The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Middle school can feel weird, overwhelming, awkward, emotional, and completely ridiculous sometimes… so maybe the answer is learning how to hold onto a little “Ridiculous Joy” to help us cope with the difficulty.

In this episode of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW introduces the heart behind the show and the mission driving these conversations: helping kids, families, and educators better understand each other through neuroscience, emotional critical thinking, humor, and honest dialogue about what it actually feels like to grow up in today’s world.

“Ridiculous Joy” is Suzanne’s favorite phrase, and will be the title of her upcoming parenting book. It is through finding silliness and ridiculous joy in life that we are able to build up these experiences to remind us that life is full of wonder and excitement if we’re just strong enough to get through the darker days.

Drawing from years of experience as a middle school teacher, school librarian, administrator, professor of Education, and licensed master social worker working directly with students and families, Suzanne explores the complicated emotional world middle schoolers live in every day. Kids today are constantly moving between different environments — school, home, social media, peer groups, extracurricular pressure, and adult expectations — often without the emotional tools to fully process all of it yet.

This episode explores why communication between kids and adults can break down so easily, how cognitive distortions shape the way we interpret situations, and why emotional regulation has become one of the most important life skills we can teach. Suzanne also introduces the idea that joy itself can become an act of resilience — especially for neurodivergent kids, anxious kids, overwhelmed kids, and the adults trying to support them.

Blending humor, brain science, real classroom stories, and heartfelt honesty, Ridiculous Joy: It’s a Beautiful Life sets the tone for the entire MSMP podcast experience: compassionate, practical, slightly chaotic, and deeply hopeful.

💜 ND Friendly Listening Note: MSMP is designed with neurodivergent listeners in mind. Ads and interruptions are intentionally kept to a minimum and placed thoughtfully for continuity and emotional regulation support.

☂️ Visit msmarypoppins.com for resources, updates, and ways to support the show.

Produced by StellaMix Podcast Productions
🌐 stellamix.com

Stay clever, little foxes!🦊

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Hey y’all & happy Thanksgiving, everyone! As we all know, this can be a stressful time of year for some individuals who may be struggling. I wanted to take a moment today to give you a list of some conversation, starters and questions that you could bring up at the dinner table that would help to encourage conversations to get to know the kids and each a lot better.Hope you enjoy the episode and all the best for a blessed Thanksgiving.- Suz

FYI: If you are in need of mental health services, please immediately contact the following contacts below:

#988

SAMHSA Helpine:1800 662 HELP

Findsupport.gov

Show Website:

www.msmarypoppins.com

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Welcome back, clever little foxes! Season 2 of The Middle School Mary Poppins Podcast is officially here, and Suzanne M. Swain—your go-to guide for all things educational, emotional, and real—is kicking things off with a deep dive into test anxiety. This episode is packed with practical tips, thoughtful encouragement, and just the right amount of sass to help students (and their grown-ups) face testing season with confidence.

Suzanne reflects on a whirlwind school year filled with everything from pre-K energy to fourth-grade insights, sharing what she's learned from her students and how we can all rethink the way we support mental health in schools. She introduces her shaggy sidekick, Lieutenant Steve, and previews the bite-sized, real-life topics coming this season—from neurodivergence to emotional intelligence to COVID kids.

Whether you're a parent, a teacher, or just someone who wants to understand how to better support the kiddos in your life, this season is all about doing the work together. So let’s boom, bounce, and breathe our way into a season full of learning, growing, and maybe even a little magic.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Normieville Middle School’s eighth graders have taken entrepreneurship to a whole new level—by launching a booming Blow Pop business that’s causing a stir. Suzanne Swain steps in to unravel the sticky situation, using her background in behavioral psychology and leadership to guide these young hustlers toward a smarter, more ethical approach. With the help of Dr. Daria Morgan and Nanny the beloved school mascot, Suzanne taps into wolf pack dynamics to teach teamwork, responsibility, and the power of thinking ahead.

In this engaging and unexpected journey, listeners will explore the fine line between leadership and chaos, ambition and accountability. Can these students turn their classroom scheme into a legitimate venture? And what happens when a group of rowdy 8th graders starts thinking like future CEOs? Tune in for a hilarious, insightful, and eye-opening take on middle school entrepreneurship and emotional intelligence.

Website: www.msmarypoppins.com

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Ever thought about how traffic jams and middle school classrooms have more in common than you’d expect? In this episode, we dive deep into the power of perception—how it shapes our experiences, learning, emotions, and even society’s view of teachers. From navigating California freeways to the emotional chaos of adolescence, we explore why mental health and education must go hand in hand and why teachers are the unsung heroes battling burnout, low pay, and unrealistic expectations every day.

