Oxygen for Educators

Educators, we're gifting you the Oxygen for Educators keepsake magazine. Opt in here: https://forms.gle/AmdrpsnP1GNKXEag8   Before Radical Hope resumes in the new year, Michelle offers a moment of reflection and gratitude. Drawing from The Small Work in the Great Work by Victoria Safford, she honors educators who keep showing up with heart and humanity, even when things are uncertain, and reminds us that the smallest acts often become the great work.   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

Coming early 2026: Get your FREE copy of Oxygen for Educators magazine — radical hope delivered straight to your home, no strings attached. Opt in here. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj3tz0r6L2KIAJJ5dTnzx3CfXka2fqTHfUqHDlqtqo_96cCg/viewform?usp=header    SUMMARY  What if the secret to transforming a school isn't a new program, but a new perspective? In this re-released conversation, Dr. Maricela Helm—now Executive Director of Student Services at Whitehouse ISD—shares how shifting from discipline to relationship, and from pressure to presence, changes everything. She and host Michelle Kinder explore how mindset becomes freedom, joy becomes evidence of system health, and the most powerful learning happens when kids see the adults around them as fellow learners. Revisit this episode for the reminder we all need midyear: the connection you build today is shaping the world your students will lead tomorrow.   💌 Don't forget to claim your free subscription to the new Oxygen for Educators magazine, packed with interviews and reflections to keep you grounded all year long. Opt in here.     CHAPTERS  00:00 — Welcome + Magazine Announcement 02:17 — Why We're Re-Releasing This Episode 04:49 — Introducing Dr. Maricela Helm 06:50 — Early Career & Finding Purpose 10:37 — The Heart of Principalship 12:26 — Mindset as Freedom 16:17 — Let Kids See Your Hard 19:54 — Redefining the Discipline Department 22:11 — Systems, Predictability & Belonging 24:31 — Restorative Circles That Actually Work 28:47 — Building Community Agreements 33:50 — Responding to Crisis with Humanity 35:14 — How Education Has Evolved 39:48 — Kids Today: Capable and Emotional 41:15 — "Right Now, You're Great" 43:10 — Leading Leaders with Empathy 45:07 — Joy as a Leadership Indicator 47:53 — The Truth About Bullying Work 49:54 — Self-Care as a Mindset 53:39 — Closing with Gratitude 58:38 — Reflection with Michelle & Chris 01:01:57 — Perspective and Freedom 01:04:01 — Silver Lining Exercise 01:05:25 — Play, Perspective, and Purpose 01:06:16 — Letting Students See Imperfection 01:07:58 — Final Reflections and Takeaways   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

  Coming early 2026: Get your FREE copy of Oxygen for Educators magazine — radical hope delivered straight to your home, no strings attached. Opt in here. https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdj3tz0r6L2KIAJJ5dTnzx3CfXka2fqTHfUqHDlqtqo_96cCg/viewform?usp=header    SUMMARY  We're zooming out for a big-picture view of the Radical Hope series so far, what patterns are emerging, what ideas keep echoing, and what it all adds up to. Michelle Kinder walks us through five simple but powerful themes: safety, awareness, compassion, flexibility, and attention. This isn't just reflection for reflection's sake, it's a roadmap for staying steady, even when everything around us is shifting. 💌 Don't forget to claim your free subscription to the new Oxygen for Educators magazine, packed with interviews and reflections to keep you grounded all year long. Opt in here.     CHAPTERS  00:00 Introduction to Radical Hope 01:03 The Cycle of Inner Work   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY We are re-releasing this conversation with Rockwall ISD leader Dr. Shanon Zais because late October can feel like a grind for educators. This is the moment when stamina dips, the calendar is packed, and a reset matters. Shanon offers embodied, practical wisdom on rest, boundaries, and community care that lands differently right now. On re-listen, we also reflect on why this message is urgent, including Chris's honest update about navigating breast cancer and the reminder that you do not have to, and cannot, do this work alone. Educators, we're gifting you the Oxygen for Educators keepsake magazine. Opt in here: https://forms.gle/AmdrpsnP1GNKXEag8 Shanon distills four core values, take care of yourself and each other, be professional, plan for success, and have fun. She shows what this looks like in real life, PLC time inside the workday, quiet spaces for nervous system resets, and her 36-marbles practice that keeps each week intentional. The throughline is simple, rested adults drive healthy schools. If you listened the first time, listen again, new lines will jump out. If this is your first time, welcome, we are glad you are here!   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Context of the Re-release 02:59 The Importance of Rest and Well-being in Education 06:03 Shannon Zeiss: A Leader's Journey and Philosophy 08:55 Community and Support: The Power of Togetherness 11:37 Core Values and Their Impact on School Culture 14:45 The Role of Fun and Connection in Education 17:58 The Significance of Intentional Leadership 20:41 The 36 Marbles: A Visual Representation of Time 23:30 Final Thoughts and Reflections on Leadership and Rest       ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

