Classroom Success 101

Joshua Ruse
  • 3.8 (9)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED MONTHLY

Classroom Success 101, hosted by Joshua Ruse is an insightful podcast series dedicated to empowering educators. Focused on teaching strategies, classroom management, and student engagement, this podcast is a goldmine for teachers seeking practical advice and innovative ideas. Each episode dives into topics like effective lesson planning, student-centered learning, and building a positive classroom culture. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the field, Classroom Success 101 offers valuable tips and techniques to enhance your teaching skills and foster a thriving classroom environment.

  1. 05/09/2025

    Blamed for Student Behavior? Here’s How to Protect Yourself!

    Ever been blamed for a student’s meltdown—even when you’ve done everything right? You’re not alone. In this episode, behavior consultant Joshua Ruse dives into one of the most frustrating parts of teaching: when you're held responsible for student behavior that’s beyond your control. Whether it’s a referral turned back on you or a comment in a staff meeting, this episode will give you practical tools to protect your professionalism and reclaim your confidence in the classroom. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why blame shows up in schools—and what it really says about the system ✅ What to say (and how to say it) when someone questions your classroom management ✅ How to protect yourself with documentation, communication, and proactive moves ✅ A simple mindset shift that helps you stay calm, confident, and professional—no matter what 🎧 LISTEN NOW – Hit play and walk into this week feeling supported, not singled out. 🔥 Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🧠 Why Blame Happens ​ Weak or inconsistent behavior systems push responsibility onto teachers​ It’s not a reflection of your skill—it’s a reflection of the system’s gaps 💬 What to Say When You’re Put on the Spot ​ Use this go-to phrase:“I’ve used several proactive strategies, including [insert examples]. At this point, I’m seeking additional support to help them be successful.” ​ Keeps the tone professional and shifts the conversation to collaboration 🛡️ How to Protect Yourself ​ Document everything—logs, notes, emails​ Loop in parents and support staff early, not after a meltdown​ Communicate often—visibility builds credibility 🧘 Shift the Narrative ​ You’re not responsible for fixing every behavior​ Your job is to respond—not rescue​ Stay calm, stay consistent, stay grounded ✅ Classroom Challenge of the Week! Think of one student who pushes your buttons. Write down three things you’ve done to support them. Then ask: Does my documentation show the full story? If not, start a simple support log this week. It’s not about defense—it’s about advocacy. 📩 DM me your takeaway at: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuaruse 📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS: 🎓 Want more classroom behavior strategies? 👉 Enroll in my course: Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/?kw=Effective+classroom+manage&src=sac&couponCode=ST9MT71624 📬 Join the weekly newsletter for free behavior tips and tools: https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 📱 Follow for more daily behavior support content: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/behaviorbreakthroughs Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/behaviorbreakthroughs LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjoshuaruse YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MrJoshuaRuse 🎧 If this episode helped you: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review 📢 Share it with a teacher who needs to hear it 🔔 Subscribe to Classroom Success 101 so you never miss an episode!

    10 min

  2. 04/02/2025

    Quick Wins for Preventing Power Struggles in the Classroom

    Quick Wins for Preventing Power Struggles in the Classroom Power struggles don’t always start with yelling. Sometimes, it’s the silent refusal, the eye roll, or a student just checking out. If you don’t catch it early, it can snowball fast. But you can prevent most power struggles by shifting how you respond—and it doesn’t take a complicated system. In this episode, behavior consultant Joshua Ruse shares quick, simple strategies to stop defiance before it disrupts your class. You’ll walk away with tools you can use right now to stay calm, keep your lesson moving, and avoid getting pulled into a showdown. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ How to spot the early signs of defiance ✅ What to do (and what to skip) to avoid turning it into a bigger issue ✅ Easy ways to redirect without calling students out ✅ Small choices that give students control without giving up structure 🎧 LISTEN NOW – Hit play and walk into your classroom this week with a plan that works. 🔥 Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🧠 Catch It Early • Look for quiet signals like withdrawal, fidgeting, or sudden silence • Walk near the student without making a scene • Stay calm and consistent—your presence speaks volumes 🚶 Keep the Class Moving • Avoid pausing the entire lesson to deal with one student • Use soft, clear choices: “You can do this here or at the back table” • Save deeper talks for later when emotions have cooled 🧘 Stay Out of the Power Struggle • Don’t let their energy pull you in • Pause, breathe, and use calm, low-pressure responses • Say less—short resets like “I’ll check back in a minute” work wonders ✅ Classroom Challenge of the Week! Think of one student who regularly resists directions. Offer them a low-stakes choice this week—how to complete the task, where to sit, or when to start. Then send me a message on Instagram and tell me how it went! 📩 DM me at https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuaruse 📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS: 🎓 Want more classroom management strategies? 🚀 Enroll in my course: Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond 🔗 https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/?kw=Effective+classroom+manage&src=sac&couponCode=ST9MT71624 📬 Sign up for the weekly newsletter: Get practical tips, classroom hacks, and behavior tools delivered to your inbox every week. 🔗 https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 🔗 Follow me for daily behavior tips and content: 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mrjoshuaruse 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mrjoshuaruse 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjoshuaruse 📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MrJoshuaRuse 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review 📢 Share this with a fellow teacher who needs it 🔔 Subscribe to Classroom Success 101 so you never miss an episode!

