The Bellringer Podcast

TBR Podcast

Teaching is one of the most impactful professions, but what does it really take to step into the classroom? In this first episode of The Bellringer Class is in Session, Ms. James and Ms. Durden have an honest conversation about what it means to become a teacher. From passion and purpose to burnout and boundaries, they unpack the realities behind the profession that everyone thinks they understand. Whether you are considering a career in education, currently teaching, or a parent wanting a deeper understanding of what teachers experience daily, this episode is for you. Class is officially in session.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Teachers Need Love Too

    Teachers spend their days encouraging, supporting, and pouring into everyone else but what happens when it's time to invest in their own relationships? In this fun and honest episode, we're stepping outside the classroom to talk about love, dating, relationships, and the unique challenges educators face when trying to balance personal happiness with a demanding career. We're discussing whether dating is harder as a teacher, if educators should date other educators, and what it takes to build a relationship with someone who truly understands the realities of teaching. We'll also share our biggest relationship green flags and red flags, talk about dating while living in the public eye, and explore the importance of setting healthy boundaries both online and offline. Of course, it wouldn't be The Bellringer Podcast without a little laughter. We're diving into a rapid-fire round of dating questions, sharing some hot takes, and reflecting on the lessons we've learned along the way. Whether you're single, dating, engaged, or married, this conversation is a reminder that teachers deserve healthy, supportive relationships just as much as anyone else. In this episode, we'll discuss: • Is dating harder as an educator? • Should teachers date other teachers? • Relationship green flags and red flags • Dating while being visible in your community • Social media, boundaries, and professionalism • Our best relationship advice and non-negotiables Because at the end of the day, healthy relationships begin with healthy people. Keep showing up for your students—but don't forget to show up for yourself, too. Thank you for listening to The Bellringer Podcast. Class is in session…don't be late!

  2. Jul 15

    Parents… We Need to Talk: Let’s Set Your Child Up for Success

    The Bellringer Podcast | Season 2Parents… We Need to Talk. Subtitle: Let's Set Your Child Up for Success Back-to-school season is almost here, and parents, this episode is especially for you. As educators, we know that a successful school year starts long before the first bell rings. In this episode, we're sharing practical ways families can help children feel confident, prepared, and ready to learn from day one. We'll talk about simple habits to start now, including re-establishing bedtime routines, reading every day, limiting screen time, and encouraging independence. Then we'll pull back the curtain on what teachers wish every parent knew—from the importance of communication and attendance to sending students to school ready to learn each day. We'll also discuss preparing children beyond backpacks and school supplies by building confidence, teaching responsibility, showing respect, and developing a positive attitude that sets the tone for a successful year. Of course, we'll have a little fun with a rapid-fire round as we answer questions about common parent misconceptions, must-have school supplies, favorite first-day traditions, and one thing every parent should do before the first day of school. Whether you're sending your child to kindergarten or high school, this episode is filled with encouragement and practical tips to help your family start the school year strong. Remember, parents and teachers aren't on opposite teams—we're on the same team. When we work together, our students win. Thank you for listening to The Bellringer Podcast. Don't be late!

  3. Jul 6

    The Reset: Where We’ve Been & Where We’re Going

    Here's a polished podcast episode description you can use for YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or social media. The Bellringer Podcast | Season 2, Episode 1The Reset: Where We've Been & Where We're Going Theme: Reflect. Reset. Recharge. 🔔 Class is back in session! After taking a well-deserved break, we're ringing in Season 2 of The Bellringer Podcast with a candid conversation about where life has taken us, what we've learned, and what's ahead. Join Jamese and Dorine as we catch up on new roles, career growth, summer adventures, and the lessons that have reshaped us both inside and outside the classroom. This episode is all about hitting the reset button. We explore why educators often struggle to truly rest, whether summer professional development is worth it, and what authentic self-care looks like beyond the usual bubble baths and spa days. From setting healthy boundaries to protecting your peace and rediscovering who you are outside of teaching, we're having the conversations every educator needs before the new school year begins. We'll also tackle one of the biggest summer debates: Should teachers spend their break growing professionally—or give themselves permission to completely unplug? Whether you're still soaking up summer or already preparing your classroom, this episode will leave you encouraged to reflect, reset, and recharge before the school year begins. In this episode: Where we've been since Season 1Career updates and summer highlightsWhy teachers struggle to disconnectThe summer professional development debateTeacher self-care beyond social media trendsSetting boundaries for a healthier school yearJoin the conversation! Before summer ends, what's one thing you're doing to reset mentally, emotionally, or professionally? Share your thoughts in the comments—we'd love to hear from you! 🎧 Welcome back to The Bellringer Podcast. We're so glad you're here. Let's ring in Season 2 together!

