Best Matt Spaulding Podcasts (2025)

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"What Would Mrs. Claus Do?" With Lindsay Stewart 1:02:02

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7d ago1:02:02

1:02:02

After a long hiatus, Matt's back! This time he is joined by the bubbly, creative Lindsay Stewart who talks about being Mrs. Claus and her brand new book!By Matt Spaulding

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Restorative Justice: Relationships First, Punishments Last 54:40

18d ago54:40

54:40

Greg, JP, and Kent chat with restorative-justice pro Nicholas Bradford about why relationships—not punishments—actually fix classrooms. From hallway tardies to high-stakes cheating, they show how slowing down, listening, and handing students real responsibility changes behavior—plus a hilarious “Plug and Jug” confession story and some friendly jabs…

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Trials for a Woman of Color 1:01:53

1M ago1:01:53

1:01:53

The International Teacher Podcast welcomes Nandini Shah—a self-described small-town girl from Gujarat who swapped arranged-marriage expectations for a globe-trotting teaching career. From Mumbai classrooms to snowy Russia, donkey-dotted Bulgaria, “the most boring city in Japan” (her words, not ours), and soon the Italian Riviera, Nandini shares her…

1
Kent Retires From International Teaching 55:29

2M ago55:29

55:29

ITP - 128 This episode of the International Teacher Podcast was basically Kent “the Cat Guy” announcing his dramatic repatriation from Saudi Arabia to Washington State, where he’s now semi-retired, semi-confused, and fully rebranded as the “Cats Guy” (plural, because kittens). Between tales of neighbors who don’t want to party, doctors who look lik…

1
Leadership and Onboarding - Dr. Liam Hammer in Zambia 45:17

2M ago45:17

45:17

ITP - 127 Dr. Liam Hammer, Head of School in Zambia, joins us live from an orientation dinner. Liam shares his fascinating journey from a teenage dream of teaching in remote Papua New Guinea to leadership roles across five countries. The conversation explores the essential role of onboarding in teacher retention, the reality of navigating cultural …

1
What Every Educator Should Know about Teaching in Kuwait! 1:05:14

2M ago1:05:14

1:05:14

ITP 126 - If you're even thinking about teaching in Kuwait, you need to listen to this episode. Seriously. Greg sits down with Terence Tong—an international educator with 24 years of experience—and they dive into what it’s really like making the move from Canada to teaching overseas in Kuwait, South Korea, and then back to Kuwait for a second exper…

1
Cycling Hams Across the Border 1:12:03

3M ago1:12:03

1:12:03

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.…

1
Teaching Without Borders: Noah Spaulding’s Global Journey 1:03:59

3M ago1:03:59

1:03:59

ITP - 124 Greg (currently in the Middle East) and Jacqueline (currently in Canada) talk once again with returning guest Noah Spaulding (currently in Pakistan) to reflect on his wide-ranging journey as an international educator. From Honduras to Qatar, China to Pakistan, Noah shares thoughtful stories about life and work overseas—what it's taught hi…

1
Leaving Soon for Our First Contract 1:13:06

4M ago1:13:06

1:13:06

ITP - 123 We are joined by Monique and Jimmy, two teachers who packed up their lives in the U.S. and are now gearing up for a big move to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Their story kicks off at a job fair—those hectic, slightly awkward events where life-changing decisions are made in 30-minute interviews and coffee-fueled conversations. They share the twist…

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Start Up Schools Around the World 50:39

4M ago50:39

50:39

ITP - 122 Your hosts welcome Greg Perry, co-founder and CEO of Global Services and Education Limited, to talk about his wild, winding journey in international education. Greg doesn’t just talk about opening schools—he’s lived it, from the ground up, across countries and cultures, figuring it out as he goes. We dive into the nitty-gritty: the challe…

1
Gap Trip Between Work and Retirement 47:20

5M ago47:20

47:20

ITP - 121 Before you go back to your home country and retire from International Education, treat yourself to a "gap" trip. This is the advice given to our guests Eric and Tamara Wood and the advice they are taking right now. Between March 2025 and August 2025, this wonderful couple is taking a whopping 6month trip - like a couple of 20something Eur…

1
Deep Dive into Coaching 55:23

5M ago55:23

55:23

ITP - 120 Kim Cofino shares her journey from a history and political science major to becoming a prominent figure in international education and instructional coaching. She discusses her experiences teaching in various countries, the evolution of her career, and the importance of coaching in fostering a positive learning environment. Kim also highl…

