Making the Grade Podcast

Christine and Georgia

Making the Grade is a podcast about executive function—how we manage time, energy, emotions, and goals in real life. Hosted by former educators turned executive function coaches, we explore the brain-based skills that drive success both personally and professionally. Each episode features real stories from entrepreneurs, overwhelmed professionals, parents, and experts in executive function. We dive into the habits, challenges, and strategies that help people build (or rebuild) motivation, focus, organization, and emotional regulation. Why do so many of us feel stuck, even when we’re trying our best? What does success really look like—and how do we get there on our own terms? The pressures of modern life are real, but so are the solutions. Making the Grade offers honest conversations, practical tools, and a reminder that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself every day. Subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear! https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/

  1. 17 SEP

    Executive Function Skills for College Success: Howard Freedman on Planning, Organization & Financial Aid

    Send us a text S3 EP 41 | Season 3 Episode 41: Executive Function Skills for College Success: Howard Freedman on Planning, Organization & Financial Aid Have you ever felt like the stress of planning and paying for college is too much to organize, prioritize, and manage - leaving you wondering if higher education can ever feel affordable and achievable? On this episode, Georgia & Christine sit down with Howard Freedman, financial aid consultant, author of Making College Happen, and longtime leader in financial management. Howard shares how executive function skills like planning, organization, and prioritization shaped his journey—from being a detail-oriented student, to careers in payroll and process improvement, to reinventing himself as a financial aid consultant helping families make college possible. Howard also reflects on lessons from leadership, including a memorable payroll story that taught him the importance of preparation and problem-solving under pressure, and how he applies his ABC Model (Acknowledge the problem, Build teamwork, Commit to doing it better) to guide both organizations and families. Together, they discuss persistence, reducing stress in the financial aid process, and practical strategies families can use to stay grounded and focused on what matters most when planning for college. 🔗 Learn more about Howard’s work and find his book, Making College Happen, at Amazon.com. Find out more about Making the Grade here Learn more about Executive Function: https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradeproject.com/blog/category/podcast/  Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    31 min
  2. 20 AGO

    Rocks First: Executive Function Advice with Dr. Curt Merlau

    Send us a text S3 EP 40 | Season 3 Episode 40: Rocks First: Executive Function Advice with Dr. Curt Merlau Have you ever felt like you're constantly juggling priorities - but the most important things always seem to slip through the cracks? On this next episode of Making the Grade, Georgia & Christine sit down with Dr. Curt M., an educator turned education consultant who now leads a national team at Resultant - a data and technology firm that helps schools and agencies use the right data, at the right time, for the right people. As a first-generation college student and longtime problem-solver, Curt shares how he carved a path from the classroom into systems-level leadership, all while navigating the internal work of managing his own executive function. Curt explores the role of emotional regulation in the workplace and how Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy has helped him better understand his own emotional responses. He also shares how his team uses the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and the “Rocks, Pebbles, and Sand” method to manage competing priorities and stay focused on what matters most. Together, these practices offer an honest look at what it takes to stay grounded and effective in a fast-paced, high-stakes world. They also talk about daily rhythms, why being the smartest in the room isn’t the goal, and how to find structure when everything feels urgent. 💡 Want a framework for building better habits at work and at home? Curt also breaks down the Daily Drumbeat - a practice his team uses to stay aligned and grounded every day. 🔗 Learn more about Curt’s work at https://resultant.com Find out more about Making the Grade here Learn more about Executive Function: https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/ Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradeproject.com/blog/category/podcast/  Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    31 min
  3. 16 JUL

    Teachers Deserve It: a Conversation with Rae Hughart, Founder & Educator

    Send us a text MAKING THE GRADE S3 EP 39 | Season 3 Episode 39: Teachers Deserve It: a Conversation with Rae Hughart Have you ever felt like your to-do list is never-ending—or that your inbox has gotten past the point of no return? On this next episode of Making the Grade, Georgia & Christine chat with Rae Hughart, a classroom teacher turned national speaker, professional development designer, and founder of Teachers Deserve It (TDI)—a professional learning company built by educators, for educators. After more than a decade in the classroom and leading district-wide innovation efforts, Rae launched TDI to create the kind of support teachers actually want: practical tools, flipped PD, and a community that respects their time. In this conversation, Rae shares her journey from burnout to building better systems—and why executive function skills like task initiation, prioritization & planning, and emotional control are game-changers for both educators and students. They also chat text messages vs. voice memos, documentaries & Rae shares her dog’s adorable superhero names (think: Batman!). 💡 Want to explore more? Check out the TDI Learning Hub, Rae’s all-access PD platform packed with self-paced courses, downloadable tools, and flipped learning options designed to help educators save time and actually support student success.  🔗 https://tdi.thinkific.com Find out more about Making the Grade here Learn more about Executive Function: https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/ Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/#home Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    44 min
  4. 18 JUN

