Before we jump into the new year, I’m inviting you to slow down and reflect. In this episode, I’m sharing 8 powerful questions that have helped me (and other teachers like you) reconnect with what really matters in the classroom—and in life. These questions aren’t about setting goals or fixing everything overnight. They’re about tuning into your inner teacher voice, rediscovering what lights you up, and choosing a path forward that feels aligned, not assigned. If you’ve felt stretched thin, burned out, or just “off” this year, this conversation will help you pause, reflect, and reignite your spark.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: ✨ The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops – Short, inspiring PD designed to support YOU Including: The One Word Workshop Reignite Your Passion For Teaching Self-Care Solutions Virtual Teacher Art Retreat - includes 10+ arts integration workshops!   Use code DEC10 to save 10% Only available through December! 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/pd   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

If you’ve ever wondered how to build real connection with your students (especially the tricky ones), or if you’ve felt like student behavior is pulling you away from the joy of teaching, this episode is for you. Here’s the thing: when we bring ourselves—our stories, our passions—into the classroom, everything changes. Students lean in, relationships grow stronger, and behavior starts to shift in powerful ways. I can't wait to share how this worked for me over the years. ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops Available only in December! This special collection includes creative, teacher-centered workshops on using music in the classroom, building stronger relationships, calming behavior, and infusing more YOU into your teaching. Each one is PD-certified—so you can invest in yourself and earn PD hours while doing it! 👉 Go to the Vault now https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Music isn’t just a mood-booster—it’s a classroom management tool, a community builder, and a creative way to support your students' emotional regulation. (And it doesn’t take hours to implement!) In this episode, I’m sharing the 3 ways you can listen to music in the classroom —ones that go beyond background noise and actually help build connection, improve focus, and support better behavior.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops – PD that actually inspires you (open only through December!) ➡️ https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd 🎁 Use code DEC10 at checkout to save 10% Head into winter break with a new mindset, a few music-powered strategies, and the inspiration you’ve been craving.   Workshops Mentioned that are in The VAULT: ➡️ https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd Bring Music into Your Curriculum includes Inspired by Listening Book Build Relationship through SEAL: Social-Emotional Artistic Learning Celebrate Beethoven in the Classroom (theinspiredclassroom.com/shop)   ➡️ Become an INSIDER! Come join my free Inspired Classroom Newsletter where you'll discover creative learning strategies, engage your students, and take back control of your own classroom. https://theinspiredclassroom.com/insider       ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Let’s talk about messy projects—you know, the glue-in-your-hair, paint-on-the-desk, “what is this even supposed to be?” kind of mess. It's all good... Learning isn’t supposed to be tidy all the time, and when we focus on the process over the product, we give our students something deeper than just a cute final result—we give them a real, memorable learning experience. If you’ve been avoiding those creative projects because they feel like “too much,” this episode is just want you need to hear.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops – PD that actually inspires you (open only through December!) ➡️ https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd 🎁 Use code DEC10 at checkout to save 10% Head into winter break with a new mindset, a few creative strategies, and the inspiration you’ve been craving.   Workshops Mentioned that are in The VAULT: Virtual Teacher Art Retreat - including 10+ workshops in arts integration! Friendly Friday Framework   ➡️ Become an INSIDER! Come join my free Inspired Classroom Newsletter where you'll discover creative learning strategies, engage your students, and take back control of your own classroom. https://theinspiredclassroom.com/insider     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Let’s be honest—burnout is real, and it’s affecting amazing teachers like you every single day. In this episode, I sit down with Erin Sponaugle, a 23-year teaching veteran and author of the book Teachaholic to talk about why burnout happens… and why it’s not your fault. We chat about what’s draining your energy in the classroom (spoiler: it’s not just the kids), what’s missing from most PD, and how to start building real boundaries that protect your creativity and well-being. This one’s full of heart, truth, and a whole lot of encouragement for teachers who are ready to stop surviving and start enjoying teaching again. If you’ve been questioning how long you can keep doing this, feeling like you’re failing when really the system is failing you—this episode will help you feel seen, understood, and empowered to make a shift. And hey—Erin also interviewed me on her podcast this week! Go listen to our conversation on Next Chapter for Teachers after this one.   🔗 Links Mentioned Erin’s book: Teachaholic (Available on Amazon) Erin’s podcast: Next Chapter for Teachers Podcast The Vault of Teacher-Centered PD Workshops (open only in December!): theinspiredclassroom.com/pd Use code DEC10 to save 10%   School PD isn’t cutting it—and you know it. This December, grab PD that gets you. Workshops inside the Vault are short, practical, and designed for real teachers with real classrooms. Check it out at theinspiredclassroom.com/pd and use code DEC10 to save 10%.   ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

