Teaching to the TOP

March Madness is here, but instead of filling out basketball brackets, we're filling out our Teacher Productivity Bracket!

As teachers, our time is divided among lesson planning, grading, meetings, emails, prepping materials, and more. But not every task is equally valuable! We're breaking down common teaching tasks and deciding if they deserve our time or if they're just distractions. So in today's episode, we're putting teacher tasks under the microscope to ask one BIG question:

The start of the school year feels like a fresh notebook—full of possibilities but sometimes a little overwhelming. Now that we're mid-year, it's the perfect time to reflect on how we've grown, what's working, and what we're leaving behind. From time management tweaks to major productivity wins, we're sharing the lessons we've learned since that first bell rang in August. If you've ever felt like you're running on a hamster wheel, struggling to stay organized, or wondering how to work smarter (not harder), this episode is for you! ✨ What You'll Hear in This Episode: ✅ How we've shifted from survival mode to sustainable balance in time management ✅ The organization systems that have transformed our spaces (goodbye, clutter!) ✅ Productivity hacks we've adopted, from calendar blocking to template creation ✅ How Bridget finally stopped shoving things into baskets (LOL) ✅ Why mid-year reflection is key to finishing the school year strong SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Teaching comes with its challenges (hello, never-ending testing schedules and ever-changing interventions!), but amidst the chaos, there are so many reasons to LOVE this profession. With February being the month of love, we're celebrating the joy, the connections, and the little moments that make teaching so special. In this episode, we're sharing our personal Mount Rushmore of Teaching Loves—the top four things that keep us motivated and remind us why we do what we do! ✨ What You'll Hear in This Episode: ✅ How teaching allows us to make a lasting impact on students and families ✅ The creative freedom and artistry that comes with lesson planning ✅ Why kids' curiosity, innocence, and personalities make every day special ✅ The perks of a supportive school community, from amazing coworkers to engaged families ✅ The flexibility and growth that come with non-traditional education roles ✅ A reminder that even in the tough seasons, there is so much to love about teaching

We have often spoken about the importance of having a checklist for completing tasks that are recurring. We've shared our morning routine, evening routines, and lesson planning routines but we've never really gone in depth with the routines that happen throughout the year that can help make you feel successful.  In this episode, we are going to chat to you about reset checklists for the week, month, and quarter. What you can add to them and how it can help make you even more prepared for the days ahead. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! It's a new year and that means we are doing what we love best: reflecting and setting new goals that we just might achieve.  Get ready to plan out what this year has in store as we share our reflections, goals from 2024, and how we plan on starting the new year.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Bridget and Michelle are wrapping up this holiday season with a 2 in 1 episode. Both ladies will open gifts for their Christmas exchange and answer questions to reflect on the 2024 school year.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join Bridget and Michelle as they get into the holiday spirit this month by sharing their favorites from 2024. From their favorite podcast to their favorite nighttime snack, you'll find a more personal side. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

It's time to CELEBRATE! There are 250 episodes of this podcast and to change things up, Bridget and Michelle will be playing a game of TOP Bingo.  In this episode, they will play the game Bingo while answering questions about productivity blunders, and best moments as a teacher.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Your planning period is an important part of ensuring you get everything done at school, but how often do you ACTUALLY get that time to yourself and to plan?  In this episode, Bridget and Michelle discuss planning time and share their experiences of planning periods over their teaching career and how they had to change the way they "Got Things Done" when their planning time was nonexistent.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

The beginning of the year is well underway and for so many it feels like you are still trying to keep your head above water. You are planning day-to-day, taking home work to get done at night, and getting to school early and staying late. Sound familiar? But at some point, you'd like to get to the point where you are planned ahead and feeling more in control of your daily schedule.The question is... how do you make that happen?  In this video we are talking all about what is needed to make that transition from surviving to thriving. Listen in as we share our own experiences and the challenges you might be facing to make this transition.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

It is that time of the year to check in on our goals before wrapping up the the year with the final quarter. First, can you believe that we are in the final few months before entering into a brand new year! It blew my mind as well.  In this episode we are taking you through our own goals and discussing how things change based on our season in life. Listen in as we share our reflection and upcoming goals for 2024.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join Bridget and Michelle as they catch-up and share their experiences, stressors, and lessons leading up to the beginning of the school year.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Bridget and Michelle have some BIG changes coming to the podcast. Join our hosts as they both share the changes and why they came to this decision. This episode serves as a reminder that finding balance is an ever-changing target as we enter new seasons in life.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