    9 min

  3. 03/28/2025

    You Can’t Make Me! What That Really Means?

    🚀 Episode Title: You Can’t Make Me! What That Really Means 📢 EPISODE OVERVIEW: Every teacher knows that moment—the eye contact, the crossed arms, and the words that stop you in your tracks: “You can’t make me.” Whether it’s refusing to follow directions, do classwork, or even just sit down, defiance can throw your whole lesson off balance. In this episode, behavior consultant Joshua Ruse breaks down what that phrase really means—and why it’s not always about disrespect. You'll learn how to respond in a way that de-escalates the moment, preserves your connection with students, and leads to real behavior change over time. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why defiance usually masks deeper struggles like trauma, frustration, or fear. ✅ What not to say when a student challenges you. ✅ 4 research-backed tools to defuse defiant behavior without escalating. ✅ How to build trust with even your most challenging students. 🎧 LISTEN NOW – Hit play and let’s rethink how we respond to “You can’t make me.” 🔥 Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🧠 What’s Really Behind “You Can’t Make Me” • Defiance is often a sign of something else—stress, trauma, or feeling out of control. • According to Dr. Ross Greene: “Kids do well if they can.” So if they’re not, something’s in the way. • Get curious, not confrontational. 🚫 What NOT to Do in the Moment • Avoid sarcasm, public corrections, and threats you won’t follow through on. • Stay calm. Step back if you need to. • A simple, low-pressure phrase like “I’m here to help, not to fight” can shift the tone instantly. 🛠️ What Actually Works Controlled Choices – Offer options instead of demands. Private Conversations – Save tough talks for when emotions cool down. Connection Before Correction – Build trust before correcting behavior. Reset Phrases – “Let’s take a break and come back to this,” keeps the door open. 👀 Pro tip: It’s not about winning—it’s about helping your students learn how to respond when things feel hard. ✅ Classroom Challenge of the Week! Think of one student who pushes back regularly. Instead of giving them a command, try offering them a small choice—where to sit, what tool to use, or how to start an assignment. Then, DM me on Instagram @MrJoshuaRuse and tell me how it went. I’d love to celebrate your win! 📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS: 🎓 Want more classroom management strategies? 🚀 Enroll in my course: "Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond" 🔗 https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/?kw=Effective+classroom+manage&src=sac&couponCode=ST9MT71624 📩 Sign up for my weekly newsletter for exclusive tips & classroom hacks! https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 🔗 Follow me for daily behavior strategies: YouTube: @MrJoshuaRuse 📸 Instagram: @MrJoshuaRuse 📘 Facebook: @MrJoshuaRuse 💼 LinkedIn: @MrJoshuaRuse 🎧 If you loved this episode, don’t forget to: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review 📢 Share this with a fellow teacher who needs it 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    11 min

