Hey there! I’m Jenny. I’m an educational advocate, teacher, speaker, a mom, a food enthusiast… and perpetual seeker of joy!

I love down home soul nourishing food, good coffee, and good books. Welcome to Heart Soul Joy, where I write about finding joy in everything I do – finding the joy in teaching, traveling, cooking, organizing, and so much more! I am here to help you find ways to bring more joy into your life!

About Jenny &
Heart Soul Joy

I was married for 13 very rocky years. After a long divorce, I found myself struggling more than ever. It took a while to realize that I was struggling to find my joy because I didn’t know who I was anymore. Over time, I started to find myself. That’s where Heart Soul Joy came from – the realization that I had always had it within me to live a joy filled life. I started not just nourishing my soul but my body. I started working out again and eating right. And most importantly… I started doing what brought me joy!! Writing! Cooking! Organizing! Traveling! Spending time with my family! Creating!

Teaching with Heart. Nourishing the Soul. Finding Joy Every Day.

You can also find me here:

When I’m not teaching, you can find me doing anything from working out, creating upcoming podcast episodes, writing, cooking, gardening, and just generally enjoying the heck out of this crazy blessed life that I am grateful to call my own!

Goals for 2025

The Heart Soul Joy Cookbook

Coming 2025… The Heart Soul Joy Cookbook! All of my favorite family recipes and the perfect collection of down home cooking to bring your soul joy with each and every bite!
Working on perfecting this now… stay tuned!

Bringing the Heart Soul Joy Podcast back!

Three years ago, I launched the Heart Soul Joy podcast as a space to uplift and inspire educators who, like me, were navigating the immense challenges of teaching during the pandemic. In a profession marked by long hours, little gratitude, and often unfair circumstances, it became clear how vital it is to hold onto moments of joy—both in and out of the classroom. Through platforms like TikTok, I’ve connected with incredible educators who reminded me of the power of shared stories and community. Now, I’m ready to bring the podcast back, reigniting conversations that offer encouragement, spark creativity, and remind us all why we chose this path in the first place.

CNN Interview — Click the image above to watch my interview on CNN’s New Day with John Berman.

Click the image above to watch my interview with Tamron Hall during the pandemic.

Continue to speak out for marginalized groups!

During the pandemic, my voice unexpectedly found a larger platform—first through viral social media posts, then at school board meetings, and eventually on CNN, where I spoke candidly about the realities teachers and students were facing. With increased visibility came both support and backlash—accusations of indoctrination, threats, and relentless criticism. Watch my interview on CNN HERE.

Yet, through the chaos of COVID, book bans, and rising political tension, I held firm in my commitment to truth and advocacy. Today, that commitment remains stronger than ever. I am determined to continue speaking out for educators, marginalized students, and all those whose voices are too often silenced. With this platform, I aim to amplify stories, challenge injustice, and advocate for a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Watch my interview with Tamron Hall here.