In this special episode, Bridget and Michelle dive into their favorite reads of the year across different genres. Whether you're looking for a gripping fiction, a transformative non-fiction, or an insightful educational read, they've got something for everyone. Join them as they share the books that have captivated their minds and hearts in 2024. Favorite Fiction Books: Michelle's Pick: "Ready or Not" by Cara Bastone, a contemporary romance that captures the upheavals and surprises of life. Bridget's Pick: "All Good People Here" by Ashley Flowers, a thrilling novel by the Crime Junkie Podcast host that delves into a journalist's return to her hometown to solve a gripping murder mystery. Favorite Non-Fiction Books: Michelle's Pick: "The Happiness Project" by Gretchen Rubin, which explores personal quests for happiness through monthly challenges and relatable goals. Bridget's Pick: "The Impact Cycle" by Jim Knight, offering deep insights into educational coaching with practical strategies for teacher support. Favorite Teaching-Related Books: Michelle's Pick: "Productive Math Struggle" by John J. SanGiovanni et al., a guide to enhancing math instruction through strategies that encourage productive student struggles. Bridget's Pick: "Comprehension Connection" by Tanny McGregor, a practical manual to improving reading comprehension through creative and engaging teaching strategies. LINKS: Ready or Not by Cara Bastone All Good People Here by Ashley Flowers The Happiness Project by Gretchen Rubin The Impact Cycle by Jim Knight Productive Math Struggle by John J. SanGiovanni, Susie Katt, Kevin J. Dykema Comprehension Connections by Tanny McGregor SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

