Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast

Gretchen Bridgers | Education Podcast Network
  • 4.9 (278)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

Educators, this podcast will leave you feeling empowered with actionable steps to implement into your role immediately. Gretchen shares stories, lessons learned and practical tips. Buckle up for a transformation unlike no other! Listen as you work out, clean the house, do errands and so much more. This show is an excellent source of professional development, inspiration, empowerment, as well as techniques and strategies that are best practices. Lessons shared applicable to all educators!. #education

  1. 1D AGO

    361: Ignite the Room – Strategies that Make Students Lean In

    In this energizing episode, we dive into what it really takes to ignite a classroom—where students are curious, teachers are confident, and learning feels alive. If you’ve ever wondered how to make your students lean in instead of zone out, this is the episode for you. Quotables "Kids love to talk. Why aren’t we doing more of it?""Learning is a process. Put time into the process."“Fun is not a substitute for rigor.”           Resources from this Episode: Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success:  https://amzn.to/409AUCt Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-way License code: QD3TG5UIS0LHILEL

    33 min

  2. JAN 12

    Bonus: Obsessed with High Quality Instruction

    In this special role-reversal episode, the mic is flipped—and the interviewer becomes the interviewee. Known for asking powerful questions, today’s guest steps into the hot seat to share a deep-rooted passion for high-quality instruction and why it’s the foundation of meaningful learning. From lesson design to classroom culture, this conversation pulls back the curtain on what really moves the needle for student engagement and teacher confidence. It’s an honest, reflective look at why being “obsessed” with instruction isn’t about perfection—it’s about intention, impact, and growth. Quotables "Good teachers can become great. Great teachers can become greater. ""Small changes have big results."“It takes a lot of prep.“ Resources from this Episode: Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success:  https://amzn.to/409AUCt Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-way License code: QD3TG5UIS0LHILEL

    41 min

  3. JAN 5

    360: Behind the Teaching Scenes with Craig Randall

    What really happens behind the scenes of great teaching? In this episode, we pull back the curtain with educator Craig Randall to talk about the realities of the classroom that don’t always make it into lesson plans or professional development sessions. From the behind-the-scenes decisions teachers make every day to the mindset shifts that help sustain energy and passion, Craig shares honest insights, practical wisdom, and relatable moments that every educator will recognize. Quotables *All quotes are from the interviewee* "It takes focus on one thing to really really grow. ""Choice matters so much."“We have to model what we want with kids.“         Resources from the Episode: Episode 240: Trust Based Observations with Craig RandallTrust Based Observations Book:https://amzn.to/4oXEoTzWebsite:https://trustbased.com/Email:craig@trustbased.com Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a...

    43 min

  4. 12/22/2025

    359: New Year New Energy – Setting Yourself Up for a Fresh Start

    In this energizing New Year episode, we dive into how teachers can hit reset, refocus their mindset, and walk into the classroom feeling refreshed and ready. Whether the first semester felt chaotic, inspiring, exhausting, or all of the above, this episode offers practical strategies for creating a smoother, more intentional second half of the school year. Quotables "Model, practice, praise." "Reflect before you restart." "Choose learning that feeds your strengths." Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-way License code: QD3TG5UIS0LHILEL

    29 min

  5. 12/08/2025

    358: Mid Year Reflection – How to Finish the Year Strong

    We’ve hit the midpoint of the school year—congratulations! In this episode, we’re taking a breath and reflecting on what’s working, what’s not, and how to finish the year strong without burning out. From classroom engagement hacks to managing mid-year chaos, we’ll unpack practical ways to keep your students motivated and protect your own energy. Quotables "Let student’s present. However you go about, let them present what they know.""Don’t forget to communicate and celebrate."“Kids really want to talk, and kids really want to move—so use it to your benefit.” Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-way License code: QD3TG5UIS0LHILEL

