Band Director Boot Camp

If middle school band feels like triage some days, this episode is for you.Lesley Moffat sits down with Florida middle school band director Tim Ostrow, who has spent 19 years building a thriving program and collecting the kind of practical, real-world tools most of us wish we had on day one. Tim shares the story behind his “Middle School Band Director Help List”, a curated framework packed with links, templates, and editable resources designed to make running a band program smoother, more engaging, and way more sustainable.You’ll hear Tim break down the three big buckets his list focuses on: management, curriculum and assessment, and performance, plus why he insists recruitment and retention still matter even when you’re putting out fires.In the management section, Tim walks through why a clear band handbook matters (especially for grading policies and expectations), and how a band room procedures video plus a quick follow-up quiz can save your sanity. He shares favorite tools and “band room hacks” that streamline daily operations, including seating chart strategies, classroom screen tools (timers, agendas, widgets), and systems that keep routines consistent even after long breaks.Then Tim digs into curriculum and assessment, including how he handles instrument selection, his instrument listening “scoreboard,” and a mastery-based “pass-off” approach that teaches kids to practice until they can’t get it wrong. He also explains his bead achievement system, why middle schoolers will do anything for a bead, and how tracking growth over multiple years helps keep assessment fair and motivation high.This episode is a gold mine for brand new teachers, teachers moving into a new program, and veteran directors who want systems that help them teach more music and do less spiraling.Link to Middle School Director Help List.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat brings wellness down to the practical fundamentals with fitness innovator and X Gym founder PJ Glassey. If you’ve ever thought, “I don’t have time,” this conversation is for you. PJ shares a simple, science-backed approach to getting stronger and healthier without the traditional “hour-a-day gym” expectation.You’ll hear how PJ’s 21-minute, twice-a-week full-body training model was built specifically for busy people, and why he also teaches “exercise snacks” which are three-minute mini-workouts you can squeeze in without changing clothes or getting drenched in sweat. The big idea: consistency beats perfection, and even a minute of movement can help reset your body and brain.The conversation also dives into stress regulation and performance readiness through breathwork, specifically box breathing (4 in, hold 4, out 4, hold 4). Lesley connects this directly to the band room, sharing how daily guided breathing helps her students shift from chaos to calm, improves focus, supports healthy breath for playing and singing, and reduces performance nerves before concerts.Finally, PJ explains a simple brain-training strategy for habit formation using emotional “declarations” (similar to affirmations but said with conviction and feeling) to retrain the subconscious and make wellness behaviors easier to maintain. They wrap up with a real-world reminder that delegation and “good enough” can be powerful wellness tools too, for band directors and everyone else.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat talks with Brittany Valente, the no-nonsense teacher you’ve probably seen on TikTok serving up fast, practical advice for music educators. This one is especially for brand new band directors, or anyone walking into a new teaching situation and feeling like a first-year teacher all over again.Brittany shares the real steps to take before students even walk through the door, starting with identifying your go-to people for questions, then tackling the big-ticket items in a sane order: instruments and rentals, music library, curriculum expectations, schedules, calendars, and systems that keep you from drowning. She also gives a reality check many of us needed early on: don’t cling too tightly to a perfect yearlong plan before you even meet the kids.Once the year begins, the focus shifts to building non-negotiable routines, setting up efficient procedures, and creating a classroom culture rooted in relationships and team-building, not constant crisis management. Brittany also talks about protecting your own energy by planning your prep blocks with intention, understanding your “best brain” time, and leaning on mentors and trusted colleagues (even outside your building) to cut decision fatigue and remind you you’re not alone.The lightning round is full of gold: lower the bar, forgive yourself, remember that mistakes are part of gaining confidence, and learn how to reset after a brutal day without letting it steal your whole evening. If you want a cheat sheet for sustainable teaching in today’s band world, this is the episode to queue up.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat sits down with veteran music educator and author James Devine for some honest, practical survival strategies for life in the band room. With nearly three decades of teaching experience across private schools, public schools, and charter programs, James shares seven simple but powerful habits that can help band directors reclaim at least five hours every week.This conversation is all about working smarter, not harder. James walks through realistic ways to limit time-sucking distractions, tame your inbox, and stop letting meetings and unfinished projects drain your energy. From the two-minute rule to scheduling focused work time and giving yourself permission not to finish everything, these ideas are immediately actionable and grounded in real classroom life.You’ll also hear why weekly review and preview routines matter, how small organizational shifts can dramatically reduce stress, and why burnout often comes from systems that don’t serve us anymore. If you love your job but feel like it’s slowly wearing you down, this episode offers grounded strategies to help you stay effective, balanced, and in the profession for the long haul.James also shares details about his book, Almost Everything I’ve Learned About Teaching Band, a practical handbook filled with short, usable lessons designed specifically for busy band directors.

