Beyond the Worksheet

Dr. Jess Laine
  • 5.0 (1)
  • EDUCATION

Beyond the Worksheet is the podcast for educators who are ready to break free from busywork and reimagine what real learning looks like. Hosted by Dr. Jess Laine, a passionate educator and researcher, each episode explores innovative, student-centered teaching methods that go deeper than the surface—from discovery learning and project-based instruction to inquiry, creative assessment, and more. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or education student, you’ll gain practical strategies, research-based insights, and honest conversations about what works (and what doesn’t) in today’s classrooms. Because worksheets have their place—but learning should go beyond them.

Episodes

  1. How I Designed the Study E. 5

    5D AGO

    How I Designed the Study E. 5

    In this episode, Dr. Jess Laine pulls back the curtain on the research process behind her dissertation. How do you design a study that reflects real classrooms—not just theory? Dr. Jess explains how she used districtwide data from Dallas ISD to compare Montessori and traditional schools, focusing on two big questions: Does the instructional model impact student engagement and academic achievement? You’ll hear how she defined key terms, selected participants, measured outcomes, and ensured the study stayed ethical, relevant, and grounded in the realities of public education. Whether you're a researcher, educator, or simply curious about how educational studies work, this episode makes research accessible—and meaningful.

    6 min
  2. Early Studio Teaching Lessons Bonus Ep. 3

    FEB 7 · BONUS

    Early Studio Teaching Lessons Bonus Ep. 3

    In this heartfelt bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the next chapter of her journey into studio teaching—navigating unfamiliar laws, unpredictable filming schedules, and the deep desire to meet students where they are. From tutoring on Nickelodeon’s Every Witch Way to juggling traditional classroom demands and studio gigs on the side, she opens up about burnout, breakthrough moments, and the value of personalized learning. You’ll hear the challenges she faced, the joy she found in small wins, and how these early experiences shaped her philosophy that real learning starts with connection—not compliance.

    6 min
  3. The Research Gap Ep. 4

    FEB 3

    The Research Gap Ep. 4

    Why do we need another study on discovery learning? In this episode, Dr. Jess Laine explores the research gap that sparked her dissertation, and why it matters for real classrooms today. She breaks down what’s missing from current studies, including the lack of data on middle school students in urban public schools, limited comparisons between Montessori and traditional models, and the challenge of translating research into practice. If you’ve ever wondered whether discovery learning actually improves engagement and achievement, or how research applies to your school’s reality, this episode offers clarity, context, and insight backed by real-world data.

    5 min
  4. What Is Discovery Learning, Really? Ep. 3

    JAN 26

    What Is Discovery Learning, Really? Ep. 3

    “Discovery learning” gets tossed around in education, but what does it actually mean? In this episode, Dr. Jess Laine breaks down the theory, the practice, and the research behind this student-centered approach. Drawing directly from her dissertation, she unpacks what discovery learning looks like in real classrooms, the difference between pure and guided discovery, and why thoughtful implementation is key. You’ll hear what the research says (and doesn’t say), what critics argue, and why the brain science supports active, inquiry-based learning. Whether you're new to discovery learning or looking to deepen your understanding, this episode offers a clear, research-anchored guide to what it really is—and why it matters.

    7 min
  5. Studio Teaching, Year One (2011): Learning as I Went Bonus Ep. 2

    JAN 24 · BONUS

    Studio Teaching, Year One (2011): Learning as I Went Bonus Ep. 2

    In this bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine takes listeners back to 2011, her first year as a studio teacher, and a turning point in her career. After leaving the traditional classroom, she stepped into the unknown: teaching on the first national Broadway tour of The Addams Family. With no roadmap, no formal training, and only two students, she quickly learned how to individualize instruction, adapt to chaotic schedules, and find the heart of learning in the most unexpected places. From backstage school sessions to surprise makeup duties, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really means to teach without four walls, and why relationships, flexibility, and relevance matter more than anything.

    7 min
  6. Montessori vs. Traditional: What’s the Difference? Ep. 2

    09/10/2025

    Montessori vs. Traditional: What’s the Difference? Ep. 2

    In this episode, Dr. Jess Laine takes a deep dive into two widely used but very different educational models: Montessori and traditional schooling. Drawing directly from her dissertation research in Dallas ISD, she breaks down how each model operates, what they look like in practice, and what the data actually says about their impact on student achievement and engagement. From side-by-side examples to real-world classroom dynamics, this episode unpacks the pros, limitations, and surprising findings that challenge common assumptions. Whether you're an educator, parent, or education leader, you'll walk away with a clearer understanding of what really separates these models—and why it matters.

