Épisodes

  • 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 et 21 min
  • 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 min
  • 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 et 8 min
  • 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 et 32 min
  • The Art of Rest
    Dec 2 2024

    In this episode, Michelle Kinder discusses the importance of self-care and well-being for educators, inspired by a quote from Nadia Bolzweber. The conversation explores how educators can identify their responsibilities, find strength in their roles, and embrace the necessity of rest and self-compassion. Key themes include the significance of mindfulness practices, the need for supportive relationships, and the balance between effort and acceptance in the demanding field of education.

    Takeaways:

    • Educators often face overwhelming responsibilities that exceed their available time.
    • Mindfulness practices can help clarify what is truly important for each individual.
    • Engaging with trusted colleagues can help identify blind spots in our understanding of our roles.
    • Focusing on our sphere of influence allows us to take meaningful action without feeling overwhelmed.
    • Creating a 'done for the day' list can help manage stress and promote relaxation.
    • The urgency to share our gifts with the world is essential for personal fulfillment.
    • Gatekeeping our attention is crucial in a world filled with distractions and negativity.
    • Coping flexibility allows us to adapt our strategies to better manage stress and challenges.
    • Rest is not the opposite of productivity; it is a necessary component of it.
    • Micro moments of self-care can lead to significant improvements in well-being over time.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction to the Theme of Educator Well-being 10:49 Finding Strength in Educator Roles 18:06 The Importance of Rest and Self-Compassion
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    25 min
  • Dr. Sylvia Lopez
    Nov 11 2024
    This conversation explores the critical challenges faced by educators and students, emphasizing the need for strong support systems and resources for adults within the education system. Michelle and Chris highlight the importance of elevating voices in education, prioritizing self-care for educators, and recognizing the essential role of school counselors. Dr. Sylvia Lopez shares her inspiring story, showcasing the influence of female leadership and the power of human connection in creating a supportive learning environment. The discussion calls for greater advocacy and acknowledgment of school counselors' significant contributions to student success. Together, Michele Kinder and Sylvia Lopez address the layered challenges faced by educators and school counselors in 2024, exploring pressures from external sources, the vital role of counselors, and the importance of emotional well-being for both students and educators. Sylvia offers insights into inspiring students and fostering supportive school environments. The conversation also addresses the decline in the number of school counselors and introduces initiatives like the Thriving Hearts and Minds program. The discussion wraps up with lighthearted rapid-fire questions and reflections on resilience and impact in education. Takeaways Students need more support while adults feel overwhelmed.Elevating voices in education is crucial for change.Educators must be supported to effectively help children.Self-care is essential for educators' well-being.Curiosity about one's nervous system can lead to better self-care.Building a community of support is vital for educators.Human connection is key to student success.Collaboration between counselors and principals is essential.Advocacy for school counselors is necessary for recognition.The impact of female leadership in education is significant.School administrators often lack training in counseling.The role of school counselors is crucial for student success.External pressures on schools can hinder effective counseling.Building relationships with students is essential for their well-being.Inspiration can come from personal experiences and challenges.The decline of school counselors is a growing concern.Programs like Thriving Hearts and Minds aim to support counselors.Educators need to prioritize their own mental health.Resilience is key in navigating the challenges of education.Every interaction with a student can make a significant impact. Chapters 00:00Introduction to the Challenges in Education 01:35The Importance of Elevating Voices in Education 05:20The Need for Adult Support in Education 09:36Resetting the Nervous System for Educators 11:27Curiosity About the Nervous System 15:43Building a Community of Support 19:31Introducing Dr. Sylvia Lopez 20:25Sylvia's Journey into Education 24:18The Impact of Female Leadership in Education 26:36The Role of Counselors in Education 32:23The Importance of Human Connection 34:48Collaboration Between Counselors and Principals 39:07Advocacy for School Counselors 42:25Navigating External Pressures in Education 45:15The Role of School Counselors 49:41Inspiration and Heartbreak in Education 52:11The Decline of School Counselors 54:37Thriving Hearts and Minds Initiative 58:01Rapid Fire Fun Questions 01:04:22Reflections on Resilience and Impact
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    1 h et 8 min
  • 5 Ideas to Ground You Post-Election
    Nov 6 2024

    It’s the day after the election and our country finds itself in a moment of major transition that will be elating for some and trigger despair for others. Educators are tasked with processing their reactions and emotions while holding space for co-workers, students and families to do so as well. If you have 10 minutes, this episode offers five tried and true ideas to support you as you so expertly support all the people around you.

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    9 min