grad Guide's website HERE - Doors to The Grad Guide Mentorship are OPEN!
Alice Vigors is a dedicated and passionate Assistant Principal Curriculum and Instruction, who uses her creativity, innovation and dedication to inspire others and build their capacity to make a positive difference to the education of all students. She has been a teacher and leader for more than 13 years, working in both the NSW Public and Catholic education systems. She is the author of the Thinking Classroom and co-host of the Teacher Takeaway podcast.
- Alice’s journey into Education
- Alice’s book ‘The Thinking Classroom’
- What is critical and creative thinking and how do we facilitate this in the classroom?
- Using ’Thinking Routines’
- How can we use inquiry in our classroom if our school doesn’t follow an ‘inquiry’ model
- Misconceptions about inquiry
- It doesn’t have to be either/or
- Where does feedback sit within the inquiry cycle?
- Where to go to learn more about the inquiry process.
- New tips for Teachers
Find Alice here:
https://thinkingpathwayz.weebly.com/
Instagram: @thingpathways
Find Em here:
https://thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
Amy is the founder of The Wellness Strategy, a published author, speaker, facilitator, and coach, and a leader in improving workplace culture and wellbeing in schools and organisations. As a past teacher and school leader, Amy is determined to change the way we view wellbeing to support our everyday and workplace needs. With a background in teaching and leadership and having studied human behaviour and positive psychology, Amy brings to the wellbeing space a fresh approach to what can be a sensitive topic.
Em and Amy chat about:
- What it means to live in alignment with your values and when we don’t how it impacts us
- Teacher wellbeing isn’t one person’s job
- Are we doing too much in schools?
- How we can take ownership and control of our wellbeing when we’re in toxic environments
- Subjective wellbeing/Psychological wellbeing
- Change is hard and our leaders are doing the best they can with what they know
- Old narratives- Don’t reach out for support until you’re flat on your face!
- Prevention is better than cure
You can follow Amy @_thewellnessstrategy or connect with her via her website https://www.thewellnessstrategy.com.au/
You can find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ or via her website www.thegradguide.com.au
Aaron Johnston is an Assistant Principal from Central Coast, NSW. He graduated from Avondale College in 2008 with a Bachelor Education (Primary) Honours degree. Aaron has been in school leadership since 2015 and has taught all ages K-6. He has also worked in a variety of roles within schools including classroom teacher, wellbeing officer, and Learning & Support Teacher. He is passionate about providing students with rich and engaging learning experiences across all subject areas with a passion for wellbeing and curriculum.
Aaron hosts the Teacher Takeaway Podcast along with three other incredible educators. Their aim is to inspire, encourage and equip educators with practical examples of quality practice and teach them how to embed the latest educational research into their classroom practice.
Em and Aaron chat about:
- How Aaron got into education
- Aaron’s current role
- How new teachers can approach leadership when they have a problem
- What to do when you’re a new teacher and you’re not feeling heard
- How/when to involve leadership in situations with parents and students
- How to move towards a leadership position
You can follow Aaron’s teaching journey via his Instagram account @mr.j.learning.space
You can find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ or at TGG’s website www.thegradguide.com.au
Welcome to the new series- New Teacher Feature!! I will be chatting with teachers from all over Australia about their experiences as new graduates.
Today we unpack:
- Karina's favourite teacher
- Why Karina became a teacher
- Karina’s experience with mentor teachers whilst on Prac
- Karina’s experience with relief teaching
- Her favourite thing about having her own class
- Did Uni prepare you for teaching?
- The most challenging thing so far as a teacher
- What Karina's loving about TGGM
Enjoy listening to Karina's experiences in education so far.
