The Workshop Teacher Podcast

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, host Amanda discusses the critical issue of violence against educators, highlighted by a recent study from the National Education Association and the American Psychological Association. She shares shocking statistics from the 2021-2022 school year, revealing the prevalence of verbal and physical violence towards teachers. Amanda urges educators to use this data to advocate for safer school environments.  Here's a link to the report:  https://www.nea.org/resource-library/keeping-educators-and-students-safe The episode then explores strategies for teaching self-advocacy to students, emphasizing its lifelong importance and the need to create supportive classroom cultures. Amanda provides practical tips for fostering self-advocacy, shares personal stories, and offers tools for integrating these skills into any curriculum. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their responses to student advocacy and consider changes to better support their students. The episode underscores that empowering students and teachers through self-advocacy can lead to a more equitable and compassionate educational experience. 00:00 Introduction and Recent Study on Violence Against Educators 03:05 Personal Reflections on Burnout and Self-Advocacy 08:32 Welcome to the Empower Students Now Podcast 09:36 The Impact of AI on Education 11:41 Essential Skills for Student Success: Self-Knowledge and Advocacy 17:22 Teaching Self-Advocacy: Strategies and Stories 21:01 Creating a Culture of Self-Advocacy in the Classroom 27:41 Practical Strategies for Encouraging Self-Advocacy 30:03 Conclusion and Reflection Free Editable Google Slides to Teach Self Advocacy & More Send Amanda a Message Support the show

In this new series about preparing students for an unknown future, Amanda Werner delves into the essential skill of self-knowledge. The episode explores how self-knowledge can help students navigate an uncertain future influenced by AI advancements. Through personal anecdotes and reflections, Amanda explains how biases and labels from adults can shape a student's identity and why it's crucial for students to have the final say in who they are. The episode offers practical steps and guiding questions for educators to help students develop self-awareness, urging them to reflect on their interests and emotions, and to experiment with various activities. The episode concludes with a challenge for educators to set aside their preconceived labels and rediscover their students' true selves. 00:00 Introduction to the Series 01:16 The Importance of Self-Knowledge 06:05 Personal Journey and Reflections 13:53 Guiding Students to Self-Discovery 19:48 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Send Amanda a Message

In this final episode in a four part series, Amanda Werner talks with Adrian Martinca about the critical pivot period we are in because of AI technology. The conversation outlines three phases: the enchantment phase of initial technological magic, the pivot phase where AI threatens existing dreams, and the potential future of the "Purpose Economy" or "Dream Economy". Adrian emphasizes the importance of encouraging adults, teachers and parents, to become champions for our children's futures amid technological disruption. He discusses the need for meaningful conversations with children to safeguard their sense of purpose and shares various resources and tools to facilitate these conversations, including the "Dream Guide". The episode underscores the importance of addressing the current mental health crisis among children and adults. We must reshape education to prioritize dreams, purpose, and wellbeing. 00:00 Introduction: The Technology Paradox 00:40 The Three Phases of Technological Impact 01:12 Adrian's Commitment to Protecting Our Kids 01:26 The Current Crisis in Education 02:08 Adrian's Vision for the Future 02:52 The Enchantment Phase: A Teacher's Perspective 04:00 The Pivot Phase: The Threat of AI 04:13 The Purpose Economy: A New Vision 07:59 The Importance of Proactive Conversations 11:19 Starting the Movement: The Open Doors Movement 13:39 Empowering Kids Through the "Dream Guide" 24:25 The Role of Parents and Teachers in the Future of Education 32:15 Conclusion: Shaping the Future with Intention Resources Kids Dream Matter Technology for the Future Open Doors Movement Amanda Write Now Send Amanda a Message

