Oxygen for Educators™

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...

SUMMARY In this episode, we sit down with the radiant and deeply grounded Dr. Summer Rose, a clinical psychologist and leader at Communities In Schools of the Dallas Region. With warmth, clarity, and conviction, she shares her story from aspiring "baby doctor" to becoming a fierce advocate for youth mental health and educator well-being. Dr. Rose opens up about the systems that shape young people'...

SUMMARY In this episode, we sit down with the thoughtful and deeply grounded Rob Kowalski, an eighth-grade humanities teacher at Parish Middle School in Dallas, Texas. Rob shares his journey through education—from growing up in New Jersey and being shaped by powerful mentors to becoming the kind of teacher who helps students feel seen, safe, and inspired, even during the challenges of the COVID-19...

SUMMARY In this episode, we sit down with the wise and wonderful Dr. Laura Lockhart to talk about something every educator wrestles with—how we show up for ourselves and others when things get hard. From the way we talk to ourselves, to understanding our triggers, to breathing through stressful moments, Dr. Lockhart brings so much heart and practical wisdom. We explore how self-awareness and self-...

SUMMARY: In this conversation, Brent shares his journey from ministry to education philanthropy, offering deep insight into the role of love, community, and collaboration in transforming education. Set against the backdrop of Fort Worth's innovative philanthropic efforts, the discussion explores how addressing both social needs and academic performance is essential for student success. The episode...

In this episode, Chris and Michelle introduce the brilliant Dr. Laura Latta, Executive Director of the Tulsa Higher Education Consortium—who Chris has aptly nicknamed "the queen of collaboration." From there, Michelle and Laura dive into a powerful conversation about leading with empathy in education. Laura shares her belief that education is people work , not a system where you plug in inputs and...

SUMMARY  "When You Love the Student First" For the first time on Oxygen for Educators , the guest was nominated by students—and not just any students! Will and Max, the nephews of our host Chris Kent Phelps, wanted to honor someone who has left a lasting mark on their lives: their beloved 4th grade teacher, Mrs. Lopez from Linda Lyon Elementary in Rockwall ISD. This episode is a heartfelt tribute...

SUMMARY   This episode is extra special—our producer, Katie Worden, had the privilege of working under the incredible leadership of Dr. Maricela Helm at Amy Parks Elementary in Rockwall ISD. As Katie's principal, Maricela left a lasting impression, showing her that when we focus on the well-being of each child, academic success will naturally follow. In this episode, host Michelle Kinder sits down...

  SUMMARY This episode is a special one. Michelle Kinder sits down with Dr. Jeannie Stone, a former superintendent and fierce advocate for equity in education, for a deeply honest and inspiring conversation. Hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps set the stage, sharing why this episode—and Jeannie herself—means so much. Jeannie shows up with warmth, transparency, and wisdom as she reflects on...

SUMMARY In this rich and layered episode, Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps kick things off with a heartfelt introduction before handing the mic to Robert and Michelle for a deep, honest conversation about what it truly takes to support students—and the adults who serve them. They explore the power of representation, the importance of relationships, and the role adult behavior plays in shaping...

SUMMARY   In this episode, Michelle Kinder sits down with Dr. John Gasko for a raw and powerful conversation about what it really takes to show up well in education. John doesn't sugarcoat the reality — he talks honestly about the toll the work can take and why educator well-being isn't just important, it's essential. Together, they explore what happens when schools embrace healing, reflection, an...

SUMMARY In this conversation, Michelle Kinder sits down with Katherine Kennedy to unpack the real challenges educators face—burnout, secondary trauma, and the emotional weight they carry in and out of the classroom. They talk about how personal experiences shape professional lives, and why supporting educator wellness isn't optional—it's urgent. Katherine shares her journey and what pushed her to...

SUMMARY: In this uninterrupted episode, hosts Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps present part 2 of their interview with Alex Vesely-Frankl, Viktor Frankl's grandson. They explore the impact of meaning in education, mental health, and personal responsibility. Alex shares insights from his grandfather's teachings, emphasizing the importance of focusing on one's role and impact on others. The disc...

SUMMARY:  In this special episode, we interview Alex Vesely, grandson of the legendary Viktor Frankl. Alex continues his grandfather's impactful work on logotherapy and the importance of finding meaning in life. We discuss how meaning, rather than happiness, can guide us through modern challenges, emphasizing the role of educators in fostering purpose and resilience in students. Tune in to explore...

SUMMARY   Byron Sanders shares his journey from Oak Cliff to becoming a champion for educational equity. He discusses the urgent need for trauma-informed education and transformative teaching amidst systemic challenges. His school board candidacy is a call to action for community involvement in shaping the future of education. The conversation highlights: The need for educational transformation in...

SUMMARY   In this episode, Michelle Kinder and Chris Kent Phelps introduce an insightful interview with Amanda Muhammad, a mindfulness-based stress management consultant. Michelle leads the conversation with Amanda, exploring the importance of preventative self-care strategies, psychological safety in the workplace, and practical tools for educators. Amanda shares her personal journey into mindful...

  ****Mark mentioned that although he hasn't done public writing since leaving his job in Dallas in 2019, his blog with old posts is still available at To Keep Things Whole. ( https://tokeepthingswhole.blogspot.com/) He has recently posted on LinkedIn and is considering starting a SubStack, thanks to Michelle's encouragement! MARK CROTTY LinkedIn : https://www.linkedin.com/in/markjcrotty/ NWAIS:  ...

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...