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THIS AIN'T ON THE TEST
New EPISODE every week
New episodes, new topics, new guests, and new tailgate questions premiere every week! Join us for fresh content that keeps you entertained and engaged.


Who All Gon Be There?
Creating a classroom where every student feels seen, heard, and valued is no small task. Beth and Brandyn challenge us to rethink what a culturally responsive classroom really means. It’s not just about recognizing a few cultures or identities; it’s about understanding the full range of experiences everyone brings to the space, including the teacher. When we honor all these voices, we build a learning environment that connects, teaches empathy, and mirrors the diverse society
Brandyn Poole
3 days ago3 min read


New Year, Best You!
Happy New Year from your favorite teacher besties! As we step into the second semester of this school year, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on how we want to move forward. Teaching is a demanding profession, and starting fresh with clear purpose, passion, and power can make all the difference. I’m excited to share some practical ideas and encouragement to help you head into these next months with renewed energy and focus. Setting Clear Goals for the Semester One of
Brandyn Poole
3 days ago3 min read
Holiday Heart
The holiday break is here, but rest doesn’t just happen on its own. For teachers, this time can feel like a whirlwind of catching up on sleep, managing stress, and then sliding back into school without a real reset. Brandyn and Beth explore how educators can use the holidays to truly recharge, find joy, and prepare for the demanding weeks ahead. This post breaks down what real rest looks like, how to cultivate genuine happiness, and how to get ready for the test-heavy stretch
Brandyn Poole
3 days ago3 min read


Episode 7: Parking Lot Pimpin'
Brandyn and Beth are back in the parking lot, answering the questions teachers really wanna ask — the ones you whisper to your work bestie before the bell rings. From classroom chaos to shaky mentorship to figuring out where your actual life fits around this job, we’re tackling it all with humor, honesty, and a whole lotta love for our educator fam. If you’ve ever needed a little encouragement, a little clarity, or just a “girl, SAME,” this one’s for you.
Brandyn Poole
Nov 16, 20251 min read


Episode 2: You Good, Teach?
This week’s episode dives into the importance of teacher wellness. Beth (mom) and Brandyn (daughter) are back with their special brand of humor and hard facts to help melanated educators become better equipped for the education field. We know that teaching is more than a job-it’s a calling! But in order to pour into students, teachers must first take care of themselves. From stress management to setting boundaries, we’re talking all things self-care and wellness for educators
Brandyn Poole
Nov 7, 20251 min read


Episode 3: Computer Love...?
First-year teaching is already wild, but doing it during the pandemic? That’s a whole other story. Tune in as we laugh through the Wi-Fi fails, side-eyes, and real talk about what it meant to hold it down for students online — glitches and all. Special Guest: Kathryn Black
Brandyn Poole
Nov 7, 20251 min read


Episode 4: But...Did You Die?
You ever been running on fumes, but still grading papers like your life depends on it? Same. This episode, we’re unpacking how teachers — especially Black educators — hold it down for everybody else while trying to keep our own minds right. Trigger warning: we talk grief and suicidal thoughts with care and honesty.
Brandyn Poole
Nov 7, 20251 min read


Episode 5: What's The Procedure?!?!
What if that “classroom management issue” isn’t about the kids at all — but about you? 👀 This week, Brandyn and Beth chop it up with Dr. Erica Benjamin Williams about the fine line between managing a classroom and managing your own triggers. We’re talking bias, cultural awareness, and what it really takes to build a space where students (and teachers) can actually breathe, learn, and thrive. Special Guest: Dr. Erica Benjamin Williams - author of We Are Tiny Scientists! Check
Brandyn Poole
Nov 7, 20251 min read


Episode 6: Sunday Scaries
You know that feeling when Sunday hits and your body’s at brunch but your brain’s already grading papers? 😩 Yeah… that’s the Sunday Scaries. In this episode, we talk about how to quiet that anxious Sunday energy with real, doable prep tips and wellness practices that don’t require a personality transplant. Because rest is revolutionary — even before Monday.
Brandyn Poole
Nov 7, 20251 min read


Ep. 1: Welcome Black to School
Mother-Daughter duo Beth and Brandyn welcome you to This Ain't on the Test. They explain why they started TAOTT, introduce themselves, share their background and experiences, and debut an exciting show format that'll keep you coming back week after week. Watch this show
TAOTT Staff
Sep 3, 20251 min read
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