Hot Mess Teacher Express Podcast

Bored Teachers w/ Jess Smith

The day to day life of a teacher is a journey. A journey where you have no idea where you are going but you do know how you are going to get there… All aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express! This podcast is for teachers who need to know they are not alone in their hot messes, empty plan books, mile-long to-do lists and just need a laugh or moment of understanding. Miss Jess Smith, your Conductor on this journey, is here to live, listen and relate to real teacher life and chat with some of your favorite teachers along the way. Grab your teacher fuel of choice, put that hair in a messy bun and welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express. Choo choo!

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ComedyComedy

Episodes

Jess’s Farewell To The Hot Mess Teacher Express
Jan 19 2024
Jess’s Farewell To The Hot Mess Teacher Express
Last call aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express with Jess Smith Welcome aboard for one final, heartfelt journey on the Hot Mess Teacher Express podcast. I'm your host, Jess Smith, and in this emotional rollercoaster of an episode, I'm getting real about the power of letting go and the journey that led me to temporarily say farewell to this incredible podcast. I'll share my personal experiences with the tough realization that clinging to what no longer serves us can be a barrier to our true potential. But it's not just about shedding physical baggage or stepping away from draining relationships.  I will take you through my own voyage with the Hot Mess Teacher Express. From the early days at Bored Teachers to where we are now, it's been a rollercoaster of emotions, learning, and laughter. I'll reflect on how this podcast has shaped me, brought joy, and also challenges that have pushed me to grow. My decision to step away from the Hot Mess Teacher Express. It's a candid, raw, and honest discussion about authenticity, staying true to oneself, and the courage it takes to leave something behind, even when it's hard. Fear not, the journey doesn’t end here. I'll share the exciting new paths I’m venturing down. The future is bright, filled with possibilities, and I am buzzing with anticipation for what's next. And finally, I leave you with a message that's close to my heart. It's about embracing change, welcoming new opportunities, and understanding that sometimes, saying goodbye is the bravest thing you can do to make way for growth and new beginnings. So join me, Jess Smith, for one last rise aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express. It's not just a goodbye; it's a celebration of new adventures and a reminder that the best is yet to come. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From The Classroom To The Comedy Club
Jan 12 2024
From The Classroom To The Comedy Club
Educator by day comedian by night! Welcome back to this week's episode of Hot Mess, where the world of teaching meets the hilarity of everyday life! I'm Jess Smith, and joining me today is the wonderful Andrea Forcum. Buckle up, because we're about to take a deep dive into Andrea's journey from classroom to comedy, and the impact she's made along the way. Andrea kicks things off with a hilarious recount of attending the Bored Teacher Comedy Tour. A night of laughs, teacher jokes, and getting recognized for the first time! She shares how this experience shaped her approach to comedy, inspired by the likes of Andrea Caspari, and how she artfully treads the fine line of pushing the envelope as a comedian. Andrea then takes us on a journey back to the start of her teaching career. Imagine transitioning from the grocery store aisles to the school hallways. She dives into the meaningful change which she is striving to make in the teaching industry and how she's left a lasting impression on her school. She's a staunch advocate against the 'teacher quit Tok' trend, promoting a positive yet realistic perspective of teacher life, addressing the real struggles and obstacles educators face. And if you've ever wondered about the difference between K-12 and college classrooms, Andrea's got some insights that are as enlightening as they are entertaining. So, don't miss out on this inspiring and amusing episode of The Hot Mess Teacher Express. Join us as we explore the world of teaching with a twist of comedy. It's an episode that promises laughs, learning, and a whole lot of teacher talk.Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sisterly Insights Into The Classroom
Jan 5 2024
Sisterly Insights Into The Classroom