  4. 03/06/2025

    Behavior Strategies for Managing Aggressive Students

    Behavior Strategies for Managing Aggressive Students Episode Overview In this episode of Classroom Success 101, we explore effective strategies for managing aggressive student behavior. Whether a student has a Behavior Intervention Plan (BIP) or Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) or not, there are clear steps educators can take to create a structured, safe, and positive learning environment. This episode provides practical insights on de-escalation, proactive classroom techniques, and essential interventions to reduce aggression in students. Key Topics Covered: Introduction Understanding the impact of aggressive behavior in the classroom The importance of proactive strategies Overview of what will be covered in this episode Segment 1: Managing Aggressive Students Without a BIP or FBA Staying calm and neutral when handling aggression Identifying triggers and patterns of behavior Providing students with space and structured choices Using de-escalation techniques to prevent further escalation Documenting incidents to track behavior patterns Collaborating with support staff to determine if an FBA is needed Segment 2: Strategies for Students with a BIP or FBA Implementing the Behavior Intervention Plan with consistency Using proactive strategies to prevent aggression Reinforcing positive behavior through rewards and interventions Communicating with the student using structured language and expectations Monitoring progress and adjusting strategies based on effectiveness Ensuring team collaboration for consistent support Segment 3: Proactive Classroom Strategies to Prevent Aggression Establishing and reinforcing clear classroom expectations Building positive relationships with students Practicing active listening to understand student concerns Offering structured choices to reduce defiance Using positive reinforcement to encourage good behavior Redirecting and reframing negative behaviors into positive actions Maintaining calm and consistency in responses Involving students in conflict resolution to develop problem-solving skills Seeking support from school staff when necessary Classroom Challenge of the Week Implement one of the strategies from today’s episode in your classroom Share your progress by sending a direct message on Instagram @MrJoshuaRuse Resources and Next Steps Share this episode with a fellow teacher who could benefit from these strategies Sign up for the weekly newsletter for more behavior management tips and strategies Follow on Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn @MrJoshuaRuse for daily insights Enroll in the course, "Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond," to master behavior interventions Closing Remarks Behavior management is a skill that requires consistency, patience, and proactive strategies Stay committed to creating a structured and supportive learning environment 📩 DM @MrJoshuaRuse on Instagram to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it worked for you! 📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS: 🎓 Want more classroom management strategies? 🚀 Enroll in my course: "Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond" 🔗 https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/?kw=Effective+classroom+manage&src=sac&couponCode=ST9MT71624 📩 Sign up for my weekly newsletter for exclusive tips & classroom hacks! https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 🔗 Follow me for daily behavior strategies: 📸 Instagram: @MrJoshuaRuse 📘 Facebook: @MrJoshuaRuse 💼 LinkedIn: @MrJoshuaRuse 🎧 If you loved this episode, don’t forget to: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review 📢 Share this with a fellow teacher who needs it 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode! Thank you for listening, and stay tuned for the next episode of Classroom Success 101

    23 min

  5. 02/27/2025

    Mastering the Art of Avoiding Power Struggles in the Classroom

    Ever feel like you’re in a constant tug-of-war with students? Power struggles can drain your energy, disrupt learning, and create tension in your classroom. The good news? They’re completely preventable! In this episode, behavior consultant Joshua Ruse shares 9 powerful strategies to stop power struggles before they start, helping you take back control, build stronger student relationships, and create a structured, stress-free classroom. 💡 In this episode, you’ll learn: ✅ Why power struggles happen (and how to recognize them early). ✅ 9 teacher-tested strategies to prevent and diffuse conflicts with students. ✅ How to stay calm, confident, and in control—even in tough situations. ✅ The #1 mistake teachers make when dealing with defiant behavior (and what to do instead). 🎧 LISTEN NOW – Hit play and start transforming your classroom today! 🔥 Key Takeaways from This Episode: 🛑 Why Do Power Struggles Happen? • Students test boundaries when expectations aren’t clear. • Some students crave control—giving them choices can help. • Emotional triggers like frustration and embarrassment can cause defiance. • Your reaction matters! Engaging in a battle of wills only fuels the fire. 🎯 9 Strategies to Stop Power Struggles Before They Start: 1️. Set Clear Expectations – Define rules, model behaviors, and stay consistent. 2️. Build Strong Relationships – Show students you care beyond academics. 3️. Practice Active Listening – Validate their feelings instead of dismissing them. 4️. Offer Choices – Give students a sense of control within structured limits. 5️. Use Positive Reinforcement – Catch students doing the right thing! 6️. Redirect & Reframe – Swap negative phrasing for positive guidance. 7️. Stay Calm & Neutral – Your reaction determines the outcome—don’t match their frustration. 8️. Teach Conflict Resolution – Help students find solutions instead of just enforcing punishments. 9️. Seek Support When Needed – Use behavior plans, data tracking, and team collaboration. 👀 Which strategy will YOU try this week? ✅ Classroom Challenge of the Week! This week, choose ONE strategy from the episode and test it out in your classroom. 📩 DM @MrJoshuaRuse on Instagram to share your experience—I’d love to hear how it worked for you! 📌 RESOURCES & NEXT STEPS: 🎓 Want more classroom management strategies? 🚀 Enroll in my course: "Effective Classroom Management Strategies and Beyond" 🔗 https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/?kw=Effective+classroom+manage&src=sac&couponCode=ST9MT71624 📩 Sign up for my weekly newsletter for exclusive tips & classroom hacks! https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 🔗 Follow me for daily behavior strategies: 📸 Instagram: @MrJoshuaRuse 📘 Facebook: @MrJoshuaRuse 💼 LinkedIn: @MrJoshuaRuse 🎧 If you loved this episode, don’t forget to: ⭐ Leave a 5-star review 📢 Share this with a fellow teacher who needs it 🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode!

