Episodes

  • Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap: Transitioning from Student to Teacher (And How Schools Can Help)

    Bridging the Theory-Practice Gap: Transitioning from Student to Teacher (And How Schools Can Help)
    Apr 23 2025

    The transition from student teacher to full-time teacher can be overwhelming, and many new teachers feel stressed during their first year. This is often due to the gap between the theoretical knowledge gained in university and the practical skills needed in the classroom. In this episode, I discuss how to bridge that gap and how to gain support from adminstrators, schools, and districts.

    Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/theory-practice-gap

    Subscribe to the Beginning Teacher Talk YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beginningteachertalk

    Learn about the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/

    Free Masterclass - How to Prepare for the School Year in 5 Weeks or Less: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ready

    Learn More about Academy District Partnerships: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/academy-for-schools-districts Learn More about Academy University Partnerships: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/academy-for-universities

    Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7

    Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/

    Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk):
    https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk

    Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/

    Connect with Lori on Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk

    If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show!

    Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)!

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677

    I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one.

    Xo Lori

    P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    27 mins
  • The Real Cost of Teacher Attrition (& How to Prevent It)

    The Real Cost of Teacher Attrition (& How to Prevent It)
    Apr 16 2025

    When new teachers are met with feelings of isolation, unprepared realities of the classroom, and unsupportive guidance or mentorship, it often leads to teacher attrition. In today's episode, I dive deeper into how these obstacles contribute to educators leaving the profession, the cost it has on the education system, and what we can do now to prevent teacher burnout.

    Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/teacher-attrition

    Subscribe to the Beginning Teacher Talk YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beginningteachertalk

    Learn about the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/

    Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset

    Learn More about Academy District Partnerships: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/academy-for-schools-districts Learn More about Academy University Partnerships: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/academy-for-universities

    Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7

    Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/

    Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk):
    https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk

    Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/

    Connect with Lori on Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk

    If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show!

    Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)!

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677

    I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one.

    Xo Lori

    P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    25 mins
  • The 3 Biggest Challenges for New Teachers (& How to Solve Them)

    The 3 Biggest Challenges for New Teachers (& How to Solve Them)
    Apr 9 2025
    New teachers often leave university feeling unprepared for the realities of the classroom, struggling to bridge the gap between theory and practice. In this episode, we explore three of the biggest challenges they face, based on research, and how to best support them. From managing student behavior to overcoming feelings of isolation, we’ll discuss actionable strategies to help new teachers build confidence and establish a strong foundation. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/new-teacher-challenges Subscribe to the Beginning Teacher Talk YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@beginningteachertalk Learn about the R.E.A.D.Y. for School Academy: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset References: Blair, N. (2019, September). New teachers face three common challenges. ASCD. Matsumoto-Royo, K., & Ramírez-Montoya, M. S. (2021). Core practices in practice-based teacher education: A systematic literature review of its teaching and assessment process. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 70, 101047. Mathews, J. (2011, December 18). New teacher decries lesson plan gap [blog post]. Retrieved from Class Struggle at The Washington Post at www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/class-struggle/post/new-teacher-decries-lesson-plan-gap/2011/12/17/gIQAt0C50O_blog.html Melnick, S., & Meister, D. (2008). A comparison of beginning and experienced teachers' concerns. Educational Research Quarterly, 31(3), 39–56. Matsumoto-Royo, K., & Ramírez-Montoya, M. S. (2021). Core practices in practice-based teacher education: A systematic literature review of its teaching and assessment process. Studies in Educational Evaluation, 70, 101047. Smith, T. M., & Ingersoll, R. M. (2004). What are the effects of induction and mentoring on beginning teacher turnover? American Educational Research Journal, 41(3), 681–714. Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7 Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/ Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/ Connect with Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show! Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677 I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one. Xo Lori P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    23 mins
  • How to Teach Kids Focus Skills

    How to Teach Kids Focus Skills
    Apr 2 2025
    Are you struggling to keep your students focused? In this episode, I’m sharing simple, research-backed strategies to help students build their attention skills in fun and meaningful ways. You'll learn how to naturally integrate focus-boosting activities into your daily routine, incorporate mindfulness techniques like breathing exercises, and implement gradual, intentional strategies to strengthen concentration. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/teaching-kids-to-focus Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset Love Notes for Your Kiddos - Bookmarks: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Notes-for-Your-Kiddos-Positive-Bookmarks-Surprises-5111445 “Active Breaks and Cognitive Performance in Pupils: A Systematic Review”: https://revista-apunts.com/en/active-breaks-and-cognitive-performance-in-pupils-a-systematic-review/#:~:text=(2019)%20also%20uncovered%20beneficial%20effects,are%20capable%20of%20carrying%20out “Mindfulness-Oriented Meditation for Primary School Children: Effects on Attention and Psychological Well-Being”: https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/psychology/articles/10.3389/fpsyg.2016.00805/full “How Does Chunking Help Working Memory?”: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29698045/#:~:text=(b)%20Is%20the%20chunking%20benefit,APA%2C%20all%20rights%20reserved Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7 Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/ Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/ Connect with Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show! Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677 I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one. Xo Lori P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    22 mins
  • How to Structure the Rest of Your Day After an Assessment

    How to Structure the Rest of Your Day After an Assessment
    Mar 26 2025

    After preparing for weeks for state assessments, teachers often get to the day and still have one question left to answer - What do I do with my students after taking the big test? If you have this question, you're not alone! I'm sharing five ideas for how to structure your day after taking exams.

    Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/test-taking-in-elementary

    Free Masterclass - How to Get Ready For the School Year in 5 Weeks or Less: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ready

    Fast Finishers Imagination Station for a Game/Activity: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Fast-Finisher-Activities-April-Imagination-Station-Gr-2-5-6754392

    Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Farmhouse): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Farmhouse-Chic-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-Editable-8193583

    Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Brights): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chalkboard-Brights-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-8193670

    Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Succulent): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Succulents-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-Editable-8193463

    Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7

    Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/

    Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk):
    https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk

    Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/

    Connect with Lori on Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk

    If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show!

    Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)!

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677

    I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one.

    Xo Lori

    P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    24 mins
  • How to Calm & Prepare Students During the Weeks Leading Up to Testing

    How to Calm & Prepare Students During the Weeks Leading Up to Testing
    Mar 19 2025
    When it comes to preparing students for state standardized tests, learning and reviewing academic content is just part of the preparation. The other big piece is mindset. In today's episode, I'm sharing 5 strategies that will help your students become calm and confident when taking taking assessments. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/mindfulness-for-elementary-students Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset Growth Mindset Bookmarks: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Growth-Mindset-Bookmarks-Positivity-in-the-Classroom-5121671 Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Farmhouse): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Farmhouse-Chic-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-Editable-8193583 Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Brights): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Chalkboard-Brights-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-8193670 Growth Mindset Affirmation Cards (Succulent): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Succulents-Decor-Growth-Mindset-Positive-Affirmation-Mirror-Cards-Editable-8193463 The Anti-Test Anxiety Society by Julia Cook: https://amzn.to/3XPStWk The Big Test by Julie Danneberg: https://amzn.to/3RgqL2k Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7 Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/ Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/ Connect with Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show! Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677 I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one. Xo Lori P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    27 mins
  • Test-Taking Strategies for Math in Elementary

    Test-Taking Strategies for Math in Elementary
    Mar 12 2025
    If standardized tests make you anxious, you’re not alone! In this episode, we’re continuing our test prep series by shifting focus to math. I’m sharing five powerful test-taking strategies to help students tackle math challenges with confidence. Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/math-test-taking-skills-in-elementary Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset Love Notes for Your Kiddos - Bookmarks: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Notes-for-Your-Kiddos-Positive-Bookmarks-Surprises-5111445 Love Notes for Your Kiddos - Certificates: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Love-Notes-for-Your-Kiddos-Positive-Certificates-Surprises-5109084 Growth Mindset Bookmarks: https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Growth-Mindset-Bookmarks-Positivity-in-the-Classroom-5121671 Math Test-Taking Strategies for Elementary Students: https://www.sadlier.com/school/sadlier-math-blog/math-test-taking-strategies-for-elementary-students-math-multiple-choice-test-taking-strategies How to Solve Math Word Problems: https://thebluebrainteacher.com/4-math-word-problem-solving-strategies/ Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7 Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/ Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk): https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/ Connect with Lori on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show! Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)! https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677 I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one. Xo Lori P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    28 mins
  • Helpful Test-Taking Strategies in Elementary Language Arts

    Helpful Test-Taking Strategies in Elementary Language Arts
    Mar 5 2025

    As spring approaches, both teachers and students look forward to warmer weather and the excitement of summer, but there's one big source of stress: standardized testing. These tests bring high stakes, with scores affecting decisions at the state, district, and school levels, putting pressure on teachers to help students perform their best. In this episode, I’m kicking off a four-part series on practical test-taking strategies to help your students feel prepared and less anxious, starting with five key tips for English Language Arts assessments.

    Show Notes: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/test-taking-strategies-for-elementary

    Free Masterclass - Your 5-Step Classroom Management Reset: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/the-5-step-reset

    Multiple Choice Test Taking Strategies: https://www.drlorifriesen.com/blog/test-taking-strategies-for-elementary

    Multiple Choice Test Taking Strategies: How to Ace a Multiple-Choice Test: https://www.saintleo.edu/about/stories/blog/multiple-choice-test-taking-strategies-how-to-ace-a-multiple-choice-test

    Grab a copy of my book, Dear New Teacher, Here's Exactly What to Do: Your 5-Step R.E.A.D.Y. for School Roadmap for Elementary Classrooms: https://amzn.to/3w3zZJ7

    Lung Cancer Free: One Couple’s Journey Through a “Lungs in a Box” Double Lung Transplant: https://www.lungcancerfree.com/

    Check out Lori's TpT store (Beginning Teacher Talk):
    https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Store/Beginning-Teacher-Talk

    Connect with Lori on Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/drlorifriesen/

    Connect with Lori on Instagram:
    https://www.instagram.com/beginningteachertalk

    If the Beginning Teacher Talk podcast is helping you in your teaching and if you're feeling extra loving, I would be so grateful if you would leave a positive review for the show!

    Your kind words mean the world to me. Just click here to leave your review now (and be entered into our draw for a $25 Amazon Gift Card)!

    https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beginning-teacher-talk/id1456137677

    I hope you have a wonderful week, and remember - just because you are a beginning elementary teacher, there is no need for you to struggle like one.

    Xo Lori

    P.S. Do you have your copy of my FREE Ultimate Classroom Management Checklist? Get yours by clicking here now! https://www.drlorifriesen.com/ultimate-classroom-management-checklist
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    26 mins
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