Sibling stories in education! Hop on board the Hot Mess Teacher Express, where every journey into the world of education is a wild ride! I'm your conductor Jess Smith, and today, I've got a very special guest joining me – my sister, Niki Fisher. Trust me, this episode is not just a family reunion; it's an eye-opening exploration of the education system from a unique perspective. Niki, a paraprofessional and an unexpected entrant into the world of teaching, brings a fresh, honest, and sometimes hilarious view of life in the school trenches. Homeschooled until her junior year, Niki's leap into public education is a story of adaptation, resilience, and a bit of sibling rivalry. Join us as Niki shares the nitty-gritty of her day-to-day life supporting students one-on-one, from managing behaviors to the joyous breakthrough moments. It's a peek behind the classroom curtain that you rarely get to see, filled with anecdotes that'll have you both laughing and nodding in sympathy. But it's not all smiles and storytime. Niki opens up about the challenges she faces, from navigating student behaviors to dealing with the emotional toll that comes with the job. And let's not forget the school hierarchy – it's like a soap opera, but with more bulletin boards. And of course, what's an episode without a bit of sisterly banter? We'll share our journey from childhood homeschooling to working in education, the highs, the lows, and the unforgettable moments. So, whether you're a teacher, an educator in the making, or just someone who loves a good behind-the-scenes look at the world of education, this episode of Hot Mess Teacher Express is for you. Tune in for laughs, learning, and a little bit of sisterly love. It's an educational adventure like no other!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Finding Happiness and Passion In Teaching
Dec 31 2023
Finding Happiness and Passion In Teaching
Unlocking the secrets to a fulfilling career in education! Welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast where passion for teaching meets a healthy dose of reality! I'm your host Jess Smith, and today we're exploring the sunnier side of the schoolyard. If you're a teacher who's head over heels in love with your job, or if you're just curious about what keeps educators ticking, this episode is for you. We're joined by a panel of special guests who aren't just surviving the teaching life – they're thriving in it. Together, we'll dive into the hearts and minds of those educators who wake up each day excited to head to class. What's their secret? How do they keep the spark alive in a profession that's as challenging as it is rewarding? We'll uncover the common threads that bind these passionate professionals. From the little victories in the classroom to the big-picture joys of shaping young minds, we'll explore what drives these teachers to stick with their calling and remain not just engaged, but genuinely happy in their roles. But it's not all serious discussions and deep dives. Expect a fair share of laughs, candid stories, and maybe even a few "aha!" moments as we dissect the anatomy of a contented educator. So, tune in to the Hot Mess Teacher Express and join us on this enlightening journey into teacher engagement and satisfaction. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, affirmation, or just a good old-fashioned laugh about the trials and triumphs of teaching, we've got you covered. Don't miss this opportunity to unlock the secrets to a fulfilling career in education – all aboard for a ride you won't forget!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Do Students Care About Learning Anymore?
Dec 18 2023
Do Students Care About Learning Anymore?
The Student Engagement conundrum, Hop aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast that celebrates every color of the classroom rainbow, from the perfectly organized to the beautifully chaotic! I'm your host Jess Smith, ready to embark on a thought-provoking journey through the wild world of education. This week, we're tackling a question that's been keeping educators up at night: Do students actually care about learning anymore? It's a complex issue, with technology at the forefront. In an era where students can Google their way through life, are we witnessing a decline in genuine curiosity and classroom engagement? I'll delve into the brighter side of tech, exploring how it can actually broaden horizons and foster connections in ways traditional methods never could. It's a double-edged sword, and I'm here to dissect both sides. Beyond the pixels and screens, there's another elephant in the room: standardized testing. Are we putting too much pressure on young minds, turning what should be a journey of discovery into a high-stakes game of numbers and labels? Drawing from my own adventures as an educator and a mom, I'll share insights and stories about nurturing that spark of curiosity and passion for learning amidst the tech, tests, and tumult of modern education. So, tune in to this episode of Hot Mess Teacher Express. It's a journey of discovery, debate, and, as always, a dash of hot mess. Don't miss it!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fulfillment In The Life Of A Teacher
Dec 4 2023
Fulfillment In The Life Of A Teacher
