Published by Monica Genta
A weekly podcast for teachers full of tips and tricks, stories and strategies, celebrations and struggles, all from the real life we are living every day. Welcome to This Teacher Life with Monica Genta.
Listen on Apple Podcasts40 min
Want this school year to be your best UNO yet? Sometimes things like classroom management and behavior management cam bog us down. But what if I told you this year can totally be flipped over in a good way?! What if there was one simple way to increase participation, decrease disrespect, get 100% of students organized, and have SO much fun. And all you need for it is a deck of Uno cards? This is not too good to be true and I’m confident after you listen to this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast you will be so flipping excited! Episode Notes: Earn up to 90 Hours of PD Credit in these Fun, Flexible Teacher Courses: monicagenta.com/courses Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
27 min
Sometimes the silliest ideas end up being the most strategic ideas! So let me ask you, how is classroom management going in your teacher life right now? Are students getting disorganized? Are students struggling to keep their hands to themselves? Are students simply not turning in work? If you are looking for a solution to solve common teacher problems you are in the right place. On this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast we dive into one of the dumbest things I’ve ever done, but the good news is… it TOTALLY works! It takes no time to prep because all you need is a pen! Trust me, you are going to love this new classroom competition. Episode Notes: Don’t Miss This Teacher Opportunity Where You Will Learn SO Many Engaging Classroom Ideas: monicagenta.com/courses Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Engaging, Relevant, Fun PD at Your School? Let’s Connect: http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
31 min
Is there a behavior or classroom expectation that drives you crazy? Would you like to increase student motivation and decrease problems with students? Do you want to add a little bit of fun while also creating organized, effective, and engaged kids? If you said YES to any (or all) of those things then you are in the right place! And all you need for this idea is a dice. Seriously! Get everything “rolling” in the right direction for your school and your students with this simple, but significant class competition. Find out all the details right here, right now! Episode Links: Check out the Engaging Battle Brackets! Perfect for Relationship Building AND Engaging Competitions In Your Classroom monicagenta.com/shop Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Want some Awesome PD At Your School? Let’s Connect: http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
30 min
Spoiler alert: I am sharing an idea that has created a MAJOR decrease in classroom issues. The term “classroom management” is thrown around a lot. We had whole classes dedicated to it in undergrad. Our principals talk about it in our evaluations. And these days some teachers are even saying we need to “ditch it.” Some educators believe that classroom management “isn’t needed” if we just have classroom respect. What do you think? Well, in this episode I give my 2 cents on classroom management AND dish out my all time FAVORITE idea on how I manage my own students. And all you need is a deck of cards. Episode Notes: Want Some Awesome Teacher Books for Summer Reading? monicagenta.com/books Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Looking for Free Classroom Resources to land in Your Inbox This summer? https://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
21 min
Do you have a door to your classroom? If so, I’ve got an engaging idea for you! Do you want to keep kids quiet at the right times? If so, I’ve got an engaging idea for you. Do you want students engaging rather than staring at the wall? Of course you do! So, I’ve for an engaging idea for you. 3 ideas will come your way in this episode that is all about being a Game Changer for kids. If you are looking for ways to boost student engagement and increase student motivation, this episode is for you! Episode Links: Get Your Copy of Battle Brackets Right Here: monicagenta.com/brackets Sign Up for Monica’s Mailing List and get TONS of FREE Resources Sent Out All Summer Long! https://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Want some Awesome PD At Your School? Let’s Connect: http://monicagenta.com/pd Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
31 min
Tired of creating resolutions that don’t last more than a few days? Feeling like your new year’s goals never get off the ground? If you are truly ready for this year to be different then this episode is for you. We will dive into 4 small habits that will set your morning up for total success so you can have an incredible day in the classroom. These 4 habits will make you a better teacher because they will impact your whole day on a positive level. Get ready to be mind-blown on how easy these ideas are to implement too. Episode Notes: Get your copy of 180 Days of Awesome-Relationships: monicagenta.com/books Wanting AWESOME PD for Your Whole School? monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
