The Minimalist Educator Podcast

What if "good enough" really was good enough? Perfectionism has become an invisible burden in education, driving burnout and diminishing joy for both teachers and students. In this enlightening conversation, we explore the revolutionary concept of embracing an "ish" mindset—an approach that celebrates progress over perfection and creates space for genuine growth.Drawing inspiration from Peter H. Reynolds' picture book "Ish" and Jo Bowler's "Math-ish," we unpack how this transformative thinking applies to classroom practice. When we step back from rigid expectations and all-or-nothing thinking, we discover the freedom to analyze what's working, learn from what isn't, and keep moving forward. This isn't about lowering standards—it's about setting reasonable expectations that honor the messy reality of teaching and learning.We tackle the uncomfortable double standard many educators live with: encouraging students to learn from mistakes while expecting flawless performance from themselves. By adopting an "ish" approach to planning, assessment, and professional growth, teachers can create more sustainable practices that model authentic learning. The conversation explores practical applications, from flexible lesson planning to reflective practice that focuses on direction rather than perfection.Whether you're struggling with burnout, feeling trapped by expectations of excellence, or simply seeking a more balanced approach to your work, this episode offers a refreshing perspective that might just change how you view success in education. Listen now to discover how embracing the power of "ish" could transform your teaching experience and reignite your joy in the classroom.This episode is sponsored by Plan Z Education. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Feeling overwhelmed by the constant barrage of new programs and initiatives hitting your school? You're not alone. In this thought-provoking conversation, Christine and Tammy tackle the challenge of "initiative clutter" that plagues schools everywhere.The hard truth is that we've created an unsustainable cycle in education. Research clearly shows meaningful change requires 3-5 years for proper implementation, yet schools typically cycle through initiatives every two years. This creates not just fatigue, but genuine frustration as educators invest time mastering approaches only to abandon them before seeing results. As one host points out, "You haven't really had enough time to see from the data whether it is effective or not."The hosts distinguish between mandated initiatives (those coming from district or state levels) and self-selected ones, exploring how each presents unique challenges. They emphasize the crucial role school leaders play as gatekeepers who set the tone for implementation. Leaders who dictate "front cover to back cover, no questions asked" create resistance, while those who invite collaboration and contextual adaptation foster sustainable change.Whether you're a classroom teacher feeling whiplashed by constant change or an administrator trying to balance district mandates with your school's unique needs, this episode offers practical strategies for decluttering your approach. Learn how to evaluate initiatives against your school's strategic plan, identify what truly serves your community, and build your capacity to navigate change with purpose.Ready to break free from the initiative merry-go-round? Subscribe now and join the conversation about teaching and leading with greater clarity, purpose, and joy.This episode is sponsored by Plan Z Education. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Christine and Tammy celebrate the launch of Season 5 of The Minimalist Educator podcast by previewing their engaging lineup of education experts and thought leaders who share insights on streamlining work and preserving wellbeing!• Ming Shelby returns to discuss the transformative power of positivity in difficult conversations• Dr. Monica Burns returns to explores ethical AI use as an assistant rather than replacement for teachers• Craig Randal introduces his trust-based observation framework that simplifies teacher evaluations• Steven Puri shares productivity techniques from his Hollywood experience that help educators find flow• John Spencer offers practical approaches to increasing student agency and engagement• Each conversation centers on minimalist principles: simplifying processes, clarifying priorities, and finding greater purposeToday's episode was brought to you by Plan Z Education Services: forward-thinking educator support. Find out more at planzeducations.com. If today's episode helped you rethink, reimagine, reduce or realign something in your practice, share it in a comment or with a colleague.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

