Unlearn16: Class is in Session

In this episode, I take you back to the swing sets of 1978 and jump off into the complex world of race, ethnicity, sex, and identity.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  The easy questions are never interesting...and to be honest, they never get asked anymore...there is google.  Education is more about nuance, discussion and critical analysis than it has ever been before.  I may not have even close to all the answers, but I promise to never stop asking the questions.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com

In this episode, I take a walk through Metro Prep Academy to see what we have accomplished over the year and what amazing things are in our future.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  I don't think I ever saw myself as a Vice Principal of a school, but I could never see myself working somewhere other than Metro Prep Academy.  Thank god I had Ryan to direct this last year...he and I are really Batman and Robin (he is Robin).That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com

In this episode, I almost get swept out to sea when the tide goes out.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  Fear and overcoming it are perhaps the two most important aspects of life.  At no point does life come easy, and it is our job to figure out how to face adversity and rise.  The ocean taught me a little of that, but being in a school play, that taught me the rest.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, a student sat me down and forced me to unlearn.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  One student sat me down with one vital question and it changed me and how I educate from that day forward.  Funny part is, she doesn't even remember having the conversation with...I guess we know when people change us but not when we change people.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, I step into daycare and decide that Bert and Ernie overalls are ssoooo last year.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  What we wear is an expression of who we are and how we wish to present ourselves...it has power and weight...it is the first way we are judged.  Having good conversations about what we wear is the quickest window into our soul.  And that's why I want those overalls back.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, I take into the hallways of Wellesley Hospital where I would take my first steps while my mom taught me what it was to be a superhero.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  This episode dives into who my mom is and how she was able to SHOW me what empathy, work ethic, intelligence, and accountability were.  Some parents lecture, some tell you stories and some simply say 'do what I say not what I do' - but my mom always had me by her side so I could SEE those lessons for myself.  She walked the walk...and I owe her everything for that.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, I jump into all my favourite memories of my Grandma Ruby - a woman who is the best source of my humour.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  This episode may get a little 'teary' at times...but it is an important retrospect of a woman who led a life with such courage and confidence I could help but follow...a woman who tried to fix everything with a shove and a 'get my purse'...a woman I hope the whole world never forgets.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, I will sit down with a high school volleyball teammate, Saley, and we will talk about how a post =-it changed my life.  The full story will be found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  This obviously isn't just about a single post-it...Saley and I discuss the incredibly important elements of a team, finding your strength and supporting your people.  Volleyball may be just a sport to some, but to us, in those years, it was everything.  Special shout out to Gord, the coach who taught me everything.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, we jump into the baseball game that changed my life found in my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book Is About' - available July 1, 2025.  I sit down with you in my car, hotdog from Harvey's, to discuss what it has been like being the only woman in some rooms or fields.  It's funny how they always want to keep us out until they realize they need us - isn't it?  PS - just wait for the part two bikers decided to sit and chat to each other beside my car while I was trying to tape this episode.That's Not What This Book Is About - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, we dive into the behind the words of my NEW book 'That's Not What This Book is About' - available July 1, 2025.  My Uncle Ray and I sit down to have a conversation about the chapter 'Draw an Oval' - where we discuss art, teaching and where my inspiration comes from.  You want an honest and powerful conversation about teaching - this is it.That's Not What This Book Is About  - Joanna JohnsonOrder it on July 1, 2025 at unlearn16.com 

In this episode, Kate Grosvenor and I sit down and talk about the crazy world of perimenopause and menopause.  What is it?  How do we mitigate the impacts?  Why is NO ONE talking about it?  And why aren't doctors educated on it?www.kategrosvenor.com 

In this episode, I sit down with Elaine Fancy, photographer and philosopher, and discuss life, meaning and the truth behind the camera.  You aren't going to want to miss this conversation.  Just WAIT until you see the cover of my book!!!www.ripplemediagroup.comTiktok - @ e_fancyInstagram - @ e_fancy 

In this episode, Arlene and I sit down and discuss Canada and the US, the Chinese stance in the new world order and her favourite movie.Get your popcorn out

In this episode, I sit down with Jagmeet Singh, leader of the Federal NDP Party of Canada, and ask him some hard driving political questions - all coming from my Grade 8 class.  I personally loved how he handled the Messi question.BE SURE TO VOTE!!!!

In this episode, I speak with 'Shameless Elle' - a tiktok star who made an impact with lip syncs but has repurposed her fame to focus on becoming politically education AND helping others do the same.@shamelesselle Want to talk politics?  We got ya

In this episode, I sit down a give a politics lesson directly out of my notebook - the indicators and limitations of democracy.  Maybe if we start here we will be able to have conversations that lead us down better roads than we are currently travelling.  The first lesson is free...but the next will cost ya.

In this episode, Leigh McGowan (I am Politics Girl), sit down and deconstruct the current US political and constitutional crisis.  It just figures it would take two Canadian women to fix this situation...you should have called us earlier.  Don't worry, we have all the answers...​ @PoliticsGirl  

In this episode, I reflect on where the US is politically, economically, and socially - this isn't a new 'yellow brick road', this is just further on down the line towards the wizard.  PS - there is a reason the road is paved with gold.I wonder who the wizard will be?

In this episode, I have the incredible privilege and, let's be honest, horse shoe carrying buckets of luck, to sit down with the Canadian artist - Amanda Marshall.  We talk about music, the business, politics and how she will dedicate her next single to me.  (ok, maybe not that last one).So, sit down, put on Tuesday's Child softly, and spend the next hour being inspired by one of Canada's greatest singers and song writers.

In this episode, I have the honour of sitting down with Arlene Dickenson, where we discuss being a women, being an entrepreneur, and being single.  How much power can one woman wield?  You are about to find out.Check out 'Arlene is Alone' - coming on Youtube February 14 (PS - I get to make a guest appearance on an upcoming episode)

In this episode, I have the absolute privilege to sit down with none other than Cordelia Chase!!!  We get down to our 'childhood trauma', the uselessness of 'tact' and how sometimes 'we get the pieces'.If you understand all of those quotes...welcome to the Buffy the Vampire Superhero Club.

In this episode, Marit Stiles (Leader of Ontario's NDP) and I take a tour of Queen's Park, discuss foundational ideas for Ontario, talk about federal politics, debate changes that need to be made, try to break into the chamber floor and discovered where they keep the best snacks for the government.

In this episode, I have the great pleasure to sit down with 'Mr Global', aka Matt, as he is know all over social media to discuss the energy needs, wants and must have across the USA.  I'm going to get to the bottom of the over used tag line 'drill baby drill'.

In this episode, I speak to Jenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development of Canada.  Together, we discuss the dynamics of creating a national food program for all Canadian students.  I promise to ask ALL the tough questions to see just how effective this will be.

In this episode, I address the complete and utter lack of focus on women and women's health care - primarily focused on menopause.  It is about time WE take control of our bodies, our lives and our futures. And I am going to bring you with me along the journey of finding the right health care providers to educate and fight for our health.

In this episode, I face the horrific social media reality in the wake of the infamous 'your body, my choice' threat.  In the dark basements of some incel, a man is plotting his next threat and possible attack.  It's not free speech...it's criminal.

In this episode, I discuss, debate and rant about the impending presidential election.  Who do you think will win?  And what will be the consequence?

In this episode, I dress up as Frankenstein (I know it's the monster, but he will always be Frankenstein to me) and Ana puts on her best Bride for our annual Halloween Party.  That's not the point of the podcast though.  I paint my nails black for the character - and the severe gender dysphoria I have over painted nails, which I enjoy doing, is incredibly weird.  So, as anything that makes me uncomfortable I immediately dive into to figure out 'why'.  

Home ownership blows.

In this episode, I attempt to answer a couple of age old teaching questions.   One, what are the most vital things we are meant to teach?  Two, when a student doesn't meet expectations what consequences will make them change their course?

In this episode, I recap what Metro Prep Academy did on Truth and Reconciliation Day.  Spoiler Alert - the next generation will always do better than we did - just get out of their way.

In this episode, I jump into what real?  Can't trust an email, a text message, a phone call...you can't trust what you hear or see across any medium.  Now what?  I guess it's time we met up in person, had a conversation and lived in the actual moment??

In this episode, I jump into the past...jump into the past to decide if perception matters more than fact.  If you believe it to be true, does it matter if it isn't?  And if you write the history books, can you solidify perception into fact?