Host, Amanda Werner, continues her interview with Adrian Martinca in this episode. Adrian is a technologist and activist working tirelessly on behalf of  children. Adrian invites us to imagine a future where AI has replaced the workforce and the power and efficiency of AI tools has advanced so far that academic learning can be distilled into 20% of the school day, the other 80% of the time? Well, that's where things get exciting and hopeful! Adrian advocates for a transformation in educational focus during this 80% of the school day. This time could allow for more space to breathe, to heal, for adults to pause and really listen to what children have to say. Importantly, this precious time could allow adults to champion the dreams of children. Adrian also discusses his dream of creation of free an online curriculum to support emotional development and familial communication.  00:00 Understanding Kids' Feelings 02:36 The Impact of Technology on Youth 04:56 Overparenting and Its Consequences 07:03 Screen Time and Mental Health 07:35 The Role of Technology in Child Development 15:08 The Future of Parenting and Education 19:12 The Future of Education and Technology 20:49 Creating a Compassionate Curriculum 22:22 Blaming Technology and Uniting Humanity 23:56 Developing Free Online Resources 25:09 Revolutionizing Social Emotional Learning 28:09 Empowering Teachers and Students 31:34 Project-Based Learning and Dream Guides 34:38 Involving Kids in Shaping the Future Resources Kids Dream Matter Technology for the Future Open Doors Movement Amanda Write Now Send Amanda a Message

In this episode, Amanda Werner and Adrian Martinca discuss the fundamental contradictions faced by educators and parents in preparing children for a future dominated by AI. They delve into the disparities between current educational goals and real future job prospects, emphasizing the potential obsolescence of many professions due to automation. The conversation stresses the importance of focusing on children's mental health, sense of purpose, and emotional intelligence as the bedrock of education. Drawing on personal anecdotes and larger societal observations, they argue for a shift towards a purpose-driven, family-oriented learning environment, urging educators to pivot from material-based education to nurturing the human soul. The episode concludes with calls for grassroots efforts and community engagement to bring about this transformative change. 00:00 Defining Reality in Education and Technology 00:39 The Impact of AI on Jobs and Education 01:27 The Future of Work and AI's Role 02:08 Introduction to the Empower Students Now Podcast 02:23 Current Education System Challenges 03:15 AI's Influence on Everyday Jobs 05:22 The Role of Feelings in Education 05:53 A Personal Story: The Birth of a Vision 08:32 Mental Health and the Purpose Economy 18:41 Homeschooling and Alternative Education 20:52 The Future of Education and Personal Development 23:20 The Value of Waking Up 23:37 Concerns About Money and Education 25:14 Future of Work and Family Life 27:28 Addressing Inequality and Homelessness 28:36 AI's Impact on Education and Jobs 34:06 Preparing for a New Economy 39:29 The Role of Community and Kindness 42:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts Resources Kids Dream Matter Technology for the Future Open Doors Movement Amanda Write Now Send Amanda a Message

Part 1 of a 5-Part Series: Your Guide to Navigating AI's Impact on Kids, Education, and the Future Host Amanda Werner and guest Adrian Martinca dive into the challenges and opportunities of technology and AI in education. Adrian shares his personal journey from overcoming the digital divide to founding a nonprofit that empowers kids through access to technology. Together, they explore the impact of AI on children’s dreams, mental health, and the future of learning—emphasizing the importance of open conversations, values, and putting kids’ well-being and feelings at the center of the tech revolution. 0:00 – Introduction & Setting the Stage Amanda introduces Adrian Martinca and frames the episode’s focus on AI, technology, and education. 1:05 – Adrian’s Background Adrian shares his journey from Slovakia to North America, his early experiences with technology, and his motivation to bridge the digital divide. 3:12 – Founding Technology for the Future Adrian discusses starting his nonprofit, giving away computers, and focusing on children’s dreams. 4:20 – The Importance of Dreams Exploring how technology can both empower and limit children’s aspirations. 5:15 – AI as “Alien Intelligence” Adrian introduces the concept of AI as “alien intelligence” and discusses its unpredictable impact. 7:00 – Navigating AI’s Role in Society Amanda and Adrian talk about the challenges of integrating AI into daily life, education, and the workforce. 10:00 – The Three Phases of Technological Change Adrian outlines the “enchantment,” “pivot,” and “purpose economy” phases of tech evolution. 13:00 – Screen Time & Mental Health Discussion of rising screen time among children, its effects on family dynamics, and the need for open conversations. 16:00 – The Role of Parents and Educators Emphasizing the importance of values, safe spaces, and proactive dialogue in guiding children through the tech era. 20:00 – Looking Forward Amanda and Adrian reflect on the need for hope, community, and a focus on well-being as technology continues to evolve. Key Takeaways Technology should be a pathway to dreams, not a barrier. AI’s rapid evolution requires new approaches to education, parenting, and mental health. Open, honest dialogue and a focus on children’s well-being are essential for a positive future. Send Amanda a Message