We've compiled the best "pare down pointers" from our incredible Season 4 guests into one special highlights episode, offering powerful insights and reminders about minimizing complexity in education.• Craig Rudolph emphasizes being available, responding promptly to inquiries, and genuinely listening to what people need• Jill Cross shares how color-coding systems help both students and teachers with organization• Dr. Michele Ogden reminds us "just because you can doesn't mean you should" when making career decisions• Fred Ende recommends stepping away for 24 hours when facing complex problems• Lisa Fort discusses classroom organization strategies that save time and reduce stress• Lori Namey advocates for "people by day, paperwork by night" to prioritize human connections• Dr. Krista Leh urges educators to remember they don't have to do anything alone• Dr. Tom Hoerr challenges educators to prioritize self-care amid caring for others• Lindsay Durkin emphasizes clearly defined objectives by asking "what are we solving for?"We're taking a break for the summer but will be back with Season 5 featuring fresh conversations, new guests, and more ideas to explore. Thank you for being part of our growing community!Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Have you ever wished you could send a message back in time to your beginning-of-year self? That's exactly what we explore in this reflective episode as another school year draws to a close.The transition between academic years often happens at breakneck speed, with little time to acknowledge how much we've grown and changed. Tammy and I share the letters we would write to our September selves, capturing the wisdom gained through challenges, surprises, and victories along the way.Through honest conversation, we unpack key lessons that emerged this year. Tammy reflects on her coaching experiences and the feedback from teachers who've gained confidence and consistency in their practice. She wishes she had created better systems to implement the valuable professional learning she experienced throughout the year. Meanwhile, I share how I entered the year knowing I faced numerous major responsibilities, including school accreditation, and how I learned that "I can handle this" was the message I needed most.Our discussion reveals how flexibility became a survival skill, especially when unexpected situations hijacked carefully planned agendas. We talk about the value of collegial relationships and how schools that prioritize teacher collaboration time see significant benefits in staff morale and effectiveness. We also touch on how certain episodes, particularly our "Partners of Educators" two-parter, resonated deeply with listeners.The episode concludes with pare-down pointers that encapsulate our reflections: "Go gently with yourself" and "Keep it simple." These reminders to practice self-compassion and avoid overcomplicating future challenges offer valuable perspective for educators wrapping up their own school years.Whether you're ending your school year now or have a few weeks remaining, we hope this episode encourages you to pause and reflect on your own journey. What would you tell your September self? What lessons will you carry forward? Connect with us @PlanZPLS on Instagram – we'd love to hear your reflections.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Tammy and Christine revisit their 2021 book "The Minimalist Teacher," reflecting on which concepts remain relevant in today's educational landscape and the ongoing conversations they're having with educators about minimalist approaches.• The Triple P funnel (Purpose, Priorities, Paring Down) helps teachers declutter instructional practices and assessment strategies• Teachers often feel overwhelmed by excessive resources and materials that weren't designed with their specific students in mind• Creating boundaries around when to check emails and limiting digital clutter can reduce cognitive overwhelm• The concept of "teaching with fidelity" must be balanced with responsiveness to student needs• Creating a culture of minimalism focuses on preventing burnout and reconceptualizing all forms of waste• Educators experience not just physical waste but emotional, cognitive, and temporal waste that drains energy• Building emotional intelligence and creating transition times in meetings helps educators manage stress• Setting boundaries around venting time can help process frustrations without derailing productivityIf you haven't yet picked up a copy of "The Minimalist Teacher," it's still available to purchase at any online book shop. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Dr. Michele Ogden shares her journey from elementary principal back to the classroom, highlighting the importance of aligning career choices with personal strengths and sources of joy. Her story challenges traditional career progression narratives, demonstrating how finding the right fit can enhance wellbeing and professional satisfaction.• Former elementary principal who returned to teaching second and third grade• Experienced burnout during COVID with high blood pressure, insomnia and anxiety from administrative demands• Found greater purpose and joy working directly with students all day• Brought valuable leadership skills from administration into classroom teaching• Creates consistent routines, calm environment and strong community in her classroom• Emphasizes the importance of joyful connections with both students and colleagues• Philosophy of making students sad when they miss school - creating positive FOMO• Wisdom: "Just because you can, doesn't mean you should"• Encourages educators to reflect on what energizes them versus what drains themThis episode is sponsored by Joyful Learning Connections. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Dr. Krista Leh returns to discuss how educators can effectively integrate social emotional learning into their teaching without adding to their workload, emphasizing the importance of recognizing SEL skills already present in their practices.• Teachers continue to struggle with balancing personal lives and professional obligations while facing constant addition of new initiatives• SEL is more than just building relationships—it's a set of interpersonal and intrapersonal skills that teachers are often already incorporating• Research shows students only need one caring, consistent adult to make a difference in their lives• Middle school leadership programs can effectively build student SEL skills by providing structured opportunities to explore character strengths• Workshop design should honor participant expertise and create safe spaces for collaboration• Free resources available at resonanceed.com for teachers looking to enhance their SEL practices• Integration starts by examining existing practices and identifying the SEL skills already embedded in classroom activitiesYou don't have to do anything alone. Reach out to colleagues who can help you relate to students better, connect with someone who has different expertise, or ask for support at home so you can be your best self.This episode is sponsored by Resonance Education. Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

In this episode of the Minimalist Educator Podcast, we connect with Fred Ende, the Director of Curriculum and Instructional Services at Putnam Northern Westchester BOCES. Fred shares his journey from a middle school science teacher to an educational leader, highlighting the importance of professional development tailored to meet the needs of teachers and students alike. Our conversation explores how minimalism can be a powerful tool in the classroom, addressing common challenges in K-12 education today and the importance of inclusivity and adaptability in teaching practices.Fred emphasizes the need to prioritize listening and reflection, advocating for a thoughtful approach to educational challenges. He discusses exciting developments surrounding New York's graduation requirements, a much-needed shift towards more flexibility for student success. Fred's tasty pare down pointer reminds us that sometimes stepping back can lead to clearer paths forward.If you're an educator looking to simplify your approach and enhance your students' learning experiences, this episode promises to be an enlightening listen! Be sure to subscribe and leave us your thoughts—in what ways do you find simplicity in your teaching?Fred Ende is director of Curriculum and Instructional Services for the Putnam/Northern Westchester Board of Cooperative Educational Services (BOCES) where he is responsible for supporting and leading the development of curriculum, professional learning, and innovative educational initiatives, and is liaison to the New York State Education Department regarding curriculum and instruction requirements and regulations. He served in this same organization as the assistant director of Curriculum and Instructional Services as well as regional science coordinator and director of SCIENCE 21. Before that, he worked for 10 years as a middle school science teacher and department chair in Chappaqua, New York.Contact Fred at http://www.fredende.comInstragram: fred.endeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fredende/Fred's books:Professional Development That Sticks, Forces of Influence, SmartBrief blogsSend us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.

Laurie Namey shares how prioritizing people first in educational leadership leads to transformative school cultures and student achievement. Her leadership philosophy centers on a minimalist principle, proving that when people are valued first, everything else falls into place.• Prioritize people by day, paperwork by night• The physical environment communicates value – students deserve clean, well-maintained spaces• Create non-negotiable routines that center on student interactions• Personalized communication matters – handwritten notes have profound impact• Allow space for vulnerability in leadership when facing challenges• In crisis moments, focus solely on what's best for students• Core values and clear purpose help maintain balance during difficult situations• Hard work, consistent routines, and putting people first are foundation for successRemember what's at the heart of our work – taking care of children first, everything else second.Send us a textSupport the show Buy The Minimalist Teacher book from ASCD+ISTE.Follow on Instagram @PlanZEducation and @minimalist_ed_podcast.The Minimalist Educator Podcast is a Plan Z Education Services adventure.