Best UnTeacher Podcasts (2024)

1
#79: 1 simple tool to tackle low-level behaviours, increase engagement, and bust dysregulation. 20:57

23m ago20:57

20:57

Classroom management is more than just the behaviour, and dealing with low-level disruptive behaviours NEEDS to be more than this to be effective! In this episode, I'll be exploring (well... more like nerding out on) a simple yet incredibly effective tool to help manage and reduce low-level behaviours in the classroom: the humble task card. I know,…

1
The Unteachables 55:55

10h ago55:55

55:55

Can improv be taught? What about funny? What about stage presence? What about “star power”? This episode Rob and Adam discuss what can and cannot be taught in the classroom and the mysterious, and amorphous qualities make for a great improviser. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
The Church and the Treaty: Free Speech in the Face of Controversy 34:49

29m ago34:49

34:49

In this episode of the Free Speech Union podcast, Jonathan Ayling is joined by Simon O'Connor, former MP for Tamaki, and Nick Hanne, education partnership manager at FSU. The discussion revolves around a controversial letter signed by 400 church leaders denouncing the Act Party's Treaty Principles Bill. The episode delves into themes of free speech…

1
#78: Feel like you're constantly repeating instructions? The 3 barriers to students just getting on with it (minus the off-task chatter, blank stares, and million questions) 23:16

2h ago23:16

23:16

Click here to access your free session on the barriers to giving a task that students get (and get on with) In today’s episode, I’m unpacking why students might not be listening or following your task instructions. Picture this: hands shoot up, students ask, “What are we doing?” or they sit there doodling, lost in confusion. What’s going on here? I…

1
#77: 3 common pieces of behaviour advice teachers get that do more harm than good 18:07

7d ago18:07

18:07

In this episode, I’m diving into three common pieces of behaviour and classroom management advice that teachers are often given and why we need to stop offering them—at least in the way they’re typically presented. These bits of advice are frequently thrown around without any meaningful support or practical steps, making them more harmful than help…

1
#76: What to ACTUALLY say to calm students down. 4 steps to resolving bubbling behaviours quickly, so you can get back to teaching. 18:04

14d ago18:04

18:04

In this episode, I dive into one of the toughest challenges we face as teachers—how to manage a classroom full of students when dysregulated behaviours start bubbling up and escalating. I talk about the key things to remember when students are dysregulated and can’t reason with us, and share my CARE Framework—a practical approach for responding to …

1
Sex, Lies, and Improv Videotape 54:08

8d ago54:08

54:08

This episode Rob and Adam discuss the powers of game tape, the shame of watching yourself, and how to challenge yourself to be a better player. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
#75: My top 4 classroom management tips for a strong start to the school year (and beyond!) 24:24

21d ago24:24

24:24

The start of a new school year is always a mix of excitement and nerves (the Sunday scaries multiplied times over!!). As teachers, we’re not just thinking about lesson plans and curriculum—we’re setting the stage for a whole year of learning, growth, and relationships. What will our students be like? How will they get along? What will the dynamics …

1
Learn to Forget 45:24

4d ago45:24

45:24

Your first few improv classes you are bombarded with the rules. Then once you get comfortable, you might move onto longform structures, game of the scenes, and connections — where once again you are immersed in hyper-technical and finicky work. At a certain point, you have to let go of The Rules. This week, Rob and Adam discuss forgetting what you’…

1
Free Speech vs. "Hate Speech": Navigating New Zealand's Controversial Police Training 54:46

1M ago54:46

54:46

In this episode Jonathan sits down with Major Grant Fletcher, a barrister based in Christchurch, and Graham Edgler, lawyer and political and legal. They delve into the pressing issue of new hate training for police officers, the implications of hate speech and hate crime laws in New Zealand, and how these affect free speech. Tune in for a stimulati…

1
#74: The start of school ice breaker activities that need to get in the bin, and what to do instead to build a positive, thriving, class community (no matter what time it is!) 18:11

28d ago18:11

18:11

How can you set the tone for an amazing school year without resorting to icebreakers that have your students eyes rolling? In this episode, you will learn how to foster genuine connections, and create a positive classroom environment that students are eager to be part of, any day of the school year. Listen in as I explore why typical icebreakers of…

1
Questions Only – Summer 2024 Edition 51:39

10d ago51:39

51:39

This week Rob and Adam open up the Backline Mail Bag to answer all your questions. If you have your own questions find us @thebackinepod on Instagram and drop us a line. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
Free Speech Under Fire: Challenging institutional Censorship and public service Activism in New Zealand 32:49

1M ago32:49

32:49

Join Nathan, Jonathan, and Hannah for this episode for the Free Speech Union podcast to dive into the pressing issues surrounding free speech in New Zealand, focusing on the implications of recent police training on hate crimes, the role of the Law Commission, and the influence of unelected officials. Jonathan and Hannah provide insightful commenta…

1
#73: No space for a calm corner in your classroom? 4 practical tips for student self-regulation on the go! 17:14

1M ago17:14

17:14

Let’s talk calm corners. They are all the rage, and for good reason. When done right, they teach regulation skills and embed these as part of the classroom culture and shared language. When students understand more about their brains, they’re more likely to be empowered to manage their behaviours and self-regulate. Yes, even in secondary! Especiall…

1
The historical and philosophical underpinnings of free speech with Prof Michael Grimshaw 55:59

2M ago55:59

55:59

Join us for a thought-provoking episode of the Free Speech Union Podcast. Hosted by Jonathan (FSU NZ CEO), this episode features a deep dive into the essence of free speech, democracy, and societal values with Professor Mike Grimshaw from the University of Canterbury. Explore the historical and philosophical underpinnings of free speech, the challe…

1
A Comprehensive Guide to All Short Games – Part One 1:10:59

2M ago1:10:59

1:10:59

This week Adam and Rob, use extensive metrics and data (definitely not just their opinion) to determine a complete ranking system for all shortform games. This episode details the secrets of making a perfect shortform show. Also: touring Finland, Sweden, and the American mid-west. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network…

1
#72: Let’s have a heart to heart… How are you going? Plus, big news on how The Unteachables is changing. 23:15

1M ago23:15

23:15

Let me ask you a question, teacher friend... How are you, really? I have thought long and hard about how I view teacher wellbeing, what it is, how we get it, and there are so many factors that we need to consider: How much autonomy and trust you have. The support you’re getting from leadership. The culture of the school. How empowered you feel in y…

1
Unmasking Unteaching: A Conversation with Dr. Paul Crowhurst 44:34

2M ago44:34

44:34

Join Nick Hanne (Education Partnerships Manager) as he sits down with Dr. Paul Crowhurst to talk about tertiary education, white fragility, and the concept of unteaching racism. Dr. Crowhurst unpacks his experiences as a teacher, principal, and lecturer, and discusses the series of events leading to his encounter with cancel culture. Support the sh…

1
This is Hard 54:57

2M ago54:57

54:57

Improv is supposed to be easy, comfortable, and fun. But what happens when improv gets hard? Should you quit? Should you work harder? What do you do when improv isn’t fun anymore? Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
#71: Kids don’t learn off people they don’t like… but getting them to like you is sometimes easier said than done! How to reach and teach students with big behaviours. 15:54

2M ago15:54

15:54

Welcome back to another episode of The Unteachables Podcast, teacher friends! Today I delve into the final chapter of my book, It's Never Just About the Behaviour. If you want to listen to this series from the start, head back to episode 65! Yes, building relationships is important... but dang is it hard with some students! On today's episode I giv…

1
Nick & Nathan on Schools & Regulatory bodies 47:49

2M ago47:49

47:49

Nathan Seiuli (Events & Outreach Manager) & Nick Hanne (Education Partnerships Manager) talk about free speech in schools, the FSU’s “Speak Up” schools program, and how the current free speech climate is affecting teachers. Support the show https://www.fsu.nz/ https://x.com/NZFreeSpeech https://www.instagram.com/freespeechnz/ https://www.tiktok.com…

1
Let’s Get Negative 55:40

2M ago55:40

55:40

There are few things more taboo than going negative on an improv stage. But does negativity at the start of a scene preempt the possibility of a playable dynamic? What does it mean to go negative onstage and why do some improvisers love doing it? Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
#70: I truly didn't believe all of my students could succeed. Why this was diabolical for behaviour and engagement, and what I had to change. 22:39

2M ago22:39

22:39

Today, I dive into a strategy from Pillar 6 from my newly released book, 'It's Never Just About the Behaviour' which explores the essential connection between quality teaching, learning, and managing challenging classroom behaviours. In this episode, I explore two key reasons why teaching and learning is inextricably linked with classroom managemen…

1
"If not journalists then who?" with Dr Gavin Ellis 58:17

2M ago58:17

58:17

Join Jonathan Ayling as he welcomes Dr. Gavin Ellis, a media consultant, researcher, and former editor-in-chief of the New Zealand Herald. With a PhD in Political Studies and a rich background in journalism and communications, Dr. Ellis offers insights into the current media landscape in New Zealand and shares his hopes for its future growth, chang…

1
#69: How to give instructions that students get (and follow!!). Avoiding classroom confusion and chaos by using the 'Get Ready, Get Set, Go!' strategy. 19:31

2M ago19:31

19:31

This week, I dive into Pillar 5 of "It's Never Just About the Behavior." In this episode, I emphasize the importance of clarity in your holistic classroom management approach, and provide practical strategies to ensure students understand and meet expectations. Today I discuss: The Importance of Clarity in Expectations: Why clear communication is c…

1
#68: Turning your classroom into an island of safety for every single student (oh, and for yourself as the teacher, of course) 18:06

3M ago18:06

18:06

Consistency in classroom management is more than just a routine; it’s a pathway to creating an "island of safety" for your students. From the moment students walk into the classroom to the way lessons are structured, consistency can significantly reduce anxiety and foster a supportive learning environment. In this episode, I delve into the fourth p…

1
#67: So you want to move away from punitive discipline? Here’s where to start. 25:13

3M ago25:13

25:13

Welcome to today's episode where I dive deep into Pillar 3 of my upcoming book, "It's Never Just About the Behaviour." This pillar focuses on the importance of compassion in classroom management, but not in the way you might expect. I will explore actionable, compassionate pedagogy that moves beyond traditional exclusionary practices. In this episo…

1
#66: Are you caught in the vicious cycle of reactive classroom management? 13:49

3M ago13:49

13:49

Welcome to this week’s episode! If you missed last week, head back and catch up, because this is week 2 of digging into pillars from my new book, It’s Never Just About the Behaviour, which is available for pre-order and will be released at the end of June/start of July. In this episode, I'll be focusing on Pillar 2: Be Calm. One of the most impactf…

1
#65: Redefining a strong approach to classroom management: It's about so much more than just the behaviour. 15:40

3M ago15:40

15:40

Welp… it’s happening. The past 670 days have led to me being able to say this next sentence…. NEXT MONTH MY BOOK, 'IT’S NEVER JUST ABOUT THE BEHAVIOUR’, IS FINALLY HITTING THE SHELVES!! It feels like a lifetime ago since I signed the contract above the title ‘author’. The imposter syndrome was real. Author? Me? How the hell am I going to pull this …

1
Teacher Fails 53:44

3M ago53:44

53:44

No training. No teaching experience. A classroom full of students. What could possibly go wrong? This week Rob and Adam discuss the challenges of teaching improv, their pet peeves in a classroom, and mistakes they’ve made along the way. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
"Why Free Speech is the Only Safe Space for Minorities" with Jonathan Rauch 45:31

3M ago45:31

45:31

Listen to Jonathan Rauch’s talk, “Why Free Speech is the Only Safe Space for Minorities,” which he delivered to our audience in Christchurch. It is a powerful talk about the dire need for free speech in the fight for equality. “Minorities are always better off in a society that protects hate speech than in a society that protects us from hate speec…

1
#64: Conquering the colossal to do-list, embracing imperfection, and being "more like Kerrie". Swimming, surviving, and thriving, with Ashley from Rainbow Sky Creations 44:02

3M ago44:02

44:02

In this episode of The Unteachables Podcast, I sit down with Ashley, a seasoned teacher with 18 years of experience and half of the wonderful Rainbow Sky Creation crew, to discuss practical strategies for managing the demands of teaching. Ashley shares invaluable tips that every teacher, especially those in their early years, can benefit from. From…

1
"The Most Human Right: Why Free Speech is Everything" with Prof Eric Heinze 52:50

4M ago52:50

52:50

Eric Heinze is a Professor of Law and Humanities at the School of Law Queen Mary, University of London. He is also the author of “The Most Human Right: Why Free Speech is Everything”. Eric joins Jonathan Ayling for a discussion on free speech, academic freedom and democracy. You can purchase Eric’s book here https://www.amazon.com/dp/0262547244/ Fo…

1
Chemistry 10:50

4M ago10:50

10:50

Sometimes you step onstage with someone and it just feels right. Other times … it’s confusing, turbulent, and awkward. What makes for good chemistry onstage? What can you do if you’re struggling to connect with your Harold team? Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
#63: Blame my brain! What's behind those big, bad, bold, and downright bloody baffling behaviours. 19:05

4M ago19:05

19:05

In today's episode, we're diving deep into understanding behaviours driven by the stress response. This foundational knowledge is crucial for any teacher looking to transform their classroom into an island of safety for their students which nurtures connection, reduces anxiety, and promotes growth. In this episode, I discuss: 1/ The stress response…

1
#62. 'Apathetic' teenagers, post-pandemic classrooms, and finding all the glimmers with Dr Lori Desautels 51:08

4M ago51:08

51:08

On today's episode I speak to the brilliant Dr Lori Desautels to answer one of the big behaviour questions I am often asked... What's going on with apathetic teenage behaviour?! As well as this, we speak about: Neuroplasticity and why it is crucial for teachers to have an understanding around. How we can transform the experiences and education of o…

1
Another victory for free speech: DIA abandons proposals for online censorship 33:04

4M ago33:04

33:04

Former Judge Dr. David Harvey and Netsafe CEO Brent Carey discuss the DIA's abandoned proposal for online censorship. The Free Speech Union celebrates the decision by the Department of Internal Affairs to abandon proposals to further regulate online speech. It is increasingly clear Kiwis have no interest in our would-be-censors’ obsession with tryi…

1
Between the Schools 51:40

4M ago51:40

51:40

Years ago, if you grew up in an “improv town” you would train at a local improv school and and learn from local instructors. Unless you moved cities or frequented comedy festivals, you didn’t have a chance to learn a different style or technique. Now more than ever it is possible to train with teachers from across the world. But what do you when yo…

1
#61. “Make me a sandwich”. How we can address the alarming misogyny present in our classrooms. 23:53

4M ago23:53

23:53

Download the guide: Addressing misogyny in the classroom In the wake of recent events sparking renewed conversations about gender-based violence, the imperative for educators to address misogyny in the classroom has never been more pressing. Samantha Schulz's article, "Make me a sandwich," sheds light on a disturbing reality: the behaviors and lang…

1
Your Partner is Cooking 46:25

4M ago46:25

46:25

What do you do when your parnter is COOKING, and you are clearly not? In this episode, Adam and Rob discuss how deal with a partner who seems to be dominating a scene and you feel stuck. Fear, jealousy, resentment – this episode has it all. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

1
#60. Students not taking accountability for their behaviours? Here's what to do. 16:56

4M ago16:56

16:56

Click here to download all 71 behaviour response prompts! Tell me if this sounds familiar, teacher friend... You have struggled to get through even a minute of teacher-led instruction because of one student who is cutting you off at every turn. It has a knock on effect, causing other students to become disengaged and dysregulated. You become increa…

1
Canceling the FSU from university; and other childish antics 41:11

4M ago41:11

41:11

As a result of lobbying and threats of protest and boycott, Victoria University has postponed the panel discussion that was set to be hosted on 29 April. Jonathan Ayling and Dr. Michael Johnson, from the New Zealand Initiative, were two of the panellists in this discussion; it seems that their presence was the reason for the delay. Jonathan and Mic…

1
Five Sweet Spots 47:28

5M ago47:28

47:28

In this episode, Rob and Adam discuss DEAFO – a new system for creating more dynamic, interesting stage pictures. Also on this episode, heightening through proximity, intentionally throwing your scene off-kilter, and Adam’s pathological obsession with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Brought to you By: The Sonar Network…

1
#59: Struggle with boundaries as a teacher? This one sentence will change absolutely everything about how you see them, and hold them. 14:55

5M ago14:55

14:55

Struggle with boundaries as a teacher? Safe to say you're not alone on that one. These stats are scary: (NASUWT survey Nov 2023) 87% of teachers say their workload has increased in the past year. Teachers are working 54 hours a week on average (you just know some are working 40, and some are working 70!!) 83% of teachers believe their job has adver…

1
#58: Do your students take you seriously? How to balance being warm, friendly, and approachable, with holding crucial behaviour boundaries. 13:57

5M ago13:57

13:57

Is it possible that being too friendly is harming your classroom management efforts? No. Okay, maybe a little, but not in the way you think. Does the below resonate? You feel like you have a really great relationship with your students, but when it is time to get to the business side of things and get some serious work done, the energy is high, the…

1
Crazytown 1:08:34

5M ago1:08:34

1:08:34

Amongst the many terms improvisers have invented to describe a bad scene, “Crazytown” might be the most evocative. This week Rob and Adam discuss scenes that try to do too much, too soon – and how to prevent your scenes from going off the rails. Brought to you By: The Sonar NetworkBy info@thesonarnetwork.com

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