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Above & Beyond Honoree Mike Tinoco on Love, Learning, and Belonging
What happens when a teacher refuses to define students by their shortcomings?
In this first episode of Teacher Stories' new partnership with Above & Beyond Teaching, Ken Futernick talks with 2024 Above & Beyond honoree Mike Tinoco, an English and journalism teacher from San Jose whose impact extends far beyond the classroom. Mike shares how his own struggles in school shaped his commitment to seeing every student’s potential—especially those others might overlook.
Former student Chris Hernandez arrived in Mike’s classroom gang-involved, frequently in trouble, and disengaged from school. Today, he credits Mike with helping him imagine a future he never thought possible. Along the way, Mike explains why unconditional care, meaningful relationships, and a sense of community matter more than any lesson plan.
This is a powerful conversation about belonging, second chances, and the quiet ways teachers change lives—often without ever knowing the full impact of their work.
23 Mar 2026
From Strangers to Connection: A Day That Changes Everything (Ep. 51)
What if just 6 hours could transform how students see each other—and themselves? In this powerful episode, we take you inside Breaking Down the Walls, a high school workshop where simple conversations evolve into moments of deep vulnerability, empathy, and connection.
At a Northern California high school, students move from awkward introductions to sharing personal stories of loneliness, bullying, and resilience. Through activities like “Cross the Line,” they discover something many didn’t expect: they are not alone. Walls built by fear, stereotypes, and silence begin to fall.
This episode, featuring voices from students, educators, and a social-emotional learning expert, reveals why connection is essential for learning—and how schools can foster it. The result? A powerful reminder that when students feel seen and understood, everything changes—relationships, school culture, and, for many, a renewed eagerness to learn.
7 Oct 2025
From Shy Student to Children's Author: How One Teacher's Story Inspired 'Elephant Beach'
What happens when a shy, young girl who hated being called on in class grows up to become a teacher—and then writes a children's book that helps kids face their fears?
This episode of Teacher Stories features Christine Devane, a former educator who transformed her childhood struggles with shyness into a powerful tool for connecting with students and young readers.
You'll hear how Christine's own experience with shyness led her to give students choices and help them find their voice. You’ll hear how an 8-year-old reader immediately related Christine's book to her own experiences at a waterpark and arts camp.
Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply someone who believes in the power of storytelling, this conversation will remind you how the right book at the right moment can help children—and adults— gain important insights about themselves and the world around them.
Plus, you'll get a simple suggestion at the end to reconnect with a childhood book that made a difference in your own life.
Who has been a guest on Teacher Stories
Names identified in recent episode analyses. Showing up to five guests.
Bruce Wasser
Julia Damer
Eric Hall
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
5,205
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
9 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 47 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
37
Social presence
91
YouTube
68
Engagement
32
Contact Teacher Stories
Guest appearances
Does not typically book guests
Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.
Questions about Teacher Stories
Who hosts Teacher Stories?
Ken Futernick host the show. Published by Teacher Stories.
How often do new episodes come out?
The show publishes monthly, based on its RSS feed.
Does Teacher Stories take guests?
The show does not typically feature guests, based on episode analyses.
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