Episodes

4d ago

Happy holidays from Middle School Mary Poppins ! In this heart-centered episode, Suzanne M. Swain, EdS, LMSW—your friendly neighborhood kid therapist—dives into a powerful holiday homophone: presents vs. presence . One is wrapped. The other is felt. Suzanne explores why time, attention, and shared experiences often mean more to kids than expensive gifts—and how families can use the holiday season to build gratitude, empathy, and real connection. From low-cost, high-impact traditions (like handmade gifts, wishing stars, love-heart ornaments, and family service projects) to practical ways kids can give back, learn life skills, and feel genuinely valued, this episode is packed with meaningful ideas you can actually use. You’ll also hear personal updates, including a shout-out from Lieutenant Steve and Suzanne’s very real (and very cool) journey into cyborg territory with a robot-assisted, 3D-printed knee replacement—happening the day this episode drops. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by holiday pressure, this episode is your reminder that kids want presence over presents —and that the simplest moments often become the most lasting memories. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

5d ago

Sharing a little bit of holiday cheer with you by creating a poem about life in middle school during the holiday season. Hope you enjoy it and happy holidays andMerry Christmas to you all. Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Dec 9

In this uplifting and insight-packed episode, Suzanne M. Swain—educational specialist, licensed master social worker, and longtime kid-therapist—dives into a concept she believes all children and adults desperately need: Ridiculous Joy . Drawing wisdom from Harry Potter , Inside Out , Mary Poppins, and even a little Stranger Things , Suzanne breaks down how fear, anxiety, anger, and joy actually work inside our brains—and why embracing silliness can help kids (and the grown-ups who love them) lower anxiety, communicate better, and build long-term, joy-filled memories. Suzanne explains how “ridiculous joy” transforms fear into laughter, turns hard lessons into growth moments, and helps families create emotional safety and connection. From bubble parties and glow-dance classrooms to cooking adventures, creative play, and tiny daily challenges for teachers, she offers real-world strategies anyone can use to bring more joy into their home or classroom. Whether you're a parent, educator, or just someone trying to understand the young people in your life, this episode brings compassion, humor, neuroscience, and heart into one powerful message: Joy is essential—and sometimes it needs to be absolutely ridiculous. Stay clever, little foxes, and get ready to bring a bright burst of ridiculous joy into your day. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Nov 27

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 Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Nov 19

In this thoughtful and essential episode of Middle School Mary Poppins , Suzanne M. Swain, EDS, LMSW—Education Master & Specialist as well as working school-based Child Therapist introduces a new concept she believes every family, teacher, and community needs right now: Elementary Empathy-Based Learning (EEBL) . Suzanne dives into why today’s youngest learners—especially those who experienced early childhood during the pandemic—need intentional support in developing empathy, emotional awareness, and social connection. Through relatable stories, pop-culture references like Inside Out , and decades of school counseling experience, she shares how empathy builds safety, strengthens families, and helps kids understand themselves and others. She explains how EEBL & empathy shows up in body language, storytelling, imagination, and even anxiety—and offers simple ways adults can nurture it through conversations, routines, respect, and everyday social skills. Suzanne also explores how middle schoolers can channel big emotions through creativity and art, turning anxious energy into meaningful self-expression. This episode is a must-listen for parents, teachers, counselors, and anyone working with kids today. You’ll gain practical tools, deeper insight into child development, and a renewed appreciation for how empathy creates confident, connected, and capable kids. Tune in to learn how empathy grows, why it matters, and how you can bring more of it into your home, classroom, or community—one intentional moment at a time! Check out our website for more content & playlists. Steve pics too! Pass Suzanne a note in her locker - would love to hear from you! http://www.msmarypoppins.com Contact Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Nov 11

In this episode, child therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain, EDS LMSW , dives into a topic that makes many of us squirm—money management for neurodivergent kids. Whether your child has ADHD, autism, or another form of neurodiversity, Suzanne shares practical ways to help them build a healthy relationship with money, understand value, and learn how effort connects to reward. From creating chore charts and setting short- and long-term financial goals to exploring kid-friendly debit cards, Suzanne walks parents and educators through empowering strategies that teach independence, responsibility, and confidence around money. She also touches on Maslow’s hierarchy of needs, emotional regulation, and why framing money as a tool—not a stressor—can change a child’s mindset for life. Tune in to learn how neurodivergent brains view money differently, creative ways to make financial lessons fun and manageable, tools to help kids save, budget, and spend wisely, and how families can talk about money without anxiety. It’s time to make money make sense—for kids and adults alike. Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe, share, and leave us a 5-tar review. Let's help our little foxes thrive. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Oct 21

In this heartfelt and necessary episode, Suzanne dives into the topic of masculinity and emotional safety , exploring how adolescent boys communicate, why they struggle to open up, and how we can help them feel seen and supported. With warmth and humor, she shares classroom stories, insights on nonverbal communication, and practical ways to nurture emotional intelligence in young men. If you’ve ever wondered how to help the boys in your life express themselves and feel safe doing it, this episode offers a compassionate, eye-opening perspective. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Aug 20

