Oxygen for Educators

By: Michelle Kinder M.Ed. LPC & Chris Kent Phelps | Produced By: Katie Worden
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  • Summary

  • Oxygen for Educators explores the overwhelming demands placed on today's educators, often leading to burnout and emotional exhaustion. As anxiety, depression, and behavior incidents rise among students, kids need more, and the adults in the building are overextended and under-resourced. This podcast features inspiring interviews with educators, administrators and counselors making a difference in the lives of countless students. In each hopeful conversation, we acknowledge hard truths and real challenges while simultaneously mining for light-lift, high-impact ideas, practices, and solutions.
    2024
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Episodes
  • 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 hr and 8 mins
  • 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 hr and 32 mins
  • The Art of Rest

    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 mins

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