34 min
Needing or wanting 3 extremely easy and practical solutions to solve today’s problems in schools? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we tackle two of the biggest stressors teachers face—apathy and attendance—and how they’re affecting classrooms everywhere. From students who just don’t seem to care, to the endless challenges of getting them to show up, we’ll explore practical solutions that can make a real difference. Tune in for fresh, fun ideas to boost engagement, increase attendance, and make your school days a whole lot smoother! And spoiler alert… this idea DOES NOT involve burping up ANOTHER binder! Episode Notes: Get 180 FULL SEL Lessons to Improve Apathy & Attendance in Your School: monicagenta.com/180SEL Students Refusing to Work? Check out this Management Solution: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Classroom-Management-Behavior-Management-Increase-Success-Decrease-Stress-11500061 Wanting AWESOME PD for Your Whole School? monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
18 min
Sometimes the best thing we can do in schools is laugh. Parents, students, and fellow teachers will say something or ask a question and then our jaw drops to the floor. “Did you really just say that?” “Did that really just happen?” Yes… yes it did! Come take a listen to this episode where I will share hilarious, ridiculous things that have actually been said or done in schools. You won’t be able to get through this 20 minutes without cracking up and thinking, “Yep! that sounds familiar.” Episode Notes: Make Your Summer Reading AWESOME with These Books: https://monicagenta.com/books Needing Some Help with SEL at Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
32 min
Let’s be honest—teachers are absolute pros at showing up for everyone else… but not always for themselves. In this episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re breaking down three hilarious but totally real reasons why it’s time to take that mental health sick day—without the guilt, the fear, or the “but what about my sub plans?” panic spiral. From the chaos that happens when you try to “power through,” to the magic of doing absolutely nothing for your sanity, this one’s a mix of laughs, truth, and much-needed permission to rest. Because sometimes the most productive thing you can do is… call in sick! PS- One of the reasons is adorable, one of the reasons is controversial, and one of the reasons is absolutely embarrassing and ridiculous! Episode Notes: Get 180 FULL SEL Lessons to Engage Your Students Here: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/
21 min
Principals & School Leaders! What if all that effort… all those initiatives… all that time spent solving school problems… is actually leading your staff and students right back to where they started? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, we unpack a frustrating (and very real) cycle many school unknowingly fall into— putting out fires, reacting to issues, and chasing quick fixes that feel productive in the moment… but ultimately create a loop of déjà vu year after year. If you’ve ever felt like your staff is working hard but not moving forward, or that the same challenges keep resurfacing no matter what you try, this conversation will hit home. We’ll break down the “chaotic circle” many schools get stuck in and, more importantly, how to step out of it. You’ll walk away with a simple, proactive approach to building a clear, focused plan that actually drives progress—so your school isn’t just busy… it’s moving forward with purpose. PS- You will also walk away with an absolutely rock solid plan for your Processional Development this year! Episode Notes: Let’s Make Awesome PD Happen In Your School monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
17 min
In a world where students are constantly watching, scrolling, and engaging with video… what if we stopped fighting it—and started using it to our advantage? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life, we’re diving into how teachers can harness the power of YouTube to create more fun, deeper connection, and meaningful engagement in the classroom—without adding more to your already full plate. You’ll discover simple, practical ways to use videos intentionally (not just as filler), how to turn everyday content into powerful teaching moments, and how to meet students where they already are to build stronger relationships. Because when used the right way, YouTube isn’t a distraction—it’s a bridge. If you’ve ever wanted your classroom to feel more alive, more connected, and a whole lot more fun… this episode is for you. PS- it’s SO fun too! Episode Notes: Get 180 FULL SEL Lessons to Engage Your Students Here: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
25 min
