In this episode, I engage my most frequent guest so far in a conversation about his experience as a first year Chemistry and Biotechnology educator at the high school level.  I never anticipated that I would be a guest in the position of an educator; but his high school and college experiences prepared him to change paths and take on a teaching career.  Malik McFarlane received a Bachelor of Science with Honors in Chemistry with a Concentration in Medicinal Chemistry & Drug Discovery from Wake Forest University. He is very passionate about making science - particularly chemistry - more accessible for all students regardless of their background and previous experiences with Science, and is excited to find a way to achieve that in the culture in his classroom.  In part 2, we will explore lessons and his future plans.

Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics -  Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

From MD to PhD (Part 1)

After 30 years in the classroom, I thought I’d seen it all… but this year changed me.
New grade. New school. New challenges; and a reminder that healing is possible.
This week on The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, I’m reflecting on the year that grew me — and what every parent, teacher, and caregiver should know about helping our children (and ourselves) thrive.

Intro Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James


TTT Ep063 - The School Year That Changed Me

In this episode of Teatime Thoughts on The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we explore the powerful truth that change is constant. Whether you're a parent adjusting to a new routine, a teacher navigating curriculum shifts, or a caregiver supporting a child through a big transition—this conversation is for you.
You'll hear personal reflections, practical tools, and empowering questions to help you and the children you care for move through change with grace and intention.
🎙️In this episode:
*Why change is a necessary part of growth
*3 simple ways to help children handle transitions
*How to reflect meaningfully in seasons of change
🎧 Tune in and be reminded: You don’t have to have all the answers. You just have to show up—open, kind, and steady.

Ep063:  The School Year That Changed Me (Reflections From My 30th Year Of Teaching) --> https://soundcloud.com/the-teachers-tribe/ttt-ep063-the-school-year-that/s-Xb4m1Q3PTNE?si=75f4dfac9e784691aa19519aed4dda54&utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing  


Teatime Thoughts Ep. 5 - Change Is Constant

✨ Starting kindergarten is a milestone for children—and an emotional shift for families. As a veteran teacher, I’ve seen how preparation at home helps kids thrive in school.
In this podcast episode, I offer practical, teacher-tested tips on:
 ✅ Building routines
 ✅ Handling big feelings
 ✅ Practicing social skills
 ✅ Making learning playful
💛 Let’s prepare with heart.

TTT Ep064 - Kindergarten Readiness (A Guide for Parents and Caregivers)

"This life is a gift."
Are you feeling overwhelmed, tired, or disconnected?  This one is for you.  On this episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we reflect on what it means to truly see the gift of everyday moments—especially in the chaos of parenting, teaching, and caregiving. It provides a heart-centered reminder that your life, your presence, and your impact matter deeply.

Teatime Thoughts Ep. 6 - This Life is a Gift

Do you want to support your child this school year, but are not sure where to start?  When families and teachers work together, kids don’t just succeed—they soar.
This episode provides 7 quick ways to stay involved and connected—even with a busy schedule.  Let’s look beyond the backpack and talk about how families can power learning.

Intro Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Website:  Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe
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TTT Ep065 - Beyond the Backpack (How Families Power Learning)

We pour so much kindness into others—our students, our children, our communities. But when was the last time you offered that same compassion to yourself?

In this short, heartfelt Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers' Tribe Podcast, we explore why self-compassion isn’t selfish—it’s essential. You’ll discover gentle, practical ways to care for yourself while continuing to nurture those around you.

Because kindness starts with you. 💛

🎧 Listen now and take a breath—you matter, too.

🎶Intro Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Teatime Thoughts Ep. 7 - Fill Your Cup First

Have you ever looked at your child’s homework and thought, “That’s not how I learned it in school”?  You’re not alone.  Today’s classrooms use strategies that can feel unfamiliar — and sometimes even intimidating — to parents. 

In this episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we explore how parents can embrace the role of “student” again in order to better connect with their children and support their education. 
When parents show curiosity and a willingness to grow, children learn something even bigger than Math or Reading — they learn that learning never stops.

Intro Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Website:  Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe


TTT Ep066 - That's Not How I Learned It

Have you ever had one of those days where everything seems to go wrong—whether at home, in the classroom, or just in life? In this Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we pause to remember a simple but powerful truth:

✨ We can always start again. ✨

Join me as we explore what it means to embrace fresh starts—with our children, our students, and ourselves. You’ll hear practical examples for parents, teachers, and caregivers on how to reset when things don’t go as planned, how to model resilience for children, and how to show compassion to yourself when you stumble.
This is your invitation to let go of guilt, lean into grace, and take the next step forward—because every moment holds the possibility of a new beginning.


Teatime Thoughts Ep. 8 - Restart

Did you know that missing just two days of school a month can add up to nearly an entire month of lost learning by the end of the year? In this episode, we explore the importance of daily attendance and punctuality for children’s academic success, social growth, and lifelong habits.

✨ Share this episode with another parent, teacher, or caregiver who cares about giving children the best start possible!

Intro Theme Song:  Vocals - Shevaughn James; Music - Malik McFarlane; Lyrics - Maxine McFarlane & Shevaughn James

Website:  Podcast - The Teachers' Tribe

TTT Ep067 - Every Day Counts

Life will always bring distractions—but true fulfillment comes when we keep our eyes on what matters most and learn to move with grace through everything else.
In this Teatime Thoughts episode of The Teachers’ Tribe Podcast, we reflect on the quote:
 “Life is best lived by focusing on your goals and dancing through all other distractions.”
✨ You’ll discover:
The importance of setting clear goals as parents, teachers, and caregivers.
How to handle life’s interruptions without losing your joy.
Practical strategies to stay focused and resilient every day.

Whether you’re raising children, teaching in the classroom, or simply navigating a busy life, this conversation will inspire you to stay grounded in purpose and light on your feet.


Teatime Thoughts Ep. 9 - Focus on Your Goals

The Teachers’ Tribe is a collaborative community that is open to educators (that is, both parents and teachers) across the globe.  It facilitates cultural exchange, collaboration and "the joy of learning and teaching".

From MD to PhD (Part 1)

The Teachers' Tribe

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