Small Shifts, Big Impact: Building a Calmer, Stronger Teaching Life

What if just one small change could bring more ease to your day? 🌱

In this reflective and practical episode of the Why Edify podcast, Jeremy Jorgensen invites educators, leaders, and lifelong learners to explore five intentional practices that promote wellness, clarity, and strength—both in and out of the classroom. Whether you're easing into summer or closing out the school year, these micro-habits can help you feel more grounded and energized.

From micro breaks to journaling, morning movement to celebrating small wins, this episode is your calm corner for resetting and recharging—one breath, one pause, one step at a time.

Takeaways

- Micro breaks can help reset your mind and body.

- Celebrating small wins can shift your mindset positively.

- Stretching throughout the day reconnects you with your body.

- Reflective teaching journals can reveal patterns in your practice.

- Small shifts can create more ease in your daily life.

- Scheduling intentional pauses can prevent burnout.

- Creating a list of daily wins boosts energy levels.

- Morning movement rituals set a calming tone for the day.

- Two-minute tidy sessions can provide a sense of control.

- Investing in personal growth benefits both you and your students.

Chapters

00:00 Finding Your Calm Corner

02:56 Small Intentional Shifts for Clarity

05:09 Wellness Tips for a Healthier You

08:12 Reflective Practices for Professional Growth

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

https://linktr.ee/whyedify

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https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/

🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

Recover from Teacher Burnout with the 3R Reset Framework

Feeling drained after the school year? You’re not alone — and you’re not broken. In this reflective and supportive video, Jeremy Jorgensen introduces the 3R Reset Framework—Rest, Reflect, Reconnect—to help educators recover from burnout and reclaim their energy with intention.

You’ll learn how to identify the signs of exhaustion, practice meaningful rest, reflect without judgment, and reconnect with the parts of yourself that go beyond the classroom. Whether you're collapsing into summer or seeking a more intentional break, this video offers practical tools, heartfelt validation, and a path toward healing.

✨ Teachers are more than their job titles—this summer, remember who you are.

Takeaways

- You're not lazy. You're just exhausted.

- Rest is not the absence of work; it's recovery.

- Compassion is the first act of healing.

- Intentional rest includes saying no to obligations.

- Reflect on what drained your energy this year.

- Journaling can help identify energy-draining tasks.

- Reconnect with joy, not productivity.

- You are more than your job title.

- Give yourself permission to prioritize self-care.

- Building a community can support your well-being.

Chapters

00:00 Understanding Teacher Burnout

02:36 The Reset Framework: Rest, Reflect, Reconnect

👇 Dive deeper with journaling prompts and extra resources at Why Edify.

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/reflect-reset-journal-prompts-and-the-stillness-window-challenge-for-teachers/

💬 Share your reflections below or send this to a teacher who needs it.

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

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👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/

🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

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Dave Burgess on Passion, Creativity & the Heart of Teaching

What if teaching could feel like a bold act of creativity every day?

In this powerful Why Edify Podcast episode, Jeremy Jorgensen sits down with legendary educator and author of Teach Like a Pirate, Dave Burgess.

Together, they explore the transformative role of passion, personal authenticity, and creativity in the classroom. Dave shares vulnerable insights about criticism, why he doesn't give traditional homework, and how living fully outside the classroom fuels powerful learning inside it.

You’ll hear:

- Why student engagement is more than a buzzword

- How reflective teaching makes lessons unforgettable

- The importance of honoring your identity and outside passions

- Practical earned wisdom on handling parent conflict and burnout

- Educators, leaders, and lifelong learners—this conversation is a rally cry to teach boldly, live authentically, and create meaningful impact.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Passionate Teaching

05:45 Trolling and Teaching Philosophy

10:28 Amplifying Voices in Education

14:56 Earned Wisdom from Experience

19:18 Creative Alchemy in Teaching

23:47 Engaging Students Through Personal Connections

28:24 Community and Professional Development

32:50 Final Thoughts and Recommendations

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

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👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

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🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

Gratitude Lists for Teachers: A Simple End-of-Year Reflection Tool

Feeling drained at the end of the school year? You're not alone. Jeremy Jorgensen shares a simple yet transformative practice in this heartfelt episode of the Why Edify Podcast: the year-end gratitude list.

More than just a list, this reflective tradition can reframe your perspective, reduce stress, and reconnect you with your purpose as an educator. Jeremy walks through his own top 10 moments of gratitude from the year—offering honest appreciation, a bit of humor, and practical inspiration for any teacher, leader, or lifelong learner.

Whether you’re heading into summer with exhaustion or pride (or both), this episode will help you pause, appreciate, and recharge with intention.

✨ Reflect on your growth

✨ Celebrate the good

✨ Start your own gratitude list today

Chapters

00:00 The Power of Gratitude in Education

06:33 Creating Your Own Gratitude List

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

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👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

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👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

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10 Things Teachers Should Let Go of This Summer (and One to Keep)

As the school year winds down, it's time to release the mental clutter and reclaim your joy, energy, and purpose. 🎒✨

In this heartfelt episode, educator Jeremy Jorgensen shares 10 things teachers should let go of this summer — including guilt, perfectionism, toxic positivity, and the myth that rest must be earned. 💛

Read the article here: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/10-things-to-let-go-of-this-summer-and-one-to-keep/

Watch the Video Podcast - Click Here

Plus, discover one powerful thing worth holding on to — your why.