1
"Santa Spectacular, Bolivia!" With Italo Badani 1:26:49

6M ago1:26:49

1:26:49

This episode, Matt is joined by his first guest from Bolivia, Italo Badani!By Matt Spaulding

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Awesomenicity - A New Elementary Maths Tool 54:38

6M ago54:38

54:38

TP - 118 Co-hosts JP Mint and Kent the Cat Guy welcome three international teachers, Caitlin, Eloise, and Hannah, who share their unique experiences and insights into the world of teaching abroad. The conversation covers their personal backgrounds, how they met in Malawi, and their journey in creating a math resource platform aimed at making math e…

1
"Rise of the Guardians" With Gerry and Jeff 59:39

6M ago59:39

59:39

This episode, Matt welcomes Gerry from Totally Rad Christmas and Jeff from Lost Christmas to talk about the film "Rise of the Guardians".By Matt Spaulding

1
750 U.S. Dollars and a Crockpot 59:16

6M ago59:16

59:16

ITP 118 celebrates FOUR YEARS of our podcast. Happy Birthday International Teacher Podcast. We would like to introduce you all to Darian Batten, our newest co-host, replacing Matt the Family Guy. Darian, his wife, Alicia, and their three kids have been in Saudi for the past four years. Darian is the perfect family man host. You will laugh a lot due…

1
Teaching While Queer 48:14

6M ago48:14

48:14

ITP - 117 Bryan Stanton shares his journey from California to New York, discussing his experiences as a queer educator and the importance of inclusion in the classroom. He highlights the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ teachers and the need for allies to actively support their colleagues. Bryan also talks about his podcast, 'Teaching While Queer,' which…

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Don't Give Up, Candidates! 1:05:44

7M ago1:05:44

1:05:44

ITP - 116 Tamisha Chantel shares her extensive journey in education, spanning nearly three decades, and her transition to international teaching. From her beginnings in Cleveland, Ohio, to her experiences in Shanghai, China, Tamisha discusses the motivations behind her decision to teach abroad, the challenges she faced in the international job mark…

1
"Santa of Oxley" With Brendan Low 1:26:44

7M ago1:26:44

1:26:44

Matt welcomes back his good friend Brendan Low, who has been on his Santa journey the past few years and has talked about it before on the show. Now he's here to talk about a lot of the fun and exciting things he has done in the last couple of seasons!By Matt Spaulding

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The Six Figure Expat 1:00:11

7M ago1:00:11

1:00:11

ITP - 115 Sorcha Coyle (the tireless Admin and creator of the FB Group "New To International Schools Teachers") shares her journey from Ireland to becoming an international teacher. She discusses her experiences teaching in Qatar, her transition to London for further education, and her efforts to empower expat teachers through community building. S…

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"Santa Claus Suits & Equipment Company" With Chris Parada 49:38

8M ago49:38

49:38

On this episode, Matt welcomes back returning guest and recent Santa Claus Hall of Fame inductee Chris Parada to talk about his new company, Santa Claus Suits & Equipment Company, which is offering new versions of the classic, nostalgic Charles Howard suit from the original pattern!By Matt Spaulding

1
International Teacher Salaries 52:44

8M ago52:44

52:44

ITP - 113 What kind of money can you earn as an overseas teacher? Elliott Zelinskas has a unique tool for you! Elliot returns to our show and shares his journey in international education, discussing his experiences teaching abroad and the launch of his new website, International Teacher Salary. We explore the importance of networking, the challeng…

1
"Santa Takes You Places" With Lincoln Crum 53:42

8M ago53:42

53:42

On this episode, Matt welcomes his friend Lincoln Crum, who talks about the opportunities being Santa can open up in life as well as about his children's book.By Matt Spaulding

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EXPATations, REPATriation and CATriation? 54:59

8M ago54:59

54:59

ITP - 114 Amy Perrier-Morin shares her journey as an international teacher and cultural acclimation specialist. She discusses her experiences living abroad, the challenges of repatriation, and the importance of support systems for third culture adults. The conversation highlights the unique perspectives of those who have lived in multiple countries…

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Heart of a Teacher 57:28

9M ago57:28

57:28

ITP - 112 Dr. Kelly Ridings shares his extensive journey in international education, discussing his experiences in various countries, the importance of humor in teaching, and the dynamics of life in Shanghai. He emphasizes the significance of leadership in educational change and the heart of a teacher in fostering connections. Dr. Ridings also intr…

