Start Smart Podcast

In our epic season finale kickoff, we're counting down the Top 5 Best Pieces of Teaching Advice from the entire season—real wisdom from real educators! 💡

Whether you're prepping your first classroom or you're a seasoned pro looking to refresh your approach, this episode is packed with high-impact insights on:

🛠️ Classroom Setup
🔁 Must-Have Procedures
📚 Lesson Planning that Actually Works
💬 Behavior Managemen...

In this episode, we dive into the essential strategies every aspiring teacher needs to know before stepping into the interview room. Whether you're a recent graduate or an experienced educator looking for a new opportunity, these insider tips and real-life advice will help you stand out from the competition.

We'll cover:

• Key questions you’re likely to face—and how to answer them with confidence

• Tips for showcasing your uni...

In this episode, we’re breaking down a key topic in education and inclusive teaching: the difference between accommodations and modifications. Whether you're a new teacher, a seasoned educator, or a parent trying to better understand your child's support plan, this conversation will help clear things up.

We'll cover:

• What accommodations and modifications really mean

• How each supports student learning in different ways

• R...

State testing season can be overwhelming, especially for new teachers navigating the ins and outs of proctoring. In this episode, we’re breaking down everything you need to know to confidently administer the California Assessment of Student Performance and Progress (CAASPP) and ensure a smooth testing experience for students.

We’ll cover:

• Key responsibilities and test security guidelines every proctor must know

• Best pract...

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most important (and sometimes nerve-wracking) parts of teaching—parent-teacher conferences! Whether it’s your first time or you’re looking to improve, we’ve got you covered with practical strategies to help you feel confident and prepared.

Join us as we discuss:
 How to set a positive tone from the start
 Effective ways to communicate student progress (even when it’s tough)
 Str...

In part two of our deep dive into teacher burnout, we move beyond quick fixes and focus on long-term solutions for sustainable teaching. Burnout isn’t just about stress—it’s about systemic challenges, lack of support, and emotional exhaustion. So how can educators create a career that’s both fulfilling and manageable?

In this episode, we discuss ways to cultivate resilience, advocate for better work-life balance, and build a sustain...

In this episode, we tackle one of the biggest challenges facing educators today—teacher burnout. With long hours, high expectations, and emotional demands, it's no surprise that many new teachers find themselves overwhelmed early in their careers. But burnout doesn’t have to be inevitable.

Join us as we explore the root causes of teacher burnout and share practical strategies to help new teachers maintain their passion and well-...

In this episode, we dive into the power of bell-to-bell instruction and how teachers can make the most of every moment in the classroom. From the first bell to the last, structuring your lessons with purpose keeps students engaged and maximizes learning.

We'll break down the essential components of an effective lesson, including:
 Bell Ringers – Kickstarting engagement from the moment students walk in.
 Direct Instruction – Delivering...

📚✨ Teaching is more than just a job—it’s a balancing act of relationships, expectations, and professionalism. In this episode, we dive into the essential boundaries every educator should set to foster a healthy and productive environment.

🎙️ Join us as we explore:
✔Teacher-Student Boundaries – Maintaining respect, trust, and professionalism while supporting students.
✔Teacher-Teacher Boundaries – Navigating friendships, coll...

Are you ready for the unexpected? In this episode, we dive into the essentials of creating a 3-day emergency kit and share smart strategies for planning absences—whether they’re scheduled or last-minute. Learn how to make your absence purposeful by leaving engaging activities, choice boards, reading materials, and thought-provoking questions for your students. Plus, discover why leaving a little extra can make all the difference. ...

Building Classroom Culture (Part 4)

Looking to spark connection, collaboration, and creativity in your classroom? This episode is packed with dynamic icebreaker games designed to cultivate a positive classroom culture while seamlessly integrating curriculum goals. Whether you're aiming to kick off the school year, energize a group, or bring a lesson to life, these fun and versatile activities are just what you need!

We’ll dive int...

Building Classroom Culture (Part 3)

In this week’s episode, we dive deeper into building a thriving classroom culture by unlocking the power of three game-changing strategies:

Setting high expectations that inspire students to reach their full potential Creating a classroom incentive system that motivates and engages Mastering behavior management techniques that keep everything running smoothly in your classroom.

Tune in for ...

Building Classroom Culture (Part 2)

In this episode, we explore effective strategies to enhance classroom management and create a positive, inclusive environment for your students. You'll learn how to: Create a sense of belonging by designing a space where all students feel valued Assign classroom jobs to promote responsibility and engagement Decorate your classroom with purpose to make it inviting and functional Let students...

Building Classroom Culture (Part 1)

In this episode, we dive into the art of relationship building in educational environments. Whether you're a student, teacher, or parent, understanding how to create meaningful connections is key to fostering success.

We’ll explore:

How to create a dynamic and effective learning environment where everyone thrives. The Golden Rule: Treat others how you want to be treated… but is there a bet...