    33 min

  6. 11/24/2025

    357: Classroom Conversations That Matter – The Secret to High Impact Discussions

    In this episode, we dive into what makes classroom conversations truly meaningful and how to move beyond surface-level participation to create powerful, high-impact discussions. From establishing a safe classroom culture to teaching students how to listen actively and respond thoughtfully, we unpack practical ways to elevate dialogue and deepen learning. Quotables "Great questions don't just test students knowledge. They actually ignite them to want to know more or go deeper.""Think time is powerful.""Let the dang kids talk. That’s the message."         Resources from this Episode: Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success:  https://amzn.to/409AUCt Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: https://uppbeat.io/t/mark-july/your-way License code: QD3TG5UIS0LHILEL

    22 min

  7. 11/10/2025

    356: Beyond the Lesson Plan & How to Get Students to Care

    In this episode we dive into one of the biggest challenges teachers face—getting students to actually care about what they’re learning. Great lesson planning isn’t just about standards and objectives—it’s about connection, relevance, and engagement. Join us as we explore how intentional planning can transform your lessons from “just another class” into experiences that matter to your students. Quotables “Personal growth over grades. ”"That classroom environment has to be a place where they want to take risks.""When students feel known, they feel respected, and their more likely to find meaning in what their working on. "       Resources from this Episode: Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success:  https://amzn.to/409AUCt Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.comBlog: Always A LessonFacebook: Always A LessonTwitter: @gschultekInstagram: Always.A.LessonLinkedin: Gretchen Schultek BridgersBook: Elementary EDUC 101: What They Didn’t Teach You in College Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon. Leave a Rating and Review: This helps my show remain active in order to continue to help other educators remain empowered in a career that has a long-lasting effect on our future. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/always-lessons-empowering/id1006433135?mt=2 Search for my show on iTunes or Stitcher.Click on ‘Ratings and Reviews.’Under ‘Customer Reviews,’ click on “Write a Review.”Sign in with your iTunes or Stitcher log-in infoLeave a Rating: Tap the greyed out stars (5 being the best)Leave a Review: Type in a Title and Description of your thoughts on my podcastClick ‘Send’ Music from #Uppbeat: a class="ProsemirrorEditor-link"...

    24 min

  8. 10/27/2025

    355: Open to Learning with Jennifer Burns

    Listen in as Jennifer Burns tells about the importance of being open to learning, and reflecting on the craft of teaching for all students. Having experience in a variety of different avenues in the teaching profession, Jennifer brings a perspective and a tool in this episode that will help teachers in their upcoming lessons. Quotables *All quotes are from the interviewee* "Everywhere you go, there is something to be learned." "Finding the ability to be open and receptive to what others can offer you is the biggest lesson. " “It’s okay to be where you are.” About Jennifer Burns Jennifer is a literacy trainer, consultant and author working with schools and districts to help teachers and leaders make reading joyful to teach and learn from the earliest of ages. As teachers, we go through observe, reflect and create cycles in teaching. This applies to daily lesson planning and teacher professional growth. We are learning to observe and take notes better. We are learning to reflect on what our notes mean. And we are learning how to create impactful lessons. That is what Jennifer has created in the book Building Readers From The Playground to Print for the youngest of readers and what she work with schools to do with all readers. Resources from this Episode: www.buildingareader.com Building Readers book:https://amzn.to/4kZQuKR Join the Always A Lesson Newsletter Join here and grab a freebie! Connect with Gretchen Email: gretchen@alwaysalesson.com Blog: a...

    29 min
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4.9
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278 Ratings

About

Educators, this podcast will leave you feeling empowered with actionable steps to implement into your role immediately. Gretchen shares stories, lessons learned and practical tips. Buckle up for a transformation unlike no other! Listen as you work out, clean the house, do errands and so much more. This show is an excellent source of professional development, inspiration, empowerment, as well as techniques and strategies that are best practices. Lessons shared applicable to all educators!. #education

Information

  • Creator
    Gretchen Bridgers | Education Podcast Network
  • Years Active
    2015 - 2026
  • Episodes
    297
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Gretchen Bridgers | Education Podcast Network
  • Show Website
    Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast

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