December in the classroom can feel like trying to teach in the middle of a snow globe—glitter everywhere, chaos swirling, and you're just trying to make it to break with your sanity (and your classroom) intact. In this episode, I’m sharing 5 simple, actually doable strategies to help you handle behavior issues and keep your students engaged while also giving yourself space to breathe. We’ll talk about: Sanity-saving ideas that don’t require hours of prep Simple crafts, music, and community-building activities Incentives and classroom games that keep students motivated A "little-known" December holiday that I've celebrated since I started teaching And a clever little MOVIE trick that’ll save your last-day plans! Ready to make December a little more fun, calm, and connected? Tune in and walk away with practical ideas you can use tomorrow.   Resources Mentioned: 🎶 Celebrate Beethoven in the Classroom: https://theinspiredclassroom.com/shop 📽️ My Simple Holiday Origami Tutorial: YouTube Channel https://youtu.be/861BP7ThVGw?si=gbDYLSVDQz4Gp4kT   ✨ Time to GET INSPIRED! If December’s got you running on peppermint mochas and pure adrenaline, it’s time to gift yourself something better—PD that actually helps. The Vault is open, friend. Let’s make this the season you choose YOU. 👉 Go to https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd   The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops is open for December only! This is your chance to grab PD hours while learning things that actually help with student behavior, SEL, and bringing creativity back—on your terms. 🎁 Use code DEC10 to save 10%       ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

This bonus episode is a little different—and a little bold. I’m talking about something that might go against what we’ve always been told as teachers: being too student-centered. (Yep. I said it.) If you’re feeling burned out, uninspired, or like the PD you’re “supposed to” do just doesn’t hit the mark—this episode is for you! We’ll explore why so much professional development leaves us depleted instead of inspired, and how taking back control of your learning can actually make you feel like a whole, creative teacher again. ✨ Plus, I share a special opportunity that's only available this month:The Vault of Teacher-Centered Workshops is open now through December! Go to https://theinspiredclassroom.com/pd and use code DEC10 to get 10% off ALL workshops. These short, practical, creative sessions are exactly what we need—especially when the usual PD isn’t cutting it. So if you’re ready to put yourself back at the center of your teaching… press play. ~Elizabeth  ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

I’m getting real about something most of us are dealing with (whether we admit it or not): our relationship with social media. I’m sharing my personal story of falling out of love with social media, deleting the apps off my phone (#gasp!), and what I learned through the process. From “just checking notifications” to full-blown scrolling stupors, I’ll walk you through the small changes that made a big impact—not just on my screen time, but on my peace of mind, relationships, and ability to be more present. I’ll also talk about what this means for us as teachers and some simple steps you can take to do your own social media detox! Because if we want our students to have healthy tech habits, we have to start modeling them ourselves. Your time matters. And your joy matters. And I want to help you reclaim both—one scroll-free minute at a time. ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Join me in a Social Media Detox over the next 30 days. There's nothing to sign up for, no workshop to attend, just follow the steps in this episode and then let me know by emailing me!!   How do you email me? If you are on my email list, just respond to any email I've sent you and tell me! If you're not on my Insider Email list yet, sign up here: theinspiredclassroom.com/insider   Ready to reset more than just your phone habits? Join me inside The Classroom Reset, a group coaching program designed to help you reflect, reconnect with what matters, and prioritize your own well-being—so you can show up as the teacher (and human) you want to be. It’s not just a reset for your classroom—it’s a reset for you. 💛 Go to theinspiredclassroom.com/reset    ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Let’s be real—this season can feel like a whirlwind of behaviors, to-do lists, and burnt-out teacher brains. That’s why in this episode, I’m inviting you to take an intentional pause—a real-time gratitude break to reset your mindset and reconnect with what matters most. Really. This episode is a mini-workshop just for YOU! I’ll walk you through a simple and an advanced gratitude strategy you can do with me as you listen. It’s not just about good vibes—it’s about shifting how you see student behavior, how you show up in your classroom, and how you care for yourself (without adding one more thing to your plate). This is your invitation to breathe, reflect, and remember that you have so much to be grateful for! ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: If today’s gratitude break helped calm your mind and lift your heart, imagine what could shift with a little more support. Let this be your sign to not go it alone. Lean into creative, teacher-centered PD that actually fills your spirit—because you deserve to love teaching again.   It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/reset      ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

