Episodes

  • Nothing Wastes Teachers’ Time More Than This...
    Feb 2 2025
    If you’ve ever rolled your eyes at pointless paperwork, wished for fewer duties, or mastered the art of avoiding staff meeting Q&A sessions—this episode is for you. _________________________________ Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod Send us a voice message: https://bit.ly/3UPAT5a Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfP Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612 _________________________________ Teachers, we know your time is precious—so why do so many things in education seem designed to waste it? In this episode, we’re diving into the everyday tasks that make us question our sanity. From writing objectives on the board that no one reads, to responding to parent emails asking for information they already have, to the never-ending battle with jammed copy machines—we’re saying what every teacher is thinking. Join hosts Jess Smith , Leslie Robb and Jared Lamb as they vent, laugh, and keep it real about the time-sucking struggles of education. We tackle the absurdity of mandatory newsletters that parents ignore, school-wide announcements that no one understands, and the dreaded moment when you're asked to cover a class during your precious prep. And don’t even get us started on tracking student bathroom visits! Plus, we chatted about how teachers can reclaim some of their lost time, and Jared shared how he eliminated intercom announcements at his school (is he a genius or a rebel?). And of course, no Teachers Off Duty episode would be complete without some hilarious confessions—like which of us may or may not have walked away from a jammed copier without fixing it. (No judgment… okay, maybe a little.) Tune in, laugh with us, and remember: you’re not alone in the struggle! Follow your hosts: Leslie Robb @LeslieRobbComedy Jess Smith @TeacherTalesOfMissSmith Jared Lamb @Principal_Lamb _________________________________ Also, don’t miss the latest updates on the Board Teachers Comedy Tour! We’re hitting cities across the U.S. this spring. Follow the link for dates: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting: -London: February 7th -Glasgow: February 9th -Birmingham: February 11th -Manchester: February 12th Get ready for a hilarious time! _________________________________ Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by: Mint Mobile | Go to https://minthmobile.com/TOD for more information. Quip | Go to https://quip.com//TOD for 20% off your order. _________________________________ Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/ Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty _________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - A Bored Teachers©️ Podcast
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    51 mins
  • School Avengers: When Admin & Teachers Unite ⚡️
    Jan 26 2025

    Share laughs, and explore how teachers and administrators can work together to create thriving schools—don’t miss this insightful episode!

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    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com

    Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod

    Send us a voice message: https://bit.ly/3UPAT5a

    Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows:

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfP

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612

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    This week on Teachers Off Duty, we're tackling one of the most pressing and sometimes challenging dynamics in education: bridging the gap between teachers and administrators. Joined by Principal Lamb, Jess Smith and Leslie Robb, this lively conversation explores the complexities of school leadership and classroom realities, offering fresh perspectives and practical strategies to foster collaboration and mutual respect.

    We discuss everything from effective communication and building trust to navigating the fine line between support and micromanagement. Plus, hear inspiring anecdotes about what it takes to create a united front in schools, where teachers and administrators work together to empower students.

    Whether you're a teacher, an administrator, or someone who wants to better understand the dynamics of education, this episode is packed with humor, honesty, and actionable insights that will leave you inspired. Tune in and join the conversation as we aim to bridge the gap, one episode at a time!

    Tune in, share the laughs, and keep the conversation going.

    Follow your hosts:

    Leslie Robb @LeslieRobbComedy

    Jess Smith @TeacherTalesOfMissSmith

    Jared Lamb @Principal_Lamb

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    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour

    UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting:

    -London: February 7th

    -Glasgow: February 9th

    -Birmingham: February 11th

    -Manchester: February 12th

    Get ready for a hilarious time!

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    This episode is sponsored by:

    Apostrophe | Go to https://www.apostrophe.com/TOD to sign up and get your first visit for only $5.

    Orgains | Go to https://orgain.com//TOD for 30% off your order and use code: TOD

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    Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast

    Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty

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    Teachers Off Duty - A Bored Teachers©️ Podcast

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    57 mins
  • Teachers Spill the Tea on Classroom Controversies and Hot Takes
    Jan 19 2025

    Listen up and hear educators unapologetically dish out the hottest takes on the classroom chaos, viral trends, and everything they wish they could say in the faculty lounge.

    _________________________________

    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com

    Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod

    Send us a voice message: https://bit.ly/3UPAT5a

    Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows:

    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfP

    Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612

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    Get ready for a fiery episode of Teachers Off Duty! This week, Leslie, Jess, and Principal Lamb are bringing the heat with some of the spiciest hot takes in education. From the great debate on lesson plans and Chromebooks to whether schools should differentiate for teachers like they do for students, no topic is off-limits.

