About this episode
Mandy, the 2018 National Teacher of the Year, discusses education, relationships, and living authentically in a vulnerable conversation with host Madeline Sells.
You might know Mandy as the 2018 National Teacher of the Year — the educator who made headlines for bringing 45 letters from her immigrant and refugee students to President Trump at the White House. There was controversy around that moment, including claims she didn’t shake his hand, but her focus was always on amplifying her students’ voices and standing in her truth. (Ps she did shake his hand) Mandy and I originally met while training for the Washington Education Association, and both becoming culturally responsive classroom management trainers. Since then, she’s continued to be a light in spaces where so much is often hidden. In this episode we talk about: - Education, belonging, and relationships - Toxic positivity vs. genuine joy - Why some people resist hearing about real happiness - Leaving a good relationship - Falling in love -Coming out -And what it means to live honestly, even when it’s uncomfortable It was an amazing, honest, vulnerable conversation and I’m so grateful for the time with Mandy. Go give it a listen.
People in this episode
Host: Madeline Sells
Guest: Mandy
Topics covered
- Education
- Belonging
- Relationships
- Toxic positivity
- Living honestly
Keywords
- Mandy
- National Teacher of the Year
- education
- relationships
- toxic positivity
- living honestly
- immigrant students
- refugee students
- genuine joy
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: Washington Education Association
More episodes of Casual Disasters
- Roast House Episode · April 29, 2026 · 1h 21m
- Darya and Rosie · March 19, 2026 · 54 min
- Connorsversations Episode · November 14, 2025 · 1h 13m
- The Beth Episode · October 31, 2025 · 1h 23m
- Adam Episode · October 24, 2025 · 1h 10m
- Paul Dillon Episode · October 13, 2025 · 47 min
Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Casual Disasters podcast page.