After many years of challenges, changes, and a profession that struggles to keep people, this year is the year for impact. It is the time to fall back in love with the profession. Are you ready to transform your teaching experience this year? Join Bridget and Michelle as they guide you through crucial mindset shifts to start the school year refreshed and empowered. Discover how to embrace change, let go of perfection, and focus on positive solutions in your teaching journey. Key Mindset Shifts Explored: Embrace Change: View educational changes as opportunities for growth and adapt by stepping out of your comfort zone. Give the Benefit of the Doubt: Understand the underlying reasons behind behaviors and decisions to foster empathy and improve communication. Let Go of Perfection: Shift from striving for perfection to embracing 'good enough' to reduce stress and prevent burnout. Focus on Solutions: Cultivate a proactive approach by focusing on solutions, transforming challenges into opportunities for positive change. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join Bridget and Michelle for another laid-back, conversational episode of "Recess Digress." In this session, they dive into the realities of returning to the classroom in new roles, the personal reflections on getting older, and some light-hearted summer favorites to keep the mood buoyant. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Recess Digress: If you're new to these special episodes, Bridget and Michelle explore a mix of topics in a relaxed, chat-style format. It's all about sharing experiences and stories that touch on their lives inside and outside the classroom. Back to the Classroom: The hosts discuss their transitions into new positions and what it's like to return to the classroom after time away. They share insights on the excitement and challenges that come with these changes. The Realities of Getting Older: From the physical tolls to mental shifts, Bridget and Michelle open up about how aging has affected their professional lives and personal well-being. They discuss everything from the need to adjust their routines to how their perspectives on teaching and life have evolved. Some Current Favorites: Bridget and Michelle each share some of their current summer favorites.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Walking into a new classroom only to find it filled with the previous teacher's leftovers can be overwhelming. In this episode, Bridget and Michelle guide you through a systematic approach to reclaim and organize your new space, turning what could be a daunting task into a manageable project. Perfect for first-year teachers or those moving to a new classroom, this episode provides practical steps to take control of your teaching environment. Episode Highlights: See the space and evaluate:: Begin by evaluating the space. Understand what you've inherited, how the previous teacher organized it, and what might need to go. This first look will help you plan your cleaning and organizing strategy. Ask for clarification: Before throwing anything out, check with administrators or colleagues about what must stay and what can go. Understanding what's essential and what's expendable will streamline the entire process. Clear the space: Pull everything out of cabinets and drawers to get a full view of what you have. This step not only helps in sorting but also in cleaning and reorganizing the space effectively. Categorize the items: Dive into categorizing the items into keep, trash, and donate piles. Further organize the 'keep' items based on their utility and relevance to your teaching needs. Disperse the items: Once sorted, strategically place items back into the space. Use bins and labels to create a system that makes sense for your daily teaching activities and maintains organization throughout the year. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Join Bridget and Michelle for a relaxed session of the Couch Chronicles as they guide you through five simple steps to get ready for the new school year without leaving your sofa. This episode offers a blend of digital efficiency and creative planning, making back-to-school prep a breeze. Whether updating your introductory letter, organizing digital name tags, or planning your first week of lessons, these tips are designed to maximize your productivity while minimizing stress. Episode Highlights: Bridget and Michelle discuss the benefits of computer-based planning, allowing for multitasking with entertainment as you organize for the new school year. They provide step-by-step instructions on using digital tools and templates to streamline everything from Meet the Teacher letters to setting up your digital classroom and first-week lessons. Key Takeaways: Digital Efficiency: Utilize templates for quick updates to introductory letters and presentations. Organized Systems: Set up digital folders for name tags and other classroom essentials. Creative Prep: Design and prepare bulletin boards at home to save time and hassle. Engaging Presentations: Create compelling Open House slideshows to inform and connect with parents. Lesson Planning: Gather and organize lesson ideas for the first week, using digital tools to keep everything accessible. Next Steps: Try these strategies to simplify your back-to-school setup and share your experiences with us on how you've managed to prep from your couch! LINKS: Meet the Teacher letter template Back to school open house template SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Setting up for the new school year doesn't have to be a daunting, day-long process. In this episode, Bridget and Michelle guide you through a quick and efficient way to prepare for the upcoming school year using a digital planner. Learn how to streamline your planning process, saving time and energy as you head into a new academic year. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Digital Planning: Bridget and Michelle discuss the evolution of teacher planners from paper to digital, highlighting the flexibility and efficiency of modern digital planners. Choosing the Right Digital Planner: Tips on selecting a digital planner that meets your needs, with a special mention of Bridget and Michelle's own digital planner available in various formats. Essential Materials: List of everything you need to get started, including your device, digital planner, stylus, and district calendar. Step-by-Step Setup Guide: 15 Minutes - Important Dates: Start by entering key dates from your district calendar such as professional workdays, holidays, and special events. 10 Minutes - Intro Pages: Quickly fill out introductory pages of your planner, which may include special dates and basic schedule info. 10 Minutes - Weekly Planning Setup: Layout the structure of your weekly planning pages, deciding on blocks and headers to use throughout the year. 10 Minutes - Organize Stickers: If you use digital stickers, set aside time to organize and resize your favorites for easy access. 15 Minutes - Transferring Templates: Begin populating your weekly planning pages with the templates or layouts you've created. Key Takeaways: A digital planner can transform the way you prepare for the school year, making it possible to set everything up in just one hour. By following this structured approach, you can enter the new school year with a clear plan and a calm mind. LINKS: Digital planners Stickers Free stickers Michelle's planning vlog SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Ever find yourself inspired after reading a book but struggling to apply what you've learned? In this episode, Michelle and Bridget dive into effective strategies for utilizing the knowledge gained from books to enhance your teaching practices and personal development. Join them as they explore methods to ensure that the wisdom doesn't just stay on the page—it comes to life in your classroom and life. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Implementation: The hosts address the challenge of applying what's learned from books rather than letting the knowledge fade after the last page is turned. Optimal Reading Strategies: Discussion on different reading formats and techniques for note-taking that enhance learning and recall. Effective Note Management: How to organize and revisit notes to ensure they serve as useful references for teaching practices and personal development. Practical Application Tips: Techniques for integrating book insights into everyday professional activities and overcoming the overwhelm of new information. Consolidating and Reviewing Information: Suggestions on how to keep notes accessible and engaging through digital tools and focused reading themes. Key Takeaways: Implementing knowledge from books can be streamlined with the right strategies for note-taking, reviewing, and focusing on thematic reading, transforming insights into everyday educational practices and life improvements. LINKS: TBR: To Be Read Readwise App SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join Bridget and Michelle as they delve into BJ Fogg's "Tiny Habits" to explore the profound impact of small behavioral changes. This episode provides a comprehensive review and practical applications of Fogg's method for teachers looking to enhance their personal and professional lives through tiny, sustainable habits. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Tiny Habits: Bridget and Michelle introduce the concept of tiny habits and discuss their own experiences and challenges with maintaining consistent habits over time. Core Concepts of Tiny Habits: The hosts explain the book's main message, which emphasizes the simplicity of starting small to build lasting habits. They discuss the anatomy of tiny habits, including the anchor moment, the tiny behavior itself, and the instant celebration. Behavior Design Steps: Detailed exploration of Fogg's behavior design steps, such as clarifying aspirations, exploring behavior options, matching with specific behaviors, starting tiny, finding a good prompt, celebrating successes, and troubleshooting. Practical Applications for Teachers:Motivation and Matching: Bridget shares insights into the nature of motivation, highlighting its unreliability and how to harness motivation waves effectively. Simplifying Actions: Michelle discusses the importance of reducing complexity in behaviors to increase consistency and the impact of making tasks as easy as possible. The Power of Prompts: Bridget explains how to effectively use prompts to initiate behaviors, emphasizing the need for specific, actionable triggers. Expanding and Scaling Habits: The discussion includes strategies for expanding tiny habits once they are established and how to scale them responsibly without overwhelming oneself. Celebration and Reinforcement: The hosts talk about the importance of celebrating successes to reinforce habit formation, discussing how emotions play a crucial role in making behaviors stick. Key Takeaways: Tiny Habits offers a powerful framework for teachers to incrementally improve their practices and personal lives. By focusing on small, manageable changes, teachers can create meaningful and sustainable impacts without feeling overwhelmed. LINKS: Tiny Habits by BJ Fogg: https://amzn.to/4eRWSRA SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