    Plus, we’re talking TikTok virality, relationships with students, and why “some kids are just jerks” might not be as simple as it sounds. But it’s not just laughs and classroom stories—this episode also takes a thoughtful turn, exploring the emotional toll of teaching and the importance of prioritizing self-care. The hosts open up about how they’ve navigated burnout, set boundaries, and found joy even in the most challenging seasons.

    With practical advice, heartfelt reflections, and a good dose of comedic relief, this episode is a reminder that teachers aren’t just shaping the next generation—they’re superheroes who deserve to feel empowered and supported in their own journeys.

    Whether you're a teacher or someone who loves one, this conversation will leave you inspired and smiling. You’ll laugh, nod along, and maybe even rethink a thing or two about how schools run.

    Oh, and don’t miss the Board Teachers Comedy Tour update – it’s officially a world tour! This episode is packed with relatable stories, hilarious insights, and a ton of heart.

    Tune in, share the laughs, and keep the conversation going.

    Follow your hosts:

    Leslie Robb @LeslieRobbComedy

    Jess Smith @TeacherTalesOfMissSmith

    Jared Lamb @Principal_Lamb

    Listen now and let us know your favorite hot take! 🎙🔥

    _________________________________

    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour

    🇬🇧 UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting:

    -London: February 7th

    -Glasgow: February 9th

    -Birmingham: February 11th

    -Manchester: February 12th

    Get ready for a hilarious time!

    _________________________________

    This episode is sponsored by:

    Hungry Root | Get 40% off your first purchase, plus FREE item of your choice FOR LIFE with code "TOD" at https://hungryroot.com/TOD

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    📲 Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast

    Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty

    _________________________________

    Teachers Off Duty - A Bored Teachers©️ Podcast

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    58 mins
  • Horrible Admin Stories With Principal Lamb!
    Jan 12 2025
    Get ready for an eye-opening episode of Teachers Off Duty with stories, laughs, and a rare admin perspective! _________________________________ Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod Send us a voice message: https://bit.ly/3UPAT5a Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfP Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612 _________________________________ Class is in session, but the teachers are off duty! In this special episode, we’re joined by three incredible hosts: the hilarious Jess Merrill, Leslie Robb and the inspiring Principal Jared Lamb. Together, we dive into the dynamic—and sometimes comical—relationship between teachers and admin. From horror stories that make you say “wait, what?!” to heartwarming strategies for bridging the teacher-admin gap, this episode is a must-listen for anyone in education. Principal Lamb shares his unconventional approach to leadership, why he’s traded his office for a rolling cart, and how his “teachers-first” mindset creates a positive school environment. Leslie Robb brings her signature humor to discuss relatable teacher struggles and why happy teachers make happy schools. Plus, we tackle everything from wild admin requests (handstands, anyone?) to the emotional challenges educators face daily. Whether you're a teacher, administrator, or just curious about life behind the scenes of education, this episode will leave you laughing, inspired, and ready to take on the classroom—or maybe just that next PTA meeting! Tune in, and don't forget to subscribe for more hilarious and heartfelt episodes of "Teachers Off Duty." _________________________________ Catch us live! Don’t miss the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour. Grab your tickets at BoredTeachers.com/comedy-tour. UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting: -London: February 7th -Glasgow: February 9th -Birmingham: February 11th -Manchester: February 12th Get ready for a hilarious time! _________________________________ Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by: Mint Mobile | Go to https://minthmobile.com/TOD for more information. Apostrophe | Go to https://www.apostrophe.com/TOD to sign up. Orgains | Go to https://orgain.com//TOD for 30% off your order. _________________________________ Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/ Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod _________________________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - a Bored Teachers podcast
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    51 mins
  • Teachers’ Mental Health: A Silent Crisis
    Jan 5 2025
    Teachers, let’s take care of ourselves first, even if it means we are no longer seen as “the perfect teacher” in the eyes of those working above us. Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod Send us a voice message: bit.ly/3UPAT5a Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfPApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612 _________________________________ Teaching is no easy feat, and the mental health challenges that come with it are very real. In this episode of Teachers Off Duty, Leslie, Jess, and Jonathan dive into the importance of therapy and self-care for educators. From sharing their own journeys with therapy to discussing practical tips for managing mental health in the classroom, they get real about the struggles teachers face daily—and how to overcome them. Join us as we explore how setting boundaries, practicing mindfulness, and learning to "own your no" can make a world of difference for teachers and their students. Whether it's taking a moment to breathe, finding a therapist who understands, or even making TikTok lessons that stick, this episode is packed with relatable stories, actionable advice, and plenty of laughs. Tune in for the real talk, the heartfelt moments, and some hilarious confessions about movies we might have pretended to watch. Don't forget to share your self-care tips in the comments—because taking care of yourself isn’t just okay, it’s essential. Catch the episode now—your mental health matters! _________________________________ Catch us live! Don’t miss the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour. Grab your tickets at BoredTeachers.com/comedy-tour. UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting: -London: February 7th -Glasgow: February 9th -Birmingham: February 11th -Manchester: February 12th Get ready for a hilarious time! _________________________________ Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by: Betterhelp | Go to https://betterhelp.com/TOD to get 10% off your first month. Mint Mobile | Go to https://minthmobile.com/TOD for more information. _________________________________ Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/ Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod _________________________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - a Bored Teachers podcast
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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Veteran vs. First-Year Teachers
    Dec 29 2024
    In this week's episode, the students truly have become the teachers. Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod _________________________________ This week on the Teachers Off Duty podcast, we dive into the lively (and often hilarious) dynamics between veteran and first-year teachers. Join Jess Smith, Jonathan Williams, and Leslie Robb as they share personal stories, listener experiences, and tips for navigating the classroom at any stage in your career. From first-year fears to veteran wisdom (and the occasional retiree shenanigans), we cover it all with heart and humor. Plus, we’re talking about setting boundaries, dealing with unsolicited advice, and learning to embrace your unique teaching style. Don’t miss our audience call-ins with real stories from the classroom and, of course, our signature laughs along the way. Also, find out how you can join us on the Board Teachers Comedy Tour in 2025—tickets are selling fast! Listen, laugh, and leave with a little extra encouragement to tackle your week. Tune in, reflect, and don’t forget—give yourself grace, teachers. You’re doing amazing work! 💛 Catch us live! Don’t miss the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour. Grab your tickets at BoardTeachers.com/comedy-tour. _________________________________ Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour US Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the US in February, hitting: JANUARY 16TH - OCEAN CITY,MD JANUARY 17TH - VIRGINIA BEACH, VA JANUARY 18TH - DURHAM, NC JANUARY 19TH - CHARLESTONE, SC JANUARY 23RD - MONTEREY, CA JANUARY 24TH - DAVIS, CA JANUARY 25TH - STOCKTON, CA JANUARY 26TH - REDDING, CA JANUARY 30TH - CHARLESTONE, SC JANUARY 31ST - CHESTERFIELD, MO FEBRUARY 1ST - EFFINGHAM, IL UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting: -London: February 7th -Glasgow: February 9th -Birmingham: February 11th -Manchester: February 12th Get ready for a hilarious time! _________________________________ Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/ Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by: Dinnerly | For up to 27 free meals, head to https://dinnerly.com/offer/tod and use code “TOD”. _________________________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - a Bored Teachers podcast
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    1 hr and 4 mins
  • Heartbreaking Student Stories From Outside the Classroom
    Dec 22 2024
    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty Listen to the podcast anywhere you stream your favorite shows: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/69pLuB4cKPCP8UG3eCImfP Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/teachers-off-duty/id1602160612 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod _________________________________ In this heartfelt episode of Teachers Off Duty, Leslie, Jonathan, and Jess peel back the layers on the unspoken struggles our students face daily. From navigating personal trauma to balancing adult responsibilities as teenagers, the hosts share powerful stories that highlight the resilience of students and the importance of empathy in education. Discover how simple gestures—like listening intently or sharing a connection over a favorite TV show—can transform relationships with students and make the classroom a safe haven. The hosts also dive into balancing compassion with professional boundaries and emphasize that teachers can't carry it all but can still make an impact. Expect laughs, tears, and honest conversations as they explore topics like student homelessness, navigating grief, undocumented students' challenges, and the ever-present pressure of social media. Whether you're a teacher or just someone who cares about the next generation, this episode is a reminder of the power of kindness and being present. Takeaways: Empathy and connection can make all the difference.The importance of meeting students where they are, not just academically but emotionally.Why understanding students' silent struggles matters for creating a supportive learning environment. Tune in, reflect, and don’t forget—give yourself grace, teachers. You’re doing amazing work! 💛 Listen now and find out how you can help create a classroom where students feel seen, heard, and valued. Catch us live! Don’t miss the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour. Grab your tickets at BoardTeachers.com/comedy-tour. _________________________________ US Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the US in February, hitting: JANUARY 16TH - OCEAN CITY,MD JANUARY 17TH - VIRGINIA BEACH, VA JANUARY 18TH - DURHAM, NC JANUARY 19TH - CHARLESTONE, SC JANUARY 23RD - MONTEREY, CA JANUARY 24TH - DAVIS, CA JANUARY 25TH - STOCKTON, CA JANUARY 26TH - REDDING, CA JANUARY 30TH - CHARLESTONE, SC JANUARY 31ST - CHESTERFIELD, MO FEBRUARY 1ST - EFFINGHAM, IL UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting: -London: February 7th -Glasgow: February 9th -Birmingham: February 11th -Manchester: February 12th Get ready for a hilarious time! _________________________________ Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by: MasterClass | MasterClass always has great offers during the holidays, sometimes up to as much as 50% off. Head over to https://masterclass.com/teachers for the current offer. _________________________________________________ Teachers Off Duty - a Bored Teachers podcast Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast
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    1 hr and 11 mins
  • If Teachers Ran a School
    Dec 15 2024

