Best Mr Funky Teacher Nicholas Kleve Podcasts (2025)

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Deborah — Leading with Wisdom and Courage 16:47

Play Pause

2d ago16:47

16:47

Summary In this episode of Sunday School for Teachers, I reflect on the remarkable leadership of Deborah, and as Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how her story continues to shape the way I lead in my classroom and community. Deborah guided Israel with wisdom, courage, and unwavering obedience to God. She listened deeply, acted decisively,…

1
Your Tone Is a Teaching Tool: Why Kids Learn More from How You Say It Than What You Say 10:51

4d ago10:51

10:51

Summary In this episode, I explore why tone is one of the most powerful teaching tools we have. Kids pick up on how we speak long before they process the actual words, and that emotional signal shapes how safe and open they feel. I dive into emotional contagion and how students often mirror the emotional state of the adults around them. As Mr. Funk…

1
The Myth of the ‘Bad Kid’: What Adults Often Miss 11:30

5d ago11:30

11:30

Summary In this episode, I dig into one of the most harmful myths in education: the idea of the “bad kid.” Kids aren’t waking up trying to ruin anyone’s day. They’re carrying anxiety, hunger, trauma, overwhelm, or struggles we may never see on the surface. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about how behavior is really a form of communica…

1
Why Kids Don’t Learn When They Don’t Feel Safe 12:27

6d ago12:27

12:27

Summary In this episode, I break down why kids simply cannot learn when they don’t feel safe. When students feel threatened by harsh tone, unpredictable rules, embarrassment, or tension, their brains shut down all learning pathways. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explain how the amygdala takes over—sending a full-body SOS that shuts down t…

1
Kids Are Not Mini Adults: Adjust Expectations, Not Compassion 11:30

7d ago11:30

11:30

Summary In this episode, I dig into a truth we don’t talk about enough: kids are not mini adults. Their emotional regulation, impulse control, and decision-making skills are still wiring and developing well into their twenties. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about why expecting adult-like behavior from children leads to frustration fo…

1
The Power of a Fresh Start: Why Monday Doesn’t Define the Week 14:10

8d ago14:10

14:10

Summary In this episode, I talk about a message every teacher needs to hear: a rough Monday doesn’t define your entire week. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how we as educators can reset, regroup, and reclaim our energy instead of letting one chaotic day take over the whole week. Mondays bring a unique kind of emotional whiplash as we…

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Daniel Interprets Dreams 14:17

9d ago14:17

14:17

Summary In this episode, I reflect on Daniel’s powerful example of courage and faith as he faced King Nebuchadnezzar’s impossible demand: reveal and interpret a dream or face death. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I draw parallels between Daniel’s story and the overwhelming pressures educators often encounter. Instead of panicking, Daniel gat…

1
Why Classroom Culture Is More Important Than Classroom Control 14:39

11d ago14:39

14:39

Summary In this episode, I explore why classroom culture matters far more than classroom control. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about the difference between genuine engagement and simple compliance. Control might create order for a moment, but culture creates belonging, trust, and long-term growth. Drawing on insights from Google’s P…

1
Teachers Need Grace Too: Permission to Be Human 9:47

12d ago9:47

9:47

Summary In this episode, I dive into why teachers desperately need grace—and why giving ourselves permission to be human is essential for our emotional and mental well-being. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about the unrealistic expectations we often place on ourselves and how perfectionism slowly drains our energy and joy. The truth i…

1
Let Kids Try the Hard Things: The Gift of Struggle 12:07

13d ago12:07

12:07

Summary In this episode, I explore why kids need to try hard things—and why removing every obstacle from their path actually limits their growth. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how productive struggle helps students build resilience, confidence, and a deeper sense of identity. When we constantly rescue kids from challenges, we uninte…

1
The Celebration Series – Powwow with Liam, Easton & Cas 7:10

13d ago7:10

7:10

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Liam, Easton, and Cas share what the Ho-Chunk Powwow means to them and why these celebrations remain so important in their community. They reflect on the pride that comes from honoring their culture, explaining how powwows aren’t just about dancing—they’re about connecting with ancestors, remembering history…

1
Start Where They Are — Not Where You Wish They Were 13:46

14d ago13:46

13:46

Summary In this episode, I talk about the importance of meeting students exactly where they are—not where we imagine or hope they might be. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why real educational growth starts with acknowledging a student’s current reality, readiness, and emotional state. Students come into our classrooms carrying unique…