As we reach the midpoint of 2024, Michelle and Bridget take a moment to review their goals for the year, discussing successes, challenges, and new directions for the upcoming months. Join them for a transparent look at personal and professional growth and get inspired to reflect on your own goals. Episode Highlights: Reflections on the Year: The hosts discuss how quickly the year has passed and share their feelings about the rapid passage of time, emphasizing the importance of staying mindful and intentional. Progress on Set Goals: Michelle and Bridget review their accomplishments and setbacks in meeting their goals for the second quarter, including professional certifications and personal challenges. Setting Future Objectives: Looking forward, they outline their goals for the end of summer and early fall, focusing on both personal betterment and professional development. Adapting Goals: The importance of flexibility in goal setting is highlighted as both hosts adjust their objectives based on new insights and life changes. Encouragement for Listeners: Michelle and Bridget encourage listeners to engage in their own goal review sessions and share outcomes as a community for mutual inspiration and support. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Summer can be a time of relaxation and rejuvenation for teachers, but it also brings temptations to splurge. Bridget and Michelle offer practical budgeting strategies to help teachers manage their finances effectively during the off-season, ensuring a stress-free return to school. Episode Highlights: Introduction to Budgeting: Bridget and Michelle discuss their personal experiences with impulse shopping and the challenges of resisting sales, especially during summer. Assessing Needs vs. Wants: Learn strategies for evaluating true needs versus momentary wants to prevent unnecessary purchases. Inventory Management: Tips on how to take stock of existing supplies and prioritize future purchases to optimize spending. Routine Financial Reviews: Importance of establishing regular check-ins with your budget to maintain financial health and avoid overspending. Practical Spending Methods: Introduction to the envelope system for controlling spending and creative ways to repurpose old materials to save money. Key Resources Mentioned: Teaching on the Double Personal Planners: Designed to help with financial planning, available at teachingonthedouble.com/store. Budgeting Apps and Tools: Explore tools like Rakuten and Honey for deals, and Jordan Page's YouTube channel for budgeting advice. Listener's Dilemma: A listener shares challenges related to budgeting with a fixed income and limited time, seeking advice for managing finances efficiently. SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

