International Teaching Reality: What No One Tells You

ITP - 125 Greg and Kent sit down with Aimée and Jacob—two international educators with a passion for honest conversations and creative collaboration. They dive into the story behind their own podcast, The International Staff Room, and share what drives them as educators and podcasters. Stick around to the end and learn about the meaning of the episode title. The conversation covers a lot: from the power of partnership in teaching to tackling tough topics with empathy and humor. Aimée and Jacob open up about what it really takes to engage listeners, build community, and keep things real in the world of international education. There’s thoughtful discussion about using tech in meaningful ways, coaching and empowering teachers, and finding that sweet spot between seriousness and laughter in the classroom—and in life. You’ll also hear personal stories—from funny moments at border control to the essential items they always pack when moving abroad. If you’ve ever wondered how to break through passivity in students, or why it’s worth taking risks and starting something new, this episode is for you. ⁠Aimee Skidmore's Linked In⁠ On Spotify: ⁠The International Teacher StaffRoom Podcast⁠ On Apple Podcasts: ⁠The International Teacher StaffRoom Podcast⁠ Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Guest Introductions (01:55) Aimée's Journey in Education (04:45) Jacob's Unique Path to Teaching (08:02) Collaboration and Partnership in Education (10:48) The Concept Behind Their Podcast (13:19) Navigating Difficult Topics in Education (16:16) Listener Engagement and Feedback (19:04) Future Topics and Guest Appearances (27:44) The Dynamic of Podcasting and Community Building (30:23) Navigating Challenges in Education (31:41) Addressing Aimée's Impromptu Letter (33:42) Empathy in Difficult Conversations (38:22) The Importance of Listening (41:23) Balancing Seriousness and Humor in Education (45:20) The Value of Authentic Engagement (50:49) What is Teach Spark? (55:00) Humorous Encounters with Border Control (01:00:09) Cultural Differences in Driving and Authority (01:03:15) What We Carry: Essential Items for Moving (01:07:52) Final Thoughts and Advice for Educators The International Teacher Podcast is a bi-weekly discussion with experts in international education. New Teachers, burned out local teachers, local School Leaders, International school Leadership, current Overseas Teachers, and everyone interested in international schools can benefit from hearing stories and advice about living and teaching overseas. Additional Gems Related to Our Show: Greg’s Favorite Video From Living Overseas - ⁠https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UQWKBwzF-hw⁠ Signup to be our guest  ⁠https://calendly.com/itpexpat/itp-interview?month=2025-01⁠ Our Website⁠ -  ⁠https://www.itpexpat.com/⁠ Our FaceBook Group - ⁠https://www.facebook.com/groups/itpexpat⁠ ⁠JPMint Consulting Website  - ⁠https://www.jpmintconsulting.com/⁠ Greg’s Personal YouTube Channel: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLs1B3Wc0wm6DR_99OS5SyzvuzENc-bBdO⁠ Books By Gregory Lemoine: ⁠"International Teaching: The Best-kept Secret in Education"⁠ | by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed. ⁠"Finding the Right Fit: Your Professional Guide for International Educator Recruiting Fairs and Amazing Stories of a Teacher Living Overseas⁠" |by Gregory Lemoine M.Ed. Partner Podcasts: Just to Know You:  https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/just-to-know-you/id1655096513Educators Going Global: ⁠https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/educators-going-global/id1657501409