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Who Are Your Hosts? A Reintroduction and Review 56:55

9M ago56:55

56:55

ITP- 111 In this engaging episode, your three hosts revisit a shortened version of how they each got into International Education. Past episodes have focused on each one of us individually, but if you haven't heard those older episodes (like Episode 2 or 3 for Matt and Greg, respectively) then this is the episode for you. Did you know Kent has a pa…

1
Over 50's Educators Support from TIE 1:02:16

9M ago1:02:16

1:02:16

ITP - 110 focuses on the unique challenges and opportunities for teachers over 50 seeking international teaching positions. Hosted by Greg, JP Mint, and Kent, with guests Stacey Stephens and Lissa Layman from TIE Online, the discussion introduces TIE's new Over 50 Guide. This resource aims to support older educators by addressing age-related hiring…

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Russia, Singapore, Oman, Japan: The Global Stage of a International Choral Director 49:32

10M ago49:32

49:32

ITP - 109 From conducting children’s choirs in Moscow to immersing himself in Tokyo's vibrant arts scene, Jason's story inspires educators to pursue global careers and share their passions across borders.The Life of an International Choral Director! Welcome to a most engaging conversation with music educator Jason Drahos, who shared his incredible …

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The lifestyle is really, really exciting! 54:34

10M ago54:34

54:34

ITP - 108 Jess Gosling shares her experiences as an international teacher and mother, discussing the challenges and rewards of raising a child in different cultures. She emphasizes the importance of emotional education for children, the role of women in education, and the significance of community support through social media. Jess also provides in…

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International Teacher Podcast Trailer 5:43

11M ago5:43

5:43

Got Five Minutes? This is our elevator pitch! Every two weeks. A new 45-60 minute episode drops. Four veteran overseas Educators host this show to pass on the best kept secret in education: International Teaching. This is for teachers by teachers. We love to talk, discuss, learn, and laugh. We live and teach in schools overseas. It's what we do. Th…

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Cultural Faux Pas 55:45

11M ago55:45

55:45

ITP - 107 Join your hosts as they share a few stories about cultural mistakes. We go over some of the gestures from overseas that might surprise you. Naturally, the three of us agree, it is the intent behind a gesture that makes them offensive. Additional Gems Related to Our Show: Signup to be our guest https://calendly.com/itpexpat/itp-interview?m…

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Tony DePrato and his Famous Pancake on a Stick Newsletter 1:03:47

11M ago1:03:47

1:03:47

ITP - 106 In this episode, hosts Kent and JP Mint reconnect with Tony DePrato, an international educator and creator of the Pancake on a Stick newsletter. They discuss Tony's extensive international teaching experience, the launch of his salary survey aimed at helping educators negotiate better salaries, and the importance of salary transparency in…

1
Career Coaching Insights with Arlayna 53:37

11M ago53:37

53:37

ITP - 105 Kent and JP welcome Arlayna Alcock, an expert in career coaching and support for international students. Arlayna shares her journey from being an international student in Mexico City to her current role in Canada, where she helps newcomers navigate the complexities of education and career transitions. The conversation covers cultural adju…

1
"The Unofficial 'Elf' Cookbook" With Bryton Taylor 45:06

12M ago45:06

45:06

On this episode, Matt is happy to have on Bryton Taylor, who has crafted 75 recipes based on the Christmas classic, "Elf", and published them all in her new book "The Unofficial 'Elf' Cookbook".By Matt Spaulding

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"The Alamo City Santa" With Jeremy Phelps 57:10

12M ago57:10

57:10

It's been a bit since the last episode, but Matt is back with his buddy Jeremy Phelps, who, interestingly, became Santa by way of wrestling!By Matt Spaulding

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Having Pets Overseas? Pet Rescues, and Morocco 58:19

12M ago58:19

58:19

ITP-104 Giselle shares her journey from a design career to teaching in Morocco, emphasizing the importance of connecting with local communities. The conversation also delves into her passion for animal rescue, the challenges of caring for aging parents abroad, and the significance of building friendships with locals. Throughout the discussion, the …

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Journey of the Heart (featuring Tico Oms) 1:13:54

1y ago1:13:54

1:13:54

ITP - 103 In this conversation, Greg, JP, and Tico discuss Tico Oms' journey from engineering to teaching and leadership in international schools. Tico shares his experiences teaching in Japan, working for Dell in Asia, and his decision to pursue a career in education. They also touch on Tico's time in Berlin and his transition into leadership coac…

