Breaking The Syllabus

Tyler

Breaking the Syllabus is a podcast for educators who believe great teaching isn’t always found on the lesson plan. Hosted by Tyler Powell, this show explores what happens when we step away from rigid pacing guides and scripted curricula to follow curiosity, student voice, and the unpredictable moments that make real learning stick. Each episode features conversations with teachers, researchers, and thought leaders who are reimagining what classrooms can be — when we stop playing by the book. Follow along on social media @breakingthesyllabus for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more ways to connect.

  1. 10/02/2025

    SCHOOL DRESS CODES SUCK A**

    This week I walk through the different dress codes I have been through as a teacher. I talk about the student dress code and the teacher dress code. I share a few reasons why I think dress code might or might not work. I also share why I think one school is close to getting in trouble for their dress code!

    16 min
  2. Confessions of a Teacher: My Three-Strike Plan to Change Cell Phone Plans!

    09/11/2025

    Confessions of a Teacher: My Three-Strike Plan to Change Cell Phone Plans!

    Tired of fighting the good fight against cell phones in the classroom? On this episode of "Breaking the Syllabus," I'm flying solo to tackle the hot topic of Utah's new cell phone law. I've seen the impact firsthand, and it's not what you'd think. From students actually talking to each other to the throwback tricks of running a headphone cord up a sleeve, I'm sharing my unfiltered take on why this law is a step in the right direction. I dive into the specifics of the law, share my personal opinions on the ideal cell phone policy, and get real about the need for consistent consequences from administration. I'm not holding back—I've got a three-strike system I'm ready to pitch. Whether you're a teacher, an administrator, or just someone who remembers the good old days of flip phones, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in to hear my take on: The real impact of the new law on student engagement.Why teachers need to "hold their ground" and not back down.My personal three-strike consequence system for schools.A call to action for administrators to create better systems.Share this episode with a teacher who's struggling with cell phones and join the conversation! Follow Breaking the Syllabus on social media and YouTube to stay up to date.

    9 min
  3. Read with your children!

    09/08/2025

    Read with your children!

    In this weeks episode I discuss how important reading is with your children and for yourself! I reflect on how much reading can help a child at a young age and how it helps them be prepared for their future academic journey!  Please let reach out with any topics you want to hear on either social media or email.  breakingthesyllabus@gmail.com Social Media @breakingthesyllabus

    5 min
  4. Easiest Way to Get Students Attention

    08/21/2025

    Easiest Way to Get Students Attention

    This week I talk about how easy it is to get attention from the students. I explain how elementary school teachers are way better than secondary teachers in the most perfect aspect. I also provide examples of what makes teaching fun and why your personality is your best kept secret!  Drop a comment on what I should discuss next and follow me or reach out with any questions at breakingthesyllabus@gmail.com or on socials @breakingthesyllabus.

    12 min
  5. New Teachers, New School, and Bigger Problems

    08/07/2025

    New Teachers, New School, and Bigger Problems

    In this weeks episode we finish our conversation with Ryan Webb and we dive deep into the conversation around what happens when someone has bigger problems than not understanding classroom material! New teachers what do you need to know when entering a school mentor, material, colleagues, vision) where do you start? Teachers scared to talk with their administrators, teachers need connection, and how to face the battlefield together. Get parents in the room and I made my students stand or sit for an entire day.  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakingthesyllabus?igsh=eDY3eHBlZTMxNzN5&utm_source=qr Tik-tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingthesyllabus?_t=ZT-8wPUBuw8dd0&_r=1 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@breakingthesyllabus?feature=shared

    12 min
  6. Motivation, Manipulation, and Mayhem in the Classroom

    07/31/2025

    Motivation, Manipulation, and Mayhem in the Classroom

    In this week’s episode, we dive into the wild world of student motivation—what drives some students to thrive while others seem checked out. Education isn’t what it used to be, and we explore how that shift affects engagement today. We also share a jaw-dropping story about an overly involved (and very persuasive) parent trying to charm a teacher into changing a grade. Plus, what happens when one class starts to take over an entire school? And yes, we go there: from a student with stalker vibes to a surprising twist involving babysitting and college acceptance. It’s all about adapting, flying by the seat of your pants, and doing whatever it takes to get students motivated.

    10 min
  7. Give them a high 5 already.

    07/24/2025

    Give them a high 5 already.

    In this weeks episode we sit down with a fantastic administrator, heck of a teacher, incredible wrestling coach, and above all that someone I call a close friend. In part one we go through a few strategies on how to gain respect of the students, how to connect, and some secret tips for teachers that want a little more from their students!

    11 min
  8. They Think They Know Everything: Turning Chaos into Connection in PE

    07/10/2025

    They Think They Know Everything: Turning Chaos into Connection in PE

    In this episode, we dive into a PE class that starts off rough—students acting out, thinking they know it all, and pushing back on every rule. But through the lens of behavior strategies and the power of relationship-building, we explore how understanding students—especially in alternative settings like SOAR Academy—can completely change the game. This is a real look at what happens when you go beyond managing behavior and start actually connecting. Make sure and send me your questions or if you are intersted in being a guest. Email: breakingthesyallabus@gmail.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/breakingthesyllabus?igsh=eDY3eHBlZTMxNzN5&utm_source=qr Tik-tok: https://www.tiktok.com/@breakingthesyllabus?_t=ZT-8wPUBuw8dd0&_r=1 YouTube: https://youtube.com/@breakingthesyllabus?feature=shared

    25 min
See All (17)

Ratings & Reviews

4.8
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Breaking the Syllabus is a podcast for educators who believe great teaching isn’t always found on the lesson plan. Hosted by Tyler Powell, this show explores what happens when we step away from rigid pacing guides and scripted curricula to follow curiosity, student voice, and the unpredictable moments that make real learning stick. Each episode features conversations with teachers, researchers, and thought leaders who are reimagining what classrooms can be — when we stop playing by the book. Follow along on social media @breakingthesyllabus for episode updates, behind-the-scenes content, and more ways to connect.

Information