Coming early 2026: Get your FREE copy of Oxygen for Educators magazine — radical hope delivered straight to your home, no strings attached. Opt in here.   SUMMARY  What would it look like for your calendar to reflect your deepest values, not just your obligations? In this powerful follow-up to Part 1, Michelle Kinder shares 10 practical attention management practices that support mental health and nervous system regulation. From reframing to-do lists to breaking up with notifications, each practice offers a small shift that can spark real change. Whether you're overwhelmed, overstretched, or just ready for more peace, this episode offers simple ways to live more aligned with what matters most.   CHAPTERS  00:00 – Introduction & Radical Hope Recap 02:10 – Practice 1: Calendar Your Values 06:30 – Practice 2: Single Task in Small Blocks 10:30 – Practice 3: Automate What Drains & Sustains You 14:30 – Practice 4: Master To-Do + Done-for-the-Day Lists 18:30 – Practice 5: Unsubscribe Relentlessly + Offline Emailing 22:30 – Practice 6: Break Up with Notifications 25:30 – Practice 7: Practice a Positive No 28:00 – Practice 8: Memento Mori (Remember You Will Die) 30:00 – Practice 9: Build Tech-Free Rituals 32:00 – Practice 10: Attention as Generosity 35:00 – Final Reflections & Listener Invitation     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

    SUMMARY This one feels like a deep breath. Sharon Bradley lets us into the story that made her an educator, teaching her brother what school hadn't, and how that love widened into a career of pulling kids in instead of pushing them out. She shows us why "take care of the big people so they can take care of the little people" isn't a slogan; it's a strategy. We talk about practical care for adults (the kind that actually fits in a school day), her S.E.L.F. check-in, Start, Experiment, Let go, Finish, and the moment a stage-three cancer diagnosis at 36 made "health is wealth" non-negotiable. Sharon names the boundary work, the permission leaders must give, and the simple changes (leave on time, ask stay-interview questions, build community care) that make classrooms calmer and lives lighter. If you're running on fumes, this conversation is a hug and a nudge: you are allowed to be well, and when you are, everyone in your care benefits.     CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 02:48 Sharon Bradley's Journey in Education 05:47 The Importance of Social-Emotional Learning 08:56 Supporting Educators' Well-Being 11:54 Creating a Supportive Environment for Students and Staff 14:40 The Impact of Personal Health on Professional Life 17:27 The Role of Community in Education 20:48 Practical Strategies for Educators 23:46 The Power of Pause and Reflection 26:37 Stay Interviews and Teacher Retention 29:33 Final Thoughts and Conclusion       ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

