Band Director Boot Camp

In this moving episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes longtime New York band director and debut author Lindsey Williams. Together, they explore themes of resilience, loss, recovery, and mentorship through the lens of Lindsey’s powerful new book, Where the Valley Widens—a collection of 40 stories inspired by her first group of students who journeyed with her from pre-K to high school graduation.Lindsey opens up about the unexpected challenges she faced, including the loss of her school and teaching materials to a flood and the heartbreak of pandemic-era graduations. She shares the emotional story of her mentor’s lasting influence, how a file folder became a lifeline, and how her book ultimately became a legacy box of memories and encouragement for others.Whether you're a veteran teacher, a new educator, or someone looking for a reminder of why this work matters, this episode offers heartfelt insight and uplifting takeaways. Lindsey’s reflections are a tribute to the teaching profession, the power of mentorship, and the importance of preserving the meaningful moments that sustain us through tough times.Connect with her at lindseywilliamsmusic.com. Instagram: @LindseyWilliamsMusicFacebook: facebook.com/LindseyWilliamsMusic/Link to Bookshop Order Page:Link to Amazon Order Page:

In this inspiring episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes singer-songwriter, TEDx speaker, and youth empowerment coach Emma G. Her story is nothing short of remarkable—born with hydrocephalus and having undergone 23 brain surgeries, Emma found healing and purpose through songwriting. Now she helps others do the same.Lesley and Emma dive into:How music supported Emma’s physical and emotional healingWhy songwriting is such a powerful tool for student expression, especially post-COVIDThe neuroscience behind music’s ability to rewire the brainEmma’s experience working with students (including Lesley’s!) to help them process emotions through musicTips for band directors and music teachers to bring songwriting into the classroom—even without a formal songwriting backgroundIf you’ve ever watched a student struggle with big emotions or felt your own burnout creeping in, this episode will renew your belief in the transformative power of music. Plus, Emma shares actionable steps to start songwriting and discusses her new book Mental Health Sounds Like This.Learn more at emmagmusic.com and connect with her on all socials @emmagmusic.

In this heartfelt and practical episode of the Band Director Boot Camp Podcast, Lesley Moffat is joined by Jeanette Mihalchik, host of The Happy Music Teacher podcast and YouTube channel. Jeanette shares her journey from total overwhelm and burnout—sitting on the classroom floor wondering if she could keep going—to becoming a thriving, joy-filled educator committed to helping others rediscover their spark.Together, Lesley and Jeanette explore:The realities of entering teaching through the “back door” and learning on the flyWhat to do when the job feels unsustainable—even if you love the kidsWhy movement, brain breaks, and student-led moments make a differenceHow mindset shifts and small pivots can turn exhaustion into engagementConcrete strategies for making teaching feel easier and more joyful at any grade levelYou’ll leave this episode with renewed hope and a few easy-to-implement tools to bring more energy, balance, and student connection into your classroom.Learn more about Jeanette’s resources and sign up for her free weekly “Happy Highlights” at thehappymusicteacher.com/lesson-plan-samplerHer website: https://thehappymusicteacher.comFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/share/g/15mAFiMcPk/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehappymusicteacher/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thehappymusicteacher?

In this revealing episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat welcomes Megan Cooney, Director of Athletic Bands at Rowan University, to share the behind-the-scenes reality of starting a collegiate band program from scratch. From budgeting to branding to building leadership, Megan walks us through the surprising and often overlooked responsibilities of life as a college band director.You’ll learn:Why collegiate band directors operate more like small business owners than conductorsThe difference between high school and college support systems (no band boosters!)The logistical demands of designing uniforms, managing million-dollar budgets, and insuring equipmentHow student leadership becomes essential—and why she pays her leadersWhy game day is a 14-hour marathon that requires hydration planning, mental prep, and physical staminaThe call for collaboration: Megan invites other collegiate directors to help create resources for those entering this unique career pathIf you're curious about the college track—or helping others succeed in it—this episode is packed with hard-earned wisdom and a passionate call to support the next generation of music educators.

Glenn Williams, a veteran music educator with decades of experience in high school bands and mentorship, shares his insights on transformative literature for music teachers. He emphasizes the power of 'The Last Lecture' in defining one's legacy and how 'The Art of Possibility' can shift your classroom culture. Glenn also discusses 'A Guide to Student Teaching in Band,' offering timeless wisdom, and breaks down the 7 Norms of Collaboration, providing practical tools for building effective teams. This conversation is filled with reflection, inspiration, and essential advice for educators.

