Rob Kowalski
Oxygen for Educators
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 pandemic. Rob talks about why relationships—not just academics—are at the center of his teaching philosophy. He opens up about the importance of vulnerability, the role of curiosity in...
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Dr. Laura Lockhart
Oxygen for Educators
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-compassion can shift everything—from how we manage conflict to how we connect with students (and ourselves). She shares powerful takeaways from her journey and research, like why overusing your...
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Brent Beasley
Oxygen for Educators
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 sheds light on the realities educators face in today’s political climate, the emotional toll of social media, and the urgent need for community support and authentic connection in schools. Brent...
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Dr. Laura Latta
Oxygen for Educators
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 expect predictable outcomes. It’s human, relational, and deeply complex. They explore how psychological safety creates space for innovation, how communities of practice can break through...
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Mrs. Careli Lopez
Oxygen for Educators
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 to the kind of teaching that transforms lives. Will and Max share what has made Mrs. Lopez unforgettable—the way she leads with love, sees each student as a whole person, and creates a...
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Dr. Maricela Helm
Oxygen for Educators
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 with Maricela for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to be an educator today. They talk about the power of being present, building authentic relationships...
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Dr. Jeannie Stone
Oxygen for Educators
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 her experience in public education. From navigating the complexities of leadership to standing firm in her commitment to equity, she opens up about what it really means to lead with heart....
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Robert Selders Jr.
Oxygen for Educators
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 student outcomes. From there, Chris and Michelle come back to unpack the conversation, highlighting the threads of emotional resilience, high expectations, and the need for educators to care for...
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Dr. John Gasko
Oxygen for Educators
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, and connection — not just for students, but for the adults leading them. After the interview, Michelle and Chris Kent Phelps unpack the conversation and reflect on the big takeaways —...
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Kathryn Kennedy, PhD
Oxygen for Educators
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 create wellness programs designed specifically for educators. She digs into the role of creativity, community, and somatic practices in healing, and why reconnecting with yourself is often the...
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"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.
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