This Teacher Life

What if we told you that one of the simplest and strangest ideas could completely transform your classroom dynamics? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re diving into a “really dumb idea” that sounds too easy to be effective—but trust us, it works wonders, and all you need is one notecard. Whether you’re struggling with student engagement, participation, or simply finding new ways to connect with your learners, this idea is a game-changer. No fancy technology. No complex strategies. Just a notecard and a little creativity. Plus, we’ll share real classroom stories from teachers who’ve implemented this “dumb” idea and seen huge results. It’s simple, effective, and totally works—you’ll wonder why you didn’t think of it sooner! Ready for a fun, low-prep technique that can shift your classroom dynamics? Grab that notecard, and let’s dive in!   Episode Notes: Join the Game Changers Course and Get TONS of Engaging Classroom Ideas: monicagenta.com/courses/ Check Out the Lesson/Lab Resource Scanner System Bundle Here Right Here: monicagenta.com/scienceshop Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Needing Engaging, Relevant, Fun PD at Your School? Let’s Connect:  http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd  

Teachers, find out about the most powerful and underrated travel hacks for teachers: leveraging points to unlock nearly-free travel—year after year. If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring new places on a teacher’s budget, this episode is your new best friend. We break down, step-by-step, how educators can use strategy to dramatically cut travel costs, maximize rewards, and potentially fly for almost nothing. You’ll learn: How rewards actually work (without the confusing jargon) How to earn points fast using everyday teacher expenses Realistic examples of how much you can save Mistakes to avoid so you don’t miss out on thousands of points How to plan a year of travel on a teacher’s salary using this system Whether you’re dreaming of summer adventures, weekend getaways, or visiting family without breaking the bank, this episode will show you exactly how to turn your gas, groceries, and more into a travel machine. Get ready to stretch your budget, expand your world, and travel like a pro—because your next flight might cost you less than a cup of coffee. Episode Notes:  Learn More About the Southwest Card Here: Southwest Credit Card Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd ***Disclaimer- credit cards can create dangerous spending behaviors for some people. Only apply for a card if you fully understand the terms and conditions of the cards you apply for. Monica Genta, LLC is not responsible for any fees, fines, or finances based on your choices after reading this information. Card bonuses and specific details change. Be sure to check the Chase website for the most up to date information about card details ***

Looking for a simple, yet powerful tool to boost student participation and spark creativity in your classroom? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we reveal how you can transform classroom discussions and interactions with just one small, unexpected tool—a dice! We know that getting all students engaged in the lesson can feel like a challenge, especially when some students are hesitant to speak up or take risks. But with a little creativity and a dice in hand, you can create an environment where every student feels encouraged to contribute, ask insightful questions, and actively participate in the learning process. Join us as we explore fun and effective dice-based strategies to: Get every student involved, no matter their personality or comfort level. Turn simple questions into powerful, thought-provoking classroom discussions. Foster a culture of curiosity, critical thinking, and inclusivity. Energize your lessons with a dose of unpredictability and fun! This episode is packed with actionable tips, real-world examples, and a few dice-related activities that will keep your students thinking and engaged. Whether you teach elementary, middle school, or high school, these techniques are flexible and easy to implement right away. Tune in and discover how something as simple as a dice can lead to big changes in classroom participation, engagement, and question-asking—without the stress or pressure of traditional “cold calling.” Let’s roll the dice and level up your teaching!   Episode Notes: Learn 100’s of Classroom Engagement and Motivation Ideas in the Game Changers Course: monicagenta.com/courses/ Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Needing Engaging, Relevant, Fun PD at Your School? Let’s Connect:  http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd  