In this high-energy, strategy-packed episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat welcomes veteran music educator, composer, and clinician Dr. Scott Watson to share his go-to ideas for launching the school year with purpose, playfulness, and less overwhelm.Whether you’re on day one or deep into the semester, this episode offers practical advice to help you set the tone, build routines that work, and reconnect with your students in meaningful ways. Scott shares classroom-tested games and challenges that boost engagement and reinforce fundamentals without sacrificing musical rigor.🎯 In this episode, you’ll learn:Why “There’s always next week” might be the motto you needHow games like King of the Hill, BPS (Best Possible Sound), and the Three-Time Rule can transform your rehearsalsThe power of warm-ups, consistent routines, and nonverbal cuesHow to create a safe environment where students can take risks and support each otherWhy asking for help and learning from mentors isn’t just okay—it’s essentialLesley and Scott also talk about how teaching has changed over the decades, how to meet students where they are, and why your early investment in expectations and culture pays off all year long.Bonus: Scott is generously sharing a Google Doc with 50 rehearsal games and challenges you can start using this week. Check the link in the show notes!Mentioned in This Episode:Scott Watson’s music & resources: ScottWatsonMusic.comSponsors: mPowered Music Educator Academy and Kennelly Keys MusicFree download of 50 rehearsal games: Here’s a direct link to the Games & Challenges doc: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1iwakJni6-1dsVcxycNNxDu8qj05G0z0fPZ95i7_k8ic/edit

In this first episode of Backstage: The Hidden Workload of the Performing Arts, a special mini-series of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat pulls back the curtain on one of the biggest equity gaps in our schools—the overwhelming administrative burden placed on music educators.While teachers in other subject areas are supported by district-approved AI tools, performing arts teachers are still stuck drowning in logistics, trip planning, budgets, late-night emails, and endless paperwork. Lesley shares why this isn’t just a teacher problem, but a support problem—and how music supervisors can make a real difference without adding to their own plates.You’ll learn:Why “I love my job, but it’s killing me” is such a common refrain among music teachersHow administrative overload leads to burnout and turnoverWhy AI solutions designed specifically for performing arts educators (like Backstage Buddy) are game-changing for districtsWhat supervisors can do to retain staff, reduce overwhelm, and finally give music educators the support they deserveIf you’ve ever wondered how to be the hero your music teachers need while lightening your own load, this episode will show you what’s possible.

In this moving episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes longtime New York band director and debut author Lindsey Williams. Together, they explore themes of resilience, loss, recovery, and mentorship through the lens of Lindsey’s powerful new book, Where the Valley Widens—a collection of 40 stories inspired by her first group of students who journeyed with her from pre-K to high school graduation.Lindsey opens up about the unexpected challenges she faced, including the loss of her school and teaching materials to a flood and the heartbreak of pandemic-era graduations. She shares the emotional story of her mentor’s lasting influence, how a file folder became a lifeline, and how her book ultimately became a legacy box of memories and encouragement for others.Whether you're a veteran teacher, a new educator, or someone looking for a reminder of why this work matters, this episode offers heartfelt insight and uplifting takeaways. Lindsey’s reflections are a tribute to the teaching profession, the power of mentorship, and the importance of preserving the meaningful moments that sustain us through tough times.Connect with her at lindseywilliamsmusic.com. Instagram: @LindseyWilliamsMusicFacebook: facebook.com/LindseyWilliamsMusic/Link to Bookshop Order Page:Link to Amazon Order Page:

In this inspiring episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes singer-songwriter, TEDx speaker, and youth empowerment coach Emma G. Her story is nothing short of remarkable—born with hydrocephalus and having undergone 23 brain surgeries, Emma found healing and purpose through songwriting. Now she helps others do the same.Lesley and Emma dive into:How music supported Emma’s physical and emotional healingWhy songwriting is such a powerful tool for student expression, especially post-COVIDThe neuroscience behind music’s ability to rewire the brainEmma’s experience working with students (including Lesley’s!) to help them process emotions through musicTips for band directors and music teachers to bring songwriting into the classroom—even without a formal songwriting backgroundIf you’ve ever watched a student struggle with big emotions or felt your own burnout creeping in, this episode will renew your belief in the transformative power of music. Plus, Emma shares actionable steps to start songwriting and discusses her new book Mental Health Sounds Like This.Learn more at emmagmusic.com and connect with her on all socials @emmagmusic.

