June 14, 2025
339. Reigniting Purpose and Passion in Education: Featuring CJ Reynolds
In this milestone episode of Aspire to Lead, we’re celebrating eight years of the podcast alongside the incredible CJ Reynolds, educator, speaker, and creator of Real Rap with Reynolds. As both of our platforms mark eight impactful years of serving educators, we reflect on the journey, share lessons learned, and look ahead to what’s next—including CJ’s exciting new TV show, The Rules of Engagement.
Together, we explore how educators can finish the year strong and prepare for the next one with clarity and renewed energy. From meaningful end-of-year strategies to daily practices that support your physical and mental health, CJ offers powerful insight on creating sustainable systems rooted in your values. If you’re feeling the weight of burnout or searching for ways to reconnect with your purpose, this energizing conversation will inspire and empower you to thrive in and beyond the classroom.
https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Class-Off-Teaching/dp/195160010X?crid=3BROTRPFRQR7O&keywords=real+rap+with+reynolds&qid=1650747175&sprefix=real+rap+with+reynolds%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=aab1975b82a180d6741cfe0700afe56f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl —
EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20 Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders —
About CJ Reynolds:
Mr. Reynolds is an author, YouTuber, & public speaker. In his book, Teach Your Class Off, on his YouTube Channel, Real Rap With Reynolds, and on his Podcast, Sunday Night Teacher Talk, Reynolds offers an authentic glimpse into what it looks like to teach high school in the inner city. Using “Real Rap” to share teaching tips and strategies, Reynolds helps new and veteran teachers alike become the teacher they always dreamed of being.Follow CJ Reynolds:
-
Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/realrapreynolds
-
Website: https://teachyourclassoff.com/
-
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/realrapwithreynolds/
-
Teach Your Class Off YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCRGA_FqyigEPmh5U37Yn7fA
- The Rules of Engagement: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL1l43k7ZS2YuiqMj0Av1q-1TLHJ4qIhz9
https://www.amazon.com/Teach-Your-Class-Off-Teaching/dp/195160010X?crid=3BROTRPFRQR7O&keywords=real+rap+with+reynolds&qid=1650747175&sprefix=real+rap+with+reynolds%2Caps%2C127&sr=8-3&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=aab1975b82a180d6741cfe0700afe56f&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl —
Magic Mind
If you are a long time listener, an ASPIRE Leader, You know I only work with brands that I believe in myself and I integrate in my everyday life, so I’m super happy to talk to you guys about Magic Mind! I started drinking Magic Mind a while back as I was looking for several things, specifically in the afternoon.- A boost of energy
- Healthy Ingredients
- Easy to drink throughout the day
EXCITING OFFER! Try Magic Mind for up to 49% off: https://www.magicmind.com/ATLMM20 Use my code ATLMM20 in the checkout **Shipping is not included — #1 New Release, "The Language of Behavior" is NOW Available! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DVT32KQ1?&linkCode=ll1&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=d18e5a44a6582a22d15ee23193af7bb8&language=en_US&ref_=as_li_ss_tl The Language of Behavior is an essential guide for school leaders committed to transforming their school culture and addressing student behavior through a more compassionate, effective approach. Drawing on their extensive experience in education, Charle Peck and Joshua Stamper challenge outdated disciplinary practices and offer a clear, trauma-informed framework that empowers educators to interpret student behavior as a form of communication. Through three core tenets—Consider the Environment, Explore the Root Causes of Behavior, and Respond with Intentionality—this book equips leaders with actionable strategies to foster positive behavior, build stronger relationships, and cultivate a more supportive school climate. Packed with real-world case studies, evidence-based practices, and insights into the lasting effects of childhood trauma, The Language of Behavior provides school leaders with the tools to create lasting, meaningful change. It offers a roadmap to reduce behavior issues, re-engage students and staff, and establish a culture of accountability and empathy. This book is not just a reference—it's a call to lead with vision and transform how we approach discipline, ensuring every student has the opportunity to thrive. Bulk Orders: https://www.connectedd.org/bulk-orders —