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, Lesley Moffat sits down with Don Crafton, founder and CEO of Sight Reading Factory, to explore how this innovative platform helps band directors save time, reduce stress, and build stronger music literacy in their students.Don shares how his own frustrations as a band director led him to create a customizable, algorithm-based tool that allows for fresh sight reading exercises every time. You’ll learn how Sight Reading Factory:Eliminates the chaos of paper sight reading materialsMakes daily sight reading realistic and time-efficient (even just 5 minutes!)Offers auto-assessment and instant visual feedback for student growthSupports differentiation, SPED, and ELL learners with built-in data collectionReinforces concepts alongside method books—even for beginnersProvides powerful data for teacher evaluations and administrative conversationsWhether you're new to tech or a seasoned pro, this episode will show you how to use sight reading not just to prep for performance, but to foster independence and confidence in every student.https://sightreadingfactory.com

In this energizing and practical episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, Lesley Moffat is joined by fitness expert Jonathan Simos, who shares easy, sustainable strategies for weaving exercise into even the busiest teaching schedule. Jonathan opens up about his journey from injury-prone teenager to Guinness World Record holder and certified trainer—showing how fitness transformed his body, mindset, and life.Lesley and Jonathan dive into the parallels between building a healthy body and teaching music: mastering fundamentals, staying consistent, and doing things the right way to prevent damage. Whether you are brand new to exercise or struggling to stay consistent during concert season chaos, you’ll walk away with doable tips to improve your physical and mental wellness.What You’ll Learn:How to break down effective full-body workouts into simple, time-saving routinesWhy fitness is a “keystone habit” that benefits every part of your lifeWays to stay active even when your schedule is packed to the maxLesley’s personal push-up journey and how tiny consistent actions lead to transformationHow to find movement you enjoy—so you’ll actually stick with itYou’ll also hear about Jonathan’s upcoming fitness venture, why coaching matters, and how building strength can help you show up stronger for your students and yourself. This episode is your reminder that taking care of your body isn't selfish—it's essential for a sustainable, joyful teaching career.Guest Info:Follow Jonathan on Instagram: @jonathan.simosCheck out his upcoming program and community: neuxist.com

In this episode of Band Director Boot Camp, host Lesley Moffat sits down with Bill Kennelly of Kennelly Keys Music—a longtime friend of music education and sponsor of Season 4—to talk about how relationships with independent music stores can transform your program, reduce your workload, and support your students in meaningful ways.Lesley and Bill discuss how music stores can be more than just suppliers—they can be true partners. From picking up and repairing instruments, to sponsoring festivals, to showing up at school board meetings to advocate for music education, the support goes far beyond sales. Bill shares heartfelt stories of growing up in the industry, honoring his father's legacy, and how mentorship and service have driven his success.Listeners will walk away with a renewed appreciation for the behind-the-scenes heroes who keep music education thriving, along with specific ideas for how to build or strengthen these vital community relationships.

In this energizing episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, Lesley Moffat sits down with M.J. Robinson—band director, mom, and President-Elect of Women Band Directors International—to discuss how managing your energy can transform not only your teaching but your entire life.M.J. shares her journey from quiet wallflower to confident educator and leader, crediting the power of community, mentorship, and intentional mindset work. This episode is packed with practical strategies for navigating toxic work environments, setting energetic boundaries, and reclaiming joy in the classroom. M.J. opens up about the importance of resetting throughout the day, using music as a form of emotional processing, and building resilience without burning out.You’ll also hear about simple tools like affirmation apps, running, and self-talk that help M.J. stay grounded, focused, and full of genuine positivity—even in tough situations. Whether you're feeling stuck, overstimulated, or just need a spark of inspiration, this episode is a must-listen.

In this milestone episode of the Band Director Boot Camp podcast, host Lesley Moffat welcomes—as her 100th guest—the inspiring Dr. Shannon Shaker—assistant professor and Director of Bands at Grand Rapids Community College. In a conversation full of honesty and heart, Shannon shares how she forged her own unique path to the podium, from early years in poverty and working at McDonald's to earning her doctorate in wind conducting.Lesley and Shannon dive into topics many music educators will relate to—impostor syndrome, surviving toxic work environments, and the importance of finding the right fit rather than blaming yourself. Shannon talks candidly about the challenges of transitioning from elementary music to higher education, and how resilience was born out of necessity.The episode also offers tangible wellness advice and encouragement to band directors seeking sustainable, joyful careers. Shannon shares four powerful wellness tips—including the life-changing power of sleep—and speaks about the community-building magic of side projects like her Beer City Winds ensemble. Whether you’re navigating burnout or dreaming of your next professional step, this conversation will help you feel seen, supported, and inspired.website: www.shannonshaker.comemail: shannonshaker@grcc.edu