  4. Apr 22

    Burnt Out But Still Showing Up

    How teachers keep going when they’re running on empty What happens when passion meets pure exhaustion In this real and unfiltered episode of The Bellringer Podcast, Ms. Durden and Ms. James check in honestly on where they are this time of year, from loving the job to counting down to summer. If you’ve ever walked into your classroom tired, overwhelmed, and still expected to give your best, this conversation will hit home The spring semester brings a unique kind of pressure. From testing demands and rising student behavior to the mental and emotional fatigue teachers carry daily, it can feel like a nonstop sprint to the finish line. In this episode, we break down what burnout actually looks like in real life, not just being tired, but feeling stretched, detached, and running on empty We also get honest about self care, not the picture perfect version, but the kind that actually helps teachers get through the day. Setting boundaries, protecting your time, embracing simplicity, and letting go of the pressure to do it all This episode is your reminder that you can love teaching and still feel exhausted. You are not alone, and you are not failing, you are human Because even when we are burnt out, we are still showing up 🔔

  5. Apr 15

    Fit Check: Is It School Appropriate?

    Episode 4 takes on one of the most talked-about topics in schools right now: what we wear and what it really communicates. From viral “fit check” videos to ongoing debates about dress codes, this conversation has moved far beyond the classroom and into the spotlight of social media. In this episode, we break it down from every angle. We start with students and the influence of trends, self-expression, and online culture on what shows up in the classroom each day. From hoodies and slides to graphic tees and outfit choices inspired by TikTok, we explore the balance between individuality and maintaining a focused, safe learning environment. Next, we shift to parents and what it means to show up in school spaces. Whether it is drop-off, meetings, or school events, we talk about expectations, representation, and the growing tension between those who feel dress codes are too strict and those who believe more structure is needed. We also ask the important question: are schools clearly communicating expectations, or are families left to figure it out on their own? Then, we get real about teachers. What does professional dress look like in today’s school culture? As educators juggle long days, comfort, and credibility, we unpack the pressure to maintain professionalism while also navigating changing norms and social media opinions. This episode brings it all together with one key idea: everyone contributes to the culture of a school, and clothing is part of that conversation whether we acknowledge it or not. With more visibility and more voices online than ever before, the question is no longer just about dress code. It is about identity, respect, and the message we send before we ever say a word. What does your fit check say about you in your school community? And is that message coming from you or influenced by the world online?

  6. Apr 8

    Teacher Life: 8–3 or 24/7?

    Is teaching really an 8–3 job… or is it a lifestyle that never truly clocks out? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on what teacher life actually looks like beyond the classroom doors. From common misconceptions like “summers off” and “done by 3” to the emotional and mental work educators carry long after the school day ends, we’re having honest conversation about the realities people don’t always see. We discuss the invisible workload, the heart teachers pour into supporting students, and the challenge of creating boundaries in a career that easily becomes 24/7. Along the way, we share relatable moments, personal reflections, and a few laughs about the things only teachers understand. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or someone curious about what teaching truly demands, this episode offers real talk about passion, balance, burnout, and protecting your peace while doing meaningful work. Because teaching may not stop at 3 o’clock but it also shouldn’t take over your life.

  7. Apr 1

    Dear Parents, Showing Up Matters

    Support in education is not about being perfect. It is about being present. In this episode, Dear Parents, Showing Up Matters!, we talk directly to parents about the powerful role they play in their child’s school experience. From attending events and building relationships with teachers to understanding school language and advocating with confidence, this conversation breaks down simple ways families can support learning every day. If you have ever wondered whether your involvement truly makes a difference, this episode is your reminder that it absolutely does.

  8. Mar 24

    So You Wanna Be a Teacher?

    Teaching is one of the most impactful professions, but what does it really take to step into the classroom? In this first episode of The Bellringer Class is in Session, Ms. James and Ms. Durden have an honest conversation about what it means to become a teacher. From passion and purpose to burnout and boundaries, they unpack the realities behind the profession that everyone thinks they understand. Whether you are considering a career in education, currently teaching, or a parent wanting a deeper understanding of what teachers experience daily, this episode is for you. Class is officially in session.

  • 8 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
4 Ratings

About

Teaching is one of the most impactful professions, but what does it really take to step into the classroom? In this first episode of The Bellringer Class is in Session, Ms. James and Ms. Durden have an honest conversation about what it means to become a teacher. From passion and purpose to burnout and boundaries, they unpack the realities behind the profession that everyone thinks they understand. Whether you are considering a career in education, currently teaching, or a parent wanting a deeper understanding of what teachers experience daily, this episode is for you. Class is officially in session.

Information

  • Creator
    TBR Podcast
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    8
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 The Bellringer Podcast
  • Show Website
    The Bellringer Podcast