    20 min

  6. 02/21/2025

    From Chaos to Calm: 7 Routines Every Teacher Needs to Prevent Behavior Issues!

    Are you tired of constant behavior issues taking up your teaching time? Classroom routines are the secret weapon to reducing disruptions, preventing power struggles, and creating a smooth, structured classroom where students thrive! In this episode, Joshua Ruse breaks down: ✅ Why routines are essential for behavior management ✅ 7 must-have routines to make your classroom calm & predictable ✨ ✅ Step-by-step strategies to teach, reinforce, and reset routines 📋 ✅ A Classroom Challenge to help you take action this week! 🚀 💡 Listen now to gain practical strategies you can implement immediately! What You'll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ How routines create structure and prevent disruptions ✔️ Simple attention-getting techniques to stop noise instantly 🎯 ✔️ Quick transition strategies to move students smoothly between activities ✔️ How to keep students focused during independent work 📝 ✔️ De-escalation techniques for students who struggle with behavior challenges ✔️ End-of-day routines to close class calmly ✅ Resources & Links Mentioned: 📩 Want more classroom strategies? Sign up for my weekly teacher newsletter https://emailnewsletter.phonesites.com 📌 Follow me for more tips: [Instagram | Facebook | LinkedIn @MrJoshuaRuse] 🎓 Struggling with Classroom Management? Take my course! → Enroll Now https://www.udemy.com/course/positive-behavior-intervention-support-training-programs-for-teachers/learn/lecture/16433550?referralCode=201CF66CB9B7FFE775C5#overview Classroom Challenge of the Week! ✅ Pick ONE routine from today’s episode and implement it in your classroom! 📩 DM me or tag me on Instagram @MrJoshuaRuse to share your progress! 🚀 🎧 Listen Now & Take Back Control of Your Classroom!

    19 min

  7. 01/22/2024

    Unlocking Potential: Revitalizing Learning for the Disengaged Student

    In this episode, I dive into practical methods to engage and inspire students of all backgrounds and learning styles. This episodes cover a range of topics crucial for today's educators: Engaging the Disconnected: Discover the power of personalized praise to reach students who seem disinterested. Learn how small acknowledgments can build confidence and foster a sense of belonging, leading to increased participation and engagement. Bridging the Parent-Teacher Gap: Explore effective strategies for improving parent-teacher relationships. Find out how regular, positive communication can shift perceptions and build a stronger school community. Connecting with Unreachable Students: Uncover the importance of stepping into students' worlds to build rapport. From attending their extracurricular activities to understanding their hobbies, learn how these connections can dramatically improve classroom engagement. Tailoring Lessons to Student Interests: Dive into methods for integrating student interests into your lessons. Discover how personalizing your teaching approach can make learning more relevant, exciting, and engaging for every student. Promoting Active Participation: Learn how to transform your classroom from a teacher-centered to a student-centered environment. Explore techniques like group projects, peer teaching, and student-led discussions to encourage active participation and enhance critical thinking. Sign Up For ⁠⁠⁠⁠MY WEEKLY NEWSLETTER⁠⁠⁠⁠ Ready to transform your teaching and unlock classroom success? Enroll in our Udemy course, 'Expert Strategies for Implementing Positive Behavior Intervention Supports,' today! Discover the secrets to creating a positive learning environment, mastering Applied Behavior Analysis, and effectively defusing challenging behaviors. Don't miss out on this opportunity to level up your teaching skills. ⁠⁠⁠⁠Visit our Udemy course now!⁠⁠⁠⁠ Discover the power of our top-selling 'Reinforcer Survey,' priced at just $3.99! This invaluable tool will help you identify potential reinforcers to supercharge your behavior intervention plans. Head over to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠Teacher Pay Teachers website now⁠⁠⁠⁠and take the first step in transforming your classroom success! Links you may want to check out: ⁠⁠⁠www.behaviorbreakthroughs.com⁠⁠⁠ Connect with us on your fav social platform: Joshua Ruse, MBA (Behavior Breakthroughs) Instagram: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/behaviorbreakthroughs/⁠⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCisF9Ih1by5tf0Spr2hmuuQ⁠⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorbreakthroughs⁠⁠⁠ Twitter X: ⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/BehaviorBT⁠⁠⁠ Linkedin: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-ruse/⁠

