This episode takes us back to a Teacher Support Group I led over a decade ago at a school steeped in chaos. What seemed like an unproductive, blame-filled space was actually an unconscious mirror of the school’s deep dysfunction—a fascinating concept called parallel process. Joe and I examine how systemic issues infiltrate individual classrooms and what teachers can do to cultivate a healthy learning environment against incredible odds.

Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

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We talk about

* how the group’s dynamic echoed the school’s wider culture of chaos

* what makes school holding environments chaotic

* a gendered pattern of blame

* empowering strategies for teachers to cultivate healthy classroom cultures

For my non-teachers out there: The dynamics of group behavior, the impact of leadership, and the power of individual action within a dysfunctional system apply far beyond school walls.

Have a story about your school’s culture, or a time you navigated chaos? Share it with me: 413.239.4158. If you enjoyed this episode, consider leaving a review or rating on your podcast app. It helps us reach more teachers!

External Links

teachingthroughemotions.com

Credits

Founder and Host: Betsy Burris

Co-Host: Joe Johnson

Producer: Jullian Androkae

Audience Development: Andreea Coscai

Music: Tom Burris/Jabbering Trout

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