This is your summer to reset, rest, and realign. 🌿

🕯️ What will you let go of? And what will you carry with you?

Chapters

00:00 Embracing Summer: A Time for Renewal

02:43 Letting Go: 10 Essential Releases for Teachers

07:40 Keeping the Spark: Nurturing Your Passion for Teaching

👇 Drop your thoughts in the comments, and don’t forget to check out Jeremy’s Thrive This Summer series — designed just for teachers who are ready to feel better, teach stronger, and start the next school year recharged.

🔗 Learn more: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/thrive-this-summer-a-well-being-series-for-educators/

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

https://linktr.ee/whyedify

👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/

🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

Small Habits for a Happier, Healthier, Stronger End of School Year

Feeling overwhelmed as the school year winds down? This episode offers calm, clarity, and three powerful habits to help you finish strong. Jeremy shares uplifting practices from his weekly newsletter that support your well-being and classroom energy—without adding more to your plate.

Read the newsletter: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/three-good-things/

Check out the Thrive This Summer Series: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/thrive-this-summer-a-well-being-series-for-educators/

You'll learn:

A happiness habit to reset your mindset in minutes

A grounding technique to reduce stress instantly

A reflective practice to boost your confidence and connection

These simple, science-backed strategies are easy to implement and perfect for teachers, school leaders, and anyone navigating end-of-year stress. Plus, hear about Jeremy’s creative classroom win and how you can celebrate your own.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Y Edify Podcast

00:53 Happiness Habits: Naming Three Good Things

04:24 Grounding Techniques for Stress Relief

05:21 Reflecting on Successes for Confidence

07:26 Teacher Commuter Playlist and Uplifting Messages

09:17 Invitation to Summer Thrive Series

✨ Reflect, reset, and reclaim your energy before summer begins.

📬 Subscribe to the newsletter & explore the Summer Thrive Series—links in the show notes!

If this resonated with you, share it with a fellow educator, leave a comment, and join our growing community of thoughtful teachers.

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

https://linktr.ee/whyedify

👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/

🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

The Chromebook Conundrum: Distraction vs. Learning

In this episode, Jeremy Jorgensen explores significant themes reshaping education, including the challenges posed by technology like Chromebooks, the impact of AI on critical thinking, and the therapeutic role of music in personal and professional life. He offers insights and strategies for educators to navigate these challenges while emphasizing the importance of personal reflection and well-being in teaching.

Read this newsletter: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/chromebook-conundrum/

Takeaways

Technology has both enhanced and challenged professional practice.

Chromebooks are causing significant classroom distractions.

AI is affecting students' critical thinking skills.

Assignments should require personal reflection to combat AI reliance.

Handwriting remains a valuable skill for learning.

Music can enhance emotional well-being and cognitive development.

Creating intentional listening times can improve focus.

Ikigai helps educators reconnect with their purpose.

Burnout prevention is essential for teacher well-being.

Educators should design learning experiences that prioritize deep thinking.

Chapters

00:00 Navigating Educational Challenges

03:06 The Chromebook Conundrum

06:52 AI and Critical Thinking

10:25 Harnessing the Power of Music

17:04 Finding Your Ikigai in Education

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

https://linktr.ee/whyedify

👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

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🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/

Teachers: Don’t Let the Year Fizzle Out — Finish Strong!

How do you keep classroom expectations high when your energy is low? In this episode, educator Jeremy Jorgensen explores why it's essential to maintain high standards in the classroom, even at the end of the school year, and how doing so can positively impact both students and teachers.

You’ll learn:

Why students thrive on structure and consistency, especially in May and June

How maintaining expectations helps students finish strong and builds confidence.

Tips for managing your own energy while reinforcing routines

The ripple effect of finishing the year with intention and integrity

How can these final weeks can prepare students for future success

This podcast is perfect for teachers, school leaders, and anyone in education looking for motivation and practical strategies to finish the year strong. 🌟

👉 Question for you: What strategies do YOU use to keep expectations high at the end of the school year? Share in the comments!

Read the article: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/keep-the-bar-high-how-consistent-expectations-transform-your-end-of-year-classroom/

📬 Get Involved:

✉️ Sign up for the Friday Five Newsletter for Teachers:

https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/newsletter

💪 Take the 30-Day Educator Challenge (Mind, Body & Spirit):

https://bit.ly/3PS4zM7

☕ Support Why Edify:

https://buymeacoffee.com/whyedify

🤝 Connect with Jeremy:

https://linktr.ee/whyedify

👕 Shop Why Edify Gear:

https://www.bonfire.com/store/why-edify/

🌐 Connect with Jeremy Jorgensen:

👉 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/why_edify/

👉 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-jorgensen321/

👉 Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/why-edify.bsky.social

👉 Website: https://www.jeremyajorgensen.com/