If you'd like to connect, you can find me here:
Website: www.thegradguide.com.au
Instagram: @thegradguide_
TikTok: The Grad Guide
LinkedIn: Emma Gentle
Today I am speaking with Jessica Mason (she/her). She is a Wellness Coach for Teachers, on a mission to support educators to live more mindful, calm and balanced lives. Jess hosts in-person workshops, coaches clients in a 1:1 capacity + runs online courses designed to guide teachers to ditch the burnout and truly thrive. Jess and I speak about:
- How Jess went into teaching
- Jess’s experience with her own well-being challenges/anxiety
- What contributed to Jess’s anxiety as a new teacher
- Our belief systems and limiting beliefs- How they impact the way we show up as a teacher
- How new teachers look after themselves- We can choose OURSELVES and OUR STUDENTS
- Re-defining a ‘good teacher’
- Creating a safe space for teachers to be vulnerable and share
- What Jess has seen new grads struggle with
- Understanding the value of yourself and your time
- Jess’s definition of wellbeing
Follow Jess on Instagram @jess.mason_
Follow Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ or contact her at her new website
www.thegradguide.com.au
Today I am speaking with Jessica Mason (she/her). She is a Wellness Coach for Teachers, on a mission to support educators to live more mindful, calm and balanced lives. Jess hosts in-person workshops, coaches clients in a 1:1 capacity + runs online courses designed to guide teachers to ditch the burnout and truly thrive. Jess is heading in a new direction however is happy to support teachers as much as she can, so if you're needing some support, reach out to her on Instagram!
Jess and I speak about:
- How Jess went into teaching
- Jess’s experience with her own well-being challenges/anxiety
- What contributed to Jess’s anxiety as a new teacher
- Our belief systems and limiting beliefs- How they impact the way we show up as a teacher
- How new teachers look after themselves- We can choose OURSELVES and OUR STUDENTS
- Re-defining a ‘good teacher’
- Creating a safe space for teachers to be vulnerable and share
- What Jess has seen new grads struggle with
- Understanding the value of yourself and your time
- Jess’s definition of wellbeing
Follow Jess on Instagram @jess.mason_
Follow Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ or contact her at her NEW WEBSITE (yassssss) www.thegradguide.com.au
BONUS EPISODE!!
Miss Inclusivity is a graduate teacher, currently teaching Year 1/2, who is deeply passionate about inclusion in her classroom. Her commitment is to ensure that every student in her classroom feels valued and supported. She is dedicated to creating an inclusive environment through emotional regulation, visual scaffolds & cues, and a classroom where her students have FUN! As a young teacher from QLD, Miss Inclusivity also makes accessories and resources for teachers as a creative outlet, has her own podcast: 'Miss Inclusivity The Podcast' and shares all of the navigations of teaching online through daily vlogs, teacher hacks & even teacher outfits!
Miss Inclusivity and I chat about:
- Her introduction to education
- Bridge's wins and challenges so far
- What she didn't expect as a new teacher
- What she is LOVING about TGGM
- Her advice to new grads
Follow Miss Inclusivity on Instagram @missinclusivity and TikTok
Bridge has given you all a discount to use on any of her products!! 20% off use TGG20
Follow Em @thegradguide_ on Instagram
Narissa is an education consultant specialising in literacy and leadership. She was a former primary school principal and she is passionate about empowering primary school teachers to deliver high-quality literacy instruction to all students. Narissa delivers professional learning, support and resources through her Oz Lit Teacher website and community. She also consults in schools and runs live workshops.
Riss is so down to earth and I just loved speaking with her today about high-quality literacy instruction. Let’s get into it
- Riss’ journey into Education
- The importance of an effective classroom environment
- Why Riss started 'Oz Lit Teacher’
- What are Mentor Texts and why are they amazing?!
- Riss’ take on NAPLAN and how to prepare
- 6+1 Writing traits- Why Riss loves this framework!
- What leads to stagnated student growth in writing
- Why cold writes are great assessment tools
- Riss’ opinion on scripted writing programs
- What to include in your writing block- What Riss says is missing in a lot of classrooms today
- Tips for new teachers
Find Riss at: https://www.ozlitteacher.com.au/
Instagram: @ozlitteacher
Find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
The Grad Guide Mentorship opens Monday 27th March!!!
Join through the BIO on my INSTAGRAM!
Em
Today I am speaking with Kasey Edwards, a writer and researcher and the author of the international bestselling Raising Girls Who Like Themselves. She mixes humour, heart and credible research to write about issues such as raising children, work satisfaction, motherhood and body image. She has a wide readership, with an audience of over 10 million worldwide, and is a passionate champion for girls and women.
