Leave It At The Door

Annie Middlemist
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Weekly

Welcome to Leave It at the Door—the podcast that empowers educators to care for their mind, heart, and teaching practice. Each week, we delve into the real challenges teachers face, both in and out of the classroom, offering practical tips, honest conversations, and actionable strategies to help you set boundaries, restore balance, and reignite your passion for teaching because thriving educators create thriving classrooms.

Episodes

  1. 11/05/2025

    Episode 5 -“You Don’t Have to Have It All Figured Out”

    Stepping into the classroom as a student teacher can feel like being dropped into the deep end—exciting, meaningful, and a lot all at once. In this episode, we’re naming the overwhelm and breaking down the top challenges new teachers are facing today: balancing expectations, building relationships with students and mentor teachers, and trying to keep your own wellbeing in the mix. We’ll walk through practical strategies that actually help—from grounding routines and planning hacks to communication moves that build trust with students and colleagues. You’ll learn how to set realistic expectations, create supportive habits, and make room for growth without burning out before your career even begins. Whether you’re currently student teaching, preparing to start, or mentoring someone who is—this conversation will help you breathe, recenter, and remember: you don’t have to be perfect to make a powerful impact.

    15 min

  2. 10/09/2025

    Episode 4 - Discovering Happiness & Joy in the Everyday

    Feeling buried under grading, meetings, and endless tasks? In this episode, Annie shares simple strategies for finding joy in the everyday—through gratitude, mindful moments, and connection. These aren't quick fixes, but consistent practices that will, over time, transform your experience as an educator. Because, a happy teacher creates a happy classroom, and happy kids are engaged, resilient learners.

    14 min

  3. 09/03/2025

    Helping One, Helping All: Real Classroom Accommodations Without Overwhelm

    Feeling buried under IEPs and 504s? In this episode of Leave It at the Door, Annie breaks down how to take accommodations off the page and bring them to life in your classroom—without adding hours to your workload. You’ll learn simple strategies to turn legal jargon into doable steps, discover collaboration tips for working with special educators and parents, and hear real examples of accommodations that don’t just help one student—they make learning better for everyone. If you’ve ever thought, “I want to do right by my students, but I don’t know where to start,” this episode is your roadmap. Walk away with practical tools, fresh perspective, and maybe even a little joy. If you are interested in a workshop for your parent group or teacher group. Please visit https://www.anniemiddlemist.com/

    12 min

  4. 08/07/2025

    Systems That Stick: Setting Up for a Successful School Year

    In this episode, we're diving into the power of systems—and why they’re a game-changer for teachers. Whether you're setting up your classroom, designing routines, or trying to stay ahead of the paperwork pile, having strong systems in place can help you save time, reduce stress, and focus more on what matters most: your students. You’ll learn practical strategies to create routines that actually last, avoid common pitfalls that lead to burnout, and build systems that support both your teaching and your well-being. We’ll also talk about how to adjust your systems when things inevitably change—and how to make them work for you, not add more to your plate. If you’re ready to ditch the chaos and build a classroom that runs smoothly all year long, this episode is for you.

    22 min

  5. 07/22/2025

    Design with Purpose: Creating Classrooms That Inspire Learning

    In this episode of Leave It at the Door, we're diving into the science and strategy behind intentional classroom design. From seating arrangements and wall decor to lighting, and student ownership, we explore how the physical environment influences student behavior, engagement, and achievement. Whether you're starting a new school year or simply ready to rethink your space, this episode offers practical tips and research-backed insights to help you transform your classroom into a place where learning—and teaching—feels better.

    11 min

  6. 04/28/2025

    Episode 7: The Heart of Teaching: Relationships First

    This week, we discuss what truly makes a difference in education — the human connections we build. We explore real stories, practical strategies, and inspiring conversations that show how strong relationships between teachers, students, and colleagues are essential to being happy at work. If you believe that trust, empathy, and connection are at the core of great teaching, this episode is for you. Join us as we put relationships back at the center of the classroom — where they belong.

    19 min

  7. 04/16/2025

    Episode 6 - Finding your Joy Again

    In this episode of Leave it at the Door,we explore what joy really looks like in today’s teaching world—and how to find it when you're feeling overwhelmed or stuck. We’ll share simple mindset shifts, small daily practices, and heartwarming classroom moments that remind us why we chose this path. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator, this episode will leave you feeling seen, supported, and inspired to bring a little more joy into your day.

    18 min

  8. 03/31/2025

    Episode 5 - Self Care Isn't Selfish

    Teaching is one of the most rewarding—and demanding—professions out there. In this episode, we dive into what self-care really means for educators. We’ll explore practical strategies to manage stress, set boundaries, and protect your energy without guilt. Whether you're feeling burnt out or just need a reminder to put yourself back on the priority list, this conversation is your permission slip to pause, breathe, and refill your tank, one easy step at a time.

    23 min

  9. 03/23/2025

    Episode 4 - Manage Your Stress by Managing Your Time

    In this episode, Robin and Annie share their best tips and tricks for time management in and out of the classroom. They offer practical advice for busy professionals to help teachers.

    22 min

  10. 03/12/2025

    Episode 3 - Get to know Dr. Robin Elliott

    In this mini episode, we get to learn more about Robin. Annie asks questions about Robins interests, career, and what inspired her to become an educator. Enjoy this delightful conversation.

    11 min

  11. 03/12/2025

    Episode 2 - Get to know Annie Middlemist

    In this mini-episode, Robin interviews Annie on her background, inspiration and the best advice she has ever received. Get to know Annie and how she prectives "LEaving it at the Door"

    9 min

  12. 03/06/2025

    Episode 1 - Setting Boundaries That Stick.

    In this episode, Annie and Robin share the importance of setting boundaries with students, parents and most importantly, with yourself. They offer specific tips and actions you can use today to enjoy your job a little more tomorrow.

    17 min
  • 12 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Welcome to Leave It at the Door—the podcast that empowers educators to care for their mind, heart, and teaching practice. Each week, we delve into the real challenges teachers face, both in and out of the classroom, offering practical tips, honest conversations, and actionable strategies to help you set boundaries, restore balance, and reignite your passion for teaching because thriving educators create thriving classrooms.

Information

  • Creator
    Annie Middlemist
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    12
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2025 Annie Middlemist
  • Show Website
    Leave It At The Door