138. The Brain Science Behind Student Engagement

Ever wondered why some teaching strategies just seem to click… while others fall flat?

In this episode, we’re joined by Lisa Riegel, who brings a fresh and fascinating perspective on how the brain really learns, and how we can use that knowledge to become more intentional, effective, and empowered educators.

This conversation is packed with those “aha” moments that help you connect what you’re already doing in the classroom with the science behind it. From understanding how repetition, emotion, and experience shape learning, to exploring what truly drives student engagement, Lisa helps us see teaching through a whole new lens.

We also dive into the importance of creating safe, connected classroom environments where students are ready to learn, and why a stressed brain simply can’t engage. Lisa shares practical, easy-to-implement strategies that support both student learning and teacher wellbeing, helping you work smarter, not harder.

This is one of those episodes that will deepen your understanding, spark your curiosity, and leave you feeling inspired to reflect on your own practice.

Key Takeaways

• The brain learns best through repetition, emotion, and meaningful experiences
• Engagement goes beyond being “on-task” it’s about connection, purpose, and understanding
• Intrinsic motivation is key to long-term learning and student ownership
• Creating a sense of safety and belonging is essential for effective learning
• Practical, brain-aligned strategies can support focus, regulation, and productivity in the classroom
• Lisa’s 8C framework offers a powerful approach to building thriving, human-centred learning environments
• When we understand how the brain works, we can make small, intentional changes that have a big impact

If this episode sparked your curiosity, we’d love to hear from you! Send us a DM, share your biggest takeaway, or let us know what questions you still have about our big beautiful brains - we’re all learning and growing together.

You can also connect with Lisa using the links in the show notes to learn more about her work and how she supports educators and leaders around the world.

Rainbows ahead,

Alisha and Ashleigh

Resources mentioned in this episode: 

Learn more about Lisa here

Connect with Lisa via email here: lisariegel@epinstitute.net 

Connect with Lisa on LinkedIn

Lisa’s books: Neurowell and Aspirations to Operations

60 Brain Break Ideas you can use in class today!

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About Today’s Guest

Lisa Riegel started her career in education, driven by one goal: to help people reach their potential. Over time, she realized that fulfillment, whether in a classroom, company, or community, comes from understanding how the brain drives behavior and how systems shape success.

That discovery became the foundation for her life’s work. As an educator, researcher, and author, she has spent two decades helping schools, leaders, parents, and organizations align brain science with human systems - creating cultures where people feel connected, capable, and in control of their growth.

Dr. Riegel earned dual bachelor's degrees in English and Secondary Education from Kent State University. She holds a master's degree in curriculum and instruction from Otterbein University and a Ph.D. in Education Policy and Leadership from The Ohio State University. Her work has appeared in peer-reviewed journals and she has authored five books, including her two latest books, NeuroWell, and Aspirations to Operations, focused on brain science and how we can leverage it to help people become happier, healthier, and more successful.