    8 min
  7. From Classroom to Set – My Journey as a Studio Teacher Bonus Ep. 1

    09/04/2025 · BONUS

    From Classroom to Set – My Journey as a Studio Teacher Bonus Ep. 1

    In this special bonus episode, Dr. Jess Laine shares the personal journey that led her from traditional classrooms to one of the most unique teaching roles out there: studio teacher for film and television. Hear how a math-loving, theater-curious college student became an educator on the sets of hit shows and major productions. From burnout to breakthrough, this is a story about following your passion, trusting your instincts, and discovering what education can look like when you throw out the script—literally.

    5 min
  8. Why Discovery Learning Matters Ep. 1

    09/02/2025

    Why Discovery Learning Matters Ep. 1

    In the premiere episode of Beyond the Worksheet, Dr. Jess Laine explores the growing crisis in student engagement and academic achievement—and why discovery learning may be part of the solution. Drawing directly from her dissertation research, this episode breaks down what discovery learning really is, how it compares to traditional methods, and what the data shows about its impact on student outcomes. If you're an educator looking for more meaningful ways to reach your students, this is where the journey begins.

    7 min
  9. Meet Dr. Jess Laine

    09/02/2025 · BONUS

    Meet Dr. Jess Laine

    Hi, I’m Dr. Jess Phelps—but in the podcast world, you’ll hear me go by Dr. Jess Laine. I’ve been an educator since 2005 and a California Studio Teacher since 2011, and honestly, teaching is my calling. I began teaching middle and high school math in the classroom immediately after graduating with a degree in Secondary Mathematics Education. From day one, my mission has been simple: help students feel confident in math and believe in their ability to succeed—even if they’ve struggled before. Over the years, I’ve worked in all kinds of educational settings: public schools, private schools for students with learning differences, and online classrooms. I’ve been an online math instructor since 2014, creating lessons that are clear, encouraging, and tailored to each student’s needs. I also make quick, to-the-point math videos on YouTube—check out my channel, Jesslaine Live, where I help students grasp tricky concepts in just a few minutes. Another unique part of my journey? I’ve spent more than a decade working in the entertainment industry as a California Studio Teacher. That means I teach young actors on set—making sure they stay on track academically while also looking out for their well-being. I’ve worked on productions like Stranger Things, Special Ops: Lioness, Walker, Fuller House, and Mixed-ish, and the yet-to-be-released film, Michael. I’ve even toured with Broadway shows and Kidz Bop! I teach all subjects and grade levels on set, but my specialty is supporting students in higher-level subjects, such as math, science, and AP courses. I love creating personalized learning experiences—whether I’m teaching online, in person, or between takes on a film set. I earned my Doctor of Education (Ed.D.) in Higher Education Leadership from Bethel University, which enabled me to delve even deeper into how students learn and how we can improve education for everyone. Now, as Dr. Jess Laine, I’m excited to bring all of this experience into the podcast world—sharing stories, strategies, and real talk about what helps students truly thrive. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or just curious about how kids learn best, I’m glad you’re here.

    3 min
  10. Beyond the Worksheet Trailer

    SEASON 1 TRAILER

    Beyond the Worksheet Trailer

    Beyond the Worksheet is the podcast for educators who are ready to break free from busywork and reimagine what real learning looks like. Hosted by Dr. Jess Laine, a passionate educator and researcher, each episode explores innovative, student-centered teaching methods that go deeper than the surface—from discovery learning and project-based instruction to inquiry, creative assessment, and more. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or education student, you’ll gain practical strategies, research-based insights, and honest conversations about what works (and what doesn’t) in today’s classrooms. Because worksheets have their place—but learning should go beyond them.

    2 min

Trailer

About

Beyond the Worksheet is the podcast for educators who are ready to break free from busywork and reimagine what real learning looks like. Hosted by Dr. Jess Laine, a passionate educator and researcher, each episode explores innovative, student-centered teaching methods that go deeper than the surface—from discovery learning and project-based instruction to inquiry, creative assessment, and more. Whether you’re a classroom teacher, school leader, or education student, you’ll gain practical strategies, research-based insights, and honest conversations about what works (and what doesn’t) in today’s classrooms. Because worksheets have their place—but learning should go beyond them.

Information

  • Creator
    Dr. Jess Laine
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Jesslaine Co.
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Worksheet