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, the host Amanda Werner, delves into the heavy topics of suicide and self-harm in relation to AI chatbots. This is part three of a series reflecting on the concerning impact of AI on students, parents, and teachers, especially focusing on the host's personal experiences as a parent. The episode discusses various incidents where AI chatbots have negatively affected children, including a tragic case involving an AI chatbot that led to a teenager's suicide. Emphasizing the necessity of informed discussions about the ethics and safety of AI, Amanda explores the deep concerns about the lack of regulation and control over AI technologies. Articles:  https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/08/another-year-ai-college-cheating/679502/ https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/08/ai-mass-delusion-event/683909/ https://www.cnn.com/2024/10/30/tech/teen-suicide-character-ai-lawsuit https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2025/09/ai-parenting-app/684303/ https://med.stanford.edu/news/insights/2025/08/ai-chatbots-kids-teens-artificial-intelligence.html Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction and Content Warning 00:16 The Impact of AI on Education 02:33 Personal Story: AI's Effect on My Family 03:22 The Dangers of AI Chatbots for Kids 07:22 A Parent's Dilemma: Managing AI Use 08:35 The Broader Implications of AI 12:08 The Black Box Problem 15:09 Conclusion and Call to Action

Amanda Werner on AI in Teaching and Teacherpreneurship: Part 2 In this episode, Amanda Werner, former teacher and current teacherpreneur, dives into her evolving perspective on AI, specifically chatbots like ChatGPT. After initially embracing AI for classroom use and her online business, Amanda shares why she has grown skeptical about the ethical implications of AI, particularly concerning content creation and copyright issues. She discusses her personal experiences with various AI tools and their impact on her professional life, while also touching on broader societal concerns over AI’s influence. This is Part 2 of a series, with the next episode focusing on her viewpoint as a parent. 00:00 Introduction and Support 01:51 Podcast Overview and AI Concerns 05:53 Teacherpreneur and AI Tools 09:26 Ethical Dilemmas with AI 17:28 Copyright Issues and AI 26:56 Conclusion and Next Episode Preview Articles Mentioned: https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2024/02/generative-ai-lawsuits-copyright-fair-use/677595/ https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2025/03/libgen-meta-openai/682093/

In this episode Amanda reflects on her journey with AI chatbots since the release of ChatGPT in 2022. She shares her mixed feelings about the impact of AI in education, discussing initial excitement and later deep concerns. The episode covers her efforts to integrate ChatGPT into her classroom last school year and how she handled the pervasive cheating issues she encountered in her English classroom. Amanda also reveals plans to delve deeper into the downsides of AI in future episodes, so stay tuned! Episodes to the Previous AI Series from 2022: 7 Ways Chatgpt Will Impact Education Positively https://amandawritenow.com/chatgpt-impact-on-education/ How to Prevent Plagiarism with Chatgpt https://amandawritenow.com/my-best-ideas-to-prevent-cheating-with-chat-gpt-how-to-handle-plagiarism-suspects/ How to Talk to Students about Chatgpt https://amandawritenow.com/how-to-talk-to-students-about-chat-gpt-and-increase-academic-honesty-too/ 00:00 Introduction and Initial Thoughts on AI 00:40 The Impact of AI on Education 02:34 Personal Reflections and Experiences Using AI in the Classroom 09:58 Teaching Ethics and Responsible AI Use 16:18 Challenges and Consequences of AI in the Classroom 21:35 Conclusion and Upcoming Topics