    Hack your Brain: Rewire your Routines for Success with Executive Function Coaches, Georgia & Christine

    Send us a text  MAKING THE GRADE S3 EP 38 | Season 3 Episode 38: a Conversation with Hosts Georgia & Christine Making the Grade is celebrating two incredible years of podcasting with a fresh new chapter. As the show evolves, listeners can look forward to a deeper dive into the executive function skills that help people thrive—for educators and beyond. This season, each episode will spotlight a specific skill such as time management, motivation, or emotion regulation, and the highlighted guest will offer Simple, science-backed tips listeners can put into practice right away. 🧠 One exciting development is the upcoming launch of their brand-new online course: Hack Your Brain: Rewire Your Routines for Success. This science-backed, self-paced course is designed to help learners build better habits and boost their executive functioning. 🎉 The Making the Grade team has also grown! Hosts Christine and Georgia are now joined by two talented instructors, a dedicated social media lead focused on amplifying educator voices, and marketing intern. And in even more joyful news—Georgia recently welcomed a new baby! The team is deeply grateful for the community that has supported them throughout these past two years. For teachers, parents, and curious minds, Making the Grade provides relatable stories and evidence-based insights to support personal and professional growth. ✨ Let’s keep learning, growing, and Making the Grade—together! Find out more about Making the Grade here Learn more about Executive Function: https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/ Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/#home Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    31 min
  5. 15 ENE

    Season 3 Preview + Executive Function Updates: a Conversation with Hosts Georgia & Christine

    Send us a text MAKING THE GRADE S3 EP 37 | Season 3 Preview + Executive Function Updates: a Conversation with Hosts Georgia & Christine Making the Grade Podcast is kicking off Season 3 with a heartfelt update from the hosts! In this special episode, they reflect on nearly 2 amazing years of podcasting, sharing a behind-the-scenes look at their process and celebrating the journey. Along the way, they share exciting personal and professional updates—Georgia is expecting a baby next month, and the Making the Grade team is growing in 2025. The hosts also dive into the topic that’s been the key to their approach in their business: executive function (EF). From launching the podcast and running their business to supporting educators in classrooms, EF skills have been transformational in their personal and professional lives. With this in mind, they’re thrilled to announce their upcoming Executive Function Certification Course, designed to empower educators, counselors, and coaches to teach these game-changing skills and positively impact others. As they focus on developing this new course, Georgia’s leave and restructuring the podcast to provide even more value, the hosts are taking a short hiatus. Tune in to this special update to hear their reflections, exciting news, and a sneak peek at what’s next. Thank you for being part of the journey! Find out more about Making the Grade here Learn more about Executive Function: https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/ Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/#home Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    15 min
  6. 11/12/2024

    Mental Health Support & Open Parachutes: a Conversation with Child & Adolescent Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Hayley Watson

    Send us a text S2 EP 036 | Mental Health Support & Open Parachutes: a Conversation with Child & Adolescent Clinical Psychologist, Dr. Hayley Watson In this next episode, a Child and Adolescent Clinical Psychologist shares how she has dedicated her career to supporting student mental health through innovative programs and resources. Hayley’s journey from globetrotting psychologist to mental health advocate and program developer is a testament to her passion for empowering both students and educators to thrive in challenging times. Despite her expertise in clinical settings, Hayley’s love for working directly with schools inspired her to create impactful mental health initiatives across the US, Canada, and Australia—places she’s called home. Her mission is clear: to equip teachers with the tools they need to support their students’ mental well-being while prioritizing their own. In this episode, Hayley discusses the growing need for mental health resources in schools, shares practical tips for fostering well-being in the classroom, and explores how educators can strike a balance between supporting students and practicing self-care. This conversation covers actionable strategies for managing stress, creating a supportive environment, and building resilience in today’s fast-paced educational landscape. Tune in to discover how Hayley’s innovative approach is reshaping student mental health support worldwide and gain valuable insights for navigating the intersection of education and well-being—all while hearing a bit about her adventures on motorcycles, sailing, and life as a new mom! Find out more about Dr. Hayley Watson here! Dr. Hayley Watson’s links:  Website -https://openparachuteschools.com/ LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-hayley-watson-2b249a16/ TED Talk- https://www.ted.com/talks/dr_hayley_watson_youth_mental_health_is_not_as_complicated_as_we_make_it_out_to_be?subtitle=en Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/ Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    41 min
  7. 13/11/2024

