Episode 1

full
Published on:

14th Jul 2025

Beyond the Bell Nurturing Anxious Students for a Smooth Start

Welcome back to "From the Mind of Jess" on the AWB EdVentures podcast network! In this second episode, your host Jess Hansen, a former school counselor turned school leader, dives deep into supporting students with anxiety as the new school year approaches. Jess shares the poignant story of Kate, a student whose anxiety was so severe she'd literally freeze at the school's front door, and discusses practical, empathetic strategies like pre-start walkthroughs and soft year beginnings to ease transitions. Later, she recounts the eye-opening experience with Jack, a student constantly ditching class, whose "problem behavior" was actually a hidden hearing impairment. This powerful anecdote highlights the critical importance of building relationships and looking beyond surface-level issues to truly understand and support our students. Jess emphasizes that while summer preparation is key, our ability to react with empathy and respond appropriately once students are back in the building is where we make the greatest impact. Tune in for actionable advice and heartfelt stories that will help you create a more welcoming and supportive environment for every student. Learn more at www.awbeducation.org. Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/your-morning-boost--6612702/support.  Learn more about our sponsors at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Learn more about our work at awbeducation.org and grundmeyerleadersearch.com. Find out more about what we do: AWB Education - awbeducation.org Grundmeyer Leader Services - grundmeyerleadersearch.com Got a mailbag question?  Reach out to us at adam@awbeducation.org

Thank You for Listening!  This has been an episode from The FowardED NetworkWhere we are Advancing Voices and Shaping Education. We are dedicated to supporting everyone invested in K-12 success: teachers, leaders, parents, and community advocates.

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About the Podcast

Your Morning Boost: The Weekly Reset for Educators
Midweek momentum for educators who want to lead with clarity, energy, and purpose.
Your Morning Boost is a weekly spark for educators and school leaders who want to lead, teach, and live with greater intention. Released every Wednesday morning, the show helps you push through the midweek grind with clarity, momentum, and purpose.

Produced by AWB Education and powered by the ForwardEd Network, the podcast blends practical classroom strategies with leadership insight and personal growth. Each episode delivers actionable ideas, reflective moments, and energizing encouragement to help you serve students well and finish your week strong.

If you care about growing as an educator while staying grounded and inspired, Your Morning Boost belongs in your Wednesday routine.
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About your host

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Adam Busch

With 25+ years of K–12 experience, Adam Busch is a seasoned educational leader and Director of Student Services specializing in legally sound systems and organizational compliance. As the host of Your Morning Boost, Adam leverages his background as a teacher, coach, and consultant to provide educators with the practical inspiration and mindful resets they need to lead with confidence.