Épisodes

  • What falling apart taught me about teaching - Danielle Nuhfer
    Dec 12 2025

    In this episode of "Morning Motivation for Educators," host Danielle Neufer, a seasoned educator and a survivor of burnout, dives deep into her personal journey to explore the often invisible struggles that teachers face. With two decades of teaching experience, Danielle shares her transformative path from overwhelming stress to a renewed sense of purpose and passion for education. This heartfelt discussion serves as a reminder to all educators about the significance of prioritizing their own well-being in the pursuit of academic success. Danielle begins by candidly recounting her rocky start to marriage and how those early experiences shaped her into the teacher she is today. Through her reflections, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing and accepting one's past. As she reveals the challenges of her relationship—from betrayal to bankruptcy—Danielle illustrates how these life trials, while painful, provided her with valuable insights that inform her work. She encourages listeners to consider the impact of their own life stories on their teaching, urging them to see how their struggles and triumphs shape the ways in which they connect with their students. Throughout the episode, Danielle acknowledges the weight of personal experiences and how they can influence a teacher’s approach in the classroom. She highlights the lesson that every educator carries a lifetime of stories into their teaching practice, which can enhance their empathy and understanding of students who may be grappling with their own invisible battles. As she shares her journey of self-discovery and healing, she underscores that moments of vulnerability can ultimately foster resilience and compassion—qualities essential for effective teaching. The core message of this episode revolves around gratitude and reflection. Danielle poses thought-provoking questions for listeners, asking them to assess the lessons they've gleaned from their own lives and the nuances those experiences bring to the classroom. She emphasizes that recognizing one's struggles is not merely a form of lament but an opportunity to embrace growth. With a focus on self-care as an indispensable tool for survival, she encourages educators to reframe how they view their emotional resources—not as burdens but as invaluable assets to their teaching practice. In conclusion, Danielle Neufer reminds her audience that caring for oneself is the most powerful way to equip oneself for the challenges of teaching. This episode serves as an invitation to educators to embrace their past with gratitude, learn from their experiences, and leverage those insights to foster stronger connections with their students. Listeners are encouraged to explore deeper connections with the Teaching Well community and access resources designed to help educators thrive in their careers. Ultimately, this podcast episode not only motivates but also empowers educators to reclaim their joy and purpose in the field of teaching.

    Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…


    Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)


    Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish Newsletter


    Ready to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/call


    Or contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life


    We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.


    IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

    • Simplify and streamline technology
    • Save teachers’ time
    • Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
    • Improve student performance on state assessments

    🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    7 min
  • Simply Begin Again - Danielle Nuhfer
    Dec 11 2025

    In this episode of "Morning Motivation for Educators," host Danielle Neufer transforms the typical narrative surrounding educators' struggles into an empowering message of resilience and growth. Drawing from her two decades of teaching experience and her personal journeys through burnout, Danielle emphasizes the critical importance of supporting teachers not just in their professional roles, but in nurturing their own well-being. This podcast serves as a sanctuary for educators seeking to manage stress, rediscover their passion for teaching, and cultivate a supportive school environment. As Danielle navigates the current cycle of parent-teacher conferences, she shares valuable insights on re-establishing connections as the school year progresses beyond its initial excitement. She reminds listeners that it’s never too late to start anew, offering a powerful mantra: "Simply begin again." With a personal touch, she introduces her painted rocks bearing these words, which stand as reminders that teachers can always choose to redefine their approach, no matter the circumstances. Throughout the episode, Danielle encourages educators to refine their daily routines to foster meaningful interactions with students. She recounts her personal goal of hearing every student's voice each day, stressing the significance of consistent connection points. While these interactions may seem trivial, they wield immense power in enhancing relationships, not only for students but for teachers themselves. Danielle underscores the notion that building intentional practices of eye contact and greetings cultivates an environment where relationships flourish, ultimately enriching the educational experience. Recognizing the challenges that educators face, Danielle presents practical strategies that emphasize simplicity and achievability. She acknowledges that perfection isn't the goal—progress is. With a gentle but firm reminder, she urges her listeners to focus on small, attainable actions—like connecting with a handful of students or reaching out to a couple of parents each week—which may yield profound impacts over time. She invites educators to celebrate these micro-moments of connection, encouraging them to reflect on their significance amidst the chaos of teaching. In closing, Danielle extends an invitation for deeper exploration of these concepts through her book, "The Path of the Mindful Teacher," and unique training sessions like "Meet the Mess with Mindfulness." She reinforces the message that self-care is fundamental; prioritizing one's well-being is not just a personal responsibility but a vital component of fostering a positive and productive school culture. With this episode, Danielle Neufer inspires educators everywhere to embrace renewal, intentional practice, and above all, the joy found in meaningful connections—both with their students and themselves.

    Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…


    Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)


    Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish Newsletter


    Ready to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/call


    Or contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life


    We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.


    IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

    • Simplify and streamline technology
    • Save teachers’ time
    • Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
    • Improve student performance on state assessments

    🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    6 min
  • The permission to be together - Danielle Nuhfer
    Nov 14 2025
    In this episode of **Morning Motivation for Educators**, host Danielle Neufer dives deep into the challenges educators face today, reflecting on her own 20-year journey in teaching and the burnout she experienced. Recognizing that many educators feel overwhelmed and exhausted, Danielle emphasizes the importance of not just surviving in the profession, but thriving with a renewed sense of purpose and passion. With tools and strategies designed specifically for educators, she aims to help listeners rediscover their joy in teaching, manage stress, and cultivate a balanced life. Central to this discussion is the notion of genuine connection amidst a world that often places superficial interactions on a pedestal. Danielle raises a pivotal question: Are we truly connecting, or merely engaging in a blur of tasks and activities? She challenges the listener to consider the exhaustion that comes from being constantly busy without moments of authentic human connection. Acknowledging that the current digital age makes it easy to mistake superficial engagement for true connection, she highlights the need for real, intentional time spent together with others—something that has become increasingly vital for our mental well-being and overall success. As Danielle articulates her own experiences, she encourages listeners to implement small yet impactful changes in their lives. From spending time with family to participating in community activities, she suggests various avenues through which educators can step outside the hustle of daily responsibilities and reconnect with the awe of human interaction. Teaching is an art that thrives on these moments. By allowing oneself to pause and appreciate the small wonders in life, educators can enrich their own experiences, which ultimately translates to a more engaged and passionate classroom atmosphere. In a heartfelt invitation to the audience, Danielle empowers listeners to take the initiative to foster connections. She encourages everyone to plan real life experiences with friends, colleagues, or community members, understanding that these genuine interactions are necessary for mental health and fulfillment. The emphasis is on simplicity; whether it’s joining a club, participating in local events, or volunteering, these actions breathe life into an otherwise fast-paced existence. The overall aim is to prioritize spaces where educators can truly be present with others, remembering that they, too, are human beings deserving of connection and community. Throughout the episode, Danielle reflects on the greater responsibility educators hold in shaping the future. By modeling healthy connections and community engagement, teachers not only care for their own well-being but also instill important social skills in their students. Detailing how vital it is to prioritize personal connection, she speaks to a call for a cultural shift in education—one that nurtures mental health and sustainable practices among educators. Listeners are invited to share their own experiences of connection, and Danielle also offers resources such as her book, **The Path of the Mindful Teacher**, along with information about upcoming mindfulness practices. In closing, she reiterates that looking after oneself is not merely a personal responsibility, but a foundational necessity for being able to care for and support students effectively. This episode serves as a powerful reminder: cultivate your own well-being to become a beacon of positivity and growth in your educational journey.Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish NewsletterReady to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/callOr contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    8 min
  • Creating Your Own Container - Danielle Nuhfer
    Nov 13 2025
    In this episode of Morning Motivation for Educators, host Danielle Neufer dives deep into the essential topic of educator well-being. Drawing from her extensive experience as a former teacher and her own journey through burnout, Danielle shares invaluable tools designed to transform the teaching experience from mere survival to true thriving. This podcast serves as a much-needed sanctuary for educators, offering a space to breathe, reflect, and take small, meaningful steps toward achieving a sense of balance and fulfillment. Because, as Danielle emphasizes, our well-being is intricately linked to our effectiveness in the classroom. A significant theme of the episode revolves around the emotional landscape of teaching. Danielle mentions listening to another podcast that discusses how inspiration can often lead to feelings of inadequacy, particularly when we fall into the trap of comparison syndrome. She highlights the critical insight that we only see the polished end results of others' journeys, overlooking the struggles, failures, and first attempts that often precede success. This serves as a poignant reminder for educators that both their struggles and triumphs shape their teaching narratives, and that recognizing this can help alleviate the pressure to constantly present a perfectly curated image. Danielle expands upon the concept of emotional contagion, explaining how both educators and students are profoundly attuned to each other's feelings. Our emotions can greatly influence our teaching effectiveness on any given day, depending on personal circumstances and stress levels. She encourages listeners to acknowledge that creating an emotionally supportive environment is crucial, and that this process begins with the teacher themselves. Through discussions on personal well-being, she advocates for the cultivation of self-awareness, especially in acknowledging when one is not feeling at their best and how it affects classroom dynamics. Throughout the episode, Danielle reassures educators that achieving balance doesn't require massive overhauls or time-consuming practices. Instead, she promotes the idea of small, deliberate actions that can lead to significant changes in emotional well-being. From simple reminders to breathe, to creating a safe and nurturing classroom environment, she emphasizes the necessity of practicing mindfulness not only for the benefit of the students but also for the teacher’s own mental health. Taking a thoughtful approach, Danielle presents ideas for transforming one's classroom into a space that fosters these brief moments of reprieve. Whether it’s setting up a calming corner or simply having a stone with a meaningful word, she inspires educators to infuse their space with reminders that promote self-care and emotional intelligence. These small strategies can create shifts in perspective, helping teachers feel more centered and connected, even amidst the chaos of the school day. In conclusion, Danielle prompts listeners to embrace their humanity and imperfections, highlighting that the path to mindful teaching is not about perfection but rather about progress. She invites educators to engage with her work further, whether through her book, The Path of the Mindful Teacher, or other available resources. She passionately urges them to prioritize their self-care, reminding them that by doing so, they ultimately enhance their capacity to educate and uplift their students. In this episode, Danielle Neufer powerfully reinforces the idea that caring for oneself is the most vital way to care for those we teach.Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish NewsletterReady to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/callOr contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    7 min
  • You Don’t Need More You Need Space Create - Danielle Nuhfer
    Nov 12 2025

    In this episode of "Morning Motivation for Educators," host Danielle Neufer, a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience and two personal encounters with teacher burnout, delves deeply into an essential truth for teachers: the importance of creating space in our busy lives. Understanding the demands and challenges of teaching, Danielle aims to inspire educators to prioritize their well-being amidst the tidal wave of responsibilities that come with the profession. This podcast serves as a refuge for teachers to breathe, reflect, and embark on their journey towards balance and fulfillment. Danielle shares her revelation that the conventional approach to overcoming stress—adding more strategies and tools—may not be the most effective solution. Instead, she advocates for the necessity of space; a mindful pause in our hectic schedules that is not filled with additional tasks or expectations, but rather allows us to connect with our true selves. This space offers teachers the chance to reconnect with what initially sparked their passion for teaching, despite the exhaustion that often accompanies their commitment to their students. Throughout the episode, Danielle provides practical advice on how educators can cultivate this space for themselves. She encourages listeners to seize quiet moments throughout their day, whether it’s through taking a few deep breaths before students arrive, tuning into a calming playlist, or simply allowing themselves a moment of solitude at their desks. By emphasizing the idea that these pauses are not indulgences, but rather vital components of maintaining one’s well-being, she empowers teachers to prioritize self-care without guilt or hesitation. As she wraps up the episode, Danielle invites listeners to take actionable steps toward doing less, thereby fostering an environment where they can breathe and thrive. It's a call to give oneself permission for those small but crucial moments of stillness, a reminder that self-care is not only justified but essential for effective teaching. The ultimate message is clear: caring for oneself is inherently linked to how well one can care for their students. Listeners are encouraged to implement one or two strategies in their week that resonate with them, opening the door to a more mindful approach to their daily routine. This episode not only motivates educators to consider their own needs but also reinforces the understanding that by investing in their well-being, they lay the foundation for a more fulfilling and impactful teaching experience. Be sure to check the show notes for resources and further opportunities to engage with this transformative work, as Danielle invites all educators to join her in creating a nurturing environment for themselves and their students. Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…


    Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)


    Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish Newsletter


    Ready to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/call


    Or contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life


    We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.


    IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

    • Simplify and streamline technology
    • Save teachers’ time
    • Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
    • Improve student performance on state assessments

    🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    5 min
  • You don't have to do this all year - Danielle Nuhfer
    Oct 9 2025
    In this episode of "Morning Motivation for Educators," host Danielle Neufer, a seasoned educator with over 20 years of experience, dives deep into the essential theme of well-being in teaching. Recognizing the unique challenges educators face, particularly the threat of burnout, Danielle lays the groundwork for a transformative approach that empowers teachers to not just survive, but truly thrive in their roles. With her years of firsthand experience, she understands the exhaustion that often accompanies the teaching profession and offers listeners a breath of fresh air—a space for reflection, rejuvenation, and support. As the seasons shift from summer to fall, Danielle introduces the concept of a seasonal school year, a paradigm that encourages educators to align their energy levels and emotional states with the cyclical nature of the academic calendar. She explains how the excitement of meeting new students at the start of the year can lead to a frantic rhythm of work that, while invigorating, is often unsustainable. This "Renew" season, which lasts until November, symbolizes a fresh start filled with anticipation—a time where educators might feel compelled to give more than they realistically can maintain throughout the year. With an emphasis on acknowledging and managing one's own energy, Danielle outlines the importance of creating a school year that reflects personal needs alongside those of students. She urges educators to consider a more mindful approach, one that incorporates self-care practices and intention-setting to craft a fulfilling teaching experience. By advocating for the "Meet the Mess with Mindfulness" training, she highlights its potential to revolutionize how teachers engage with their professional responsibilities. This program empowers educators to evaluate what truly matters in their teaching environments, helping them discern priorities and let go of burdens that hinder their effectiveness. The conversation delves into practical steps educators can take to establish a balance that suits their personal well-being and teaching philosophy. By coming to terms with the realities of teaching while employing mindfulness techniques, Danielle believes educators can foster an environment conducive to both their well-being and their students'. The discussion captures the essence of her message: that nothing external needs to change for educators to reclaim control and happiness in their teaching careers. Ultimately, Danielle emphasizes that the ripple effect of a teacher's emotional state extends beyond their own well-being to also impact their students and fellow educators. By fostering resilience and a mindful practice, teachers not only protect themselves but also enhance their effectiveness in the classroom. Tying together the threads of self-care and intentionality, she invites listeners to view their journey as an investment not just in their teaching careers, but in their overall quality of life. In closing, Danielle leaves educators with an empowering affirmation: they possess the tools necessary to navigate their unique challenges and create a school year that aligns with their personal and professional aspirations. Inviting them to participate in her training, she reminds them that self-care is paramount—not only for their own benefit but as the foundation for nurturing their students. Tune in for valuable insights and strategies designed to inspire and uplift educators as they embark on another school year.Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish NewsletterReady to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/callOr contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    7 min
  • How do you want to feel - Danielle Nuhfer
    Oct 8 2025