We’re diving into empowerment in education! Welcome back to the Hot Mess Teacher Express, the podcast where we embrace the chaos and find the joy in teaching. I’m Jess Smith, your host and fellow educator, navigating this wild ride we call teaching. Today, I'm joined by a special guest who's here to remind us why, amidst the overwhelming days, teaching is truly a rewarding journey. Lately, my heart has been feeling the weight of our profession – it's tough out there. But amidst the challenges, I want to reach out to all my fellow teachers and say, you're seen, you're valued, and what you do matters, especially to those district higher-ups. In this episode, we’re celebrating the little moments, the small joys that add up to make a big difference in our teaching lives. We’re talking about those tiny, yet significant, wins – like the blessing of a nearby bathroom or that trusty hair tie that's always there when you need it. We're not just surviving; we're thriving with teacher hacks from TikTok, the surprise of snow days, and even the small relief when a parent's voicemail answers instead of them. And let’s not forget the heartfelt hugs from our students – these moments are the real treasures of our profession. So tune into this episode of Hot Mess and discover the magic in the everyday life of a teacher. Whether you're a seasoned educator or just starting out, there's something here to inspire and uplift you. Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Surprises New Teachers Never See Coming
Sep 3 2023
The Surprises New Teachers Never See Coming
We are breaking the seal on the teacher's starter pack of surprises. First stop? The Germ Station. No one gave us the heads up on how we'd be playing tag with viruses during our first year. (Who knew teaching came with a free immune system upgrade?). Summer breaks? Think of it as a "blink-and-you-miss-it" montage rather than the sun-soaked vacation everyone imagines. And can we talk about the countless moments when students share their unfiltered thoughts? It’s like a mini stand-up comedy show, but you’re trying not to laugh (or sometimes, cry). The days? Marathon-long. The nights? A fleeting dream. And let's not even get started on the amount of actual teaching we do versus… everything else. Ah, the notorious copy machine – the moody piece of machinery destined to jam only when you're in a rush. Trust me, it's more sinister than any school ghost story. And those hats we wear? Let's just say, that between being a teacher, counselor, event planner, mediator, and undercover superhero, we might as well start a hat shop! But, as we chug along to the final station, let’s not forget the paradox of teaching: it's an energy-draining, all-consuming whirlwind that somehow fills our hearts to the brim. No one really tells you that, do they? Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fun Classroom Activities for the New School Year
Aug 21 2023
Fun Classroom Activities for the New School Year
All aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express! This week, Jess is leaning heavily into discovering the world of classroom activities. Ever wondered if there's more to student self-portraits than meets the eye? Or how about turning your class into a wax museum with students posing as famous characters? Forget Disneyland; Jess's literary theme park activity is the next big thing! And for all you sports fans, the "Who Would Win" books get a March Madness twist. She’s even got a game called “Count to 20” that’s...well, let’s just say that one might be a work in progress. From tape geometry to crocheted classroom quilts for charity, Jess shares the weird, the touching, and the downright genius ways teachers like us—and some creative fans—are engaging students. And if you're ready for a tearjerker, wait until you hear about high schoolers crafting children's books that tug at the heartstrings. Plus, who knew classroom podcasting was a thing? We a HUGE fans of that! To wrap things up, Jess gets real about the magic behind these activities. They’re not just tasks; they're treasured memories in the making. So grab your planner and favorite pen, because your new school year is about to get a lot more entertaining!  Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Teacher Types - How Different Educators Teach
Aug 7 2023
Teacher Types - How Different Educators Teach
Welcome aboard the Hot Mess Teacher Express, today we're spinning the wheel of teacher types, and will be learning how different educators teach. Your beloved host, Jess Smith, will help you navigate the educational jungle, one eccentric teacher at a time. We start with the grizzled veterans of the education world. Those seasoned pros who've weathered enough school years to have their prep routine down to a science. Their tales of survival and triumph will leave you in awe, and possibly feeling a little terrified. Then there's the first-year teachers, who are as easy to spot on their first day as a flamingo in a flock of pigeons. Adorable, aren't they? You won't believe the stories we've collected about these 'rookies' on their inaugural educational voyage. Next up, meet the 'worst-case scenario' teachers. You know the ones - they've thought of every possible catastrophe, from alien invasions to zombie apocalypses, that could hit their classroom. Bless their over-prepared hearts! Can't forget about the teachers who are still in denial that the school year is about to start. Spot them on the beach, clinging to their surfboards while they should be setting up their classrooms. We all know a few, don't we? And last, but certainly not least, meet the 'good enough' teacher. They've mastered the balancing act, the art of doing just enough to get by, and honestly, they're thriving! So grab a cup of coffee (or something stronger, we won't tell), and join us for a laugh-out-loud deep-dive into the wonderfully diverse world of educators. Trust us, you're in for a treat! Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What Is The Deal With Professional Development?