In this heartfelt and practical episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, Lesley Moffat is joined by Jeanette Mihalchik, host of The Happy Music Teacher podcast and YouTube channel. Jeanette shares her journey from total overwhelm and burnout—sitting on the classroom floor wondering if she could keep going—to becoming a thriving, joy-filled educator committed to helping others rediscover their spark.Together, Lesley and Jeanette explore:The realities of entering teaching through the “back door” and learning on the flyWhat to do when the job feels unsustainable—even if you love the kidsWhy movement, brain breaks, and student-led moments make a differenceHow mindset shifts and small pivots can turn exhaustion into engagementConcrete strategies for making teaching feel easier and more joyful at any grade levelYou’ll leave this episode with renewed hope and a few easy-to-implement tools to bring more energy, balance, and student connection into your classroom.Learn more about Jeanette’s resources and sign up for her free weekly “Happy Highlights” at thehappymusicteacher.com/lesson-plan-samplerHer website: https://thehappymusicteacher.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15mAFiMcPk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappymusicteacher/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehappymusicteacher?

In this revealing episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat welcomes Megan Cooney, Director of Athletic Bands at Rowan University, to share the behind-the-scenes reality of starting a collegiate band program from scratch. From budgeting to branding to building leadership, Megan walks us through the surprising and often overlooked responsibilities of life as a college band director.You’ll learn:Why collegiate band directors operate more like small business owners than conductorsThe difference between high school and college support systems (no band boosters!)The logistical demands of designing uniforms, managing million-dollar budgets, and insuring equipmentHow student leadership becomes essential—and why she pays her leadersWhy game day is a 14-hour marathon that requires hydration planning, mental prep, and physical staminaThe call for collaboration: Megan invites other collegiate directors to help create resources for those entering this unique career pathIf you're curious about the college track—or helping others succeed in it—this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and a passionate call to support the next generation of music educators.

In this heartfelt episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley reconnects with longtime friend and veteran educator Glenn Williams to talk about three transformative books that every music teacher should consider reading—or rereading. With decades of experience leading high school bands, mentoring student teachers, and shaping music education culture, Glenn shares how these books shaped his career and can help you recharge, reflect, and reconnect with your purpose.Here’s what you’ll learn:The power of The Last Lecture and defining your “dash”Why The Art of Possibility can reshape your classroom culture (yes, even rule #6!)How A Guide to Student Teaching in Band offers timeless teaching wisdom—even for seasoned educatorsPlus: Glenn breaks down the 7 Norms of Collaboration and offers practical tools to build healthier, more effective school teams.Whether you’re heading into summer or back to the podium, this episode offers reflection, inspiration, and the kind of perspective that only comes from a career well-lived—and deeply loved.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat sits down with Don Crafton, founder and CEO of Sight Reading Factory, to explore how this innovative platform helps band directors save time, reduce stress, and build stronger music literacy in their students.Don shares how his own frustrations as a band director led him to create a customizable, algorithm-based tool that allows for fresh sight reading exercises every time. You’ll learn how Sight Reading Factory:Eliminates the chaos of paper sight reading materialsMakes daily sight reading realistic and time-efficient (even just 5 minutes!)Offers auto-assessment and instant visual feedback for student growthSupports differentiation, SPED, and ELL learners with built-in data collectionReinforces concepts alongside method books—even for beginnersProvides powerful data for teacher evaluations and administrative conversationsWhether you're new to tech or a seasoned pro, this episode will show you how to use sight reading not just to prep for performance, but to foster independence and confidence in every student.https://sightreadingfactory.com

In this energizing and practical episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, Lesley Moffat is joined by fitness expert Jonathan Simos, who shares easy, sustainable strategies for weaving exercise into even the busiest teaching schedule. Jonathan opens up about his journey from injury-prone teenager to Guinness World Record holder and certified trainer—showing how fitness transformed his body, mindset, and life.Lesley and Jonathan dive into the parallels between building a healthy body and teaching music: mastering fundamentals, staying consistent, and doing things the right way to prevent damage. Whether you are brand new to exercise or struggling to stay consistent during concert season chaos, you’ll walk away with doable tips to improve your physical and mental wellness.What You’ll Learn:How to break down effective full-body workouts into simple, time-saving routinesWhy fitness is a “keystone habit” that benefits every part of your lifeWays to stay active even when your schedule is packed to the maxLesley’s personal push-up journey and how tiny consistent actions lead to transformationHow to find movement you enjoy—so you’ll actually stick with itYou’ll also hear about Jonathan’s upcoming fitness venture, why coaching matters, and how building strength can help you show up stronger for your students and yourself. This episode is your reminder that taking care of your body isn't selfish—it's essential for a sustainable, joyful teaching career.Guest Info:Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathan.simosCheck out his upcoming program and community: neuxist.com

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat sits down with Bill Kennelly of Kennelly Keys Music—a longtime friend of music education and sponsor of Season 4—to talk about how relationships with independent music stores can transform your program, reduce your workload, and support your students in meaningful ways.Lesley and Bill discuss how music stores can be more than just suppliers—they can be true partners. From picking up and repairing instruments, to sponsoring festivals, to showing up at school board meetings to advocate for music education, the support goes far beyond sales. Bill shares heartfelt stories of growing up in the industry, honoring his father's legacy, and how mentorship and service have driven his success.Listeners will walk away with a renewed appreciation for the behind-the-scenes heroes who keep music education thriving, along with specific ideas for how to build or strengthen these vital community relationships.

In this energizing episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, Lesley Moffat sits down with M.J. Robinson—band director, mom, and President-Elect of Women Band Directors International—to discuss how managing your energy can transform not only your teaching but your entire life.M.J. shares her journey from quiet wallflower to confident educator and leader, crediting the power of community, mentorship, and intentional mindset work. This episode is packed with practical strategies for navigating toxic work environments, setting energetic boundaries, and reclaiming joy in the classroom. M.J. opens up about the importance of resetting throughout the day, using music as a form of emotional processing, and building resilience without burning out.You’ll also hear about simple tools like affirmation apps, running, and self-talk that help M.J. stay grounded, focused, and full of genuine positivity—even in tough situations. Whether you're feeling stuck, overstimulated, or just need a spark of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.

In this milestone episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes—as her 100th guest—the inspiring Dr. Shannon Shaker—assistant professor and Director of Bands at Grand Rapids Community College. In a conversation full of honesty and heart, Shannon shares how she forged her own unique path to the podium, from early years in poverty and working at McDonald's to earning her doctorate in wind conducting.Lesley and Shannon dive into topics many music educators will relate to—impostor syndrome, surviving toxic work environments, and the importance of finding the right fit rather than blaming yourself. Shannon talks candidly about the challenges of transitioning from elementary music to higher education, and how resilience was born out of necessity.The episode also offers tangible wellness advice and encouragement to band directors seeking sustainable, joyful careers. Shannon shares four powerful wellness tips—including the life-changing power of sleep—and speaks about the community-building magic of side projects like her Beer City Winds ensemble. Whether you’re navigating burnout or dreaming of your next professional step, this conversation will help you feel seen, supported, and inspired.website: www.shannonshaker.comemail: shannonshaker@grcc.edu

It’s a milestone moment! In this very special 100th episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat reflects on two years of podcasting, over 22,000 downloads, and the incredible community of music educators that made it all possible.This episode is more than a celebration—it’s a recommitment to the mission of helping band directors amplify their impact, not their workload. Lesley shares the story behind starting the podcast in May 2023, what she’s learned from 100 powerful conversations, and how her background in teaching, AI tools, and sustainable systems fuels the work she does today.You’ll hear about the upcoming release of her next book, The Balanced Band Director, as well as exciting new resources like Band Director Buddy GPTs and Get Sh*t Done sessions to help you save time and energy while doing your best work.In this episode, you’ll discover:🎉 Why this podcast was created (and how it’s grown into a movement)📚 A sneak peek at Lesley’s upcoming book and what makes it different💡 How AI is transforming how directors manage their programs🧠 The mindset shift every busy teacher needs🎺 Heartfelt gratitude to the guests, listeners, and mentors who made this milestone possibleThis episode is packed with personal stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and a powerful invitation to be part of what’s next. Whether you’ve been here since episode one or just found us, thank you for being part of this journey. You are the reason it matters.Resources & Links:Band Director Buddy GPT ToolsJoin the mPowered Music Educator AcademyKennelly Keys Music – Proud Platinum Sponsor