What do Abraham Lincoln, a dead bird, and the local Fire Department have in common? Believe it or not—Suzanne’s teaching career. In this episode, kid therapist and master teacher Suzanne M. Swain spills her epic teaching fails —the kind of stories you can only laugh at in hindsight. From leading a group of 10-year-olds astray in the U.S. Capitol, to accidentally becoming part of the Ford’s Theater tour (yes, involving projectile vomiting in the most historically inappropriate place), to clocking herself out cold during state testing and triggering a full-on firefighter rescue—Suzanne proves teaching is never boring. Between shredded-money envy at the U.S. Mint, the quirks of middle schoolers, and teachers who either scolded or cracked up at her disasters, Suzanne shows how the wildest fails can turn into the best stories. So buckle up, laugh along, and maybe even feel a little better about your own “oops” moments—because if Suzanne can survive them, so can you. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Aug 5

Welcome back to the chaos and charm of back-to-school season! In this episode, therapist and former middle school teacher Suzanne M. Swain (EDS, LMSW) dives into one of her most requested topics—ADHD. Suzanne flips the script on the usual narrative, showing why ADHD isn’t a deficit but a secret superpower packed with bravery, creativity, and genius. From hilarious back-to-school night stories to clever tips on organization and coping strategies, she shares how students (and adults) with ADHD can thrive. You’ll also hear about the three types of ADHD she encounters in her practice, her concept of the “flitter” response to anxiety, and why acceptance and compassion therapy can turn challenges into teachable moments. Oh, and did we mention she met Tupac (well, kind of) and discovered she might actually be part alien? Yeah, this episode’s got it all—insight, humor, and a little extraterrestrial twist. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or clever little fox navigating life with ADHD, this one’s for you. Tune in and get ready to see ADHD through a whole new lens! Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jul 1

In this jam-packed, joy-filled episode, Suzanne Swain dives headfirst down the digital rabbit hole to share her lifelong love of tech—and how it’s changing the game for kids and families alike. From her first VGA monitor to today’s AI-powered tools, Suzanne walks listeners through fun, interactive ways to turn screen time into meaningful play and connection. She explores how to use AI to generate personalized coloring pages, DIY Pokémon cards, and even full-on board games. She explains how Trello can help kids (and parents) stay organized with fun, drag-and-drop checklists. Suzanne shares how virtual reality has transformed her therapy sessions, offering virtual vacations, roller coasters, and meditations in space. And don’t miss her tips on using apps like ChatGPT and Claude to write stories, emails, or even bedtime tales—plus why Google Drive is her brain’s second home. She even encourages families to create mood-based Spotify playlists together, build apps with Appy Pie, and make movies using AI. Whether you’re a parent hoping to reduce Roblox time, a teacher looking for creative tools, or just a curious fox ready to explore, this episode is a treasure trove of tech tips that promote creativity, emotional wellness, and family connection—all served up with Suzanne’s signature mix of heart and humor. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jun 27

At 3:18 AM, Suzanne Swain found herself wide awake, anxious, and overwhelmed. In this heartfelt episode, she shares how a late-night rewatch of Labyrinth became the unexpected comfort she needed. Blending nostalgia, humor, and reflection, Suzanne explores the film’s timeless message of resilience and imagination—offering listeners a gentle reminder that even on the hardest days, there’s always light ahead. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jun 10

What’s the grandest thing you’ve ever done? Built a treehouse? Made a birthday cake from scratch? Raised a child… twice ? In this heartwarming episode, Suzanne Swain (aka your favorite rural kid therapist) dives into the grand world of grandparents—from Rockettes at Radio City to blueberry summers in Alabama. With stories that range from Purple Hearts and polio to blueberry bushes and Jeopardy nights, Suzanne shines a light on the unsung heroes raising millions of children today. If you've got a “Glammy,” “TT,” or just good old “Grandma,” this episode’s for you. So grab a donut (sprinkles optional), give your grand a hug, and let’s celebrate the magic, moxie, and memories that only grandparents can bring. Contact Suzanne Swain: Email: suzanneswain@gmail.com Facebook: Suzanne Swain Produced By: StellaMix Podcast Production Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

May 28

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 Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Feb 18

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 Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Feb 11

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 Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Feb 4

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: Support the show Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jan 30

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 Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jan 21

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 Akenson, 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: Support the show Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Jan 14

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: Support the show Send Suzanne a Question or Comment: Support the show

Sep 24, 2024

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

Aug 5, 2024

Hey Gen Xers, remember when Mary Poppins seemed like the ultimate fix for everything? As a teacher and therapist, I’ve spent years wishing we had her magic back in the classroom. I’m Suzanne M. Swain, EDS/MSSW, and I've lived between the worlds of therapy and education, teaching emotions, middle school, and everything in between. In this episode, we’ll dive deep into the heart of teaching and how creativity, empathy, and a sprinkle of that "Mary Poppins" magic can revive education. Together, we’ll explore how teachers can reclaim their spark, bring joy back into learning, and foster real connection with students—because, as Dr. Rita Pierson said, "Kids don’t learn from people they don’t like." Join me on this whimsical journey to rethink middle school, inspire creativity, and rediscover the joy of teaching. Let’s create a new version of education that nurtures both students and teachers, because, like Mary Poppins, we have the power to transform lives—one classroom at a time. Ready to play? Let’s rewrite the game together! 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