Teachers, if you’ve been searching for a real behavior strategy that actually works (and doesn’t require a magic wand or a daily bribe of candy), this episode is for you. This week on the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re diving into the power of goal-setting with accountability partners — and before you roll your eyes, trust me… this idea is way more game-changing than it sounds. You’ll hear how to help students create meaningful, personal goals and pair up with accountability partners who help them stay focused, responsible, and motivated. I’m sharing practical examples, success stories, and ready-to-use tips that’ll make this strategy easy to roll out in any classroom. If you’re ready for fewer behavior headaches and more student ownership, this episode is your new go-to. Perfect for teachers, counselors, and school leaders who are tired of putting out fires and ready to help kids take charge of their growth! Episode Notes:  Check out the Game Changer Course Filled with TONS of Classroom Management & Engagement Ideas:  monicagenta.com/courses Wanting AWESOME PD for Your Whole School?  monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd  

Teacher Truth: Paper assignments? Easy to make… but not exactly student engagement gold. Also Teacher Truth: Hands-on activities? Way more work… but also way more worth it. So here’s the real challenge—how do we get students pumped about real-world learning without spending every ounce of our “free time” buried in prep? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re diving into creative ways to turn real student problems into labs and lessons that actually matter. You’ll get ready-to-use ideas, class questions, easy structures, and time-saving hacks that bring hands-on learning to life—without draining your weekend energy. Short, fun, and packed with practical examples—this one’s your shortcut to more engaged students and a less exhausted you. Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Engaging Science Resources Right Here: monicagenta.com/scienceshop Needing Some Help with SEL at Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd  

Ready to make 2026 your most inspired, energized, and growth-filled year yet? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, I’m breaking down four legitimately amazing books that will challenge your thinking, spark new habits, and fuel real transformation—personally, professionally, and everything in between. These aren’t just “nice to read someday” picks. These are the books that will light a fire under you, shift your mindset, and help you step confidently into the year you actually want to create. Tune in to hear why each book made the list, what you can expect to take away from them, and how to choose the right one for wherever you are in your journey. Grab your TBR list—2026 is about to level up. Episode Notes:  Get Your Copy of 365 Days of Awesome Here: https://monicagenta.com/365-2 Needing Some Help with SEL at Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

What if one simple idea could bring teachers together, spark joy in the hallways, and actually make people want to come to work on Monday? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, we dive into a simple, high-energy idea that’s all about helping your school staff connect, celebrate each other, and actually have fun together—no clipboards, no PD, no agendas. Learn how this lighthearted tradition builds genuine camaraderie, strengthens your school culture behind the scenes, and creates those moments that lead to inside jokes, hallway fist bumps, and a team that feels more like a family. If your staff is stressed, disconnected, or just in need of a vibe shift, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for! Episode Notes:  Get 180 Full SEL Lessons for Advisory and Morning Meeting- Save Your Plan Time:  monicagenta.com/180SEL Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect:  monicagenta.com/PD Get a Celebration Bus Here: wadituptransport.com/ Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

The holidays can be really stressful in schools. But the holidays are also a perfect time to spread smiles in schools. What is a small but significant want to surprise staff and students? Sometimes all you need is a little sugar and a little support. In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast I dive into all the details of the “holiday” Little Debbie December, If you haven’t heard of it before, it’s because I made it up, but I promise by the end you will have a perfect plan on how to (Swiss) roll it out in the coming weeks. This idea takes the (Zebra) cake. Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Relationship Building Ideas in Rooted Classroom Course: monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd  