This episode of Teaching to the TOP brings you along on Michelle Emerson's journey of professional change and personal insights. Tune in for her exciting announcement about returning to the classroom, a trip to NYC, and how she manages her busy life with passion and purpose. Episode Highlights: Big Announcement: Michelle reveals she's going back to the classroom and shares the emotional and practical aspects of this decision. NYC Adventure: Insights from Michelle's trip to NYC for a secretive tech event, including her strategies for managing expenses and business travel. YouTube Playlist Launch: Introduction of "Falling in Love With Teaching Again Vlogs," capturing the behind-the-scenes of Michelle's return to teaching. New School Visit: Michelle tours her new school, discusses her initial steps towards additional teaching certifications, and her first impressions. Book Club Beginnings: A recap of the First Class Teaching book club's first meeting, alongside Michelle's routine productivity tasks. Relaxing Connections: A less work-focused day with a fellow educator, highlighting the importance of community and personal time. Mentioned in This Episode: Falling in Love With Teaching Again Vlogs: Track Michelle's journey back to the classroom. Watch here First Class Teaching Book Club: It's not too late to join the next meeting on June 27. Sign up here Ninja Creami: Grab that here SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join the Building the Literacy Block Bootcamp for $7 and get prepared with resources, guidance and more for the beginning of the school year! You can join now and receive updates when the group opens on July 6th. >>>CLICK HERE TO JOIN

Summer Time = Traveling (hopefully to a location with a sandy beach and pool). It's that time of the year where teachers have more free time and many are traveling to see family and just…. relax. We are doing the same because we have lots of trips planned. And just because we are a teaching podcast, doesn't mean we cannot talk about our TOP tips for enjoying our personal lives.  In this episode we wanted to share some of our TOP favorite tips, hacks, and favorites for packing during the summer months! This episode mentions a lot of various links to products that we love. Please know these are affiliate links and we do receive a small commission at NO extra cost by you. Thank you for always supporting the work we do.  LINKS: PACKING CUBES: https://amzn.to/3wm6r9T HANGING TOILETRY BAG: https://amzn.to/4bX1OlX PORTABLE CHARGER: https://amzn.to/4bVG6hR INTERNATIONAL PLUG ADAPTER: https://amzn.to/3QvfHzg DOMESTIC PLUG ADAPTER: https://amzn.to/4a5UP8O LARGE CORD ORGANIZER: https://amzn.to/3UwdAMX SMALL CORD ORGANIZER: https://amzn.to/3Uvjais 3 IN 1 CHARGER: https://amzn.to/4bo9n4D SUITCASE SET: https://amzn.to/44w0OlW COLLAPSIBLE BOWL: https://amzn.to/3xY3EUH FORMULA CONTAINERS: https://amzn.to/3waLnTS  SANCHECUN TOILETRY BAG CLEAR: https://amzn.to/3UOnN8V TRAVEL POWER STRIP: https://amzn.to/44vVUWd PILL BOX ORGANIZER: https://amzn.to/3WmpZpg MINI AIR PUMP: https://amzn.to/3wwVvpT TOILETRY BAG (ELVIROS): https://amzn.to/3WS7Foh SANHECUN CLEAR TOILETRY BAG: https://amzn.to/44VLlfs BEIS COSMETIC CASE: https://beistravel.com/products/the-in-flight-cosmetic-set-in-maple?nosto_source=cmp&nosto=83237065 SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

SCHOOL'S OUT FOR SUMMER!

Are you in decision fatigue with planning activities that will keep your students engaged? Well, this episode arrived in perfect time because we are sharing our FAVORITE end of the year activities to do with students so that you can keep your hair and sanity.  Michelle and Bridget each give you 3 activities that they have used in the past. These activities come in a variety of prep and energy levels so that you can find the perfect fit to fill that space on your planner. If you use any of these activities we would love for you to share pictures over on Instagram by tagging us at @pocketfulofprimary and @bridging.literacy.  In this episode you will learn about the following activities: Minute-to-Win-It Games Shark Week (ooh ha-ha) Homeroom Games (May the odds be ever in your favor) Themed hands on projects (let's get messy) Movie and Ice Cream Social Breakout to Summer! Don't forget to check out the NEW 2024-2025 Digital Planners that are in our store! You can visit our store www.teachingonthedouble.com/store to grab your planner now and try out these new strategies. LINKS: Michelles breakouts SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

