The Rookie Teachers Podcast

Created by the NIU College of Education’s Morgridge Endowed Chair Office in partnership with the NIU School of Music, “The Rookie Teachers” podcast follows the journey of two first-year teachers who are recent NIU alumni as they navigate the realities of beginning their careers in education. Through honest conversations, classroom experiences, practical teaching strategies and personal reflections, the podcast offers an authentic look at the challenges, growth and rewarding moments that define the first year in the classroom.

Designed to inspire, support and connect educators, the podcast creates a space where new teachers can hear others' stories, reflect on shared experiences and learn from one another.

Featured Teachers

“The Rookie Teachers” follows Huskie alumni Olivia Frieden and Kyrsten Tecuatl as they launch their educational careers.

Olivia Frieden

Olivia majored in Special Education (LBS-1). Upon graduating in May 2026, she was hired to teach life skills at an elementary school in Illinois. Olivia is passionate about supporting and advocating for students who have disabilities. In her time out of the classroom, Olivia enjoys theater, crafting, cooking and spending time with her family and pets. She is excited to begin her teaching career to help her students reach their full potential by providing the support, encouragement and individualized instruction they need to succeed.

Kyrsten Tecuatl

Kyrsten earned a degree in Special Education (LBS-1) with an English Language Learners (ELL) approval. Upon graduating in May 2026, she was hired to teach in a self-contained middle school special education classroom serving students in sixth through eighth grades. She is passionate about creating an inclusive classroom where all students are respected and encouraged to reach their full potential. Outside of the classroom, she enjoys baking, adventurous walks and spending time with family and friends. She is excited to begin her teaching career and make a positive impact on her students.

Ways to Listen

Spotify | YouTube | iHeartRadio