    In this episode of "Morning Motivation for Educators," host Danielle Neufer invites listeners into a transformative space where self-reflection and emotional well-being take center stage. Drawing from her extensive experience of over 20 years in teaching, Danielle openly shares her personal journey through burnout and the essential tools she discovered to help educators not just survive, but truly thrive. This podcast serves as a sanctuary for educators, a place to breathe, reflect, and take incremental steps toward achieving a more balanced and fulfilling professional life. Danielle begins by posing a critical question that sets the tone for the entire episode: “How do you want to feel this school year?” This inquiry, she explains, acts as a foundation for establishing meaningful intentions rather than rigid goals. By prioritizing feelings over outcomes, educators can design their school year in a way that nurtures their inner peace and passion for teaching. Listing her own word of the year—peace—Danielle candidly addresses the initial contradiction many may feel between wanting peace and the chaotic nature of a school environment. Instead of perceiving this desire as a point of frustration, she encourages a self-reflective approach that prompts listeners to recognize internal and external factors affecting their peace. Throughout the discussion, Danielle emphasizes the importance of responding thoughtfully rather than reacting impulsively in the classroom. She highlights the need for educators to intentionally fortify their lives outside of school—practicing self-care and mindfulness—as a strategy to maintain inner tranquility when faced with the inevitable challenges of teaching. By recognizing that peace may ebb and flow, educators can remain anchored to the idea that cultivating an inner sense of calm is within reach, regardless of external circumstances. Danielle delves deeper into the practical aspects of modeling peace within the classroom, asking listeners to consider: “How can I bring more peace to the situation?” She explores various scenarios whereby an educator's demeanor and interactions can reinforce a peaceful atmosphere, whether through discipline or simply being present in the moment. This emphasis on mindfulness invites educators to rethink their responses and to genuinely connect with their students, fostering an environment that supports learning and emotional growth. As the episode concludes, Danielle encourages her audience to engage with her reflective challenge: “What’s your word for the school year?” Coupled with the mindset of cautious optimism, she inspires educators to contemplate how they can orient themselves toward their chosen words amidst the challenges and victories characteristic of the teaching profession. With a heartfelt invitation to join her exclusive training titled “Meet the Mess with Mindfulness,” Danielle offers practical resources to help educators turn their intentions into reality, reinforcing the idea that taking care of oneself is the best approach to nurturing those in their care. Listeners leave this episode equipped with a renewed perspective on their emotional well-being and empowerment, encouraged to integrate self-awareness and intention into their teaching practice. The journey to a peaceful, fulfilling school year begins with the commitment to caring for oneself first, establishing a ripple effect of positivity that will reach their students and beyond.Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish NewsletterReady to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/callOr contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL. IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:Simplify and streamline technologySave teachers’ timeReliably meet Tier 1 standardsImprove student performance on state assessments🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.
    Voir plus Voir moins
    6 min
  • The day I almost quit teaching - Danielle Nuhfer
    Aug 29 2025

    Ways to connect with Danielle and Teaching Well…


    Get on the waitlist for Meet the Mess with Mindfulness. The problems in schools are real. But so are the solutions. (teachingwell.life/meetthemess)


    Sign up for the Teaching Well Wish Newsletter


    Ready to talk through your situation? Schedule a time to talk https://teachingwell.life/call


    Or contact Danielle directly at danielle@teachingwell.life


    We’re thrilled to be sponsored by IXL.


    IXL’s comprehensive teaching and learning platform for math, language arts, science, and social studies is accelerating achievement in 95 of the top 100 U.S. school districts. Loved by teachers and backed by independent research from Johns Hopkins University, IXL can help you do the following and more:

    • Simplify and streamline technology
    • Save teachers’ time
    • Reliably meet Tier 1 standards
    • Improve student performance on state assessments

    🚀 Ready to see why leading districts trust IXL for their educational needs? Visit IXL.com/BE today to learn more about how IXL can elevate your school or district.

    Voir plus Voir moins
    5 min