1
Say Yes More: Why Kids Need Chances, Not Gatekeepers 12:56

15d ago12:56

12:56

Summary In this episode, I talk about how powerful the word yes can be in a child’s life. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why students flourish when we give them chances rather than hold them back with gatekeeping mindsets. Too often, the same few students are offered leadership roles, responsibilities, and opportunities while others …

1
The Celebration Series – Powwow with Ky-Mani, Jason, Matthew, Trevor & Katsumi 9:58

15d ago9:58

9:58

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Ky-Mani, Jason, Matthew, Trevor, and Katsumi dive into the meaning and power of Powwow culture. They share personal stories about dance, song, ceremony, and the teachings that come with them. Their reflections highlight how powwows strengthen cultural identity, build community, and pass traditions from one g…

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Train Up a Child 12:10

16d ago12:10

12:10

Summary In this episode, I unpack the powerful message of Proverbs 22:6: “Train up a child in the way he should go.” As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how guiding a child is slow, intentional work—never quick, never shallow. Teaching isn’t just about skills or academics; it’s about shaping hearts, nurturing character, and recognizi…

1
Stop Shrinking to Make Other People Comfortable 12:52

18d ago12:52

12:52

Summary In this episode, I talk about something many teachers feel but rarely name: the pressure to shrink who we are so others won’t feel uncomfortable. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how educators often suppress their creativity, energy, and gifts—not because they lack confidence, but because school culture sometimes rewards playin…

1
The Celebration Series – Powwow with Kade, Etta, Lorraine, Sean & Senia 12:58

18d ago12:58

12:58

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Kade, Etta, Lorraine, Sean, and Senia dive into a lively and heartfelt conversation about Ho-Chunk celebrations—especially powwows—and what they mean to their community. They share personal stories about dancing, singing, and enjoying their favorite foods, all while keeping the mood light and fun. Through la…

1
Don’t Take Advice From People Who Aren’t Where You’re Going 11:44

19d ago11:44

11:44

Summary In this episode, I talk about why we shouldn’t take advice from people who have never been where we’re trying to go. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how often educators receive opinions from people who haven’t walked our path, taught in our classrooms, or carried the weight we carry. Drawing inspiration from Sam Dema, I reflec…

1
Teachers Leave Bad Administration — Period 19:48

20d ago19:48

19:48

Summary In this episode, I talk about a truth we don’t say out loud enough: teachers don’t leave kids—they leave toxic leadership. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how micromanagement, intimidation, fear-based decision-making, and a lack of trust can crush a teacher’s spirit faster than any challenging student ever could. I reflect on …

1
The Celebration Series – Powwow with Kristin, Noe, Azaylea & Nicholas 5:58

20d ago5:58

5:58

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Kristin, Noe, Azaylea, and Nicholas explore what makes the Ho-Chunk Powwow such a powerful celebration of culture and community. They talk about the dances, the drum, the songs, and how each part of the powwow strengthens their connection to their heritage. The students share that powwow songs are more than …

1
Untapped Potential: Why Teachers Need Opportunities to Shine 14:10

21d ago14:10

14:10

Summary In this episode, I talk about how many incredible teachers remain “on the bench” simply because they haven’t been given the chance to step onto the court. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how school cultures sometimes unintentionally gatekeep opportunities, leaving talented educators unseen—not because they lack ability, but be…

1
When Kids Come to School Carrying Heavy Things 10:43

22d ago10:43

10:43

Summary In this episode, I talk about the heavy things kids carry into school—things we often never see. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how many students walk into our classrooms weighed down by stress, grief, anxiety, trauma, or family struggles long before they ever sit in a desk. Their behavior isn’t defiance; it’s communication. …

1
Things We Care About — with Kade, Kristin, Trevor, Xailei & Nicholas 13:30

22d ago13:30

13:30

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Kade, Kristin, Trevor, Xailei, and Nicholas dive into the things that matter most to them. They talk about family, pets, responsibilities, and the small joys that brighten their days. Each student opens up about what they value and how those values shape who they’re becoming. With relaxed conversation, hones…

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Jethro Advises Moses 9:57

23d ago9:57

9:57

Summary In this episode, I dive into Jethro’s timeless words to Moses from Exodus 18: “The work is too heavy for you; you cannot handle it alone.” As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about how deeply this truth resonates with educators who feel stretched thin, overwhelmed, or pressured to carry everything themselves. Teaching is holy work,…

1
Trust Over Testing: What Finland Can Teach Us About Keeping Teachers 12:55

25d ago12:55

12:55

Summary In this episode, I unpack one of the most striking contrasts in global education: Finland retains over 90% of its teachers, while in the United States nearly 90% of new teachers struggle to make it through their first year. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explore what’s behind that massive gap—and what it reveals about how we treat …