Get ready to dive into a hilariously unconventional yet surprisingly effective approach to boosting student reliability. Join us as we explore the wild idea of using a raccoon as a quirky connection for kids. In this episode of This Teacher Life, we’ll discuss how positive signage on the walls and in the halls is some of the best “marketing” that can happen in schools. Whether you’re a seasoned teacher or just starting out, this episode will leave you motivated to rethink your approach and connect with your students in fresh ways. Tune in for laughs, insights, and a newfound appreciation for the value of a little bit of chaos in the learning process. Episode Notes:  Don’t Miss TONS of Relationship Building Ideas in the Rooted Classroom Course:  monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta30 Needing some uplifting, awesome professional development at your school? Let’s Connect:  http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Needing something SUPER fun and SUPER simple to make December sweeter and also less stressful? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re sharing a really dumb idea that’s so simple, it might just work wonders for your school’s culture this December! What’s the secret? A calendar. That’s right—this humble tool can spark excitement, foster connection, and bring a sense of community to your classroom or school. We’re talking about turning the final month of the year into something dynamic and engaging with just a few creative twists. Tune in as we walk through this fun, unconventional approach that doesn’t require expensive materials or elaborate plans—just a chocolate calendar and some creative thinking. We’ll dive into how to use this tool to boost morale, increase student engagement, and end the year on a high note. Whether you’re a teacher looking for a new way to bring energy to your classroom or an administrator seeking to boost school spirit, this episode is packed with practical tips to make December the most memorable month of the school year. Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Relationship Building Ideas in Rooted Classroom Course: monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Classroom games are a great way to build relationships with kids and create student engagement. But sometimes those games can be complicated, take a ton of prep, and can get chaotic. What if I told you there was a SUPER simple game that is easy to implement, takes practically no time to prep, and creates connection rather than chaos. Would you play that game with students? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast I breakdown a really fun and easy holiday game that can transform into a game show in the matter of seconds. Not only that, it will create dynamic discussions and is a create way to celebrate differences, traditions, and trends. I promise you will be SO Thankful for this classroom game! Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Relationship Building Ideas in Rooted Classroom Course: monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twitter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Chronic absenteeism can feel both overwhelming and annoying because we understand there is SO much more to the story. But what if I told you there are some silly and significant things we can do to combat it? In this weeks episode of This Teacher Life, we’re showing you how something as simple as a potato can have a BIG impact on your school’s attendance! Tune in as we explore 9 creative and fun ways to boost attendance that don’t require fancy resources—just a little imagination and a whole lot of enthusiasm. From quirky potato-themed incentives to engaging activities that motivate students to show up every day, you’ll get practical ideas that are easy to implement and guaranteed to bring excitement to your school. If you’re looking for fresh ways to keep students engaged and present, this episode is packed with inspiration that can change the game at your school. Episode Notes:  The Rooted Classroom Course Filled with TONS of Ideas for Relationship Building with Staff & Students: monicagenta.com/courses Want some Awesome PD or Consulting at Your School? Let’s Make it Happen:  monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Want to boost student achievement data, but it feels way to huge to actually move the needle? What if I told you there was an easy way to boost learning data and it’s by focusing on something totally separate? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life podcast, we’re bringing some fun and friendly competition to your school with an unexpected twist—a potato! Discover how something as simple as a spud can completely transform your school’s attendance game. We’re diving into creative attendance competitions that will get students excited to come to school and actively participate. From toy-themed incentives to exciting challenges that keep students motivated, this episode is packed with unique, hands-on ideas to make attendance more engaging and enjoyable. Whether you’re looking to reward consistency or encourage team spirit, you’ll walk away with a treasure trove of strategies to spice up your school. Get ready for tons of inspiration and practical ideas that will make showing up to school an adventure! Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Relationship Building Ideas in Rooted Classroom Course: monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Do staff and students have huge amounts of success in your school? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life we’re diving into smart, simple strategies that turn group work into real collaboration. You’ll get classroom-tested ideas to help kids communicate, problem-solve, and share responsibilities — while keeping the chaos (and the glue) under control. From quick teamwork games to routines that build trust and accountability, this episode gives you everything you need to make “working together” something students actually look forward to. Because let’s face it — teamwork isn’t just a skill for school… it’s a survival skill for life (and sometimes for laminating).