In this high-energy episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat is joined by middle school band director, composer, and organizational powerhouse Erin Lilliefors. Erin shares her practical strategies for keeping communication clear and effective with parents—an area that often causes stress for music educators.Drawing on 15 years of experience in diverse school settings and the real-life juggling act of being a single mom, Erin reveals how front-loading information, formatting for clarity, and sharing positive student shout-outs can transform your relationships with families. You'll also hear how she uses ChatGPT to streamline messaging and save time.The conversation also highlights Erin’s work as a composer creating flex-band music that fills important gaps in the repertoire—especially for underrepresented cultures and low brass players (finally!). With pieces like Tick, Tick, Tick and Perilous Seas, she’s writing music that’s playable, meaningful, and memorable.In this episode, you’ll learn:🎶 Why front-loading parent communication is like meal prepping for your sanity🎶 Simple formatting tips that help families actually read your emails🎶 How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to save time and write better emails🎶 Why representation matters in band literature—and how Erin is contributing🎶 Where to find her published flex and culturally inspired band piecesResources Mentioned:Erin’s music on JW Pepper (search: “Tick, Tick, Tick” and “Perilous Seas”)Additional works via Leading Tones MusicFree PD and ChatGPT tools at mPowered Music Educator Academy

In this inspiring episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat welcomes music educator, author, podcaster, and wellness advocate Elisa Janson Jones. Elisa shares her journey from business consultant to music education leader and dives deep into why personal wellness is the foundation for a sustainable and impactful teaching career.Lesley and Elisa explore actionable wellness strategies—like daily exercise, personalized nutrition, and strong mindset practices—and discuss the importance of energy management and realistic expectations. Elisa also introduces listeners to the Music Teacher Guild, a groundbreaking professional learning community offering mentorship, custom AI resources, and targeted professional development for music educators at every stage of their career.Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned veteran, this conversation will leave you motivated to prioritize your health, build your community, and seek the support you deserve. Stay tuned to the end for Elisa’s heartfelt advice on mindset shifts that can change your career—and your life.In this episode, you’ll learn:🎵 Why personal wellness must be your first priority🎵 How daily habits and mindset shifts can transform your teaching🎵 The story behind the Music Teacher Guild and its innovative resources🎵 Simple steps for new teachers to find community and mentorship🎵 How AI tools can free up your time and energy for what matters mostResources Mentioned:The Music Teacher GuildEmpowered EducatorConnect with Elisa Janson Jones on social mediaAccess to the MTG Commons, including the Pathways to Funding courseDiscounts on mentorship, classes, and events: Band Director Bootcamp with Lesley Moffat - 10% off BDBWLM2025. Receive 10% off any Music Teacher Guild appointment, class, or event. One-time use. Valid for subscriptions.Music Mentor Books

In this courageous and deeply impactful episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat is joined by music educator, memoirist, and advocate Megan Farison. Megan opens up about the personal story behind her memoir Dissonance and shares her mission to help educators establish safer, more supportive classroom cultures.Together, Lesley and Megan tackle some of the hard conversations our profession needs to be having—including how to set and maintain healthy boundaries, why music educators are in uniquely vulnerable positions, and how to cultivate an emotionally safe environment for both students and teachers.Megan outlines 5 actionable strategies for establishing a classroom culture of safety and wellness and offers examples from real-life experiences that every educator can learn from.You’ll learn:Why boundary-setting is an act of protection—for both students and teachersWhat makes performing arts teachers more susceptible to boundary complicationsThe role of transparency, structure, and observability in preventing harmTips for safeguarding yourself and your students during one-on-one moments, school trips, and daily interactionsHow Megan turned her personal story into healing and advocacy—and how you can, too🎧 Megan also offers a free sneak peek of her memoir Dissonance, available here.Sing, Coach, Conduct on SpotifyThe Elephant AllianceAnna Sonoda, author of Duck Duck Groom: How a Child Becomes a Target