  SUMMARY In Radical Hope: Attention Management for Mental Health (Part 1), Michelle Kinder explores how the way we direct our attention shapes not only our inner world but also our relationships, choices, and sense of meaning. Drawing from research, lived practice, and the book Indistractable, Michelle reframes attention management away from productivity hacks and toward well-being. Through powerful metaphors, like the flashlight that illuminates what we choose to notice, she shows how even small shifts in focus can reduce anxiety, restore energy, and bring us closer to the life we want. Listeners will learn how traction versus distraction is defined by alignment with our deepest values, why time management is often really pain management, and how simple discernment questions can help us right-size what deserves our attention. This episode is an invitation to reclaim our focus as an act of radical hope. By choosing where we shine our mental flashlight, we gain agency in our responses, open space for connection, and ripple out more presence to our students, colleagues, and communities   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Attention Management for Mental Health 05:04 Understanding Traction vs. Distraction 10:49 The Role of Internal and External Triggers 17:22 Pre-Commitments and Structuring Attention 22:40 Shifting from Problem-Focused to Outcome-Focused 30:52 The Power of Attention Filters 38:31 Radical Hope and the Choice of Attention   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY: The way you see students today can change a trajectory tomorrow. In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, 2023 National Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson sits down with Michelle to talk about choosing the good without slipping into toxic positivity. Rebecka shares how listening to understand, not to be understood, changed her teaching and her students' outcomes. She tells the story of her "one good thing" practice that trained her brain to notice what is working, then create more of it. From there, we dig into why principals set the tone for an entire building, why teachers quite literally hold our democracy, and why front-loading connection is not a luxury - It is the work.  Practical takeaways you can use today Front-load connection. The time comes back to you a hundred times over. Train your attention. Capture one good thing each day to rewire what you notice. When the world feels big, get small. Focus on who is right in front of you. Hold a yes and mindset. Hard work, and meaningful work. Tell your story to students, then schedule 5–15 minute student story slots.     CHAPTERS: 00:00 Finding the Good in Challenging Times 02:55 Introducing Rebecca Peterson: A Teacher's Journey 06:00 The Impact of Personal Stories in Education 08:47 The Role of Relationships in Student Success 11:42 The Power of Listening and Understanding 14:52 Transformative Experiences as a Teacher of the Year 17:50 The Importance of High-Quality Educators 20:47 Navigating Trauma in Education 23:26 Empathy and Democracy in Education 26:28 The Practice of Noticing the Good 29:20 The Yes And Profession: Balancing Challenges and Purpose 32:21 Closing Thoughts: Gratitude and Hope for Educators     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY: In this Oxygen for Educators Radical Hope episode, Michelle Kinder gets practical about "coping flexibility," the everyday skill of noticing when your go-to strategy is no longer serving you, then choosing a better fit for this moment. Educators already live flexibly in classrooms, yet many of us go rigid with our own wellbeing. Michelle names the two big lanes of coping, problem focused and emotion focused, and shows how to choose between them with less judgment and more curiosity. You will try a brief nervous system check-in, then learn four simple practices, Awareness Pause, Strategy Swap, Coping Playlist, and Opposite Day experiment. This is not a magic fix, it is a kind, doable way to suffer less, model resilience for students, and keep moving with hope.     KEY TAKEAWAYS: Flexibility beats perfection, notice what helps right now, not what used to help. Match the tool to the moment, problem focused when you can act, emotion focused when you cannot. Run the flexibility sequence, assess, select, monitor, then adjust. Try the four practices, Awareness Pause, Strategy Swap, Coping Playlist, Opposite Day experiment.     