Libsyn Directory

Amanda Muhammad, MA

Release Date: 03/28/2025

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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...

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....

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...

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 —...

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...

More Episodes

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 mindfulness, highlighting the significance of breathing and stretching as foundational practices for managing stress.

The discussion delves into the need for community support and the power of shifting perspectives on stress and well-being. Amanda emphasizes the importance of honoring personal boundaries, the significance of self-care, and the power of silence in a noisy world. The speakers discuss resources available for educators, share rapid-fire fun questions, and reflect on the concept of creating a great day.

Throughout the conversation, the themes of well-being, meaning, and self-regulation are explored. Amanda discusses the importance of not surrendering one's happiness to external systems and finding meaning in life's circumstances. The conversation highlights the significance of breath and grounding techniques, as well as the necessity of understanding and regulating the nervous system. They also touch on the power of perspective, the importance of choosing empowering narratives, and the essence of being versus doing in personal and professional interactions.

LINKS

Amanda Muhammad, MA

Psychological Safety Consultant

Mako Mindfulness

TAKEAWAYS

A preventative approach to self-care is essential.
Breathing and stretching can significantly reduce stress.
Psychological safety is crucial for a productive work environment.
Self-awareness is key to advocating for personal needs.
Community support enhances well-being and resilience.
Mindfulness practices can be easily integrated into daily life.
Shifting perspectives can change emotional responses to stress.
It's important to recognize the impact of our beliefs on stress.
Finding personal coping strategies is vital for mental health.
Engaging in positive affirmations can improve self-perception. Know and honor your boundaries with yourself.
Keeping promises to yourself is crucial.
Engage with resources on LinkedIn for stress management.
Silence can be a powerful tool for self-reflection.
Choosing stillness is essential in a noisy world.
Create a great day; the choice is yours.
Your free time does not reflect your availability.
What you pay attention to expands.
Incorporate movement into mindfulness practices.
You have the power to define your essence. Many people surrender their well-being to external systems.
Finding meaning in life's circumstances is crucial.
Breath is a powerful tool for self-regulation.
Healthy coping mechanisms can be categorized into physiological and psychological.
Understanding the nervous system helps in managing emotions.
Expanding perspectives can infuse joy into life.
Noticing your breath can ground you in the present.
Questioning beliefs can open up new narratives.
Choosing empowering narratives can shift your mindset.
Prioritizing being over doing enhances personal interactions.