I believe that a lot of what Kasey teaches parents in ‘Raising Girls Who Like Themselves’ relates to teaching children and feel that the ‘pillars’ she speaks about can also be facilitated in the classroom.
Kasey and I speak about:
- Why Kasey wrote the book ‘Raising Girls Who Like Themselves?’
- Reparenting
- The Power Perspective- Children can control how they respond to things
- Catastrophising- Why is it and why it’s harmful
- ‘Beauty Praise’- Why it is damaging for children, especially daughters
- Overpraising in the Classroom
- Why Kasey And Chris encouraged their daughter NOT to join the High Achievers Program
- Homework can contribute to children hating learning
- Passion and purpose- Engaging children using a strengths-based approach
- Social Skills- Do we have to teach them? The importance of teaching children about conflict.
I know you'll enjoy today's episode.
Enjoy, Em x
Find Kasey here: @kaseyedwardswriter
https://www.kaseyedwards.com/
Find Em here: @thegradguide_
https://www.thegradguide.com to jump on the waitlist for The Grad Guide Mentorship March 27th
Today I speak with the beautiful Steph from SGR Holistic Occupational Therapy about how teachers can adopt a neuro-affirming approach in the classroom.
We discuss:
- Regulation: Addressing misconceptions
- The Zones of Regulation
- Teaching children to advocate for what they need
- Expected and Unexpected behaviours
- How to develop neuro-affirming IEP’s in conjunction with health professionals
- Social skills groups- Do they actually help neurodivergent children?
- Where to go and how to broaden your knowledge on neuro-affirming practice
- What is masking and why it is so detrimental? (This is SO relatable for EVERYONE)
Remember, one step in the right direction is positive. Exceptional teachers are lifelong learners who continue to upskill, learn new things and adapt their practice and approach. At the end of the day we are there for the children so I believe it's important to continue to learn how to best support them in order for them to succeed and thrive!
Follow us on Instagram:
Steph @sgroccupationaltherapy
Em @thegradguide_
We are both also on LinkedIn if you are looking to connect.
If you are looking to follow some neuro-affirming accounts on Instagram, Steph and I recommend the following:
Divergent Lives
Neurowild
The Speech and OT Co
Neurodivergent_Lou
The Autism Collective
Gabor Mate
Connected Brain Body
Kristy Forbes
Play Learn Chat
Yellow Ladybugs
ND_Speechie
Christina Keeble
The Peke Centre
The ADHD Accountant
Holly The OT Podcast
If you're looking for more information on Brain Breaks and how to incorporate them into your classroom, go to the link in my bio on Instagram. There you will also be able to add your name to The Grad Guide Mentorship Waitlist, so you don't miss out when doors open on 27th March.
If you're interested in learning more about how we can develop skills in order to support children's behaviour, check out my upcoming Masterclass 'EQ for Educators' on 23rd March. Head to the link in my bio to register.
Caitlyn is a country-turned-city teacher who has recently left her full-time teaching role and is exploring what life looks like in her 30’s outside of the classroom setting. She is an avid reader, enjoys gardening, cooking and is a big fan of hot cups of tea hence, her Instagram account, teaandcountryteaching. Caitlyn and I speak about:
- Her journey and experiences in teaching
- The transition from teaching in a small school to a bigger school
- Her pre-teaching experiences
- Inquiry learning
- Teaching in a team vs being the only one on your stage
- Her role as a team leader
- Her three tips for grads on how they can navigate their teaching life
Caitlin can be found on Instagram @teaandcountryteaching
Em can be found on Instagram @thegradguide_
Today I am chatting with Bre from Miss Mindset, she is a lover of all things life, business and energetics and helps people master their mindset so they can live a very fulfilling life.