A new alliteration means a new Teaching to the TOP series! Welcome to the Couch Chronicles where we give you actionable steps you can make to be productive right from the comfort of your own couch.  In the first of this series we want to tackle the overwhelm of the end of the school year. This is one of the busiest times of the year. You've got state testing, assessments, portfolios, conferences, field tips… the list goes on and on. But wouldn't it be nice (cue the song from 50 first dates) to get a little ahead so that each day didn't feel like you were drowning in to-dos? Well, this episode is going to share how to make that happen! In this episode we share the following ways you can prepare for the end of the year: 1. Create your end of the year checklist 2. Clean out your Google Drive 3. Clean out your email 4. Clean out your LMS 5. Create any EOY materials (letter templates, event reminders, etc.)  Don't forget to check out the NEW 2024-2025 Digital Planners that are in our store! You can visit our store www.teachingonthedouble.com/store to grab your planner now and try out these new strategies. LINKS: 124. Plan With Us: How to Conquer the End of the School Year 125. TOP Tips for Packing Up Your Classroom SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We are long time lovers of digital planning but every once in a while it might be necessary to change things up a bit with your planning process. Yup. You heard that one right.  In this episode we are sharing some new strategies that we have been trying and loving when it comes to digital planning. We each give three new ideas, and of course, we break them down into categories. You'll have a total of 6 strategies under the categories of: Digital Hacks Planning Style Routines Don't forget to check out the NEW 2024-2025 Digital Planners that are on sale until May 15, 2024! You can visit our store www.teachingonthedouble.com/store to grab your planner now and try out these new strategies.  LINKS: 175. TOP 5 Benefits of Digital Planning for Teachers 218. Google Chrome HACKS for Teachers to Increase Efficiency and Make Life Easier SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

What does short form content, changing identities and current favorites have in common? If you said, they are in our Recess Digress episode then you are correct! Let's get chatty in today's episode as we share on three more topics that have been circulating our brains. We would love to know if there is anything interesting you found or have an opinion about with this recess digress episode. You can share your thoughts over on Instagram. DM @pocketfulofprimary or @bridging.literacy and we can continue the conversation! In this episode we share: Our feelings towards short form content as both a consumer and creator Which version of content we most enjoy! We challenge a topic of making a switch and changing careers We each share three new favorites that we are currently loving! LINKS: 198 (back to school shopping, PD, and must-watch shows) 215 (AI, what education truly needs, and TPT drama) SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

According to data from busyteacher.org, teachers make an average of at least 1,500 educational decisions each school day. This means that in a six-hour day, teachers make four educational decisions every minute. Seems hard to believe? Well, when you consider how exhausted you are at the end of a work day, it actually makes a lot of sense.  So how do we manage to get past decision fatigue and be able to continue living our lives after 3:30 in the afternoon? In this episode we want to share 4 ways to help defog your brain so that you can eliminate fatigue and feel in control of your time and life.  LINKS: Episode 008: Get More Done Using One Simple Trick SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Increased work loads, frustration, overwhelm can all lead to the one thing we never want to experience: panic attacks. We get real vulnerable and talk about our own experiences with panic attacks and the steps we've taken to help overcome this debilitating time. Listen in as we share our stories, tips and tricks with panic attacks.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

This time of the year brings on a LOT of stress. You've got testing around the corner, assessments, standards that need to be taught before the end of year, field trips, and so much more! So it's important to have strategies in your toolbox to help prevent feeling overwhelmed and getting stressed when you need to be focused.  In this episode we are sharing 10 stress busters that will help get you through this challenging season of life. You might not be able to avoid being stressed but these tips can certainly help to decrease or subdue the unpleasant feelings.  In this episode we share: Activities that help you destress from a busy day Steps for making the overwhelm seem do-able Reminders that we all need to hear from time-to-time Our favorite go-to items that help us prevent the stress from creeping up SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Goals are a great way to make sure you are on the right track to what you want to accomplish in 2024. This year we are approaching our goals a little differently in hopes that we are more likely to stick to them and achieve them by the end of the year.  Now that the first quarter has wrapped up and we are headed into April, we wanted to take a moment to reflect and share if we managed to accomplish the goals that we set up in January. From there, we look at the next three months (April-June) and share our new goals! Grab your planners and get ready to sit down to plan with us.  LINKS: Episode 210: #Goals: What We Are Doing Differently https://www.etsy.com/listing/1445686334/tiny-bar-necklace-custom-necklace-dainty Digital Personal Planner SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