1
International Teacher Training? 48:50

1y ago48:50

48:50

ITP-102 Welcome Greg Larmouth, who works in the International Teacher Training team at the University of Sunderland. Explore the concept of the International Qualified Teacher Status (IQTS) and its benefits for teachers looking to work abroad. Learn about the British Schools Overseas (BSO) accreditation and the recognition of the IQTS in different …

1
"Christmas Story" With Robert Baker 1:18:27

1y ago1:18:27

1:18:27

This episode, Matt is joined by Robert Baker of the "Festive Foreign Film Fans" podcast to discuss the Finnish Santa origin film "Christmas Story". Not to be confused, of course, with "A Christmas Story".By Matt Spaulding

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Dr. Hayley Watson and How to Support Students in Developing Mental Health Skills 58:04

1y ago58:04

58:04

ITP-101 On this first Vodcast episode of the International Teacher Podcast, Dr. Hayley Watson, a clinical psychologist, discusses the importance of mental health education in schools and how to support students in developing mental health skills. She emphasizes the need for a whole-school approach, where mental health programs are implemented for a…

1
ITP - 100th Anniversary ! 1:09:12

1y ago1:09:12

1:09:12

Fresh off the summer break, Kent the Cat guy has some bad news and Greg the Single guy has international worlds colliding. Meanwhile, JP crosses the Canadian-US border for a quick meal at the famous "Dirty Gringo" in New York and a Diet Mt.Dew run. Your three hosts celebrate the ITP 100th episode by looking to the future and making a big announceme…

1
"The Legacy of 'The Santa Clause'" With Stuart Deacon Jr. 1:02:33

1y ago1:02:33

1:02:33

This episode, Matt is joined once again by his friend Stuart Deacon Jr. This time, they discuss the legacy of "The Santa Clause" and its impact on our art form!By Matt Spaulding

1
Kuwait is Awesome for Family Life! 52:49

1y ago52:49

52:49

ITP - 99 Hannah and Jake recorded this episode with us while they were at home in Iowa over summer break. They currently live and teach in Kuwait with plenty of stories to tell! Their message for teachers thinking about overseas: Do it! Even the scary, negative experiences make for great stories later in life. Join us for an exciting episode coveri…

1
Bonus Episode: "Reading From My Brand New Book!" 40:11

1y ago40:11

40:11

I published my Christmas book, "Santa In His Own Words" and I'm reading a few excerpts from it to grab your attention, then telling you where you can get it if you're interested!By Matt Spaulding

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McGregors in Saudi, China, Korea, Russia and more 1:04:00

1y ago1:04:00

1:04:00

ITP - 98 Cameron and Ana McGregor are seasoned international educators, podcast hosts, and webinar creators. They join us for a discussion about their journeys into international education and how they are giving back to our international teacher community. Ana is originally from the Dominican Republic. Cam is from Washington State. They talk about…

1
Funniest International Educator Recruiting Story EVER 1:15:52

1y ago1:15:52

1:15:52

ITP 97Jeff Lindstrom has been overseas on and off since the 1980's. His stories are amazing. His wisdom is priceless. Learn from his Wisdom.

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"Holiday Photo Magic" With Jessica Rosa 1:48:48

1y ago1:48:48

1:48:48

Matt is joined this episode by one of Santa's favorite photographers, Jessica Rosa! Hear her journey and learn about how you, too, can get magical photos for your Christmas performer business!By Matt Spaulding

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Brand New Int'l Teacher in August 2024 - China 51:19

1+ y ago51:19

51:19

ITP - 96 Sarah Potter is a mother of two, a 23 year veteran Aussie teacher and preparing to leave to teach in China. Listen to this interview as she is just two months out. She's already made her packing list and bought her tickets. Her paperwork is submitted. This is an incredible interview from an avid ITP listener. Our thoughts go along with Sar…

1
"Mrs. Claus Vintage" With Shawn White 1:02:45

1+ y ago1:02:45

1:02:45

This episode, Matt is happy to welcome Shawn White to talk about being a working solo Mrs. Claus.By Matt Spaulding

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Fart Jokes in Guadalajara 1:00:17

1+ y ago1:00:17

1:00:17

ITP - 95 Jenna Slack-Larimer is a seasoned middle school teacher originally from the Chicago area. She joins us now from Guadalajara, Mexico at the well established ASFG as a high school math teacher. But her international journey to Mexico started off at a Canadian International school as a grade 3 teacher! Fart jokes just aren't the same in eleme…