CHAPTERS: 00:00 Understanding Coping Flexibility 02:49 The Two Types of Coping Strategies 05:58 The Importance of Monitoring and Adjusting 08:32 Coping Flexibility and the Nervous System 10:54 Inner Dialogue and Coping Flexibility 13:54 Practical Strategies for Coping Flexibility 17:28 Self-Care vs. Self-Blame 20:03 The Wisdom of Coping Flexibility     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, Claudia Vega, former Dallas principal and founder of Whose Books and ARCO, walks us through building a true reading culture in Oak Cliff. She connects book deserts to historic redlining, then shows what access, representation, and a welcoming space can unlock for families. We talk gatekeeping, community surveys, and curation that lets people feel seen. The takeaway for educators is simple and doable, notice what fuels you, what drains you, and make small, steady edits to protect your humanity while you serve. Along the way, Claudia offers a model for campus leaders too, treat your classroom or school as a community hub, not just a compliance machine. ARCO has already gifted 5,000+ books and hosted 170+ low-cost events. This is equity, practiced daily. Lukas Nelson - 'Turn Off The News' (Acoustic) : https://youtu.be/emLQac9ff1s?si=nrX_tPlI-wYlEkD6 CHAPTERS 00:00 The Hero Complex in Education 02:42 Claudia Vega's Journey from Educator to Entrepreneur 05:15 Building a Reading Culture in Communities 08:35 The Importance of Access to Books 11:36 Creating a Community Space for Literature 14:15 Addressing Historical Inequities in Access to Literature 17:28 The Role of Nonprofits in Promoting Literacy 20:17 Transforming Relationships with Reading 23:33 The Emotional Impact of Representation in Literature 26:21 Navigating Challenges in the Book Industry 29:19 Finding Purpose Beyond Traditional Roles 32:14 The Power of Community in Education 35:11 Hope and Resilience in the Face of Adversity 38:18 Creating Space for Self-Care in Education 41:14 The Impact of Small Actions on Community Change 44:18 Advice for Educators Facing Burnout 47:19 The Balance Between Personal and Professional Identity 50:11 The Journey of Self-Discovery and Reflection 53:05 The Importance of Listening to Inner Voices 56:06 Celebrating Community Achievements 58:55 The Future of Literacy and Community Engagement     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY  Educators are carrying more than ever, and in the middle of all that noise, the inner critic often shouts the loudest. In this episode of the Radical Hope Series, Michelle Kinder offers practical, light-lift ways to quiet that critic and tune into a steadier guide, the inner mentor. With relatable stories, examples pulled straight from the classroom, and strategies from Tara Mohr (Playing Big), Richard Schwartz (No Bad Parts), and Jay Early & Bonnie Weiss (Freedom from Your Inner Critic), Michelle shows how to: Spot and name the critic's different disguises (from perfectionist to guilt tripper). Create distance and compassion instead of being overtaken by self-judgment. Call on the calm, grounded wisdom of your inner mentor, even in the middle of a busy school day. This conversation is about moving from exhaustion to steadiness, from fear to freedom, and remembering that you already carry the wisdom you need. It's not about silencing the critic, but choosing a truer voice so you can keep showing up, for yourself and for your students.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding the Inner Critic and Inner Mentor 05:57 The Role of the Inner Mentor 10:45 Practicing Connection with the Inner Mentor 16:42 Types of Inner Critics       ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY In this episode of Oxygen for Educators, we sit down with Heather Junker to talk about what it really means to be a lifelong learner in education. Heather has spent years helping schools grow, but she's the first to admit that none of us ever have it all figured out, and that's okay. The conversation touches on everything from the wild ride of technology in classrooms to the ups and downs of educator morale. Heather shares how important it is for teachers and leaders to feed their own learning, not just pour into students, and how simple things like teamwork, parent relationships, and community-building can shift the whole culture of a school. This isn't about shiny solutions or quick fixes, it's about real people doing their best, learning as they go, and finding ways to support each other in an ever-changing landscape. Don't forget to nurture your own growth. You can't pour from an empty cup. Strong parent relationships are a game-changer for students. Technology can be both helpful and overwhelming. It's all about balance. Morale matters, and it can shift with the season (or the paperwork pile). Professional development works best when it's built with educators, not just for them. Community and teamwork make the hard stuff lighter.   CHAPTERS 00:00 The Lifelong Learner's Journey 04:13 Introducing Heather Junker 06:26 Heather's Unique Background and Experience 09:42 Passion for Professional Development 11:22 Creating Effective Learning Experiences 15:06 The Importance of Team Participation 19:50 Navigating Technology in Education 23:18 Building Relationships with Parents 28:21 Morale in Education 32:07 Advice for Educators Seeking Growth 38:41 Looking Ahead: The Future of Education     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

