In this conversation, educators share their fears and experiences related to teaching, including the anxiety of surprise observations, real-life classroom incidents, and the challenges of classroom management. They also discuss how their experiences have shaped their perspectives and coping mechanisms over time. The conversation explores various themes surrounding ghost stories, personal experiences with the paranormal, and the psychological impact of horror films. It also delves into the challenges of teaching, the importance of authenticity in education, and how personal experiences shape perceptions of fear and reality.
Takeaways
Teaching brings real fears
Experience fosters resilience Ghost stories evoke deep emotions
Authenticity enhances teaching effectiveness
Chapters
00:00 The Scary Reality of Teaching
02:50 Nightmares and Classroom Fears
06:09 Real-Life Classroom Horror Stories
08:52 Desensitization in Education
12:02 The Growth Mindset of Teachers
14:45 Hypothetical Scares and Ghost Stories
21:21 Ghostly Encounters and Family Stories
23:44 Haunted Schools and Urban Legends
25:34 The Psychology of Fear in Movies
27:57 Cinematic Coincidences and Tragedies
29:51 Personal Experiences with the Paranormal
31:20 Murder Houses and Their Histories
32:44 Unexplained Phenomena in Everyday Life
33:43 Teaching Challenges and Professional Development
39:08 Authenticity in Education and Coaching
19 Jan 2026
Episode 31: Art + Mentors = Resilience: Transforming Trauma in the Classroom, an interview with Matt Sandoval
In this episode of Belly Up to the Blackboard, we sit down with Matt Sandoval, the CEO of Free Arts (soon to be Art Heals Arizona), to explore how educators can support students experiencing significant adversity and trauma. Matt draws on his extensive background as a former math teacher, school counselor, and licensed social worker to provide a unique "toolkit" for the modern classroom
9 Nov 2025
Episode 30: “Discipline Meets Drive: How Ryan Irwin Built a Life of Purpose and Performance”
In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Irwin, a serial entrepreneur whose passion for performance extends far beyond the gym. From fitness and nutrition coaching to bodybuilding promotion, real estate investing, and writing, Ryan has built a life rooted in discipline, growth, and purpose.
He shares how the principles that drive success in fitness—focus, consistency, and mindset—translate into business and life. Whether you’re chasing personal goals, building a brand, or striving for balance, Ryan’s story will inspire you to push beyond limits and unlock your peak potential.
🎙️ Tune in to learn how discipline fuels drive—and how you can live with purpose across every domain.
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
3 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 16 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
19
Social presence
0
YouTube
0
Engagement
32
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