Episodios

  • Mark Crotty

    Mark Crotty
    Mar 14 2025
    SUMMARY In this profoundly insightful episode, hosts Chris Phelps and Michelle Kinder introduce a deeply engaging interview with guest Mark Crotty, a renowned deep thinker in the field of education. They explore the multifaceted world of education, discussing the critical role of community and the necessity of resilience amidst current challenges. The conversation highlights how educators can discover their purpose, the profound impact of stress on teachers, and the importance of deep listening and connection. The discussion underscores the urgent need for change in educational frameworks and the redefinition of success to better serve students and communities. It examines the evolving landscape of education, emphasizing values-driven leadership, the role of hope and opportunity, and the essential nature of community and connection in fostering resilience. Mark Crotty shares his deep insights on the pivotal role of educators in shaping students' purpose and the significance of incremental changes in teaching methods. He addresses the risks associated with inaction and the importance of understanding one's values to navigate challenges effectively. Using the metaphor of the cup and saucer, Michelle illustrates the need for co-regulation in personal and professional relationships, highlighting the importance of community support in education. TAKEAWAYS The better you know who you are, the higher your tolerance for risk.Community is essential for educators to feel supported and understood.Education should focus on shaping individuals, not just academics.People are experiencing significant stress and burnout in education.Deep listening can create a sense of safety and connection.Community care is more important than self-care in times of crisis.Redefining success in education is crucial for meaningful change.Education must evolve to meet the demands of the current climate.Imagining a new educational framework can inspire change.The inner work of educators is vital for creating a positive impact. Incremental changes in teaching can lead to significant impacts.Thought experiments in education help maintain hope and readiness for opportunities.Values-driven leadership is essential for making tough decisions.Understanding one's values increases resilience and risk tolerance.There is a cost to inaction in the face of challenges.Education should focus on helping students find their purpose.Community and connection are vital for educators' well-being.The internal conflict of inaction can be more damaging than external risks.Empowering students to make choices fosters responsibility and growth.Deep listening and co-regulation are crucial for personal and professional support. CHAPTERS 00:00Grounding in Values and Resilience 06:07Finding Purpose in Education 11:49Deep Listening and Connection 18:00Redefining Educational Success 23:59The Future of Education 29:57Imagining a New Educational Framework 37:16The Power of Incremental Change 38:13Hope and Opportunity in Education 39:29Values-Driven Leadership 40:52Risk and Resilience in Decision Making 43:30Understanding Your Values 44:42The Cost of Inaction 45:18The Role of Educators in Shaping Purpose 46:47The Educators Collaborative: A New Chapter 48:35Messages for Future Generations 49:42Community and Connection 50:37The Importance of Purpose in Education 52:12Evolving Education for Meaning and Purpose 54:30The Collective Responsibility of Educators 56:01Shifting Perspectives on Us vs. Them 58:31Empowering Students Through Choice 01:00:45Navigating Life with Values 01:02:12The Role of Community in Resilience 01:04:21The Internal vs. External Risks of Inaction 01:06:35Unapologetic Alignment with Values 01:08:42The Importance of Deep Listening 01:10:19The Cup and Saucer Metaphor 01:12:07The Lifelong Need for Co-Regulation 01:15:10The Impact of Community on Well-Being *Oxygen for Educators is produced by Business Hippie Productions and proudly sponsored by Tacky Box. Follow on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/oxygen-for-educators/id1775510846 Follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2i21QueuqVqmEPmI7gzFfQ?si=1bef3354bff2402c Follow on Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Oxygen-for-Educators/B0DKL68DLX?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEdbuPy-L7p4RZKZ_VWKCXwK_j8vbjZF2&si=7SHeSWZRllrseygs Website: https://www.tackybox.com/podcast Thank you to our sponsor, Tacky Box! Website: https://tackybox.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacky_box/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTackyBox/ X: https://x.com/thetackybox Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thetackybox/
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    1 h y 19 m
  • BONUS: Tacky Box Time for Adults

    BONUS: Tacky Box Time for Adults
    Feb 24 2025

    This is a reflection exercise from Ripplemaker Project, led by Michelle Kinder, inspired by Tacky Box Time. It guides participants through a structured self-awareness practice:

    1. Reflection on Heavy Moments – Participants consider anything they did, said, or witnessed in the past few days that felt uneasy or could have gone differently.
    2. Acknowledging Positive Moments – They then shift focus to acts of kindness, courage, or positive behavior they want to see more of, reflecting on how these moments felt.
    3. Encouraging Connection – Recognizing the human need for relationships, they are encouraged to identify someone they trust to talk through any lingering thoughts.