SUMMARY Michelle Kinder unpacks what self-compassion really looks like in everyday life. She talks about both the tender, nurturing side we usually think of and the fierce, protective side that helps us set boundaries and stay grounded.  Using the idea of the "two arrows," Michelle explains how self-compassion changes the way we handle challenges: the first arrow is the pain we can't avoid, the second is the unnecessary suffering we create for ourselves. With practical tools and real-life examples, she shows how being kinder to ourselves can ease anxiety, strengthen resilience, and even boost motivation, creating ripples that benefit both us and the people around us. She also points to go-to, real resources from some of the most credible voices in the field that you can start using today, and you'll discover them all in the episode.   CHAPTERS  00:00Introduction to Self-Compassion 01:25Understanding Pain and the Two Arrows 04:11Components of Self-Compassion 06:31Tender vs. Fierce Self-Compassion 10:12The Science Behind Self-Compassion 14:41Practical Self-Compassion Tools 21:27Resources and Conclusion     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/

  SUMMARY This episode feels like sitting down for coffee with someone who's walked the walk and really cares about people. Brenda Scott, now the Director of Cultural Intelligence for SMU Athletics, shares her story from being a first-generation college student to becoming a leader who helps others reach their full potential. She talks about why cultural intelligence matters, how truly seeing and understanding someone's background can change everything, and why relationships are the heartbeat of student success. Through personal stories and hard-earned wisdom, Brenda reminds us that educators can be real-life superheroes, creating safe spaces, celebrating milestones, and giving students the confidence to dream bigger. It's an inspiring conversation that will leave you thinking about the small, intentional ways we can make others feel seen, supported, and capable of more than they imagined. Brenda Scott is the author of All I Need Is My Tablet, a great story for children when it comes to technology and family. She is also the founder of BScott Visions, LLC, a company dedicated to helping people reach their full potential and improve their quality of life. Her work emphasizes building strong structures, safe, supportive environments where individuals can discover their strengths, develop skills, and prepare for the future. You can connect with Brenda on LinkedIn or reach her by email at bscottvisions@gmail.com or brendas@smu.edu.   CHAPTERS 00:00 The Impact of Educators 03:01 Introducing Brenda Scott 06:08 Brenda's Journey and Mission 09:04 Cultural Intelligence in Education 11:47 Advice for Educators 14:54 Building Relationships in the Classroom 17:44 Understanding Different Backgrounds 20:55 Navigating Current Challenges 23:44 The Importance of Belonging 26:54 Personal Stories and Legacy 29:56 Real-Life Impact of Support 32:42 The Role of Educators 35:37 Cultural Language and Connection 38:42 The Power of Empathy 41:35 Magic Wand for Cultural Intelligence 44:36 The Role of Teachers as Superheroes 47:32 Final Thoughts and Reflections     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is 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/  

SUMMARY  Ever feel like some days you're calm and grounded, and others you're just… barely holding it together? In this episode of Radical Hope, Michelle Kinder unpacks neuroception, your nervous system's built-in radar that constantly scans for danger or safety (without you even knowing it). She explains how our state creates our story, when we're stressed or shut down, we see the world differently than when we feel safe and connected. "Sometimes long after the threat has passed, we're still carrying the cat hair." Even subtle past experiences can shape how we show up today. Michelle shares tools for tuning into your nervous system and stacking your day with moments that move you toward calm, connection, and purpose. It's not about mastering your nervous system, it's about being in relationship with it. Short, powerful listen. Totally worth it.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Neuroception and the Nervous System 19:33 Mapping and Shaping Your Nervous System 27:06 Cultivating Safety and Connection in Daily Life

SUMMARY Get ready to meet a woman whose story will stay with you long after the episode ends. In this raw and transparent interview, Michelle Kinder sits down with Tausha Nickleberry—an educator, leader, and fierce believer in the transformative power of connection and hope. Tausha's journey from a traumatic childhood marked by domestic violence and instability, through a life-altering teen pregnancy at 16, to becoming a passionate advocate for students and school communities, is nothing short of remarkable. She shares how one caring adult—her high school's teen pregnancy social worker—offered her not solutions, but something far more lasting: a safe space and unwavering belief. That quiet act of showing up sparked a ripple effect that changed Tausha's trajectory and, years later, that of her son—now a teacher and coach himself. Her story is a testament to the unseen impact educators can have, even when they feel like they aren't doing enough. Michelle and co-host Chris Kent Phelps unpack the conversation with awe and admiration, calling Tausha's life a "love letter to educators." They explore the power of vulnerability, the quiet force of hope, and how deeply seeing another person can be the most radical, life-changing act. This episode is more than inspiring—it's a reminder that every moment of connection matters. Listen in and be reminded why the work you do has the power to transform lives.   CHAPTERS  00:00 The Power of Connection and Hope 05:53 Tasha's Journey: Overcoming Adversity 16:55 The Impact of Educators 21:48 The Ripple Effect of Hope 29:21 Seeing Potential in Others 38:59 The Importance of Understanding Behavior 47:34 Embracing Our Stories 54:11 The Role of Self-Care in Education     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project 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/

SUMMARY  Join host Michelle Kinder in this episode of Radical Hope as she explores the transformative practice of befriending your nervous system. Discover how understanding and nurturing your inner state can lead to steadiness, interrupt shame spirals, and reconnect you with your truest self. Drawing from the insights of polyvagal theory, Michelle shares practical ways to move from survival mode into a state of clarity, compassion, and connection. Tune in to learn how this daily practice can unlock your potential and help you deliver your unique gifts to the world.   KEY TAKEAWAYS  "Befriending your nervous system changes everything." "You can't give what you don't have, and you don't have what you're disconnected from." Burnout is not a personal failure—it's a sign that something deeper needs care. Rest, presence, and boundaries aren't luxuries—they're lifelines.   CHAPTERS 00:00 – Regulated Leadership and Nervous System Wisdom 03:18 – The Science of Safety and Belonging 07:12 – The Inner Work of Showing Up 11:44 – Recognizing Burnout and Shame 15:06 – You Don't Have to Abandon Yourself 18:39 – Discomfort vs. Danger 22:03 – Practical Tools for Reconnection 26:55 – Slowing Down the Urgency 30:41 – Boundaries, Compassion, and Capacity 34:17 – Regulation as Contagious Leadership 38:26 – Final Reflections on Hope and Healing     ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project 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/

