375: The Power of Presence with Julianna Burmesch

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What happens when a child grows up feeling unseen? In this heartfelt episode, our guest shares her personal story of navigating childhood without feeling noticed and how those experiences shaped her confidence, relationships, and perspective on education. Through vulnerability and reflection, she explains why being truly present for children can change the trajectory of their lives.

This conversation is a powerful reminder for educators that while lesson plans are important, students often remember the adults who made them feel valued. Every greeting, encouraging word, and intentional interaction has the potential to make a lasting difference.

Quotables

**All quotes are from the interviewee**

  • “No matter what their [students] mistake is,they are welcome back and they are forgiven for whatever they have done.”
  • “We need to honor the dignity of students with every interaction that we make.”
  • “Every child deserves to be treated with unconditional positive regard.”

About Julianna Burmesch

Julianna Burmesch is a former school principal, speech pathologist, early brain development trainer, parent educator, and child advocate. In writing her memoir, “Life with Less of Me” (Books Fluent, June 23, 2026), she wants to help people understand the effects of adverse childhood experiences and unresolved trauma on one’s long-term physical and mental health. Julianna is a mother, grandmother, potter, and occasional jewelry artist. She lives in Wisconsin with her husband, John, and her beautiful dogs, Bella and Ruby.

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Gretchen’s latest book, Always a Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success, is now available on Amazon.

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About the author, Gretchen

I am a teacher trainer and coach. Working elbow to elbow with teachers and teacher leaders to ensure instructional proficiency and student achievement soar lights me up. We have a real need in our nation for strong educators to remain in the field. My blog, book, podcast, courses and instructional materials are geared towards empowering teachers (and those that lead them) to receive the support needed to grow and thrive today, tomorrow and always.

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