Always A Lesson's Empowering Educators Podcast

Gretchen Bridgers | Education Podcast Network

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. 6D AGO

    366: Stop Doing What Students Can Do

    What happens when students take the lead in the classroom? In this episode, we explore the concept of a student-run classroom and how shifting ownership of learning to students can transform engagement, responsibility, and classroom culture. Instead of the teacher doing all the directing, students help manage routines, lead discussions, take on leadership roles, and become active participants in their own learning journey. We discuss how empowering students to take ownership not only builds independence and confidence, but also strengthens collaboration, problem-solving, and accountability within the classroom community. Quotables "Administrative tasks take up a lot of teaching time.""Start small and be strategic.""Consistency creates freedom." Links from this Episode Dr. Lundy Swift Podcast Episode 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

    17 min

  2. MAR 16

    365: Whole-Body Learning with Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift

    Dr. Swift brings decades of experience across public education, higher education, and educational organizations to a conversation centered on one powerful idea: learning isn’t meant to be still. Dr. Swift shares why engaging the whole body in the learning process can transform literacy development, increase student engagement, and support deeper understanding—especially for young learners. From movement-based strategies to rethinking traditional classroom expectations, this episode challenges the idea that effective learning only happens when students sit quietly at a desk. If you’ve ever wondered how movement, multisensory strategies, and intentional instruction can unlock learning potential, this conversation will leave you inspired and ready to try something new in your classroom. Quotables All quotes are from the interviewee "Success breeds success.""Who wants to show up to something boring?""The idea that writing starts with being still is not quite where we need to go." About Dr. Lundy Swift Dr. Cheryl Lundy Swift is the Professional Learner Director at Learning Without Tears and the Host of the Literacy Matters Podcast. She has worked in leadership and executive roles for various educational organizations including public schools, post-secondary institutions and education companies including several leading tutoring and supplemental education service companies. Dr. Swift is also the founder and CEO of EduPower, an education consulting firm that empowers school and business leaders, teachers, parents and students to reach their fullest potential through professional development, coaching and curriculum. Connect with Dr. Lundy Swift https://www.lwtears.com/,https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheryl-lundy-swift/ Resources from this episode: Hidden Potential- The Science of Achieving Greater Things 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

    51 min

  3. MAR 2

    364: Teacher Retention – Strategies for Staying & Thriving

    Teaching is more than a profession — it’s a calling. But in today’s educational climate, staying in the classroom requires intention, boundaries, and support. In this episode, we’re talking honestly about teacher retention: why educators leave, why some stay, and how we can create conditions where teachers don’t just survive — they thrive. Quotables "Know when to take yourself out of the game before your team suffers.""Some part of finding your balance and happiness is just changing up the scenery.""Every time I switched it up, I grew something I didn't know I needed or wanted."       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

    30 min

  4. MAR 2

    Bonus: ChatGPT & Me

    In this episode, we’re diving into one of the biggest tools transforming education right now: ChatGPT. We're switching it up where Gretchen asks ChatGPT questions about herself and the future of education. Quotables "Focus on growth without shame.""Change happens when people feel empowered, not managed.""You're not behind, you just need the right lense." 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

    18 min

  5. FEB 16

    363: Culturally Responsive Teaching – Meeting Diverse Student Needs

    In this episode, we dive into the heart of culturally responsive teaching and what it really means to meet the diverse needs of today’s students. From honoring students’ backgrounds and lived experiences to creating inclusive, engaging classroom environments, this conversation is all about teaching with intention, empathy, and impact. Whether you’re new to culturally responsive practices or looking to deepen your approach, this episode offers practical strategies you can use right away. Quotables "You gotta make a connection.""When curriculum is inclusive and representative, it deepens understanding.""When students feel seen, heard, and valued, they are more likely to take academic risks, collaborate with their peers, and develop a strong sense of belonging in the classroom—and that’s the point." 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

    21 min

  6. FEB 2

    362: Pathways to Leadership – Advancing Your Teaching Career

    What does leadership look like beyond the classroom—and how do educators take the next step without leaving teaching behind? In this episode, we explore the many pathways educators can take to grow their influence, expand their impact, and step into leadership roles that align with their strengths and values. From instructional coaching to administration and teacher-leader roles, this conversation unpacks what it really means to advance your teaching career. Whether you’re early in your career, feeling ready for a change, or quietly wondering “what’s next?”, this episode offers clarity, encouragement, and practical next steps. Quotables "Leadership isn’t the loudest voice in the room, it’s the clearest one.""Leadership isn’t about having it all figured out from day one.”"Leadership isn’t a single leap. It’s a series of steps.“         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

    31 min

  7. JAN 19

    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

  8. 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
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4.9
out of 5
279 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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