You know those days when student behavior feels like it’s taking over your classroom—and your peace of mind? In this episode, I’m joined by the incredible Lori Woodley-Langendorff, co-founder of All It Takes and author of SEL Muscle Mastery: 6 Tools for Building Resiliency and Connection in Schools and Communities. Lori and I talk about what’s really going on beneath the surface of student disengagement and dysregulation, and why she calls SEL “Social-Emotional Literacy.” (Spoiler: I love that!) You’ll hear powerful insights into how we can spot the signs of student disconnection early, build trust without being a therapist, and teach emotional resilience through practical strategies—and even through how we show up as educators. If you’re ready to support your students’ social-emotional growth and feel more grounded in your own practice, this is the conversation for you.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Learn More about Lori and her BOOK SEL Muscle Mastery! https://www.selmuscles.com/     Ready to stop the burnout cycle? Visit theinspiredclassroom.com/reset to learn more about The Classroom Reset. It’s like a spa day for your teacher soul—but with a strategy that transforms your classroom. 📍 theinspiredclassroom.com/reset   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

We hear a lot about building teacher-student relationships—but what about peer-to-peer? In this episode, we're diving into why helping students form meaningful friendships may be the most important thing you do all year. You'll learn my simple Friendship Formula, how to teach it explicitly, and how it transforms your classroom culture. Because let’s face it—students can’t learn if they don’t feel like they belong. And belonging? It starts with connection. If your classroom feels disconnected or cliquey, this episode is for you. Discover how to foster real friendships, reduce behavior issues, and create a culture where kids show up ready to learn—and stay connected all year. ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in this Episode: 🌟 Ready to create a classroom where friendships thrive? Inside TCR, you’ll get monthly group coaching, practical strategies, and creative inspiration to help you manage behaviors, build connection, and enjoy teaching again. Visit theinspiredclassroom.com/reset to learn more about The Classroom Reset. It’s like friendship bootcamp for your students—and a relationship refresh for your entire classroom.   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community   ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Raise your mug if you’ve ever said, “I just need to make it to June.” Yep—me too. But here’s the truth: just getting through the year shouldn't be the goal. It’s a red flag—and we need to talk about it.   In this episode, I’m sharing a fresh perspective on what it really means to take the reins of your teaching life. We’ll walk through three practical steps to help you reflect, refocus, and take aligned action—so you can stop surviving and start actually enjoying your classroom again.   If you're feeling stuck, drained, or just going through the motions, this conversation will meet you right where you are—and give you the nudge you need to shift gears.   AND... at the end of the episode, I’ve got an exciting update—yes, the doors to The Classroom Reset are staying open a little longer (but just until Wednesday)! If you missed it, now’s your chance to grab your spot.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Ready to stop the burnout cycle? Visit theinspiredclassroom.com/reset to learn more about The Classroom Reset. It’s like a spa day for your teacher soul—but with a strategy that transforms your classroom. 📍 theinspiredclassroom.com/reset   🔗 Links Mentioned: Free Teacher Reflection Guide: https://theinspiredclassroom.com/freebies/reflection/ Join The Classroom Reset (now open until Wednesday!): https://theinspiredclassroom.com/yes   ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