Through personal stories, humor, and thought-provoking insights, we’ll unpack why teachers are often seen as both superheroes and scapegoats and how shifting our perception can change the way we value education. Plus, we’ll discuss why teachers deserve the Dumbledore treatment rather than being forgotten like Bing Bong. Tune in and discover what’s really happening behind the classroom doors—this is a conversation that will challenge what you thought you knew.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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In this heartfelt and thought-provoking episode, we explore the essence of spirituality—not through religion, but through the stories, characters, and moments that shape our understanding of kindness, bravery, and purpose. From the gentle wisdom of Mr. Rogers’ Neighborhood to the powerful symbolism of The Lion King and Watership Down, we reflect on how childhood influences stay with us, guiding us toward living an honest and meaningful life.

Along the way, we dive into personal stories of loss, growth, and the unexpected teachers—whether human, animal, or animated—that have shaped a lifelong quest for understanding. With humor, nostalgia, and a deep appreciation for the small moments that make life meaningful, this episode invites you to step into the neighborhood of reflection and connection.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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This year, we’re taking education to a whole new level—one playful idea at a time! From Lin-Manuel Miranda’s rap seminar bringing history to life, to eighth graders designing a better recess experience, this district meeting is packed with fresh ideas and fun initiatives. Dive into how Dungeons & Dragons campaigns are helping students build life skills, and how pop culture gems like Stranger Things are being used to connect learning styles with real-world applications.

We’re also celebrating community heroes and businesses that keep our district thriving, unveiling exciting plans for Imagineering Labs, and sharing quirky awards for staff who make magic happen every day. Whether it’s about sparking creativity, supporting mental health, or creating memorable learning experiences, this meeting proves that when schools and communities play nice, everyone wins. Let’s roll the dice and see what’s next!

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production

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Step into the extraordinary world of Dr. James Akenson, the educator who redefines what it means to teach. Known as the "Mr. Rogers of Teacher Education," Dr. Akenson blends visual thinking, storytelling, and thematic teaching (like country music!) to create immersive learning experiences that inspire students and teachers alike. Suzanne, deeply inspired by a former professor, took learning to a new graphically organized level, embodying his innovative approach in her own journey as an educator.

From dismantling time-bound learning to championing the power of doodles and graphic organizers, Dr. Akenson is a master at turning complex ideas into relatable, unforgettable lessons. In this captivating episode, we explore his groundbreaking methods, his neurodivergent-friendly approach, and his passion for shaping middle school education into a creative, supportive environment. Along the way, we’ll uncover why flexibility, empathy, and a touch of humor are essential for the future of learning.

Whether you’re an educator, a lifelong learner, or simply curious about the untapped potential of teaching, this conversation is sure to ignite your imagination and leave you inspired.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Send Suzanne a Question or Comment

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Join "Principal" Suzanne in this lively and heartwarming episode as she kicks off the school year with a celebration of creativity, collaboration, and kindness. From shouting out local sponsors like "Pretty Fly for a Wi-Fi" and "Curl Up and Dye," to introducing a remarkable new student, Hesse, Suzanne explores the beauty of seeing potential in every child.

Hesse, a military kid with a love for dogs and a genius for inventing "glorts" (glamping forts), becomes a symbol of the untapped creativity and resilience in all of us. Suzanne dives deep into how we can rethink challenges like ADHD, turn hesitation into an ally, and spark new emotions that drive connection and growth.

With her signature humor and thoughtful storytelling, Suzanne encourages teachers, parents, and listeners to embrace moments of hesitation, throw marshmallows of kindness, and rediscover the joy of middle school through creativity and collaboration. Whether you're a teacher, a parent, or just someone looking for a little spark of inspiration, this episode is a masterclass in seeing the extraordinary in the everyday.

Key Takeaways:

• The magic of "teacher profiling" to highlight student strengths.
• How to turn everyday moments into glitter bombs of positivity.
• Building emotional resilience through imagination and creativity
• Why kindness and a bit of silliness can transform the culture of a school.

Grab your coffee, take a seat, and let’s dive into a tapestry of teaching, learning, and heartfelt inspiration.

Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: Suzanne@msmarypoppins.com
Website: www.msmarypoppins.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

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In this heartwarming and thought-provoking episode, Suzanne explores the metaphor of the apple to uncover the often hidden struggles and strengths of both teachers and students. Just like an apple may appear perfect on the outside, but be bruised within, people carry unseen emotions and experiences beneath their surface. Drawing from her experiences as a professor of education and therapist, Suzanne shares a powerful story about connecting with a student through a simple apple experiment, revealing deep truths about mental health, resilience, and the impact teachers have on shaping young lives. As she reflects on the challenges educators face post-pandemic, Suzanne offers an inspiring reminder that, like apples, there's beauty and sweetness in everyone—sometimes we just need to look beneath the surface.


Contact Suzanne Swain:
Email: Suzanne@msmarypoppins.com
Website: www.msmarypoppins.com
Facebook: Suzanne Swain
Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production 

Send Suzanne a Question or Comment:

Support the show