In this episode, the FIRST of season 4, I jump right into the international student controversy within the halls of Canadian classrooms - both secondary and post secondary.  The question I ask is simple - why aren't we building an educational system that can directly compete with student from all over the world so we become the centre of education?  Answer - no one is willing to spend the money and would rather complain their kid, who has mastered all levels of Zelda, should have gotten a full scholarship to U of T.

In this episode, I dive into the muddy waters of censorship, oligarchies, rebellions and delusions.  Which side do you think the billionaires fall on?

In this episode, I dive deep into the controversy surrounding Algeria's boxer and into the pool of sexism, bias and and the wide wide world of sport.  Do you think it is time to create a fair playing field in sport?  We are going to need a bigger boat.

In this episode, Ana Pac and I sit down to discuss the 2024 Summer Olympics - the opening ceremonies, the best events and the worst outfits.  We also make some informed decisions on events we would be best suited to win.Ana Pac  @HeyTeamAnaPacVlogs  

In this episode, I jump into the world of running a school.  Am I scared?  Terrified?  Nervous?  Yes, to all of the above.  Is it the best thing I have ever done?  Again, yes.Let's see what kind of magic we can create.

In this episode, I discuss how you learn how to teach while you teach.  If you aren't trying to learn and better yourself every single year then you have stopped teaching.  The two are intrinsically connected.

In this episode, Ana and I discuss my trip in Ireland in which Ryan and I are taking 15 students on a historical trip!  After she stops being mad at me for not taking her we then move on to discuss and analyze the new movie Inside Out 2.Please stand by for Irish content to come.

In this episode, Ana and get deep and discuss the force, her love of Anakin, the blame that lies at the feet of Yoda and the lesbian witches of The Acolyte.  Is that enough for you?

In this episode,  Ryan Seeley (New Principal of Metro) and i discuss how our history, friendship and ability to lip sych helped save Metro Prep.  23 years of him trying to get me into a school play (which he did) and me trying to get him to watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer (which he hasn't) created the magic we needed to start Metro again.Stayed tuned for all the moments 

In this episode, I get you all caught up in the trials and tribulations of saving the the school you believe in.  Whether that means saving the name, creating a new one or grabbing a hold of a little piece of magic and making dreams comes true.What do you think will happen next?

In this episode, I take you on a trip to Niagara falls with 14 students (7/8s).  Not only did this trip teach me about what kind of beautiful humans I teach BUT it also shed some light on the beautiful community of parents, teachers, administrators and students that I am about to build a brand new school with.  You want to know my teaching ethos...you are going to have to watch the episode.Out of chaos comes a beautiful power.

In this episode, I discuss the power of the transition.  It is painful, arduous, horrific and chaotic.  We hold onto what we know because we fear change, meanwhile, it is that exact change that will make us whole.  What a pain in the ass.

In this episode, I take you on my first step to starting a brand new school with an incredible teaching staff, a powerful student population and supportive parent cheer squad.  I have no idea how this will go, but I do know that all involved will give everything they can to make it happen.  First things first...what's my educational philosophy?

In this episode, I got to spend an hour with the authentic, the powerful, the empathetic, and the one and only Mama Tot.  She creates a safe space for ANYONE who sit with her,  she empowers those who need it and she, with every plate of pickled ocra, makes this world a better place.Tiktok @shoelover99Instagram @ophelianichols Youtube  @ophelianichols9249  

In this episode, Ana and I take three days and turn it into two weeks of adventures in Las Vegas.  Pool party, Eiffel Tower, hat store, Luke's light saber and eventually, me on the stage in Vegas.PS - I'm in a little in love with Vegas 

In this episode, using the total eclipse (song AND real life event) as a metaphor, I dive into the base of human nature - the need to feel important and the need for community.  AND, I prove that the 'facts over feelings' crowd are scared and insecure humans who are not ready to understand the power and transformative nature of the human emotion.  It starts revolutions, it paves the way to progress and it is the best proof of the human soul.  

In this episode, Dean and I dig deep into the whys, whats and hows of a school board led lawsuit against the major social media companies in Ontario.  Why are the doing it?  What do they hope to gain?  And does social media really rot your brain??Twitter @itsdeanblundell  - Crier Media

In this episode, I sit down with Katie and Rosanna as the educate ME on the realities of endometriosis, its symptoms, pain management strategies, impacts on the individuals who suffer with this disease, research failures AND the real reason we don't have cure - LACK OF POLITICAL WILL.Websiteknowendo.ca