If you've ever felt the overwhelm of "all the things" you do as a teacher, this one's for you! In this special episode, I share parts of my conversation with Doreen, a fourth-grade teacher who loved teaching but was frustrated with the pressures of teaching we all face. You’ll hear how Doreen discovered a different way—using the arts and SEAL (Social-Emotional Artistic Learning) to bring life back to her everyday. You’ll hear her honest struggles, her turning point, and the powerful shift that helped her students grow AND brought joy back into her teaching.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Want to experience the calm and connection in your classroom again? You will inside The Classroom Reset Group Coaching Program. https://theinspiredclassroom.com/yes It’s like your dream PD day—but no sub plans, no stress, and everything applies directly to your classroom. PLUS - enroll before SUNDAY and you'll get all the Challenge Bonuses too!!   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

We’ve all been there—grading papers during Sunday football, staying late just to stay afloat, and wondering… is this what being a “good teacher” really means? In this episode, I’m calling out the burnout culture that’s become way too normal in education—and sharing why it doesn’t have to be that way. You'll hear a powerful story from a veteran teacher (Doreen) who went from exhausted to excited again, plus a mindset shift that just might change how you view your work and your worth. If you're feeling tired, overwhelmed, or stuck in a cycle of “just surviving,” this is your sign to pause and reset. ~Elizabeth     Mentioned in This Episode: Join the FREE Classroom Reset Challenge (October 21 & 22) https://theinspiredclassroom.com/challenge   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

In this episode, I’m diving into 3 mistakes teachers make when trying to “fix” classroom behavior. Maybe you’ve tried ignoring little disruptions, only to end up reacting later with frustration. Or maybe you’ve leaned on quick tricks—a kindness jar here, a new chart there—only to realize they don’t really change the culture of your classroom. Let's look at why these common mistakes keep you stuck and what you can do instead to create a classroom that feels calm, connected, and ready for real learning.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Join the FREE Classroom Reset Challenge (October 21 & 22) https://theinspiredclassroom.com/challenge     💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

What if improving student behavior wasn’t about sticker charts, new systems, or 30-minute SEL lessons… but about a few small but powerful shifts in how we show up and guide our classrooms? In this episode, I’m diving into the four essential mindset and strategy shifts that will help you reset your classroom climate, support your students’ emotional needs, and reduce those daily behavior battles. Whether you’re feeling burnt out, overwhelmed, or just plain tired of managing behaviors all day—this one’s for you.   👉 I’ll also share one story from my own classroom that proves these strategies really work—even a year later.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Join the FREE Classroom Reset Challenge (October 21 & 22) https://theinspiredclassroom.com/challenge     💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

We’re serving up some truth today—because not all professional development is created equal. Some PD sessions leave you energized but unsure how to apply what you’ve learned. Others feel… well, like a microwaved meal: bland, rushed, and not really made for you. In this episode, we unpack the difference between traditional PD, teacher-centered PD, and the secret sauce that actually makes change stick: coaching. If you’re craving support that feels personal, practical, and empowering—this one’s for you.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: 76 | LIVE COACHING: Can a Substitute Teacher Really Build Connection? A Veteran CRT’s Breakthrough with Disruptive Students   You’ve had the microwaved PD. You’ve tried the pre-packaged strategies. Now it’s time for a full-course experience—crafted just for you. Join me and a community of caring, creative teachers inside The Classroom Reset—where professional development is personalized, coaching is built in, and every session leaves you feeling seen, supported, and seriously inspired. 🍽️ It’s like sitting down to the most nourishing, soul-filling meal with your favorite teacher friends—AND you walk away with a real plan. theinspiredclassroom.com/reset     💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