Em and Bre chat about:
- Why Bre left teaching
- What Bre would love to change about the education system
- Reclaiming our power as teachers
- Tips to improve your mindset
- What teachers CAN focus on
- What Bre wishes was taught in Secondary school
- Changing the conversation around expectations for students
- The word balance sets us up for failure
- Every profession has challenges
- Tips for new teachers
Find Bre on Instagram @missmindset_
OR at https://www.missmindset.net/
Find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
OR at https://www.thegradguide.com.au
Dr. Lori Desautels, has been an Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016 where she teaches both undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. Her passion is engaging her students through the application of neuroscience as it applies to attachment, regulation, educator brain state, and teaching students and staff about their neuro-anatomy thus integrating Mind Brain Teaching, learning principles and strategies into her coursework at Butler. Today I speak with her about her her book Connections Over Compliance Rewiring our perceptions of discipline. If you haven’t read the book, I highly recommend you do it’s.a fabulous read. Enjoy the chat I had with Lori today, If you love it, don’t forget to rate and review!
Lori and I speak about:
Why Lori wrote Connections Over Compliance- Rewiring our Perceptions of Discpline
Why does ‘behaviour management’ start with us?
Why we need to unpack our own generational discipline patterns
Tips for Teachers: How can we support challenging behaviours in the beginning of the school year when we don’t have strong relationships yet?
Morning Meetings
Why we need to teach children about the brain
We can unintentionally escalate children- fight and flight
Why we need to unpack our our trauma, triggers and limiting beliefs
Trauma alters the brain
Moving away from traditional ways of looking at discipline- Power Over
Control is not the end goal when teaching children
Proactive solutions for supporting children- The Takeout Menu
How do we change our approach to children’s behaviour in schools?
Find Lori https://revelationsineducation.com/?v=4096ee8eef7d
Instagram @lori.desautels
Find Em @thegradguide_
Welcome back to another episode of Let's Get Schooled. Today I'm speaking with Jacqueline from the Teachers Notebook on Instagram. She's such a beautiful soul. First we dive into who is Jacqueline, and discuss her background before teaching. She then shares some wonderful tips around CRT for new teachers. We speak about Positive Psychology, something that she has studied at Melbourne University, and then we unpack some wellbeing tips for new teachers.
- Who is Jacqueline
- CRT- Some tips for New Teachers
- What is Positive Psychology?
- Wellbeing Tips for New Teachers- You’re not expected to be an expert, you don’t have to say yes to everything, create space for mistakes, allow for overwhelm, looking after your self-esteem, be okay with imbalance, boundaries for new teachers, keep your sparkle.
- Seek support
Find Jacqueline on Instagram: @the_teachers_notebook
Find Em on Instagram: @thegradguide_
The answer to the title is a BIG. FAT. NO! Ha!
Today I speak with the beautiful Lael Stone. I had to get her back again! She's an author of a new, wonderful book called Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children. She's the creator and director of a school, Woodline Primary. Lael works with the Resilience Project and she is the creator and co-host of the Aware Parenting Podcast. But wait, there's more....she's worked with teenagers teaching sex ed, and she was also a doula for many years. Oh my gosh, is there anything that she hasn't done?
So, if we know the Behaviourist Approach is no longer working for us and we know the impact it has on children, what do we do instead? Have a listen to find out!
Em and Lael discuss:
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What is Behaviourism and why are schools still relying on it?
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The good girl/good boy paradigm
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The negative affects of Behaviourism
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Do you look at children through the lens of good and bad?
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How do we start making the shift?
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How do we manage children’s big feelings?
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Why self-compassion is an essential ingredient
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Children and unmet needs
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Looking behind the behaviour- What does that mean?
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Why harsher consequences are not the answer and neither are rewards
-
Supporting students to help them recognise what they need
-
The smallest piece of connection matters
-
Why it’s hard going against the grain
You can find Lael at @laelstone on Instagram or head to her website https://laelstone.com.au/
Find Em @thegradguide_ on Instagram or on Facebook at The Grad Guide
Click the link below to join TGG Mentorship- Doors CLOSE Monday 30th Jan 7pm
https://www.thegradguide.com.au/mentorship
Nathaniel Swain is a teacher, instructional coach, researcher and writer, who is passionate about literacy, language and learning and effective and engaging teaching for all students. In 2019, he founded a community of teachers and other educators committed to The Science of Learning, called Think Forward Educators.
Today Em and Nathaniel chat about:
-
How Nathaniel got into teaching
-
The Science of Learning
-
What is Think Forward Educators? Free Professional Development
-
Have we been teaching reading and writing the wrong way round?
-
Tips for new teachers (relatable for ALL teachers!)
-
How should we teach genre?
-
The importance of writing experimentation and writer’s choice and voice
-
Components of a writing program- structuring sentences and paragraphs, handwriting and spelling
Some of Nathaniel's recommendations: The Writing Revolution and Forms- Spelling Program
You can find out more information about Nathaniel and Think Forward Educators at https://www.nathanielswain.com/
You can find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_ and Facebook at The Grad Guide
The Grad Guide Mentorship for teachers in their first three years https://thegradguide.com.au/mentorship
Doors close on 31st of January!
I had the privilege of speaking to the lovely Jocelyn Seamer today, about all things Science of Reading and Structured Literacy! It's so important for teachers to be up to date with evidence based research. Jocelyn is determined to make sure that all teachers are supported to implement evidence informed practice in structured literacy.
Jocelyn and Em chat about:
- Who is Jocelyn Seamer?
- Jocelyn’s passion for literacy and equity
- The difference between structured literacy and balanced literacy
- The Cueing System- The difference between guessing and problem solving when trying to read
- How to structure your literacy block in lower and upper primary
- The shift from Guided Reading to…
- Jocelyn’s take on small group work and targeted teaching
- Text based units- The importance of units centred around rich texts
- The importance of ‘we do’
- How to have tough conversations
- Control the controllables
- How to teach sight words
For more information on The Grad Guide Mentorship go to www.thegradguide.com.au
Find Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
Find Jocelyn on Instagram @jocelynseamer
For more information on The Resource Room go to https://www.jocelynseamereducation.com/the-resource-room
The Resource Room comes with all the resources teachers need for their whole literacy block, 8 live mastermind sessions a year and 2 Teach Along courses delivered live, recorded and can be watched anytime.
Jocelyn has given The Grad Guide Mentorship New Members a special deal, 2 months of the Resource Room for free when you sign up for an annual subscription. This is available for the first 50 people who join TGG Mentorship!! RUN, don't walk!
Happy 2023 beautiful teachers!!
Today Em chats with Tam from Mrs Learning Bee. Tam is a former Kindergarten teacher and Assistant Principal based in Sydney, Australia. She has been teaching for 12 years, mostly in K-2 classrooms. Tam loves to support teachers by creating engaging, research-based learning activities that support K-2 students in developing strong foundational skills and a love of learning, as well as resilient minds and kind hearts. Alongside her partner, Tam has created an online platform for teachers called The Hive. Check it out by clicking on the Instagram link below.
Em and Tam chat about:
- Get to know Tam
- What it’s like teaching Kindergarten- Fave things and not so fave things
- Reflecting on our teaching practice
- University did not prepare us for real life teaching!
- Literacy Rotations- Are they effective?
- Adapting programs to suit our learners
- How worksheets fit into your teaching program
- Planning hacks for new teachers!
- The Hive- Tam’s Online platform for teachers!
- Tam’s tips for new teachers.
I apologise for the poor quality of audio in patches. I know you will get a lot out of this episode!
Follow Em on Instagram- @thegradguide_
www.thegradguide.com.au Put your name on the waitlist for The Grad Guide Mentorship- Opening January 16th
Follow Tam on Instagram @mrslearningbee @learningwiththehive
Join the waitlist for The Hive- https://hive.mrslearningbee.com/
Today Em is speaking with Stephanie Robinson. She is a holistic occupational therapist who specialises in supporting neurodivergent children using an affirming, gentle and trauma informed approach. Steph has such a beautiful, calm nature and she is doing wonderful things in her private practice.
Today Em and Steph chat about:
-
What is Occupational Therapy?
-
How can teachers support neurodivergent children in the classroom?