The birds are chirping, days are getting longer, and the leaves are beginning to fill the trees once again. Spring is officially in the air that means we are not only battling allergies but also fatigue. Spring fever is a common side effect as our bodies are beginning to adapt to the changes in weather and daylight.  During winter our body adopts and protects itself from lower temperatures and reduced sunlight. Longer days and warmer temperatures lead to an increase in activity but our bodies take more time to adjust the sleep-awake cycle and thus our timing is often out of sync. This leaves us often feeling fatigued and with low energy In this episode we are sharing 5 tips for helping you cure spring fever: Change your diet Incorporate outdoors time Reset your space Surround yourself with things that excite you Use your days if you have them LINKS: ​​014.Classroom Spring Cleaning MUST DOS 015. 5 Easy Steps to Clean and Organize Your Classroom 016. Simple Decluttering Hacks for Your Classroom SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Journaling is a topic we often hear for maintaining a healthy wellness of mind/ spirit, but how does journaling effect our productivity? After all, we need our minds to stay sharp in order to tackle the everyday tasks. In this episode we are diving into the impact that journaling has on our productivity.  In this episode you will: Learn about what the science says about journaling Identify the method of journaling that works best for your lifestyle Hear how Bridget and Michelle use journaling Receive tips for building the habit of journaling LINKS: Digital Personal Planner One Line a Day Journal Five Minute Journal SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

They say opposites attract and in the case of Michelle and Bridget's friendship and partnership, this could not be more true. It is clear that with over 200 episodes, Bridget and Michelle approach many things the same and many other things in a different way. Michelle is goal oriented whereas Bridget tends to be more free flowing. In this episode, they both share how they approach their life and ask the questions you have been dying to know! Join these ladies as they uncover the benefits and challenges to how they approach productivity.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Michelle and Bridget are changing things up with the week in the life episodes and instead bringing you a weekend in the life! In this episode, Bridget and Michelle will unpack their weekend plans, how they organize their free time and recharge for the upcoming week. Join both ladies as they share both their weekends in the life.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We are back with the BEST hacks you might not have known about for Google Chrome. In this episode, Michelle walks Bridget through 10 simple but impactful hacks for using google chrome to its maximum. From restoring your exited tasks to customizing your chrome browser, these simple hacks will blow your mind. Grab your laptop and get ready to change your Google Chrome game.  LINKS: 163. GoodNotes HACKS to Save Time Digital Planning! 165. Google Slides HACKS to Save Time Digital Planning! SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

With education taking a complete overhaul with its practices and districts feeling the need to add too many initiatives onto the plate of their teachers, everyone is feeling overwhelmed. While this push for improving the education of students is not going away, there are some simple practices and strategies that you can begin using to help from feeling exhausted and overwhelmed with information.  In this new episode we share our best tips and tricks for combating the overwhelm and process through the loads of information to find the key pieces and starting points. You'll find that with these strategies you can feel more focused on the task at hand, and make great strides without finding a breaking point.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Feeling effective and in control of your classroom is much more than planning lessons, having an organized space, and building a relationship with your students. You also need to manage the behind the scenes that helps build success in the classroom. Even though we are a teacher  podcast, we understand how all the areas of your life running smoothly can be to you as a teacher.  In this episode we are unpacking what it means to manage the “behind the scenes” of your life as an educator. We share how you can organize three key areas: Material management, food management and health/wellness. Under each category we give you tangible, “try now,” strategies and discuss what these look like as an educator with kids at home.  SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Back by popular demand, we are doing another Recess Digress episode. In this series we unpack three topics (within the field of education or not) and share our honest thoughts. Picture us as your teacher buddies, standing out during recess and just chatting away! In this episode of the Recess Digress we dig deep into understanding the role that AI is playing in education and how we need to be careful with how we are using this technology. We analyze the importance for experts in education but challenge the need for experts in our professional development, and finally discuss the challenges of schools closing down on the use of TeacherPayTeachers products.  LINKS: Episode 198: Recess Digress: Back to School Shopping, Professional Development, & Must-Watch Shows SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Come plan with us as we look at the month ahead and determine our goals, habits and schedules! You either love planning or hate it, but there is no argument that sitting down with your planning and being intentional with your time can do for you. When you make the time and practice the skill of effective planning, you will feel more confident, focused and determined with your work.  In this episode we share our thought process for looking at the week ahead and planning our month. You'll hear how we run through our focus, goals and action steps using our newest planner, the Personal Planner. Join us in the planning process by heading over to teachingonthedouble.com/store to grab the planner and begin feeling more focus in your daily life! LINKS: Google Personal Planner Tablet Personal Planner SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