    The exercise promotes mindful reflection, self-regulation, and emotional awareness, much like Tacky Box Time does for children, but adapted for adults.

    A special thank you to Gary Lynn Floyd for composing the beautiful music for this podcast bonus episode.

    https://tackybox.com/

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    5 m
  • Telisa Brown

    Telisa Brown
    Feb 21 2025

    In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps engage in a heartfelt conversation with Talisa Brown, an educator and leader in Arlington ISD. Talisa shares her journey from classroom teacher to leadership, highlighting the importance of kindness, mental health, and support for both students and educators.

    The discussion explores the innovative Care Clinic designed to address mental health needs, the evolving role of counselors, and the lasting impact of COVID-19 on education. Talisa's insights reflect a deep commitment to creating a supportive environment in schools, emphasizing the power of hope, advocacy for children, and kindness in leadership.

    Together, they discuss the importance of silence and personal time for mental well-being, daily rituals that promote health, and the role of family and community engagement. Talisa also shares her thoughts on the therapeutic effects of music, innovative approaches in education, and the need to highlight the positive work happening in schools today.

    Takeaways

    Kindness is expressed through body language and tone.
    Transitioning from teaching to leadership requires a shift in perspective.
    The need for mental health support has increased in schools.
    The Care Clinic was created to support mental health needs.
    It's important to advocate for students and families.
    Educators are often misunderstood in their impact on students.
    Mental health resources are essential for both students and staff.
    A legacy of kindness can influence future generations. Time alone in silence is crucial for mental reset.
    Daily rituals like exercise can be therapeutic.
    Family engagement is vital for children's success.
    Advocating for children's needs is a priority.
    Leading with purpose and kindness is essential.
    Music can serve as therapy for emotional well-being.
    Kindness should be a core value in education.
    Innovative solutions are needed in mental health access.
    Community support enhances children's development.
    Visibility of positive educational practices is important.

    Chapters

    00:00 The Power of Kindness in Education
    01:40 Introducing Talisa Brown: A Journey in Education
    03:38 Transitioning from Teacher to Leader
    06:33 Understanding the Needs of Counselors
    08:25 The Impact of COVID-19 on Counseling
    10:22 Supporting Counselors for Student Success
    11:41 The Legacy of Kindness
    15:15 Innovating Mental Health Support: The Care Clinic
    21:00 Changing Narratives in Education
    24:13 The Importance of Mental Health Awareness
    28:42 The Power of Silence
    30:37 Daily Rituals for Well-Being
    32:46 Family and Community Engagement
    34:24 Hope and Advocacy for Children
    36:20 Leading with Purpose and Kindness
    39:33 The Impact of Music on Well-Being
    43:51 Innovative Approaches in Education

    *Oxygen for Educators is produced by Business Hippie Productions and proudly sponsored by Tacky Box.

    Follow on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/oxygen-for-educators/id1775510846

    Follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2i21QueuqVqmEPmI7gzFfQ?si=1bef3354bff2402c

    Follow on Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Oxygen-for-Educators/B0DKL68DLX?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

    Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEdbuPy-L7p4RZKZ_VWKCXwK_j8vbjZF2&si=7SHeSWZRllrseygs

    Website: https://www.tackybox.com/podcast

    Thank you to our sponsor, Tacky Box! Website: https://tackybox.com/

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacky_box/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTackyBox/

    X: https://x.com/thetackybox

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    58 m
  • Kem Edwards, M.S., LPC-S

    Kem Edwards, M.S., LPC-S
    Jan 31 2025
    Summary In this conversation, Michelle Kinder and Kem Edwards delve into the challenges educators face, highlighting the importance of mental health and relationships. They address the toll of leadership, the necessity of self-care, and the value of being trauma-informed. Kem shares her educational journey, emphasizing authenticity and connection in the classroom while acknowledging the collective trauma impacting both educators and students. The discussion offers practical strategies for creating supportive school environments and recognizing the struggles of all involved. Hosts Michele Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps explore the profound effects of love, kindness, and humor in personal and professional relationships, discussing daily rituals that enhance well-being and the significance of shared experiences. They underscore the collective trauma of recent years and the need to regulate our nervous systems to cultivate compassion and connection within our communities. Takeaways Love and kindness are essential for transformation.Educators are feeling overwhelmed and under-resourced.Building relationships is key to addressing mental health.Burnout is a significant issue in education.Acknowledging collective trauma is crucial for healing.Self-care is not a luxury; it's a necessity.Authenticity in leadership fosters better connections.Trauma-informed practices can enhance educational environments.Safe relationships lead to better learning outcomes.Educators must prioritize their well-being to support students. Love and kindness are essential in addressing global issues.Daily rituals can significantly enhance personal well-being.Shared experiences, like reading together, strengthen relationships.Humor plays a vital role in connecting with others.Self-care is crucial for educators to support their students effectively.Acknowledgment of trauma is necessary for healing.Understanding one's nervous system is key to emotional regulation.Collective trauma impacts our communities and relationships.Creating a culture of compassion starts with individual regulation.Empathy and creativity thrive in a safe and connected state. Chapters 00:00The Power of Love and Kindness 03:38Kem Edwards: A Journey Through Education 04:33Navigating Mental Health in Education 07:53The Importance of Relationships 10:20Overcoming Burnout in Education 15:05Acknowledging Collective Trauma 19:58The Toll of Leadership 22:56Finding Balance in Education 24:41Authenticity and Congruence 28:44The Case for Self-Care 36:28Understanding Trauma-Informed Practices 40:23Building Safe Relationships in Education 47:56The Importance of Humor and Connection 48:52Daily Rituals for Well-Being 51:46The Power of Shared Experiences 53:39Love as a Transformative Force 56:53The Role of Kindness in Education 01:01:43Navigating Personal and Professional Relationships 01:05:59Understanding Trauma and Its Impact 01:10:38The Collective Experience of Trauma 01:14:11Regulating Our Nervous Systems 01:30:34Creating a Culture of Compassion *Oxygen for Educators is produced by Business Hippie Productions and proudly sponsored by Tacky Box. Follow on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/oxygen-for-educators/id1775510846 Follow on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2i21QueuqVqmEPmI7gzFfQ?si=1bef3354bff2402c Follow on Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Oxygen-for-Educators/B0DKL68DLX?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PLEdbuPy-L7p4RZKZ_VWKCXwK_j8vbjZF2&si=7SHeSWZRllrseygs Website: https://www.tackybox.com/podcast Thank you to our sponsor, Tacky Box! Website: https://tackybox.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tacky_box/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheTackyBox/ X: https://x.com/thetackybox Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/thetackybox/
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    1 h y 35 m
  • Dr. Tom Brandt

    Dr. Tom Brandt
    Jan 17 2025
    SUMMARY "You can do both. You can have this job and self-care." "Self-care is not selfish; it’s essential." "Burnout is a real thing." In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps dive into a candid conversation with seasoned educator Tom Brandt, who shares wisdom gained over 26 years in education. From the joy of shaking hands with kids every morning to the weight of systemic challenges, the discussion shines a light on the balancing act of leadership in schools. Tom, Michelle, and Chris unpack the urgent need for self-care, not as a luxury but as a non-negotiable foundation for effective teaching and leadership. They explore the power of humor, the value of support networks, and the resilience required to navigate an education system often constrained by limited resources. Through laughter, vulnerability, and profound insights, this episode reminds educators that they are not alone and that it’s possible to lead with both purpose and balance. Tune in for a dose of inspiration, practical strategies, and a renewed sense of hope for the future of education. CHAPTERS 00:00The Importance of Self-Care in Education 03:08Tom Brandt's Journey in Education 07:52The Role of Resiliency in Leadership 12:31Building Support Networks for Principals 15:19Lessons Learned from 26 Years in Education 19:59Understanding the Public Perception of Education 23:39Essential Resources for Educators 25:34Resilience in the Face of Challenges 28:24Taking Charge of Professional Development 31:14The Ripple Effect of Self-Care 33:31Challenging the Culture of Sacrifice 34:25Rapid Fire Questions and Reflections 41:15Embracing the Chaos of Parenting 43:12Finding Balance in Seriousness 45:08The Importance of Humor in Leadership 48:30Reflections on Leadership Vulnerability 51:22Navigating Leadership Without Training 54:21The Quiet Commitment of Effective Leaders 56:39The Courage to Prioritize Self-Care 01:00:03The Narrative of Suffering in Service 01:03:25Making Choices in Unsupportive Environments 01:06:01The Impact of Leadership on Organizational Culture 01:10:25Funding Challenges in Education 01:12:55The Role of Office Managers in Schools 01:17:52Infusing Joy and Humor in Education
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    1 h y 21 m
  • What Kids Need in Times of Crisis and Uncertainty

    What Kids Need in Times of Crisis and Uncertainty
    Jan 13 2025

    Summary

    In this conversation, Michelle Kinder discusses how to support children during times of crisis, particularly in the context of natural disasters. She emphasizes the importance of self-care for adults, creating a sense of safety for children, encouraging open communication, and connecting to family values and hope. The conversation provides practical tips for parents and caregivers to help children navigate their feelings and maintain a sense of stability during uncertain times.

    Takeaways

    • Be gentle with yourself as the adult in this scenario.
    • Your regulated nervous system is the best thing you can offer your child.
    • Children can navigate a lot of uncertainty with supportive relationships.
    • Monitor media exposure to protect children's nervous systems.
    • Stick with and keep rituals and routines intact as much as possible.
    • Check in often with reassurance, not anxiety.
    • Don't minimize fear or anxiety; acknowledge feelings.
    • Connect children to family values that provide guidance.
    • Hope is powerful medicine during crises.
    • We're all sending love and strength to those affected.

    Chapters 00:00. Supporting Children in Crisis 08:05. Creating a Sense of Safety 12:06. Encouraging Open Communication 17:41. Connecting to Family Values and Hope
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    19 m
  • Jackie Orr

    Jackie Orr
    Dec 27 2024
    In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps engage with Jackie Orr, a school counselor celebrated for her impactful work at Galloway Elementary in Mesquite ISD, Texas. The conversation delves into the challenges educators face, the importance of building meaningful relationships with students, and the resilience required in the field. Jackie shares her journey into education, the dual role of supporting both students and teachers, and addresses common misconceptions about the counseling profession. Together, Michelle, Chris, and Jackie explore the value of living without fear, the power of taking action, and the profound influence of presence on others. They discuss the contagious nature of nervous systems and how understanding this dynamic fosters healthier community interactions. The conversation underscores the need to prioritize fun and connection in education, highlights the role of feedback in growth, and ultimately emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and community in creating a supportive environment for both educators and students. 00:00 Introduction to the Challenges in Education 02:02 Meet Jackie Orr: A Counselor's Journey 04:25 Building Relationships in Education 10:41 Resilience in the Face of Challenges 13:23 The Role of a School Counselor 15:21 Supporting Educators and Students 18:12 Misconceptions About Educators 20:56 Resources for Educators 22:17 Personal Well-being and Self-Care 24:22 The Importance of Supporting Educators 26:03 Rapid Fire Questions: Fun Insights 33:42 Living Without Fear 36:54 The Power of Prayer and Action 39:23 The Impact of Presence 40:14 Understanding the Nervous System 52:06 Prioritizing Fun and Community 01:00:00 Feedback and Growth in Education
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    1 h y 8 m
  • Eric Chandler

    Eric Chandler
    Dec 13 2024
    In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps break down the insightful interview with Eric Chandler, the leader of Pride Academy. They explore the challenges faced by educators and students, emphasizing the need for mental health support, trauma-informed practices, and community involvement. Eric shares his unique journey from mental health to education, the mission of Pride Academy, and the importance of supporting both students and educators in a changing educational landscape. This conversation delves into the critical support systems needed for parents and students, emphasizing the importance of mental health services in schools. Chris and Michelle discuss self-care strategies for educators, the significance of community and connection, and the role of educators in reforming mental health practices. The discussion also highlights the need for parent education and practical tips for fostering better relationships between parents and educators, ultimately aiming to create a supportive environment for students. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Oxygen for Educators 02:30 Eric Chandler's Journey: From Mental Health to Education 11:58 The Mission of Pride Academy 15:13 Understanding Student Behavior: A Trauma-Informed Approach 21:57 Supporting Educators: Mental Health and Team Dynamics 27:34 Navigating Challenges: The Role of Parents and Community 32:42 Hope and Resilience in Education 40:01. Systemic Changes Needed in Education 46:21 Support Systems for Parents and Students 49:37 Self-Care and Recharge Strategies for Educators 50:05 The Importance of Connection and Community in Education 54:19 The Role of Educators in Mental Health and Reform 01:00:11 Navigating Bureaucracy and Policy in Education 01:06:39 The Impact of Educators on Student Lives 01:09:12 The Need for Parent Education and Support 01:12:22 Practical Tips for Parents to Support Educators 01:17:17 The Importance of Community Care for Educators
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    1 h y 32 m