    17 min

  8. 01/15/2024

    Boosting Student Motivation: Practical Strategies for Educators

    In this episode, we delve into the world of student motivation and explore actionable strategies for teachers. Here are the key highlights: Importance of Student Motivation: Learn why student motivation is essential for effective learning. Understand the positive impact of motivation on students' performance and success. Challenges in Motivating Students: Explore common classroom issues related to motivation. Recognize the prevalence of challenges like absenteeism and reduced academic performance. Expectancy-Value-Cost Model: Understand the components of the Expectancy-Value-Cost Model. Discover how expectancy, value, and cost influence student motivation. Learn practical strategies to enhance these components. Strategies for Enhancing Expectancy: Discover methods to build students' self-efficacy and belief in their abilities. Understand the importance of clear expectations and constructive feedback. Learn how appropriate challenges can boost motivation. Strategies for Enhancing Value: Explore ways to make learning more enjoyable and meaningful. Understand how to connect course material to real-life applications and personal interests. Discover the power of providing students with choices and autonomy. Strategies for Reducing Costs: Learn how to manage workload and time effectively. Explore methods to create a supportive and comfortable learning environment. Discover ways to provide students with the necessary support and resources. ARCS Model of Instructional Design: Delve into the ARCS Model's elements: Attention, Relevance, Confidence, and Satisfaction. Understand how each element contributes to student motivation. Gain insights into practical strategies for capturing attention, making learning relevant, boosting confidence, and ensuring satisfaction. Additional Strategies for Motivating Students: Learn the importance of role modeling enthusiasm for the subject matter. Discover the benefits of getting to know your students and embracing diversity. Explore the impact of using real-world examples, encouraging active learning, setting realistic goals, and providing constructive feedback. Self-Determination Theory (SDT): Understand SDT's core principles: Autonomy, Competence, and Relatedness. Explore the motivation continuum from intrinsic motivation to amotivation. Learn strategies to enhance autonomy, competence, and relatedness in your classroom. This episode equips educators with a comprehensive toolkit of strategies to motivate and inspire students. By implementing these techniques, teachers can create an engaging and supportive learning environment that fosters student success and enthusiasm for learning. Tune in to boost student motivation in your classroom! Sign Up For ⁠⁠⁠MY WEEKLY NEWSLETTER⁠⁠⁠ Ready to transform your teaching and unlock classroom success? Enroll in our Udemy course, 'Expert Strategies for Implementing Positive Behavior Intervention Supports,' today! Discover the secrets to creating a positive learning environment, mastering Applied Behavior Analysis, and effectively defusing challenging behaviors. Don't miss out on this opportunity to level up your teaching skills. ⁠⁠⁠Visit our Udemy course now!⁠⁠⁠ Discover the power of our top-selling 'Reinforcer Survey,' priced at just $3.99! This invaluable tool will help you identify potential reinforcers to supercharge your behavior intervention plans. Head over to our ⁠⁠⁠Teacher Pay Teachers website now⁠⁠⁠and take the first step in transforming your classroom success! Links you may want to check out: ⁠⁠www.behaviorbreakthroughs.com⁠⁠ Connect with us on your fav social platform: Joshua Ruse, MBA (Behavior Breakthroughs) Instagram: ⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/behaviorbreakthroughs/⁠⁠ YouTube: ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCisF9Ih1by5tf0Spr2hmuuQ⁠⁠ TikTok: ⁠⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@behaviorbreakthroughs⁠⁠ Twitter X: ⁠⁠https://twitter.com/BehaviorBT⁠⁠ Linkedin: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-ruse/⁠

    54 min
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3.8
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Classroom Success 101, hosted by Joshua Ruse is an insightful podcast series dedicated to empowering educators. Focused on teaching strategies, classroom management, and student engagement, this podcast is a goldmine for teachers seeking practical advice and innovative ideas. Each episode dives into topics like effective lesson planning, student-centered learning, and building a positive classroom culture. Whether you’re a seasoned educator or new to the field, Classroom Success 101 offers valuable tips and techniques to enhance your teaching skills and foster a thriving classroom environment.

Information

  • Creator
    Joshua Ruse
  • Years Active
    2019 - 2025
  • Episodes
    55
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Joshua Ruse
  • Show Website
    Classroom Success 101