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda addresses a common issue faced by teachers: students who are disengaged. Drawing from personal experiences as a teacher and a parent of a neurodivergent child, the Amanda discusses the importance of moving away from the traditional way of approaching these kinds of unwanted behaviors and instead focusing on a different approach. Amanda describes how in her experience, building strong, positive relationships with students can make a difference in the quality of life for both the teacher and student. Emphasizing that all behavior is a form of communication, Amanda advocates for a collaborative approach with children, involving honest conversations with students about their behavior and motivations. The episode underscores the critical role of relationships and emotional connections in fostering a conducive learning environment. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction: Addressing Student Apathy 01:12 The Traditional Approach to Classroom Management 01:56 A Shift in Perspective: Understanding Student Behavior 06:49 The Power of Building Relationships 12:16 The Importance of Free Time and Mental Health 12:58 Conclusion: Embracing Vulnerability and Change https://amandawritenow.com/listener-favorite-a-new-way-to-think-about-apathetic-unmotivated-and-defiant-students/

In the final episode of this eight-part mindfulness and meditation series, Amanda Werner brings it all together—sharing how to weave mindfulness, self-compassion, and simple rituals into your daily life. From experimenting with small, accessible practices to cultivating deep calm and balance (equanimity) amidst stressful lives, this episode offers practical wisdom and heartfelt reflection for teachers, parents, students, and anyone seeking peace in a busy world. Amanda also shares personal updates about her journey away from the classroom, homeschooling her daughter, and navigating life with chronic pain—all while finding ways to stay grounded and openhearted. What You’ll Learn in This Episode The four keys to sustaining mindfulness: experimentation, ritual, equanimity, and self-compassion. How to create simple rituals that bring grounding and meaning to your day. Why equanimity—calm in the midst of chaos—is the heart of a sustainable mindfulness practice. Ways to integrate mindful breathing, body awareness, and compassionate self-talk into your work and home life. A guided meditation to help you embody balance, presence, and peace. Timestamps 00:00 – Welcome & updates on Amanda’s journey 04:00 – Series recap: seven practices that build a foundation for mindfulness 20:00 – The four pillars to incorporating these practices: experimentation, ritual, equanimity, and self-compassion 35:00 – Guided meditation for balance and presence Resources & Links 🖤 Explore resources: https://amandawritenow.com 🖤 Review and share the podcast on Apple Podcasts to help more educators find these tools Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade: 🖤 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade: 🖤 https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda explores the complexities of working with physical, mental, and emotional pain, drawing from the teachings of mindfulness expert Christiane Wolf MD. The discussion covers the prevalence of chronic pain, differentiates between pain and suffering, and introduces techniques for managing pain using mindfulness and meditation. The episode includes a guided meditation designed to help listeners identify and manage pain more effectively, aiming to offer valuable insights and alleviation strategies for both educators and anyone experiencing chronic pain or the grief of the loss of a loved one. 00:00 Introduction to Working with Pain 00:05 Meet Christian Wolf: Mindfulness Expert 01:11 Personal Experiences with Chronic Pain 01:35 Understanding Pain: Physical and Mental 04:50 Cultural Attitudes Towards Pain 09:15 The Two Arrows of Pain 12:22 Practical Techniques for Managing Pain 23:24 Guided Meditation for Pain Relief Resources: https://www.christianewolf.com/ Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

Cultivating Loving Kindness: Exploring Metta Meditation In this episode of the Empower Students Now Podcast, your host, Amanda Werner, delves into the practice of Metta or Loving Kindness Meditation. As part of an eight-part series on meditation and mindfulness for teachers and students, Amanda shares insights from her extensive teaching career and her training as a meditation teacher. She explains the steps to practicing Metta, including starting with those easiest to love, and expanding outward. Additionally, Amanda reads poignant quotes from Sharon Salzberg's book, 'Loving Kindness, the Revolutionary Art of Happiness,' and discusses the importance of boundaries and compassion. The episode concludes with a guided meditation designed to help listeners cultivate loving kindness and a compassionate mindset. Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast, visit Amanda's website, https://amandawritenow.com for additional resources, and reflect on their experiences with the series. 00:00 Introduction and Podcast Support 02:52 Episode Introduction: Loving Kindness 05:07 Understanding Metta: Loving Kindness 08:44 Personal Stories and Challenges 15:03 Steps to Practicing Metta 18:11 Guided Meditation on Loving Kindness Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, Amanda shares a deeply emotional talk on the importance of compassion, particularly self-compassion, for educators. Through a recounting of her own personal journey and learnings from the MMTCP program, she introduces the RAIN technique—Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Nurture—created by Tara Brach, as a tool for addressing negative self-talk and fostering a kinder inner dialogue. The episode includes a powerful 15-minute guided meditation to help listeners practice self-compassion, complete with actionable steps and gentle reassurances. Amanda also discusses the significance of tears as a healing response and offers resources for teaching mindfulness to children. This episode is part five of an eight-part series aimed at supporting and renewing burnt-out teachers. Listeners are encouraged to share the podcast, visit Amanda's website, https://amandawritenow.com for additional resources, and reflect on their experiences with the series. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 04:21 The Importance of Self-Compassion 08:54 Recognizing Negative Patterns 15:21 Guided Meditation: Practicing RAIN 28:31 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Meditation%20and%20Minfulness Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439?utm_source=Podcast%20Episode%20%2389&utm_campaign=Podcasting%20Series%20on%20Mindfulness%20and%20Meditation

In this fourth episode of an eight-part series on meditation and mindfulness, the discussion focuses on being mindful of thoughts. Amanda recently received her certification to teach meditation. She explains how thoughts are mental processes influenced by various factors like environment, culture, and emotions. The episode debunks the myth that meditation aims to stop thoughts, highlighting instead the importance of noticing them. It covers the neural basis of thoughts and offers practical advice on using breath as an anchor during meditation. Personal anecdotes and stories from the classroom demonstrate the significance of observing and questioning thoughts to reduce suffering and promote self-compassion and in turn compassion toward others, including students. The episode concludes with a guided meditation exercise aimed at helping teachers and listeners become more aware of their thinking patterns. 00:00 Introduction to Mindfulness of Thoughts 01:08 Understanding Thoughts and Their Influence 03:43 The Practice of Noticing Thoughts 07:16 The Power of Noting and Naming Thoughts 10:03 A Touching Story on Mindfulness 12:46 Judgment and Bias in Education 16:58 Exercise: Counting Your Thoughts 23:18 Guided Meditation for Noticing Thoughts Resources: Meditation Mini Lesson 3rd-5th Grade https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-for-3rd-5th-Grade-13806933 Meditation Mini Lesson 6th-8th Grade https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Meditation-Mini-Lesson-6th-8th-Grade-13815439 https://amandawritenow.com

https://amandawritenow.com/navigating-the-complexities-of-our-emotional-lives-with-mindfulness-meditation/ In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, the third installment of an eight-part mindfulness series, the focus is on emotions. Drawing on insights from the Mindfulness Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP), Amanda, the host of the podcast, addresses how emotions manifest in both mind and body, emphasizing the importance of mindfulness and meditation in recognizing and managing them. The episode includes a discussion on the diversity of emotional experiences, the significance of the nervous system in emotional regulation, and practical tips for teachers and social justice advocates to integrate mindfulness into their lives. Additionally, the host guides listeners through a meditative practice to better understand and manage their emotions. 00:00 Introduction to Emotions and Mindfulness Series 02:19 Defining Emotions and Personal Reflections 07:22 Family History and Emotional Conditioning 12:46 Understanding the Nervous System and Emotions 18:12 Naming and Identifying Emotions 24:04 Primary vs. Secondary Emotions 30:20 Guided Meditation on Emotions

