From the classroom to the digital stage, one New Jersey educator has turned a passion for teaching into a platform that now reaches over one million young viewers worldwide. Certified health and physical education teacher Dave Joisil, affectionately known to kids as Mr. J, is the creator behind the hit YouTube channel Hey! It’s Mr. J!—a colorful, high-energy hub where music, movement, and positivity come together to help children build confidence and live their best lives.
From Teacher to Digital Mentor
Dave Joisil’s journey began in the schools of New Jersey, where he taught physical education and health, instilling life lessons that went far beyond the gym. He quickly discovered that music—especially hip-hop—was one of the most powerful ways to connect with kids. By blending upbeat rhythms with uplifting messages, he created an environment where children felt both supported and inspired.
When the pandemic disrupted classrooms and isolated students, Joisil pivoted, launching Hey! It’s Mr. J! as a way to continue reaching children. What started as a passion project has since become a global community of over a million subscribers, proving that his unique blend of education and entertainment resonates far beyond state lines.
The Channel: Hip-Hop Meets Life Lessons
What makes Hey! It’s Mr. J! stand out is its ability to combine the energy of hip-hop with the principles of personal development. Each video delivers not only catchy beats and dance-worthy fun but also valuable lessons kids can carry into their daily lives.
Highlights include:
- Confidence Boosters: Songs and skits designed to remind kids they are capable, unique, and powerful.
- Wellness Messages: Fun, accessible ways to talk about topics like health, kindness, and positive habits.
- Engaging Learning: Content that encourages movement, rhythm, and creativity—keeping kids active while they learn.
- Inclusive Storytelling: Videos that reflect diversity and make every child feel represented and valued.
Through music and relatable storytelling, Mr. J helps kids see themselves as achievers, dreamers, and leaders in the making.
Why Kids (and Parents) Love It
Parents often praise the channel for being both educational and entertaining, striking the rare balance of keeping kids engaged while reinforcing positive values. Unlike much of the noisy digital content targeted at children, Hey! It’s Mr. J! focuses on substance, encouragement, and joy.
For kids, the draw is simple—hip-hop beats, fun characters, and an enthusiastic mentor who speaks their language. For parents, it’s a safe space that complements classroom learning and builds resilience at home.
New Jersey Roots, Global Reach
While the channel has become a worldwide sensation, its roots remain firmly in New Jersey. Joisil’s story is a reminder of the creative talent thriving in the Garden State, where educators, artists, and innovators are finding new ways to connect with global audiences.
The rise of Hey! It’s Mr. J! also highlights New Jersey’s growing role in the digital entertainment and media space, where homegrown talent is building platforms that rival traditional TV and streaming outlets. To explore more stories from New Jersey’s dynamic film, TV, and digital media scene, check out our Film & TV section.
From his early days as a teacher to his role as a YouTube creator with more than a million subscribers, Mr. J’s mission has stayed the same: helping kids live healthier, happier, and more confident lives. By merging the universal language of hip-hop with the timeless lessons of education, Dave Joisil has created something both fun and deeply impactful.
For children tuning in across New Jersey and around the world, Hey! It’s Mr. J! is more than a channel—it’s a movement that shows kids that learning, growth, and self-belief can be as exciting as the music that drives them.