SUMMARY In this episode, we sit down with the wise, wholehearted, and purpose-driven Dr. Shanon Zais, principal of Rockwall High School's ninth-grade campus and a woman who leads with both conviction and care. With a deep belief that educators deserve the same level of support as students, Dr. Zais shares how she has built a school culture where rest is honored, community is cultivated, and core values aren't just slogans—they're the heartbeat of the building. She opens up about her unexpected journey into education, the pivotal influence of teachers in her own life, and how a singular focus on intentional, relational leadership has created what some call "the Disneyland of campuses." With humor, humility, and fierce clarity, Dr. Zais reminds us that real school transformation starts with how we treat one another—moment to moment, marble by marble. If you've ever wondered what it looks like to lead a school where no one dreads Mondays, where substitutes ask to come back, and where fun is foundational—this conversation will leave you inspired, challenged, and more hopeful than ever. 💥 Impactful Takeaways: Rest is essential for productivity, clarity, and showing up well. Creating a positive school culture starts with authentic, lived values. Small, consistent actions drive deep, sustainable change. Professional learning communities thrive when rooted in trust and care. Educators must prioritize their well-being to support students better. Time with students is finite—make every marble, every moment count. Leadership is about modeling, not just messaging. Community, fun, and connection are not extras—they're the foundation.   CHAPTERS 00:00The Importance of Rest 03:11Introducing Shannon Zeiss 05:56Shannon's Journey in Education 08:51Core Values at Rock Nine 11:55Creating a Positive School Culture 14:41The Role of Professional Learning Communities 17:51The Power of Intentional Leadership 20:45The Impact of Rest on Educators 24:03Building Community and Connection 26:52Quotes from Colleagues 29:57Small Actions, Big Impact 32:55Challenges in Leadership 35:41Advice for Educators 38:39Moments of Impact 41:32The Value of Time with Students 44:46Final Thoughts on Leadership   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project 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/

SUMMARY In this special mini-sode, host Michelle Kinder launches Radical Hope: Inner Work with a Ripple Effect—a new short-form series from Oxygen for Educators. These shorter episodes are designed to offer grounded, actionable insights for educators navigating complex realities with courage and heart. Michelle opens this first installment with a powerful question: How do we hold the truthiest truth about what is—without abandoning what could be? With clarity and compassion, she explores what it means to practice radical hope, not as a feeling, but as a decision and a daily practice. Drawing on the work of Charles Snyder, David Emerald, Donna Zajonc, and bell hooks, Michelle shares a roadmap for how to hold space for both realism and possibility—while remaining tethered to community, creativity, and purpose. This episode is a breath of fresh air for anyone feeling the weight of uncertainty, burnout, or disillusionment. It reminds us that radical hope is not naive—it's a bold and strategic act of leadership. 💥 Impactful Takeaways: Hope is not fluffy—it's a teachable, research-based strategy grounded in goals, pathways, and agency. The discomfort of dynamic tension is actually creative fuel—it means you care. Community is essential—radical hope thrives in connection, not isolation. Leadership begins with presence, truth-telling, and a commitment to what's possible. None of us were meant to carry hope alone.   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Radical Hope 02:46 Balancing Realism and Possibility 05:48 Hope Theory: A Cognitive Process 08:59 Dynamic Tension Fuels Change 11:51 The Power of Community in Hope   ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project 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/

SUMMARY Texas is grieving. Even for those once or twice removed from the direct impact, it's hard to think about anything other than the catastrophic flooding in Central Texas and the rising death toll. Each life lost represents a devastated family, a shaken community, and a school doing its best to help children make sense of the senseless. We're re-releasing an episode we originally recorded for educators and parents in California during the recent wildfires, in hopes that it might now support Texas families as they process the devastation from this past weekend's flooding. KEY TAKEAWAYS: "Be gentle with yourself as the adult." "Hope is powerful medicine in times of crisis." "We hold hope and believe in love."   CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction and Context of Crisis 02:18 Supporting Children in Times of Crisis 06:57 Creating a Sense of Safety 10:02 Checking In and Validating Feelings 14:50 Connecting to Family Values and Hope       ************************************************************************************************ Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project 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/