Bridget is back with her week in her life. Join her as she shares her biggest takeaways from the book Essentialism by Greg McKeown. She shares her motto for hot to prioritize the essentials in life, how her mindset has started to shift, and her new approach to feeling overwhelmed with work.  LINKS: Essentialism SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Join Michelle Emerson in a week in her life as she works to tackle her to-do list and prepare for her upcoming trip. You'll hear how she has taken the strategies from the book, Essentialism by Greg McKeown, and implemented them into her own routine.  LINKS: Baked Ricotta Spaghetti Squash With Shrimp Essentialism SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

It's January and that means a new book review! Every year we have 2 book reviews that we share on the podcast. The first book is done in January and the second in July. For this month's book review we are sharing our thoughts on the book Essentialism by Greg McKeown.  In his book Greg discusses the importance of prioritizing what truly matters by focusing on what is essential to your life and work. The book is broken down into 4 parts: Part 1: Essence Part 2: Explore Part 3: Eliminate Part 4: Execute We discuss the biggest takeaways from each of these four parts along with our overall impression of the book. In the next two episodes you'll hear a week-in-the-life episode of Michelle and Bridget as they share implementing the strategies from the book into their daily routines.  If you'd like to join us on this book review, you can grab a copy HERE! LINKS: Episode 161. BOOK REVIEW: Getting Things Done (Our Honest Thoughts) Essentialism SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!  

There are so many different twists on “New Year's Resolutions' '... Some people don't do them at all because they think you should start fresh every day. Some people pick one big goal for the year, some people create mini goals, and some people are just trying to write the correct date at the top of their paper! However, one trend that we have consistently loved to implement in the new year is the idea of a word to ground your actions for the year. Think of this as more of a guide. So this year we wanted to not only discuss some goal setting and how we plan on changing things up a bit but also share our individual words with you along with why we chose those words.  So grab your planner and a cup of coffee and let's start planning out an AMAZING 2024! SPECIAL NOTE: Be sure to check out the book Essentialism for this month's book review! We will be sharing our thoughts on the book in the upcoming episode.  Grab the book HERE.  LINKS: If you'd like to listen to last year's goal setting and quarterly check ins be sure to check out the episodes below: Episode 158. Tackling the Year Ahead: What Are Our Plans?  Episode 170. Goal Check In: A Chat With Our Accountability Buddy (& An Honest Look at Our Progress) Episode 186. Goal Check In: The Halfway Point (Are We On Track To Meet Our Goals?) Episode 209. Celebrating 4 Years of TOP TEACHING! SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

We are celebrating FOUR years of Teaching to the TOP by reflecting on 2023. Thank you to everyone who is subscribed and supporting us on this journey. It truly would not be possible without your support.  In this episode we are catching up on our quarterly goals and answering our set of questions to reflect on this past year. If you want to catch up on our quarterly goals, you can visit the links to our previous podcast episodes this year! We've also included our episodes reflecting on the three two years. LINKS  Be sure to check out the NEW 2024 planners! Visit www.teachingonthedouble.com/store Episode 053 Episode 105 Episode 157 Episode 158 Michelle's Yelp Account SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!

Tis' the season for another gift giving episode. We are continuing with our yearly tradition where we each send our gifts via the mail. It's time to get a little bit festive, so put on your Christmas sweater, grab a hot chocolate and enjoy the ASMR of unwrapping the gifts. This year, we set a budget! Do you think we will stick to it?  LINKS: Episode 156 SUBMIT YOUR TIME SUCKING HURDLE! We want to know what is sucking up all of your time either as a teacher or just a person. Head over to our website and submit your TSH so that you can have a chance to be featured on the podcast! SUBSCRIBE & REVIEW Are you subscribed to our podcast? If you're not, I want to encourage you to do that today. I don't want you to miss an episode. Click here to subscribe to iTunes! Now if you're feeling extra loving, We would be really grateful if you left us a review over on iTunes, too. Those reviews help other people find our podcast and they're also fun for us to go in and read. Just click here to review, select “Ratings and Reviews” and “Write a Review” and let us know what your favorite part of the podcast is. Thank you!