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Playing Teacher
🎙️ What is a teacher, really?
And what’s it actually like inside a New York City school?
Welcome to Playing Teacher, where veteran educators Matt and Rob—with over 40 years of combined experience teaching in NYC—pull back the curtain on the myths, realities, and moments that make education unforgettable (for better or worse). From the mysterious teacher’s lounge to the myth of “summer off,” they explore what really happens when the classroom door closes.
This isn’t a shiny brochure version of school. It’s the real deal:
🧠Learning vs. schooling.
❤️ What kids actually carry with them.
🔥 How teachers and counselors survive systems built to burn them out.
And when we’re lucky enough to have her, we’re joined by Beanie—school counselor, educator, and recurring co-host—who brings powerful insight, grounded compassion, and the kind of perspective only someone who's worked both inside and around the classroom can offer.
đź‘Ą Guests range from teachers, students, and administrators to learning scientists, former kids (yes, really), and other unexpected voices from the world of education.
Whether you're in the classroom, supporting from the sidelines, or just trying to make sense of how we learn and why it matters—this is your hallway pass to the inside.
Playing Teacher
Episode 10: Pacing, Pop Culture, and the 30-Second Reprimand
🎙️ Playing Teacher Ep. 10 – Pacing, Pop Culture, and the 30-Second Reprimand
Description:
In this episode of Playing Teacher, Matt recounts a jaw-dropping moment when he was called out in front of students for returning to class 30 seconds late after using the bathroom—yes, 30 seconds. Jeannine and Robert reflect on how often teachers are denied even the most basic human grace. This leads into a dynamic, often hilarious discussion on classroom pacing, student rapport, and when to stick to the script—or throw it out.
đź’ˇ Robert dives into differentiated pacing styles in teaching and media (yes, including a failed Rocky III clip attempt), drawing sharp parallels between instructional flow and burnout. Jeannine shares her perspective as a counselor working with IEP students, emphasizing structure, routine, and emotional awareness.
🔬 We also go deep on:
- How pacing affects testing outcomes and engagement
- Teaching in urban schools and DIY curriculum hacks
- Being observed under the Danielson Framework and its impact on authenticity
- What teachers can learn from Disney's “plusing” philosophy of continuous improvement
- Why student mindset matters more than any calendar
Oh—and in a twist no one saw coming, Jeannine finds out her glowing podcast review was written by... an AI.
🎧 Perfect for educators, ed leaders, and anyone who's ever wondered what really goes on behind the classroom door. This one blends laughs, real talk, and pedagogical gold.
