044: Empathy in Math Teaching: Understanding Our Students with Jennifer Lempp | September 17, 2025

In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Lempp—math coach, author, and advocate for empowering students through the Math Workshop model. Jennifer opens up about her own struggles with math, and how those early experiences shaped her passion for helping every student see themselves as a math person.
We talk about what it really takes to create a classroom where students feel safe, seen, and supported. From slowing down instruction to allow deeper thinking, to prioritizing empathy in daily interactions, Jennifer shares powerful strategies that are both practical and transformative.

If you’re looking for ways to shift math class from performance to possibility—this one’s for you.

🔑 Key Takeaways:
Jennifer Lempp’s personal journey from math anxiety to math leadership
How the Math Workshop model transforms teaching and learning
Why “Go slow to go fast” is essential advice for math educators
The power of empathy in building student confidence
Strategies to engage students in meaningful, reflective math experiences
Professional development as a tool for transformation
The value of teacher reflection and small, intentional shifts
Creating classrooms where everyone feels like a math person

🔊 Sound Bites:

“Go slow to go fast.”
“Math Workshop transforms learning.”
“Supportive environments change everything.”
“Empathy is key in teaching.”
“Overcome math anxiety—together.”
“Reflection leads to growth.”
“Professional development is crucial.”
“Create student-centered classrooms.”

📖 Purchase Jennifer’s Book: [Math Workshop] (insert link)
🌐 jenniferlempp.com
📸 Instagram: @jennifer_lempp
💼 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jennifer-lempp-ed-d-10603274