Oxygen for Educators™

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: 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. Acknowledging Positive Moments – They then shift focus to act...

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 des...

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...

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 t...

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...

  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...

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, th...

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 relations...

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 sto...

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 expertl...

Welcome to our new podcast! We're diving into the overwhelming demands placed on today's educators, demands that too often lead to burnout and exhaustion. With kids needing more support than ever, and adults stretched thin and under-resourced, the challenge is real. We'll be talking with inspiring people doing remarkable work across the country, exploring hard truths, and sharing impactful, uplift...

In this conversation, Emory Phelps, known as the original Tacky Box Kid, shares her perspective of growing up with Tacky Box, which promotes kindness among children. Emory reflects on her early experiences, the impact of Tacky Box on her understanding of kindness, and how it has shaped her interactions in high school. She discusses the complexities of navigating social situations as a teenager, th...