Have you ever taught in two different shoes on accident? Have you ever gotten home from school only to realize you taught all day with an unknown child’s throw-up down the side of your shirt? In this hilarious and candid episode of This Teacher Life, we dive into the unspoken, yet very real signs that it’s time to hang up your grading pen (because do we even use pens to grade anymore?) Special guests, Jack Berckemeyer and Rachael McCoy share their funniest, most relatable moments in education. If you’ve ever thought about walking away (or found yourself laughing at the chaos that comes with teaching), this episode is for you. Tune in for a raw and unfiltered conversation about the ups, downs, and those silly moments that make teachers question their sanity—guaranteed to have you laughing out loud! Get ready for a mix of humor, truth bombs, and a whole lot of teacher talk in this fun, no-holds-barred episode won’t want to miss this! Episode Notes:  Get Signed up for the 365 Days of Awesome Course- Celebrating Every Day of This Year:  monicagenta.com/365ofawesome Check out the Book 365 Days of Awesome: monicagenta.com/365-2 Needing some uplifting, awesome professional development at your school? Let’s Connect:  http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Finding balance between teaching life and home life can feel impossible! But what if one small shift could make it easier and more satisfying? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, we uncover one powerful idea that helps teachers in their personal life so they can be their best in professional life! If you’ve been searching for a realistic way to balance teaching with family, friends, fun, and all the essential pillars of life, you are going to love this episode! Episode Notes:  Get Signed up for the 365 Days of Awesome Course- Celebrating Every Day of This Year:  monicagenta.com/365ofawesome Check out the Book 365 Days of Awesome: monicagenta.com/365-2 Needing some uplifting, awesome professional development at your school? Let’s Connect:  http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Sometimes the best lessons are the ones that are the easiest…. and just a little corny. In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, we dive into one classroom activity that is a powerful way to engage students, spark meaningful conversations, and create lasting connections. The best part? It’s simple to try, doesn’t take any prep, and I promise it’s NOT “cornfusing” to implement. Get ready to bring some smiles and big learning moments to your classroom with this delightfully effective idea, perfect for morning meeting, advisory, homeroom, or SEL time. Episode Notes:  Get 180 FULL SEL Lessons to Engage Your Students Here: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect:  monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/

If you use file folders, worksheets, competitions, or quieting techniques in your classroom, this episode is for you! And spoiler alert…. none of those are bad things! But the dialogue in this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast will get you thinking differently about each of them. Here we dive into the 4 things every teacher should promise not to do—but let’s be real, we probably do them. This silly episode has special guests Jack Berckemeyer and Rachael McCoy to explore those unspoken habits, practices, and behaviors that sneak into our classrooms, despite our best intentions. Tune in for a candid conversation, insightful advice, and a little laughter as we unpack the everyday realities of teaching. Don’t miss out—this episode might just challenge the way you approach your classroom this year! Episode Notes:  Get TONS of Awesome Classroom Lessons, Resources, and Activities Here:  monicagenta.com/shop Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed

Is your school culture feeling a little…blah? Is your school culture awesome and you are wanting to level it up even more? In this episode of This Teacher Life, we’re diving into a simple but powerful idea that’s bringing joy, surprise, and connection back to school staffs everywhere: Secret Pals! Learn how this easy-to-implement tradition can boost morale, strengthen team bonds, and make your campus a place teachers want to come to every day. We’ll break down how it works, share fun examples, and give you tips to get it started at your own school—without adding more stress to your plate. If you’re ready to sprinkle a little magic into your staff culture, this one’s for you! Episode Notes:  LAST CALL to Register for the Full Awesome Academy-Earn 90 Hours of PD Credit:  monicagenta.com/awesomeacademy Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect:  monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed  

Ready to flip the script on school stress by remixing a VERY common thing that happens with students? In this week’s energizing episode of the This Teacher Life, we’re diving into three powerful “F-words” that every classroom and campus should embrace this year. Don’t worry — they’re all school appropriate  — but they pack a serious punch when it comes to boosting fun, friends, and funds in your school! Whether you’re a teacher, admin, or school support staff, you’ll walk away with practical strategies to increase fun, reduce frustration, and foster an environment where everybody wins! Tune in for: The 3 F-words that can change your school year (for real) How to implement them in any grade level Simple mindset shifts that make school routines more sustainable and satisfying Grab your coffee, press play, and let’s make this school year your best one yet. Episode Notes:  Make this School Year AWESOME? Check out the Awesome Academy-Earn 90 Hours of PD Credit:  monicagenta.com/awesomeacademy Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect:  monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed