393. Reclaiming Our Joy Before It’s Too Late: Featuring CJ Reynolds
What would change if educators treated joy, connection, and mental wellness as essential parts of the work instead of extras?
In this episode, Joshua Stamper welcomes back educator, author, speaker, and Teach Class Off creator CJ Reynolds. CJ reflects on more than 20 years in education, from teaching in West Philadelphia to serving students in New Mexico, and shares why his purpose has remained rooted in one simple belief: kids come first.
Joshua and CJ discuss building meaningful relationships with students, finding joy in the everyday moments of school, setting boundaries, and pushing back on practices that do not serve students. CJ also shares practical ideas for combating burnout, reconnecting with what energizes you, and creating a culture where students and staff feel noticed, valued, and supported.
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
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Need a Presenter for a conference or school PD? Contact Brad Waid to book Joshua Stamper for your next event on Improving Student Behavior, Impacting School Mental Health, or Creating healthy habits.
Follow the Host, Joshua Stamper: Contact: https://joshstamper.com/contact/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper Instagram: www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AspirePodcast Subscribe: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/aspire-the-leadership-development-podcast/id1384210762?mt=2
Aspire to Lead Won the FireBird Award!
I’m happy to announce that my book, “Aspire to Lead”, won the 2022 Leadership Book Award from Speak Up Talk Radio! It is a great honor to get this kind of recognition and I really appreciate all your support!
The book is available for purchase on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1953852386/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=1953852386&linkCode=as2&tag=aspirewebsite-20&linkId=0d9c336e3db6ab16cbb08421ef3e4175
Review the Podcast
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Teach Better Podcast Network
This podcast is a part of the Teach Better Podcast Network. Explore the Teach Better Podcast Network—your hub for insightful conversations covering diverse education topics. Our podcasts empower educators, fostering progressive, student-focused classrooms. Choose a podcast, subscribe, and dive into recent episodes now at https://www.teachbetterpodcastnetwork.com/