    In this week's episode, the students truly have become the teachers.

    TOD Live episodes at the Saved By the Beach Bored Teachers Comedy Fest 2025: https://www.savedbythebeachfest.com

    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://bit.ly/TODBTCT

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com

    Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod

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    On this week’s episode of Teachers Off Duty, we're diving into an exciting (and hilarious) thought experiment: What if teachers ran a school? From more recess and PTO to ditching outdated dress codes and creating better prep time, we're dreaming up a school built by teachers for teachers—and students too, of course! Plus, we hear your thoughts, featuring calls from our amazing listeners.

    They kick things off by sharing their top priorities:

    -More Recess and Playtime: Jonathan champions the idea of more recess, not just for the kids but for teachers too. They explore how additional playtime can improve student behavior and enhance learning by providing necessary breaks throughout the day.

    -Flexible PTO and Better Work-Life Balance: Leslie brings up the need for a realistic PTO system that acknowledges teachers' needs for personal days without the bureaucratic hassle. They discuss how this change could positively impact teachers' mental health and overall job satisfaction.

    -Control Over Classroom Environment: Jess emphasizes the struggle of teaching in classrooms without proper air conditioning or heating. They all agree that something as simple as controlling the thermostat could make a significant difference in both teaching and learning experiences.

    The conversation then shifts to dress codes, where they tackle the often sexist and outdated policies that disproportionately affect female students. Sharing personal anecdotes, they highlight the need for dress codes that are fair, inclusive, and reflective of real-world standards.

    Standardized testing comes under scrutiny as well. The hosts discuss how these tests fail to accommodate different learning styles and don't accurately measure student growth or teacher effectiveness. They brainstorm alternative methods of assessment that could be more beneficial for students' long-term success.

    Listeners also contribute their ideas through call-ins, suggesting:

    -Rearranging classrooms so teachers can be next to their best friends.

    -Revamping the school schedule to include more play and socializing after lunch.

    -Eliminating biased dress codes to create a more comfortable environment for all students.

    This episode is packed with laughter, insightful discussions, and a shared vision of a better educational system designed with teachers' insights at the forefront.

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    Grab your tickets for the Bored Teachers Comedy Tour here: https://www.boredteachers.com/comedy-tour

    🇬🇧 UK Comedy Tour: We're bringing the laughs to the UK in February, hitting:

    -London: February 7th

    -Glasgow: February 9th

    -Birmingham: February 11th

    -Manchester: February 12th

    Get ready for a hilarious time!

    Australia, We Need You: We're eager to bring the comedy tour Down Under! If you're in Australia, help us out by letting us know where you'd like to see us.

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    Follow us on all platforms @TeachersOffDutyPodcast, and grab your Saved by the Beach tickets at SavedByTheBeachFest.com.

    Get Teachers Off Duty Premium to access EXCLUSIVE content at: https://teachersoffduty.supercast.com/

    Check out our MERCH! https://shop.boredteachers.com/collections/teachers-off-duty

    Subscribe to our newsletter: https://www.beacons.ai/teachersoffdutypod

    Teachers get your perks!! This episode is brought to you by:

    Betterhelp | Go to https://betterhelp.com/TOD to get 10% off your first month.

    Manscaped | Get 20% off, plus free shipping with the code "OFFDUTY"

    at https://manscaped.com

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    Teachers Off Duty - a Bored Teachers podcast

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    1 hr and 15 mins