1
Friendship & Kindness — with KyMani, Noe, Azaylea & Senia 11:13

25d ago11:13

11:13

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, KyMani, Noe, Azaylea, and Senia dive into the meaning of friendship and the power of kindness. They talk about how being a good friend means supporting one another, showing empathy, and celebrating the small joys in life. The group shares gratitude for things like funny friends and even the simple gift of br…

1
When Teachers Stop Caring: The Quiet Danger of Apathy 15:31

26d ago15:31

15:31

Summary In this episode, I talk honestly about teacher apathy—one of the quietest and most dangerous challenges we face in education. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explore how apathy doesn’t arrive loudly. It drifts in slowly, often after seasons of exhaustion, disappointment, and feeling like nothing we do is enough. I share how this emo…

1
The Myth of Doing It All: Why Teachers Need to Let Go of Perfection 10:29

27d ago10:29

10:29

Summary In this episode, I push back hard on the myth that teachers are supposed to “do it all.” As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about how perfectionism and overcommitment quietly drain our joy, energy, and authenticity. The truth is simple but hard to accept: doing everything doesn’t make us better teachers—it makes us exhausted ones.…

1
The Things We Love to Do — with Easton, Matthew, Liam & Cas 10:33

27d ago10:33

10:33

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Easton, Matthew, Liam, and Cas dive into all the things they love to do. From sports to outdoor adventures, they share the hobbies that make life exciting and fun. They talk about their favorite NBA players, dream cars, childhood games, and the moments that light them up. Their energy, humor, and curiosity m…

1
Protect Your Peace: No One’s Coming to Save You 13:10

28d ago13:10

13:10

Summary In this episode, I talk about a truth many teachers learn the hard way: no one is coming to save you. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explore why protecting my peace is my responsibility—not my district’s, not my admin’s, not my colleagues’. I share how easy it is to slip into patterns of overworking, waiting for someone to notice t…

1
Breaking the Assembly Line: Why Schools Must Create Thinkers, Not Workers 13:34

29d ago13:34

13:34

Summary In this episode, I talk about why our education system can no longer operate like an assembly line designed to produce compliant workers. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on insights from Dr. Brad Johnson and explain why creativity, curiosity, and critical thinking must now sit at the center of everything we do. I share how s…

1
Things That Make Us Happy — with Katsumi, Lorraine & Etta 13:00

29d ago13:00

13:00

In this heartwarming episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Katsumi, Lorraine, and Etta dive into the simple joys that brighten their days. They start by sharing what they’re thankful for, showing how gratitude plays a big role in their happiness. From favorite songs to special moments with loved ones, the trio highlights how even the smallest things can…

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Solomon Asks for Wisdom 11:10

1M ago11:10

11:10

Summary In this episode, I reflect on Solomon’s famous request for wisdom from 1 Kings 3:9 and how deeply it resonates with the work we do as teachers. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share why Solomon’s humility—his willingness to admit he didn’t have all the answers—speaks directly to our experience in the classroom. Every day, we face de…

1
Intent Matters: Sharing Advocacy Without Losing the Mission 9:19

1M ago9:19

9:19

Summary In this episode, I talk about why the intent behind our advocacy matters just as much as the message itself. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share reflections from my recent testimony at the Nebraska State Capitol and how those moments clarified what advocacy should truly be about. It’s not about applause, visibility, or elevating o…

1
After the Testimony: What I Learned from Speaking Truth at the Capitol 13:59

1M ago13:59

13:59

Summary In this episode, I reflect on what I learned after testifying at the Nebraska State Capitol about teacher burnout and the erosion of teacher identity. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share the weight of standing in that space and speaking truths that many educators carry quietly. Senator Conrad’s powerful question—why society is so …

1
Before the Testimony: The Power of Using Your Teacher Voice 10:35

1M ago10:35

10:35

Summary In this episode, I reflect on what it means to step into advocacy with authenticity and courage. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share the thoughts and emotions running through me as I stood outside the Nebraska State Capitol preparing to testify on LR204—legislation addressing teacher burnout and retention. I talk about how the ero…

1
My Voice, My Future – Lorraine interviews Etta 6:36

1M ago6:36

6:36

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Etta opens up about her future dreams and the power of sharing her story. She talks with Lorraine about wanting to become an animator and how drawing helps her relax and express herself. Etta believes that anyone can change the world for good, and she carries that confidence into everything she does. With a …

1
The Power of Participation: Why Voting Matters for Educators and Students 16:16

1M ago16:16

16:16

Summary In this episode, I talk about why voting is one of the most powerful forms of participation we can model as educators. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on how a simple early-dismissal Election Day reminded me that civic engagement is not just a right—it’s a responsibility that shapes our classrooms, our communities, and the s…

