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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.
👥 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 13: The Secret Game of Calling Out...Rules, Risks & Ridiculousness
In Episode 13 of Playing Teacher, we pull back the curtain on one of the most absurd realities of working in education: calling out sick. From planning sub folders while mid-fever to writing emergency plans in a NyQuil haze, we explore the ridiculous, guilt-ridden, and occasionally hilarious world of teacher absences.
We talk about:
- The unspoken Olympics-level effort required just to stay home
- Why "mental health day" is code for “I’ve snapped but still care enough to write 6 pages of sub plans”
- The emotional toll of guilt vs. the physical toll of working sick
- The secret strategy game of “Should I call out tomorrow?”
- Top 10 funniest reasons students have given for their absences (spoiler: they’re amazing)
Whether you're a teacher, parent, or student, this episode will make you laugh, nod in agreement, and maybe… finally take that day off you’ve earned 17 times over.
🎧 Listen now, and don't forget to like, subscribe, and call out tomorrow. You deserve it.