You know those hallway convos or lunchroom rants that start out as harmless venting… and somehow leave you feeling more exhausted? Yeah, me too. In this episode, I’m diving into why those “teacher talk” moments—even with the best of colleagues—don’t always lead to real growth, and what you can do instead. I’m sharing the real reason we stay stuck in burnout and how coaching (the good kind!) can give you the fresh perspective, clarity, and energy you’ve been craving. If you’re ready to stop spinning your wheels and start enjoying teaching again, this is your sign. 🎁 Plus—don’t miss the giveaway I’m hosting to celebrate this community! You could win a 1:1 coaching session with me, some fun teacher treats, and support that actually moves you forward. 💬 Tune in and ask yourself: Is your “support system” keeping you stuck?   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: ENTER THE GIVEAWAY! This week, I’m giving away THREE amazing prize bundles to celebrate this community and help more teachers discover the Enjoy Teaching Again podcast. 🎉 Here’s what you could win: ✨ A 30 minute coaching call with me where we can talk through anything you need—student behavior challenges, creative lesson ideas, boundaries, overwhelm, you name it. ✨ A 10% off coupon to my entire TpT store ✨ And a $25 Amazon gift card (because you deserve a treat—for your classroom or just for you!) Here’s how to enter: Step 1 – Leave a positive review for the Enjoy Teaching Again podcast or share your favorite episode on Facebook or Instagram. Step 2 – Take a screenshot Step 3 – Post your screenshot (either the review or the share) inside my free FB group: Inspiring Teachers. theinspiredclassroom.com/community And don’t forget to use the hashtag #giveaway so I can find your entry! I’ll be tracking all entries in the group from Sept 16–23 Entries close at midnight on the 23, and I’ll announce the winners on Sept 26. 🎉 This is your chance to get a little coaching, a lot of encouragement, and maybe a sweet surprise for your classroom (or just for yourself!). So go ahead—leave a review, share something that inspired you, and pop into the group with your #giveaway post. Can’t wait to see what you share!   🌟 Ready for the kind of support that actually helps? Inside TCR, you’ll get monthly group coaching, practical strategies, and creative inspiration to help you manage behaviors, build connection, and enjoy teaching again. Visit theinspiredclassroom.com/reset to learn more about The Classroom Reset. It’s like having a teacher BFF, mentor, and coach—all rolled into one program of clarity and encouragement.     💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

Ever wonder how you're supposed to connect with students when you're only in the room for a day—or even just a class period? In this episode, I sit down with Vicki, a CRT or Casual Relief Teacher (that’s what we’d call a substitute here in the U.S.) from Australia with over 30 years of experience. She's frustrated, she's compassionate, and she’s so real about the behavior challenges she's facing—especially when connection feels almost impossible. You’ll hear how we worked through some mindset shifts and practical strategies to help her feel less drained and more empowered—even in a role that doesn’t allow for long-term relationships.   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: Just like Vicki did in this episode, you can pause, reflect, and reset—without needing a full classroom makeover. Inside The Classroom Reset, I’ll coach you through practical ways to build connection, even when time is short and behaviors are big. 🌟 You don’t have to do this alone. Join us at theinspiredclassroom.com/reset.     💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community     ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom

In this episode, I get real about the question so many of us are quietly asking: Is teaching still worth it? If you’ve found yourself living for weekends, counting the days until the next vacation, or wondering if you can really do this for another 5, 10, or 15 years… this conversation is for you. We’ll explore what’s really at the heart of your teaching career, and I’ll share 3 steps from my Reset Framework that will help you go from survival mode to actually enjoying your classroom again — without adding more to your plate. You deserve to feel good about walking into your classroom every day — and your students deserve the best version of you. So, let's get this conversation going!   ~Elizabeth   Mentioned in This Episode: 🎸 If you’re tired of just surviving the school year and wondering if teaching is even worth it anymore, it’s time for a reset — The Classroom Reset. Think of it like hitting pause, cranking up the volume on your creativity, and walking back into your classroom with a plan that actually makes you want to teach again. theinspiredclassroom.com/reset   💬 Let’s keep this conversation going! (There's so much to talk about!) Come join our free Inspired Classroom Community where creative, passionate teachers connect, share ideas, and cheer each other on. It’s your safe space to be inspired, supported, and reminded you’re not in this alone. 👉 theinspiredclassroom.com/community   ✨ Connect with me! Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom