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Do you feel like teaching just isn’t fun anymore? Does classroom management feel like you’re playing a game of whack-a-mole? Do you wish you could clone little Betsy - the only student in class who exudes joy and stays engaged while learning? Ever feel like shutting your door and going off script just so you can teach in a way that you know your students need? You’re not alone—and you’ve just found your people. (YAY!) In this podcast, you’ll find real solutions to bring joy back to teaching, create a caring classroom, and finally find some balance between school and home. Teaching doesn’t have to feel like you’re in survival mode. Here, you’ll discover creative learning strategies that engage your students, practical ways to build a connected and caring classroom culture, and mindset shifts that help you take back control of your own classroom. If you’re ready to stop drowning in scripted lessons, behavior struggles, and the Daily Teacher Drain—and start teaching with creativity, confidence, and purpose—you’re in the right place! Hey there, I’m Elizabeth, a teacher since 1999, a mentor, consultant, arts integration specialist and creator of SEAL: Social-Emotional Artistic Learning. Over the years, I’ve seen firsthand how creativity can transform a classroom—not just for our students, but for us teachers, too! I’ve always leaned into creative teaching strategies to build relationships, engage students, and keep myself loving what I do—even on the toughest days. (And, let’s face it - there are some tough days!) I’ve worked with teachers who are exhausted, stuck in survival mode, and struggling with behavior issues that drain their energy. But when you start tapping into your own creativity—using the arts to connect with students, to bring meaning into lessons, and to shift the classroom dynamic—something changes. The stress eases. The engagement rises. The joy returns. That’s what I want for you. If you’re ready to finally enjoy teaching again—to create a calm, connected classroom, engage your students in meaningful learning, and reclaim your personal time—WELCOME – this is the podcast for you. My solutions are simple, effective, and built to inspire the teacher—because you don’t need more on your plate, you just need what works. So go find your coffee (it’s around here somewhere), grab your favorite pen, take a deep breath, and get ready to Enjoy Teaching Again! More Resources: ✨ Join the Teacher Community: www.theinspiredclassroom.com/community ✨ Learn more about SEAL: www.theinspiredclassroom.com/seal ✨ Sign up for my FREE Class: www.theinspiredclassroom.com/class ✨ Contact: support@theinspiredclassroom.com ✨ Visit my website: www.theinspiredclassroom.com
Episodes
22 minutes ago
22 minutes ago
Some teachers love it. Some teachers dread it. Spirit Week usually involves some crazy socks, wacky hair, and the occasional coveted Decades Day. But what if we put a twist on this and sent it… underground?
This kind of Spirit Week is designed just for teachers—to build connection, creativity, and joy in a way that keeps you smiling all week. And the best part? Students love it just as much.
In this episode, we’ll explore:
✔️ What Underground Spirit Week actually looks like—and why teachers are secretly loving it
✔️ Creative, teacher-centered ideas you can use to start your own version (without a ton of chaos!)
✔️ How to turn it into a surefire morale booster for you and your teacher besties
If you're craving a little fun with your teacher buddies and want to do something just for YOU (ain't no shame in it)—this is your episode.
~Elizabeth
Resources Mentioned:
Become an INSIDER at The Inspired Classroom! theinspiredclassroom.com/insider
When you are an INSIDER, you get real solutions to calm classroom behaviors, create a caring classroom and bring joy back to teaching!
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ Connect with me (and share what you try from this episode!)
Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson
Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom
Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom
Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom
Tuesday May 06, 2025
Tuesday May 06, 2025
This week, we’re celebrating Teacher Appreciation in a way that's a little different. While I’m all about those lunches and door prizes (can we normalize surprise snacks every month?), this episode invites you to reflect on something even more meaningful—the teachers who have impacted you.
Whether it’s a colleague who lifted you up, a mentor who shaped you, or a teacher from your past who still inspires you today, we’re taking time to honor them. I’ll share a few personal stories and introduce you to some fun ways to spread that appreciation in simple, creative and heartfelt ways.
💛 This isn’t about grand gestures—it’s about real connection. You’ll leave this episode with something you can do right away to make a fellow teacher feel seen, valued, and appreciated.
PLUS - I'm giving you a free gift... 🙂
~Elizabeth
Resources Mentioned:
Become an Inspired Classroom Insider: theinspiredclassroom.com/insider (and get the free gift!)
Add your own tribute to a teacher you have had: https://theinspiredclassroom.com/2010/05/teachers-we-have-had/
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ 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
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
Tuesday Apr 29, 2025
What if the secret to a calmer, more connected classroom started in the first five minutes of your day? In this episode, I share simple, teacher-tested ways to set the tone for a day that flows—with less chaos and more connection.
If mornings in your classroom feel rushed, noisy, or just plain off, this one’s for you. These aren't major overhauls—just small, intentional shifts that can lead to big changes.
~Elizabeth
Episodes & Resources Mentioned:
49 | Teacher Student Relationships: A Simple Way to Build Them, Even with Little Time
50 | Want to Use Music in the Classroom? 6 Easy Steps to Making it a Success!
Get your own set of "doodle" soft starts! https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Soft-Starts-Transition-Activities-for-Social-Emotional-Learning-SEL-9097051
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ 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
Monday Apr 21, 2025
Monday Apr 21, 2025
In this episode, I’m sharing a few of my favorite paperless swaps you can use in your lessons to celebrate Earth Day in a meaningful, creative way—without printing a single worksheet.
You’ll hear ideas that work for math, ELA and science—all hands-on, tech-free, and totally doable. These are the kinds of ideas that make teaching feel fun again, while still hitting your standards and supporting your students’ SEL growth.
If you’ve been craving something fresh that doesn’t require extra planning (or a trip to the copy room), this one’s for you.
Pick just one of the ideas I shared and give it a try. You’ve got this—and I’d love to hear how it goes!
~Elizabeth
Resources Mentioned:
https://theinspiredclassroom.com/2010/04/go-paperless-write-on-your-desk/
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ Connect with me (and share what ideas you try!)
Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson
Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom
Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom
Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
Tuesday Apr 15, 2025
April is Poetry Month, and if you’re thinking “ugh, not another acrostic…” this episode is for you.
I’m sharing three fresh, arts-infused poetry ideas that are simple to implement, fun for your students, and packed with SEL goodness.
These strategies don’t require fancy materials, a background in poetry, or hours of prep—and they’re designed to engage all your students . . . even the reluctant writers. You’ll hear how randomness, music, and simple self-reflection can help students express themselves in meaningful, creative ways (and have fun doing it).
If your classroom could use a little creative spark, this episode is here to remind you: poetry can be joyful, powerful, and totally doable.
Try just ONE of the ideas from this episode and share your experience with us in the Inspiring Teachers Facebook group. We’re cheering you on!
~Elizabeth
Resources Mentioned:
I created a playlist of music for you to use! https://open.spotify.com/playlist/6haqRy0tgUgbcHNX61bxJt?si=MaamYPbFRrmdNuYGr8dYTg
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ Connect with me (and share what you try from this episode!)
Find me on LinkedIn: elizapeterson
Follow & DM me on Facebook @theinspiredclassroom
Follow & DM me on Instagram @theinspiredclassroom
Watch & Subscribe on YouTube @theinspiredclassroom
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Thursday Apr 10, 2025
Feeling burnt out? Wondering if you’ve lost your passion for teaching? In this inspiring springtime episode, I share a story rooted in daffodils: The Daffodil Principle—a powerful reminder that big change starts with one small step.
Inside you’ll hear:
-
A beautiful story that will shift your perspective
-
Why teacher reflection matters now more than ever
-
Five small but powerful actions you can take this week to feel more grounded, creative, and connected
-
How to grow joy in your classroom—without adding more to your plate
Whether you're an elementary teacher who's barely holding on or you're ready for the next, great thing, this episode is your permission to slow down, reflect, and keep on blooming.
~Elizabeth
Link to the Original Daffodil Story: https://theinspiredclassroom.com/2011/04/the-daffodil-principle/
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ 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
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
Tuesday Apr 08, 2025
You love teaching—but by the end of the day, you’re completely drained. Sound familiar? I’ve coined a name for that: The Daily Teacher Drain and I’m naming exactly what causes that daily exhaustion in today's podcast episode.
(Spoiler alert: it’s more than just being “tired.”)
Even better, we’ll look at how you can take simple, intentional steps to feel more energized and in control.
You’ll walk away with realistic, teacher-centered strategies to protect your energy, restore your passion, and start feeling like yourself again.
~Elizabeth
Episodes Mentioned:
17 | Step Two: Remember Control (3 Steps to Preventing Teacher Burnout)
52 | Why Being a Superhero Teacher is Wrecking Your Passion for Teaching
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ 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
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
Thursday Apr 03, 2025
You’ve heard it before: “Teachers are superheroes!” But let’s be honest—that cape? It’s heavy.
In this episode, I talk about why the “superhero teacher” myth is not only unrealistic, but also unsustainable… and what to focus on instead so you can actually feel inspired, not exhausted.
If your passion for teaching is starting to wear you down instead of lift you up, it’s time for a new approach: to shift from trying to do it all, to doing what truly matters—making a real difference without burning out.
~Elizabeth
✨ Let’s keep the INSPIRATION going:
👉 Join my free class, so that I can help you foster a classroom of Calm, Connection & Creativity! theinspiredclassroom.com/class
👉 Learn more about SEAL, the only method that empowers caring teachers to calm classroom behavior issues and ease teacher burnout by embedding creative and artistic social-emotional strategies into their current content without requiring them to implement an entire program that takes up precious class time.
Go to teachSEAL.com
👉Join my Inspiring Teachers Facebook Community: theinspiredclassroom.com/community
👉Website: theinspiredclassroom.com
✨ 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