1
Invisible Work: The Hidden Load Teachers Carry (Teacher Burnout & Compassion Fatigue) 16:12

1M ago16:12

16:12

Summary In this episode, I reflect on the invisible work teachers do every single day—the emotional support, mental load, and quiet relational labor that rarely gets acknowledged. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about how teaching goes far beyond planning lessons and grading papers. We absorb students’ emotions, manage the climate of o…

1
The Power of My Story – Katsumi interviews Lorraine 7:30

1M ago7:30

7:30

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Lorraine opens up about finding her voice and using it to shape her future. She talks with Katsumi about winning a volleyball tournament, dreaming of becoming a hairstylist, and embracing the passions that make her who she is. Lorraine shares her love for drawing, horror movies, and helping others, especiall…

1
Beyond the Test: Why Teacher Impact Can’t Be Measured by Scores 12:39

1M ago12:39

12:39

Summary In this episode, I talk about why the true impact of teaching cannot—and should not—be measured by standardized test scores. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I reflect on the insights of Dr. Brad Johnson and the extensive RAND/Gates Foundation research showing that nearly $600 million invested in test-based teacher evaluation produced …

1
Sunday School for Teachers: Jesus Welcomes the Children 8:48

1M ago8:48

8:48

Summary In this inaugural episode of Sunday School for Teachers, I reflect on Matthew 19:14—“Let the little children come to me”—and what this moment reveals about our calling as educators. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I talk about how Jesus didn’t see children as interruptions but as the very heart of His ministry. That truth hits deeply …

1
The World I Imagine – Sean interviews Katsumi 7:06

1M ago7:06

7:06

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Katsumi shares her bright and hopeful vision for a better world. She talks with Sean about how young people can bring positivity, creativity, and kindness into the world. Katsumi takes pride in making others smile and imagines a colorful, happy place where everyone gets along. She also opens up about her lov…

1
Fall Fun and Funky Celebrations: Why Classroom Parties Still Matter 14:20

1M ago14:20

14:20

Summary In this episode, I talk about why classroom celebrations—especially during fall and Halloween—are far more meaningful than people realize. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explain how parties and seasonal festivities aren’t just about treats; they’re about creating belonging, joy, and community inside the classroom. I share why kids …

1
Building My Future Self – Trevor interviews Sean 7:35

1M ago7:35

7:35

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Trevor chats with Sean, a fifth grader who’s already thinking about the kind of person he wants to become. Sean talks about responsibility, resilience, and the role models who inspire him to make positive choices. He shares moments he’s proud of—like winning championships—and dreams big about becoming Presid…

1
Celebrating with Students: Finding Joy in the Moments That Matter 18:05

1M ago18:05

18:05

Summary In this episode, I talk about why celebration in the classroom is a powerful tool for building community, motivation, and memory. I share how even simple moments—like bringing cupcakes for my birthday—create connection and belonging, reminding students that joy is an essential part of learning. Celebration isn’t just about marking big event…

1
Building a Strong Collaborative Team 22:00

1M ago22:00

22:00

Summary In this episode, I talk about why building a strong collaborative team is essential for creating an effective and healthy teaching environment. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I share how trust, clear communication, and mutual respect form the foundation of a team where everyone feels valued, supported, and heard. I explain why taking…

1
What I Care About – Kristin interviews Trevor 7:06

1M ago7:06

7:06

In this episode of The BAGO Mic Podcast, Trevor opens up to Kristin about the things that matter most to him. He shares how his family shapes his values and why caring deeply is one of his biggest strengths. Trevor talks about his love for sports, his dream of becoming a mechanic, and how he wants to help others and make a difference in the world. …

1
How to Address a Mistake You Made with a Collaborative Team 16:15

1M ago16:15

16:15

Summary In this episode, I talk about why acknowledging and addressing mistakes is essential for building trust inside any collaborative teaching team. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I explain how humility, honesty, and reflection turn tension into connection. I share practical ways to recognize when you’ve made a mistake, take responsibilit…

1
Finding Focus in the Fall Frenzy: Keeping Calm When Everything’s Competing for Attention 13:18

1M ago13:18

13:18

Summary In this episode, I talk about how to maintain your calm and clarity during the wild, noisy, non-stop pace of the fall season. As Mr. Funky Teacher, Nicholas Kleve, I dive into the reality that fall is full of conferences, celebrations, events, energy, and distractions—and if we’re not grounded, we can get swept up in the frenzy. I share pra…