66. How Teachers Can Find Real Happiness—With Rosalie Kissmann
How Teachers Can Find Real Happiness—With Rosalie Kissmann
What if happiness wasn’t something to chase, but something we could teach—and live? In this inspiring and down-to-earth episode, Jeremy talks with Rosalie Kissmann, a veteran teacher and motivational speaker, about what it really means to live with joy in and out of the classroom.
Rosalie shares powerful stories from her 24 years of teaching, including how a tough conversation with a parent taught her to stand up for what’s right—even when it’s hard. She opens up about battling imposter syndrome, choosing courage over comfort, and creating a first-of-its-kind happiness course for kids.
This conversation is for any educator or lifelong learner searching for purpose, hope, and a little more joy in the work they do every day. You’ll walk away reminded that two things can be true: teaching is incredibly hard… and it’s an incredible gift.
Takeaways
- Rosalie has been teaching for 24 years, primarily in elementary education.
- She is passionate about happiness and believes it's an untapped market.
- Transitioning to motivational speaking was initially petrifying for her.
- Imposter syndrome is a common feeling when speaking to larger audiences.
- Teachers often feel a deep connection to their students, referring to them as 'my kids.'
- It's important to have honest conversations with parents, even when difficult.
- Teaching is not just a job; it's a calling that requires passion and dedication.
- Rosalie created a course on happiness for children, addressing an important life skill.
- The book 'Good Inside' by Dr. Becky Kennedy is recommended for its insights on parenting and emotional intelligence.
- Music can significantly influence mood and motivation, with Rosalie recommending 'Go Big or Go Home' by American Authors.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Happiness and Teaching
01:54 Journey from Teacher to Motivational Speaker
07:53 Lessons Learned from Colleagues
12:22 Navigating Difficult Conversations with Parents
18:56 The Calling of Teaching
21:14 Celebrating Teacher Achievements
23:36 Creating a Course on Happiness
27:51 Book Recommendations for Educators
33:16 Music and Motivation
36:08 Closing Thoughts and Connections
Connect with Rosalie Kissmann: https://www.instagram.com/joy_redefined/
Rosalie's Book Recommendation - https://geni.us/nSdse (Good Inside by Dr. Becky Kennedy)
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