On Orientation Day at the University of Wisconsin (Go, Badgers!), the speaker informed us that the stress of school “was like a W.” Students start the year motivated, excited, and filled with anticipation about the possibilities school promises. The speaker explained, students begin at the “top of the W,” then, as they get deeper into the semester and the pressures of school and life ramp up, their enthusiasm wanes and they move “down the W.” Returning from winter break, students are back on top, then repeat the pattern. As a parent, understanding The W was extremely beneficial. As an educator, learning about the up and down feelings students experience during the school year (aka: “The W”) gave me information to better understand my students, (and myself):
Beyond learning about “The W,” there are actions we can take to expand our knowledge when beginning a new school year. One idea we love is listening to podcasts. To add power to our practice, we can listen on our commute, when exercising, during prep time… and, there are plenty-o-podcasts to keep our students (and ourselves) thriving!
Here are 13 podcasts we recommend for students, teachers, and families:
For Students
With a name like, “The Lazy Genius” it has to be good! Beyond the intrigue, Kendra Adachi shows us all what we need to learn, and what we don’t. This episode, “The Lazy Genius Back-to-School Checklist,” boasts “how to Lazy Genius” your back-to-school to-do lists.
Seth Rudetsky’s Back to School Podcast Series
Be prepared to hear your students guffaw as they listen to celebrities share their high school experiences and how those experiences shaped who they are. Fun, fun, and fun.
Find out how to have the best back-to-school ever, as Jaj and Rylee pump up listeners by reminding them we always can have a fresh start!
For Teachers
Episode 51 – Learning from Learning Loss | The Black Scholars Podcast
The Black Scholars podcast is a community for black and brown educators and scholars. This episode is about learning loss, but the podcast includes interview tips, information about professional learning communities (PLCs), book reviews, and more!
Teachers Off Duty: The Secret Summer Lives of Teachers on Apple Podcasts
Enjoy this cheerful inside look at how teachers spend their time in the summer, including their side hustles. Another joyful, uplifting podcast!
Those Who Can’t Do Podcast Series
Learn what makes a great educator with this podcast that explores the rewards and challenges of today’s teachers. Discover what it is like to be a teacher AND a mom, why sex ed is essential in schools, and the secrets to longevity in teaching.
Teacher Approved: 143. The Easiest Back-to-School Tip on Apple Podcasts
Full of Back-to-School checklists and top tips (Tip #1 – Why you should plan for the second day of school now), this “Teacher Approved” podcast will fill you with strategies for success!
More Happier: Back-to-School Hacks (Revisited)
Learn easy-to-implement back-to-school hacks including working with students who are “rebels,” accommodations for students with ADHD, and how students thrive when provided with choices.
Back to School Ready: Essential Prepping Strategies and Tips for Teachers of ELLs
Explore how to set up your classroom with “confidence and clarity,” and ensure your ELL (MLL) students excel through the power of routines, organization, and access to materials designed to help them succeed.
For Families
Revisit Back to School Anxiety Podcast
With her gentle demeanor and encouraging words, Dr. Becky explains separation anxiety, transitions, and provides answers to many of the questions and worries that come with going back-to-school.
Back to School Simplified: Declutter & Organize Kid’s Rooms Simple Purposeful Living Podcast
They are gone, so now what do we do?! If you’re looking for inspiration, this podcast is the place for ideas on decluttering and organizing while they’re away learning, growing, and soaring!
FamilyLife Today®: Back-to-School Anxiety? David & Meg Robbins on Apple Podcasts
Learn about the anxiety, relief, and stress back-to-school brings–and that there are no perfect parents–in this episode from Family Life Today.
Lastly, this blog, “Our Top Mental Health Podcasts for Teens and Teachers (and why we like them)” is worthwhile, too. We know the tips and strategies in these podcasts can help ease the stress of returning to school for students, families, and you!
Happy learning and happy 2024-2025 school year!
About the Author
Susanne Leslie is a Professional Learning Specialist at Teaching Channel. She holds a B.A. in Sociology and a Master’s in Education. As a parent educator, Susanne’s specialty is Culture and Early Childhood instruction. In her current role, she writes courses and content, focusing on our Hybrid Blended Learning courses.
Fun Fact: Susanne has jumped out of two (perfectly good) airplanes!
