The Balancing Act

The Balancing Act

Joseph Vitale and Jamie Wanko

Episodes 107
Avg. Duration 47m
Activity Highly Active
Apple Rating 5.0 (13)
Since Jul 2023
Latest Episode Jun 2026

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Open to Sponsors

Publishing Details

Schedule
Weekly
Format
Episodic
Consistency
100%
Hosting
feeds.megaphone.fm

Contact & Outreach

About This Podcast

Fun Fact: If you draw a venn diagram of the circus and being an educator you get a perfect circle! At least, that’s what Jamie and Joe have learned. Straight out of Central New Jersey, join two seasoned teachers as they try to make sense of balancing their teaching careers with parenting multiple children, helping with aging parents, supporting their loving spouses, and navigating the very strange landscape of education in a post-Covid world. With guest interviews, deep dive explorations on contemporary topics, and so much more – we’re here to look at the highs and the lows that come with being an educator. Whether you’re fresh to the job or a seasoned vet, we can’t wait to share in this journey together! Visit our website for feedback, love letters, or guest/general inquiries.

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Recent Episodes

College Admissions 2026: What Students and Parents Need to Know with Jen Foldvary

Jun 02, 2026 50m

In this episode we catch up on the college admissions process as our families move through graduation season and prepare for the fall. We discuss the challenges of applications, changing…

College Decisions, Graduation Stress & Surviving Maycember

May 26, 2026 48m

In this episode we talk about the end-of-school-year rush, including birthdays, graduations, family events, and the feeling of “Maycember.” We also share a family graduation story, a practical item…

Toxic Mom Groups and Relational Aggression with Dr. Noelle Santorelli

May 19, 2026 58m

In this episode, we invite Dr. Noelle Santorelli back to the Balancing Act podcast to delve into the issue of toxic behavior among mothers and social groups. Dr. Santorelli discusses the impact of…

Dealing with Loss: A Caretakers Journey

May 12, 2026 53m

In this episode, you’ll walk alongside Jamie and co-host Joseph Vitale as they navigate the emotional journey of loss, healing, and remembrance following the passing of Jamie’s mom. Together, they…

Navigating Kids, AI & Digital Learning with Merve Lapus: A Tech Reset

May 05, 2026 51m

In this lively episode of The Balancing Act Podcast, Jamie Wanko and Joe Vitale welcome back tech-in-education expert Merve Lapus for a timely “tech reset” conversation that feels equal parts honest,…

Rethinking EdTech: Why Marcy Samayoa Is Leading a Tech-free Classroom “Tech Reset”

Apr 28, 2026 51m

In this episode, we sit down with Marcy Samayoa, a Los Angeles chemistry teacher, to unpack her bold “tech reset” in the classroom—and what happened next. After noticing how constant screen time…

From Teaching to Content Creation: Jessica Hawk on Education, Tech & Teacher Burnout

Apr 21, 2026 58m

In this episode of the Balancing Act Podcast, we’re joined again by Jessica Hawk, who shares her journey from a 32-year teaching career into full-time content creation—and what that transition has…

100th Episode Special: Lessons in Teaching, Podcasting, and Building an Education Community

Apr 14, 2026 43m

In this special 100th episode of The Balancing Act, we celebrate in style from the New Jersey Hall of Fame—and yes, it feels just as cool as it sounds. We take a trip down memory lane, from recording…

Executive Functioning for K–3 Teachers with Mitch Weathers and Sarah Oberle

Apr 07, 2026 50m

In this episode of The Balancing Act, we welcome back Mitch Weathers and chat with Sarah Oberle about their new book, Executive Functions for Every K-3 Classroom, diving into the critical role…

Work-Life Balance for Educators: Parenting Teens, Caregiving, and Managing It All

Mar 31, 2026 47m

In this episode of The Balancing Act, we blend humor and real life as we swap stories—from a much-needed raspberry Snapple boost to saying goodbye to a trusty old car and even a beloved classroom…

Teaching Multilingual Learners: Why NJ Teacher of the Year Gillian Ober Says Classrooms Are Changing

Mar 24, 2026 47m

In this episode, we engage with Gillian Ober, the 2026 New Jersey Teacher of the Year, as she shares her inspiring journey from undecided college student to passionate educator. We delve into her…

Teachers Are Burning Out—And Self-Care Isn’t the Solution

Mar 17, 2026 49m

In this episode, we examine the challenges of self-care for educators, particularly women, as they juggle multiple roles at home and in the classroom. We discuss the mental load and guilt associated…

Teacher Burnout Crisis with Dr. Allison Hitchens

Mar 10, 2026 53m

In this episode of the BalancingAct podcast, our hosts speak with Dr. Allison Hitchens, a doctoral graduate specializing in teacher burnout and mentoring novice educators. We discuss the challenges…

Grind My Gears 2: Teacher Pet Peeves, Parent Drama & Staff Culture

Mar 03, 2026 50m

In this episode of the Balancing Act podcast, Jamie Wanko and Joe Vitale engage in a candid discussion that merges personal anecdotes with educational reflections. They kick off by celebrating Joe's…

Talking with @Balancedmindsedu Jamie Ruffner, your sarcastic teaching bestie

Feb 24, 2026 46m

Jamie Ruffner breaks down the reasons she has decided to step away from the classroom, all while keeping her mind on education and how to make things better for all classroom teachers and students.…

Lack of Developmental Norms are a Societal Issue Affecting Schools

Feb 17, 2026 48m

Our hosts are siding with other teachers on the issues that seem to be shared with teachers across America. Teachers have collectively been scratching their heads with students' lack of common…

Teacher Friends and Tik Toks with the Math Girls

Feb 10, 2026 43m

Meeting Morgan and Nicole at the NJEA convention in the fall meant that our hosts just widened their New Jersey teacher friend group, and in the meantime basked in the glow of that newer teacher…

Guidance Counselors and College Bound High School Seniors

Feb 03, 2026 46m

Having a high school senior can be an overwhelming process, and our hosts have three of them between them. How do you pay for college? How do you apply to college? How do you choose a college? How…

Learned Helplessness with “The Well Seasoned Teacher”, Melissa Antinoff

Jan 27, 2026 46m

As a classroom teacher for nearly 30 years, Melissa Antinoff has experience and boots on the ground with every type of student, and she has a brilliant point of view on education and learned…

Gambling, Mental Health Awareness, and Seasonal Affective Disorder

Jan 20, 2026 46m

Jamie and Joe discuss their personal experience with S.A.D or seasonal affective disorder and mental health issues that arise in the winter months and how to combat them. Both long time teachers try…

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does The Balancing Act have?

The Balancing Act has published 107 episodes since July 2023, covering topics in Education, How To.

Is The Balancing Act still active?

The Balancing Act is currently highly active with new episodes weekly. Average episode length is 47m.

How do I contact The Balancing Act for sponsorship or guest appearances?

Sign up on Grep.FM to access contact details for The Balancing Act, including email and social media links.

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