Jul 31 2023
What Is The Deal With Professional Development?
Get ready to climb back aboard the "Hot Mess Teacher Express!" piloted by our fearless conductor Jess Smith! In today's episode, we're tackling the often bumpy, always interesting ride that is Professional Development. Our first stop: incentives. We dive into the big question. Are there any real perks for teachers to sit through these never-ending sessions of jargon and slide shows? Is there a light at the end of this tunnel or should we brace ourselves for another incoming train? (Here's hoping for the former!) We've compiled a potpourri of stories, anecdotes, and experiences from our comrades in arms – those teachers who've dared to dabble in the enigmatic world of professional development.  Naturally, we couldn't hold back our own perspective. Let's just say that when professional development starts to feel like a patronizing seminar, we wonder if they're confusing 'develop' with 'deride.' Sure, the current state of professional development could use some... well, development. But guess what? Jess has a plan. A thought. A spark of optimism that she can't wait to share it with you. Get ready for an episode that promises more twists and turns than the most puzzling professional development flowchart. Believe us, you don't want to miss this one! Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Disney in the Classroom - YAAY or NAY!
Jul 3 2023
Disney in the Classroom - YAAY or NAY!
Fasten your seatbelts and hold on to your mouse ears, folks! In this special episode of the Hot Mess Teacher Express podcast, we're riding the rollercoaster of emotions as we bid farewell to our very own Vinny. Don't worry, there will be no teary goodbyes, just plenty of laughs and thought-provoking discussion! Kicking off our Hot Take, we delve into the epic battle of English Language Arts vs. Media and Film classes. As we navigate this daring duel, we ask: Can Shakespeare and Spielberg co-exist in the classroom? Next up in our Hot or Not segment, we dive into the delightful (and sometimes disastrous) world of Class stores and rewards. Are they the magic carpet ride of excitement they're made out to be? But hang on tight, because things get a little bumpy when we discuss what happens when your teacher bestie inherits your old students. Spoiler: it's not always a fairy tale ending. Switching gears, our US vs. UK segment ventures into the kingdom of Themed Classrooms. These whimsical worlds are all the rage in the States, but are they a hit across the pond? Tune in to find out! Our Grind the Gears segment takes a trip down the rabbit hole as Vinny vents his frustration over those who frown upon Disney adults, while Jess airs her grievances about people whose personalities are fully consumed by the House of Mouse. To close the curtain on this episode, our Underdogs in Education shout-out goes to the unsung heroes of the school stage: Theater teachers, parents, and students. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show! Don't miss this final episode with Vinny as we explore the magic (and mayhem) of bringing Disney into the classroom. It's a journey of laughs, learning, and lots of Disney references. Will it be a happily ever after? Join us to find out! Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is The School Week Too Long?
Jun 19 2023
Is The School Week Too Long?
This week it’s all about the long-debated topic: Is the school week too long? Spoiler alert - Vinny jumps in with a resounding "YES!" while also expressing concern about prepping students for the five-day work week grind. Jess counters with a passionate argument for work-life balance that has us all wishing we could clock out early. Taking a detour, we compare principals in the US and UK. Trust us, it gets as wild as ice cream sandwich day in the lunchroom. The pressures, the respect, the horrifying trips to the British head master’s office - being a principal seems more intense than we ever thought. Speaking of intensity, ever thought of strategically scheduling doctors’ appointments to sneak in a full day off? Sounds like Vinny may have this down to an art form. We even discuss becoming the old folks at the community pool – truly a retirement dream. Delving deeper into the realms of teaching contracts, we shed light on the infamous “other duties as assigned” clause. Turns out it really grinds Vinny’s gears when people turn introductions into soliloquies in meetings, and Jess provides a golden 30-second nugget that will have you in splits. Lastly, our underdogs in education this episode are Administrative Assistants. We all know they are the most powerful and important people in school. They keep everything running while we teachers grapple with the intricacies of the school week.  Join us as we navigate through the maze that is our teaching lives, sprinkled with laughter, rants, and a lot of empathy.  Choo! Choo! -- Watch the full episodes on YouTube! Follow us on Instagram & Facebook! Support the show and get some MERCH!Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hotmessteacherexpressSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.