-Using visuals in the classroom
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Sensory profiles
-
Sensory tools to assist regulation
-The Zones of Regulation
-Recognising body clues and labeling emotions
-Behaviourism
-
Acknowledging autonomy and individuality whilst honouring boundaries
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Explaining decisions to your students
Find Em @thegradguide_
www.thegradguide.com.au
Find Steph @sgroccupationaltherapy
www.sgroccupationaltherapy.com
Em speaks with her beautiful mentor, Lael Stone. If Lael was to sum up in one sentence what she does, it would be ‘I speak for the heart of the child’.
Lael is an Aware Parenting instructor and for many years she worked as a Doula, Calmbirth® Practitioner and Postnatal Trauma Counsellor. For 5 years, she taught Sex Education to high school students and worked with teenagers on all aspects of sexuality and wellbeing. She is also the creator and director of a school, Woodline Primary AND she just realised a book with her friend Marion Rose, titled ‘Raising Resilient and Compassionate Children. What a woman of many talents!
Em and Lael discuss:
- Connection and compassion filters through everything we do
- Woodline Primary- Lael built a school
- How Woodline is different from a mainstream setting
- Why your philosophy and energy matters as a teacher
- Challenges teachers face in mainstream education
- The importance of being emotionally literate as a teacher and how our upbringing and conditioning impacts the way we show up
- How to begin building your EQ
- What are we making things mean? To facilitate growth, we need to continually reflect and be curious
- Emotional awareness starts with us
- Student autonomy- choice and voice
- Lael’s top 3 tips for fostering emotional literacy in the classroom
Head to www.thegradguide.com.au to find more information on The Grad Guide Mentorship for new teachers, launching January 16th 2023
More information about Lael can be found at her website https://laelstone.com.au/
Follow Em on Instagram @thegradguide_
Follow Lael on Instagram @laelstone @woodlineprimary @theawareparentingpodcast @aboutbirthonline
Teacher Wellbeing is very topical at the moment! And rightly so. We can’t pour from an empty cup!
Join Em as she chats with Meg Durham, a Teacher Wellbeing Educator.
Em and Meg cover:
- What is teacher wellbeing?
- Selfcare- is it just a buzzword?
- What selfcare really looks like for different people
- Self doubt- We experience this throughout all stages of our lives
- You don’t have to have it all together, all of the time
- The 5 P’s- Perfection, Pleasing, Pretending, Producer, Performing.
- The B word- Burnout
- The myth that we must be happy all of the time
- Recreational complaining
- Meg’s top 3 tips for new teachers
Follow Em and Meg on Instagram
Em- @thegradguide_
Meg- @megdurham_
Welcome to Let’s Get Schooled, brought to you by The Grad Guide.
Emotional Intelligence is so underrated! So much emphasis is put on regulating students but where is the support for teachers?! crickets**** exactly! Nowhere to be seen. Many teachers are dysregulated and have no idea how to regulate themselves. How can we coregulate and provide a safe space for children if we can’t handle our own emotions?
Em is so passionate about this topic because she's been there, so remember, you’re not alone!
Em's first interview is with The QUEEN of Emotional Intelligence (although she did laugh when she was referred to as that, ha!) Alyssa Campbell, the founder and CEO of Seed and Sew. Alyssa is a teacher, parent, and an emotional development expert with a masters degree in early childhood education.
Em and Alyssa cover:
- The Collaborative Emotion Processing (CEP) method.
- Our triggers and social programming
- How to self-regulate as a teacher
- Expectations around emotions
- What building emotional intelligence looks like
- Rupture and repair
- The importance of SEL being part of daily practice
- Why language matters
- How beginning teachers can begin building their EQ
Em would love to hear whether this episode was helpful! Send her a DM @thegradguide_ to let her know whether you are going to try any of the strategies mentioned.
If you’re a Graduate Teacher or a teacher in your first 3 years and you’re looking for support, The Grad Guide Mentorship is launching in Jan 2023 which has been designed just for you! This ongoing Mentorship is going to be a gamechanger for new teachers. If you’re interested to learn more go to www.thegradguide.com.au
Follow Em @thegradguide_
Follow Alyssa @seedandsew