Leading Voices in Education

In this conversation, Dr. Dan Siegel discusses the intersection of neuroscience, mindfulness, and education. He introduces the Wheel of Awareness, a tool designed to enhance mindfulness and emotional intelligence in both educators and students. The discussion delves into the importance of integration in mental health, the dynamics of the upstairs and downstairs brain, and practical strategies for teachers to connect with their students. Dr. Siegel emphasizes the concept of Mindsight, which encompasses insight into one's own mental processes, empathy for others, and the integration of self with the relational world. He concludes with personal practices that promote well-being, highlighting the significance of connection in fostering a healthy mind.

In this episode of Leading Voices in Education, we sit down with Dr. Sabre Cherkowski to explore what it truly means for educators and school communities to move from simply surviving to genuinely flourishing.
Grounded in her research on teacher well-being and positive organizational practices, Sabre invites us to rethink how we approach well-being in schools—not as something extra to add on, but as something already present that we can notice, nurture, and grow. She introduces the idea that flourishing is not about ignoring challenges, but about holding space for both struggle and possibility at the same time.
Through practical examples and powerful stories, we explore how small, intentional shifts—like pausing to notice moments of connection, sharing stories of success, or creating space for reflection—can transform school culture. Sabre emphasizes that well-being is deeply relational, shaped by how we show up for one another, and built through everyday interactions that foster belonging, trust, and care.
This conversation is a reminder that flourishing isn’t a destination—it’s something we cultivate together, one small step at a time.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Brad Johnson shares his insights on effective leadership in education, emphasizing the importance of relational intelligence, trust-building, and the need for a supportive school culture. He discusses the challenges faced by new leaders, the significance of storytelling in professional development, and the necessity of shifting from a survival mindset to one that fosters thriving educational environments. Dr. Johnson also introduces the concept of EduFables, a narrative-driven approach to professional learning, and highlights the critical role of appreciation and recognition in enhancing staff engagement and combating burnout.

In today's fast-paced and increasingly digital world, educators are constantly seeking innovative ways to engage their students. One powerful approach gaining traction is outdoor learning, which integrates nature into the curriculum to enhance literacy and math instruction. In this podcast episode, Dr. Rachel Tidd shared her insights on the significance of place-based education and how it can transform the learning experience for students of all ages. As the author of "Wild Learning, Practical Ideas for Bringing Teaching Outdoors," she explores how outdoor environments can enrich traditional academic subjects, particularly literacy and math. Her journey into outdoor education began when her own children thrived in a Forest Preschool setting, which inspired her to rethink the conventional classroom model.
One of the key takeaways from Dr. Tidd's discussion is the idea that outdoor learning can significantly support students with diverse needs, especially those who are sensory seekers. By taking lessons outside, teachers can create a more inclusive environment where students can move freely and engage with their surroundings. For example, teaching multiplication using natural elements like leaves or stones can make abstract concepts more tangible and relatable.
Many educators hesitate to incorporate outdoor learning due to concerns about logistics and planning. Dr. Tidd reassures teachers that they don't need elaborate setups to begin. Simple modifications, such as using plastic manipulatives outside or taking a class walk with learning objectives, can pave the way for outdoor education. She encourages teachers to start small, gradually building their outdoor practice as they gain confidence and experience.

Summary

In this engaging conversation, Lauren MacLean Douglas shares her journey into outdoor learning, emphasizing the importance of sit spots and nature-based education. She discusses practical strategies for implementing outdoor learning in the classroom, overcoming barriers, and the intersection of literacy and outdoor experiences. The conversation highlights the benefits of outdoor learning for all students, including those with diverse needs, and provides valuable resources for educators looking to enhance their teaching practices.