Are all the teachers in your school, hallway, or team on the same page figuratively AND literally? Probably not! And that’s ok! But in this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, I’m breaking down four fun, realistic, and actually effective ways to help with that! I’ll talk about how to move beyond the same old staff-meeting book club and instead create shared learning experiences that: Get teachers, staff, and students aligned around common goals Build buy-in instead of burnout Make professional learning feel engaging, collaborative, and doable Translate directly into better practices for students (not just notes in a binder) Whether you’re a school leader, instructional coach, or classroom teacher who’s tired of book studies that go nowhere, this episode will give you practical ideas you can implement immediately —with flexibility for different roles, schedules, and personalities in your building. If your school is craving consistency, connection, and momentum (without forcing another initiative), this episode is for you. Trust me…you’ll want to “bookmark” this one! Episode Notes: Check Out All The Books In This Episode Here: https://monicagenta.com/books Want Bulk Discount Pricing on Copies For Your Whole School? Let’s Talk! monica@monicagenta.com Needing Some Help with SEL at Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
16 min
Looking for a meaningful but low-prep activity to wrap up the school year? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life, we’re sharing one super simple idea that can leave a lasting impact: having your students write letters to their future selves. It’s reflective, personal, and powerful—plus, it’s easy to implement, even during the busy final days of school. Tune in to hear how to introduce the activity, creative ways to store or return the letters, and why this could be your new favorite year-end tradition. Episode Notes: 180 Fully Planned SEL Lessons to Save You Teacher Time: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get Signed up for the Awesome Academy for Teachers NOW! monicagenta.com/awesomeacademy Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed
22 min
Want to spark real, meaningful conversations in your classroom—conversations that matter now and in your students’ futures? In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, we break down one powerful activity that got every single student engaged in discussion, debate, and dialogue around a question they’ll face someday: What makes a job a “good” job? From values and money to purpose and happiness, this lesson opens the door to critical thinking and future-focused reflection. It’s easy to set up, adaptable for any grade level, and guaranteed to get students talking. Episode Notes: 180 Fully Planned SEL Lessons to Save You Teacher Time: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get Signed up for the Awesome Academy for Teachers NOW! monicagenta.com/awesomeacademy Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed
26 min
Tired of chasing missing assignments and feeling like your classroom communication is a game of telephone? In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re unpacking the one simple classroom game that dramatically boosts students’ willingness to turn in high-quality work and strengthens effective communication — and yes, all you need is a box. You’ll learn: Why this low-prep game works so well for student accountability How it naturally improves peer-to-peer and student-to-teacher communication The psychology behind why students care more about the quality of their work when this game is in play Easy ways to adapt it for different grade levels and subjects How to set it up in under 5 minutes with materials you already have This strategy is classroom-tested, budget-friendly, and surprisingly powerful. If you’ve been looking for a way to get students more engaged, more responsible, and more confident communicators—without adding more to your plate—this episode is for you. Press play and get ready to turn a simple box into one of the most effective tools in your teaching toolkit. Episode Notes: Get 180 FULL SEL Lessons to Engage Your Students Here: monicagenta.com/180SEL Students Missing Work, Turning In Low Quality Work, or Refusing to Work? Go Here: monicagenta.com/management Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
24 min
What if one simple question could instantly boost participation, spark real conversations, and pull even your most disengaged students into the lesson? In this episode, we’re breaking down how a single, strategic question can transform the energy of your classroom—and no, this isn’t your typical lesson. You’ll learn how to use intentional “Would You Rather” remixes to build critical thinking, student voice, and meaningful discussion (without wasting precious class time). We’ll walk through: Why engagement isn’t about being louder or more entertaining How to remix “Would You Rather” questions so they actually support learning goals Simple ways to use this strategy for bell ringers, discussion starters, and meaningful morning meeting, advisory, or SEL How to get buy-in from even your most reluctant students If you’re tired of blank stares, low participation, and forced discussion prompts, this episode gives you a practical strategy you can try tomorrow—no extra prep required. Low effort for you. High impact for students. Episode Notes: Check out the Would You Rather Remix + 180 FULL SEL Lessons Here: monicagenta.com/180SEL Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
24 min
Ready to shower your principal with some well-deserved love? In this playful and practical episode of This Teacher life, we’re serving up 6 super simple and special ways to celebrate your school leader like a rock star! From quick class surprises to heartfelt group efforts, these ideas are low-stress, high-impact, and guaranteed to bring a smile to your principal’s face. Whether you’ve got a full week to plan or just one day, we’ve got you covered. Let’s make Principal Appreciation Day unforgettable—and fun! Episode Notes: Last Call to Join the Crushing It for Kids Course and Earn Up to 15 Hours of PD Credit: monicagenta.com/courses Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd Twiiter: twitter.com/monicagentaed
34 min
Get ready to roll with laughter and learning in this fun-filled episode. This idea is shaking up the typical classroom routine with a Yahtzee dice challenge that’s sure to make your students take a chance on changing behaviors in a good way! Join us as we reveal how to set up a competitive game that not only scores big on fun but also encourages positive behaviors and cuts down on the stress for you, the teacher. From rolling dice to rolling in the good vibes, this episode of the This Teacher Life is packed with tips, tricks, and a whole lot of game-changing ideas to keep your classroom engaged, motivated, and having a blast. Whether you’re a Yahtzee pro or a total beginner, we’ve got all the steps to make this a winning strategy for you and your students. Tune in, and let’s make learning a Lotzee fun! Episode Notes: Last Call to Join the Crushing It for Kids Course and Earn Up to 15 Hours of PD Credit: monicagenta.com/courses Needing Some Awesome PD for Your School? Let’s Connect: monicagenta.com/PD Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd
23 min
It’s easy for us, as teachers, to feel exhausted, overwhelmed, and honestly… crushed by the classroom at this point in the year. But it doesn’t have to end that way. In this week’s episode of the This Teacher Life podcast, we’re talking about 5 Simple Ways to End This School Year on a Good Note—without burning out , using the powerful (and easy-to-remember) acronym CRUSH . Each letter in CRUSH represents one of the five most important areas of education that truly matter as the year wraps up—far beyond test scores, checklists, or last-minute chaos. These are simple shifts you can make right now to finish strong, protect your energy, and feel proud of the impact you’ve made. Whether you’re counting down the days, surviving on caffeine, or trying to hold it together until summer break, this episode will help you: Refocus on what actually matters most Reconnect with your students in meaningful ways Release guilt, pressure, and unrealistic expectations End the year feeling accomplished instead of defeated If you want to close out this school year feeling calm, confident, and not completely drained , this episode is for you. Episode Notes: Join the Crushing it For Kids Virtual PD Fun, Flexible Course: monicagenta.com/crush-it-course/ Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: monicagenta.com/freebook Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd 22
27 min
Teachers work hard—and we shouldn’t have to overpay when we travel! In fact, we should be able to SAVE money! In this week’s episode of This Teacher Life, I’m sharing 4 shockingly easy hotel hacks that teachers can use to save serious money on trips, conferences, weekend getaways, or school breaks. These aren’t complicated tricks or crazy reward systems—they’re simple strategies teachers can use , even if you don’t travel often. Once you hear them, you’ll wonder why you’ve been paying full price all along! If you love saving money without extra effort, this episode is a must-listen. Episode Notes: Learn More About the Southwest Card Here: Southwest Credit Card Summary of Hotel Hacks with Visuals: Public School Teacher Discount Rate Get a free PDF copy of Monica’s Book Crushing It For Kids Here: http://bit.ly/MonicaGenta Connect with Monica on social media: Instagram: instagram.com/monicagentaed/ TikTok: tiktok.com/@monicagentaed Facebook: facebook.com/MonicaGentaEd ***Disclaimer- credit cards can create dangerous spending behaviors for some people. Only apply for a card if you fully understand the terms and conditions of the cards you apply for. Monica Genta, LLC is not responsible for any fees, fines, or finances based on your choices after reading this information. Card bonuses and specific details change. Be sure to check the Chase website for the most up to date information about card details ***