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In this episode, Dr. Gina Pepin takes us to the small-group reading table, where one second grader’s honest declaration—“It’s clear as mud”—becomes the heart of a bigger lesson about teaching and learning. With humor and heart, Dr. Pepin reflects on why confusion is not failure, but a powerful step toward growth.

She reminds us that the “mud moments” in literacy instruction aren’t setbacks—they’re invitations. Invitations for teachers to slow down, lean in, and create a safe space where students can say, “I’m not there yet, but I’m willing to try.”

Join Dr. Pepin as she celebrates the messy, magical journey of reading development, offering encouragement for every teacher who’s ever had a lesson land less than perfectly. Because when we’re willing to wade through the mud together, that’s when the real breakthroughs—and the real magic—happen.

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In this heartwarming and humorous episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the story of a second grader who proudly announced, “I have three dads!” after seeing a picture of their speech and language pathologist’s very tall family. What started as giggles about height turned into a powerful reminder of the diverse ways students define family.

Through this spontaneous moment of storytelling, Dr. Gina highlights how authentic connections spark literacy, belonging, and voice—without the need for a worksheet or prompt. Listeners will walk away inspired to honor student narratives, embrace family diversity, and recognize everyday classroom conversations as literacy in action.

✨ Takeaways:

• Why listening matters more than prompting
• How oral storytelling builds literacy skills
• Ways to celebrate the families who shape our students

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In this short and inspiring episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin introduces Story Stones — a playful, hands-on tool that makes storytelling and literacy come alive. Discover what story stones are, how to make them (without fuss or expensive supplies), and creative ways to use them for building language, narrative skills, and even social-emotional connections in your classroom.

From circle-time adventures to writer’s workshop prompts, Dr. Pepin shares practical strategies you can try right away — plus a “Try It Tomorrow” tip that will have your students’ imaginations soaring with just five simple stones.

Whether you’re teaching early literacy, looking for fresh storytelling ideas, or simply want to add more joy to your lessons, this episode will give you a pocket-sized strategy with a big impact.

Tune in, and start sparking stories — one stone at a time.

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Tune in as Gina reflects on the importance of honoring students’ everyday lives, celebrating unexpected “aha” moments, and letting the real world into our classrooms. It’s a funny, feel-good story with a side of educational wisdom—and maybe a craving for nacho fries.

Because sometimes, the key to a student’s learning journey starts with a double-L and a crunchy taco.

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In this laugh-out-loud (and tear-a-little) episode, Dr. Gina Pepin shares the unforgettable tale of Hutch—a golden doodle turned honorary assistant principal—and the surprisingly profound lessons he teaches about emotional regulation, trauma-informed practice, and the power of a well-timed head tilt.

Join Gina as she reflects on a high-stress parent meeting that took an unexpected turn thanks to a dog with impeccable timing and better counseling instincts than most humans. Spoiler alert: Hutch doesn’t say a word, but he speaks volumes.

This episode reminds educators that calm is contagious, relationships are the real safe spaces, and sometimes, the best interventions have wagging tails. Whether your "Hutch" is a dog, a donut cart, or a dance party in the hallway, this one’s for you.

🐾 Listen in for:

• A golden doodle who crashes meetings and hearts
  
  
• Why humor and humanity matter more than ever in education
  
  
• How to create emotionally safe spaces—even in the chaos
  
  
• A fresh take on self-regulation (and the power of floppy ears)
  
  

💬 Got a Hutch in your building? Email Dr. Gina with your story—we'd love to feature it!

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In this heartwarming episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin reflects on the unexpected, yet powerful, moments that remind us of the importance of curiosity and understanding in the classroom. Dr. Pepin shares a story from her experience with a student named Lucas, who asked, “Do birds live in your hair?”

Instead of dismissing the question, Dr. Pepin saw it as an opportunity to embrace her student’s unique perspective, one shaped by his fascination with birds. This episode emphasizes the value of engaging with students’ curiosity—no matter how unusual their questions may seem—and using those moments as teachable opportunities that enrich the learning experience.

Takeaway:
By embracing the questions that come from our students, we open the door to deeper connections and learning experiences. Don’t be afraid to lean into the curiosity of your students—it may just lead to the most meaningful moments in your classroom.

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In this deeply moving episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin dives into the impact our absences and disruptions in routine can have on students—particularly those who have experienced trauma. Through a poignant story from her own classroom, Dr. Pepin reflects on a moment when a student, Tommy, expressed his fear of loss after her absence, saying, "I thought you were dead."

This episode explores the emotional and psychological effects that absences, even short ones, can have on children who rely on stability and routine. Dr. Pepin offers practical strategies for how teachers can support their students during these times, from acknowledging their feelings to reinstating routines that provide reassurance and security. Tune in for a heartfelt reminder of the powerful role teachers play as consistent, caring figures in their students’ lives.

Takeaway:
As educators, our presence means more than just being in the classroom—it’s about creating a safe, steady environment for our students.

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In today’s episode of Let’s Talk Teacher to Teacher, Dr. Gina Pepin explores the beauty in the worn and weathered books that live in our classrooms. From frayed covers to chocolate milk stains, these books tell a story of love, devotion, and connection. Celebrate the books that have been reread, retold, and reimagined by the students who treasure them. Because when a book falls apart, it means it’s been held together by hearts.

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