https://amandawritenow.com/finding-calm-amongst-the-chaos-of-life-part-ii-the-body-as-your-anchor/ Contact Me: https://amandawritenow.com/contact-form/ In this episode, part two of an eight-part series, Amanda discusses her journey through the Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Certification Program (MMTCP) and the profound lessons she learned. She emphasizes the importance of self-compassion, especially for women, teachers, and social justice advocates who often experience overwhelm and self-blame. Amanda defines mindfulness and meditation, highlighting the benefits of body awareness. She shares practical techniques for body scan and walking meditation to help listeners find peace and presence amidst the stressors of modern life. The episode concludes with a guided body scan meditation to practice these principles. 00:00 Introduction to the Series 00:40 Personal Journey into Meditation 01:39 Teaching Mindfulness to Women 03:20 Challenges of Modern Life and Self-Care 09:22 Defining Mindfulness and Meditation 17:16 Body Scan Meditation Techniques 24:23 Beginning of Guided Body Scan Meditation

In this episode, Amanda welcomes Jen Cheico, a former teacher who transitioned into becoming a life purpose coach who specializes in empowering teens. They discuss Jen's teaching background, her reasons for leaving public education, and how she found her true calling through life coaching and breath work. Jen shares insights on the challenges of teaching in public schools, the importance of supportive administration, and the impact of nurturing relationships with students. They delve into breath work as a powerful tool for mental health and personal growth, and Jen offers actionable tips for both educators and students to find purpose and empowerment in their lives. You'll Learn: -How Jen transitioned from teaching full time in a public school to being coach -Jen's methodology for supporting teens and adults -Breathwork techniques you can use in and outside of the classroom -How to foster positive relationships with students -Jen's inspiring views on what empowerment is and how to empower yourself as well as your students Resources Mentioned: jenchieco.com/services (Free 30 Minute Coaching Discovery Call) jenchieco.com/breathwork (Breathwork Sessions) https://open.spotify.com/artist/7lnGKrOWAuKvNoxEleY8Vm?si=asaUZkUsSdCwIRL_7bpEOw (David Elliott Breathwork Healer Spotify)

Amanda returns after a long hiatus, excited to start a new season focused on mindfulness, neurodiversity, equity, and student engagement. In this special episode, Amanda shares a recording of her first mindfulness class from her practicum, which is part of her Mindfulness and Meditation Teacher Training Certification Program(MMTCP). The class includes a 10-minute talk on the challenges of slowing down and using the breath to do so, followed by an 8-minute meditation to practice using the breath as an anchor. Amanda discusses the significance of breath as a tool for calm and peace amid the chaos of life, particularly for teachers. She also introduces various breathing techniques and their benefits. The episode concludes with a guided meditation exercise aimed at helping listeners find tranquility. 00:00 Welcome Back! 01:00 Introducing the Practicum 04:35 The Power of Breath 10:05 Personal Meditation Journey 13:09 Breathing Techniques 19:39 Guided Meditation 28:01 Closing Thoughts

In this episode of the Empower Students Now podcast, hosts Amanda and Trina dive deep into the complex and often controversial topic of teacher pay. Joined by special guest Jess, they explore the historical roots of teacher pay, referred to as "step and column". They discuss the unique challenges faced by teachers across different states and the impact of oppressive teacher pay systems on both new and veteran educators. In addition to the topic of teacher pay, the hosts unpack the topics of the high cost of teacher preparation and induction programs that require teachers to shell out even more time and money.