    Educator Forever: a Conversation with Teacher Career Coach, Lily Jones

    Send us a text S2 EP 035 | Educator Forever: a Conversation with Teacher Career Coach, Lily In this next episode of Making the Grade, Georgia & Christine chat with Lily Jones, founder of Educator Forever. Lily, a former classroom teacher, created Educator Forever to empower educators to explore fulfilling careers outside the traditional classroom setting. With a passion for helping teachers redefine their careers, Lily has guided countless educators on a path to discovering flexible, impactful roles that leverage their skills and expertise. As a passionate early childhood teacher, Lily truly loved teaching and found herself looking into opportunities beyond the classroom in the search of more time for herself. After 7 years of teaching, she realized her drive to support teachers in navigating new career paths and in finding purpose within a changing education landscape. Through Educator Forever, Lily offers career coaching, online courses, and job search resources to help teachers embrace flexible work that still contributes meaningfully to education. Lily shares insights into the challenges teachers face today, explores her unique personality type and spoiler alert: Georgia and Christine are the same (only 1.5% of the population is also this type!) Listeners will gain a deeper understanding of how to stay motivated in education, recognize signs of burnout, and explore new opportunities to build a sustainable and impactful career. Tune in to discover how Lily’s work at Educator Forever is changing lives and redefining what it means to be an educator today! Find out more about Lily here Website: https://www.educatorforever.com Podcast: https://www.educatorforever.com/podcast Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/educator-forever Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/educatorforever Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/#home Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    31 min
  8. 16/10/2024

    Challenging the Status Quo of Leadership Practices: a Conversation with Principal & Podcast Host, Tyler Comeau

    Send us a text S2 EP 34 | Challenging the Status Quo of Leadership Practices: a Conversation with Principal & Podcast Host, Tyler Comeau Have you ever felt disconnected from your day to day life: in the classroom, at home, or even just “off”? If you’ve wondered what could help you feel more aligned with your intrinsic energy, keep reading! On this next episode of Making the Grade podcast, Georgia & Christine chat with Canadian principal, Tyler, about how his how his journey into the education field led him to becoming a principal, obtaining a doctorate degree in educational leadership, and creating the Elemental Educator platform: a space dedicated to challenging the status quo of leadership practices.   Tyler is host of the Elemental Educator Podcast and Platform. A platform dedicated to challenging the status quo of leadership practices. Tyler has his masters in educational administration, and is on the brink of completing his doctorate in educational leadership. As a practicing school principal Tyler is here to bridge scholarly work with practical application when it comes to leadership standards. This conversation covers it all: from Tyler turning the questions around on Georgia & Christine, to the connection of great leadership with the grounding of the earth’s elements. His dedication to the education field is so evident in how he encourages his staff & students alike to tap into their inner strengths as well as know their struggles to truly collaborate with their colleagues.  Tyler leads with a deep sense of understanding who you are in all areas: for his staff, students & all educators in the field. This episode brings up topics ranging from teaching in a rural 1 classroom school in Canada with no technology, how he found himself in the education field & you definitely don’t want to miss his most memorable class moment. Listen in for more! Find out more about Tyler here Website: https://linktr.ee/Elementaleducator Book: Coming Soon! Podcast: https://elementaleducator.podbean.com/ Follow Making the Grade! Website | https://makingthegradepod.com/#home Instagram | Making the Grade IG Apple Podcasts | Making the Grade Podcast (Listen and give us a rating!) Support the show

    39 min

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Making the Grade is a podcast about executive function—how we manage time, energy, emotions, and goals in real life. Hosted by former educators turned executive function coaches, we explore the brain-based skills that drive success both personally and professionally. Each episode features real stories from entrepreneurs, overwhelmed professionals, parents, and experts in executive function. We dive into the habits, challenges, and strategies that help people build (or rebuild) motivation, focus, organization, and emotional regulation. Why do so many of us feel stuck, even when we’re trying our best? What does success really look like—and how do we get there on our own terms? The pressures of modern life are real, but so are the solutions. Making the Grade offers honest conversations, practical tools, and a reminder that success isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself every day. Subscribe and leave a review if you like what you hear! https://makingthegradeproject.com/executive-function-for-educators/