The Elemental Educator Podcast

Episode 47: How to Foster Inclusivity and Empower Marginalized Students in the Classroom (with Blessing Owusu)

How to Foster Inclusivity and Empower Marginalized Students in the ClassroomIn this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau sits down with Blessing Owusu, an award-winning educator and author, to explore how cultural identity, inclusivity, and equity transform education. Blessing shares actionable insights on fostering empathy, empowering students, and navigating challenges related to intersectionality. Learn how intentional teaching practices can create thriving, inclusive environments for all students.
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Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.lessonswithblessing.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lessonswithblessing
Email: blessingtabiowusu@gmail.com
Engagement Question:
How can educators and leaders ensure every student feels represented and valued? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:34 - Meet Blessing Owusu: Educator, Author, and Advocate for Equity1:50 - Journey to Education: Passion for Helping Others3:30 - Writing Abna’s Adventures: A Story of Cultural Identity6:26 - The Role of Cultural Identity in Shaping Educational Environments9:52 - Building a Sense of Belonging Through Intentional Practices12:28 - Core Values That Guide Blessing’s Inclusive Teaching Practice18:47 - Navigating Adversity and Challenges in Intersectionality21:36 - Strategies to Avoid Racial Profiling in Education25:02 - Using Adversity to Drive Innovation in Teaching Methods32:46 - Advocating for Systemic Change in Educational Policies38:05 - Encouraging Educators to Take the First Steps Toward Change43:13 - Key Takeaways: Shift Your Mindset, Lead with Empathy45:35 - Blessing’s Vision for the Future of Education
#EquityInEducation #CulturalIdentity #DiverseClassrooms #RepresentationMatters #InclusiveTeaching #Intersectionality #TeacherLeadership #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #BlessingAwusu
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.

Episode 46: How to Incorporate Outdoor Learning for Stronger Student Engagement (with Amy Reyes)

"How to Incorporate Outdoor Learning for Stronger Student Engagement"In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau is joined by early childhood education expert Amy Reyes to discuss the benefits of outdoor learning for young children and adults alike. Learn how intentional time in nature can improve cognitive development, foster creativity, and strengthen emotional regulation. Discover how Wyoming’s Get Wild Wyoming initiative is transforming education through outdoor exploration, and learn simple steps to bring nature into your own teaching practice.
🚀 Want to deepen your leadership toolkit? Check out this related episode: [Insert Link Here]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for inspiring weekly insights!
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📧 For collaborations or inquiries, reach out at: tyler@elementaleducator.com
Connect with Guest and Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-reyes-a1b15844/
Engagement Question:
What’s your favorite way to use outdoor spaces to spark learning? Share your ideas in the comments!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:33 - Meet Amy Reyes: ECE Leader and Outdoor Learning Advocate2:47 - Amy’s Journey into Teaching and Leadership3:40 - Core Values That Shape Amy’s Approach to Outdoor Education5:42 - Foundational Principles Behind Get Wild Wyoming7:10 - Definition and Benefits of Outdoor Learning9:57 - Integrating Literacy into Outdoor Learning11:48 - Managing Adversity in Outdoor Settings13:26 - Overcoming Educator Concerns About Outdoor Learning15:24 - The Process of Implementing Get Wild Wyoming18:02 - Sustaining Outdoor Learning Through Teacher Journals20:00 - Addressing Weather Challenges in Outdoor Learning22:06 - Risks and Rewards in Expanding Outdoor Learning Initiatives24:27 - Encouraging Teachers to Take the First Steps Outdoors26:43 - Key Takeaways: The Impact of Outdoor Learning on Mental Health28:02 - Amy’s Vision for Expanding Outdoor Education
#OutdoorLearning #EarlyChildhoodEducation #TeacherLeadership #NatureBasedEducation #StudentEngagement #CoreValues #GetWildWyoming #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau #AmyReyes
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.
outdoor learning, early childhood education, nature-based education, leadership development, social-emotional learning, education innovation, classroom management, teacher training, cognitive development, mental health benefits

Episode 45: The Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Teaching: Staying Balanced and Energized (With Andrea Perry)

In this episode of The Elemental Educator Podcast, host Tyler Comeau is joined by Andrea Perry, an experienced K-12 teacher, life coach, and wellness advocate, to discuss practical ways educators can overcome burnout, reduce stress, and rediscover their joy in and outside the classroom. Learn how to align your work with your core values, set healthy boundaries, and implement small but meaningful changes that make a big difference.
🚀 Want more actionable tips? Check out this related episode: [Insert Link Here]. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share for weekly leadership and personal growth insights!
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Connect with Guest and Resources:
Website: https://www.thrivewithandreaperry.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thrivewithandreaperry
Resource: https://subscribepage.io/TRCGd8
Engagement Question:
What is one small change you can make today to prioritize your well-being? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Timecodes:
0:00 - Introduction0:28 - Meet Andrea Perry: Teacher and Wellness Coach2:53 - Journey into Education and Burnout Awareness4:15 - Rediscovering Core Values in Teaching9:24 - Setting Healthy Boundaries and Saying "Not Right Now"12:43 - Helping Teachers Overcome Guilt When Prioritizing Self-Care15:29 - Internal vs. External Burnout: What’s the Difference?19:47 - Systemic Change vs. Personal Responsibility23:22 - Practical Time-Management Strategies for Educators32:18 - Recognizing the Physical Signs of Burnout35:34 - Habit Stacking for Sustainable Wellness37:39 - Encouraging Teachers to Take Ownership of Their Well-Being42:28 - Key Takeaways on Prioritizing Core Values and Self-Care44:57 - Andrea’s Future Vision: Life as a Family of Four46:34 - Final Reflections and How to Connect with Andrea
#TeacherBurnout #TeacherWellness #SelfCareForTeachers #LeadershipInEducation #OvercomingBurnout #TeacherSupport #SustainableTeaching #CoreValues #TheElementalEducator #TylerComeau
About the Channel
Welcome to Elemental Educator – the community for leaders committed to growth, resilience, and meaningful impact.
🌍 Ground Your Leadership | 💨 Master Adversity | 💧 Navigate Change | 🔥 Ignite Bold Decisions
Join us to explore actionable strategies, inspiring insights, and transformative practices that empower leaders to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
Hosted by Tyler Comeau – speaker, podcaster, and consultant passionate about unlocking leaders' full potential through values-driven leadership and innovative solutions.
Be part of a global movement shaping the future of leadership. ✨ Start your journey today! Follow and subscribe for fresh content that sparks action.
teacher burnout, teacher well-being, education leadership, core values, sustainable teaching, teacher retention, stress management, work-life balance, mental health in education, leadership coaching

Episode 44: The Power of Empowerment: Fueling Leaders of Tomorrow (with Kate Hunter)

Connect with Me:
On my Website: www.elementaleducator.coFollow my Instagram @elemental_educator https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
Subscribe to my YouTube @elementaleducator
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HTTPS://www.instagram.com/katehunterdesign
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Summary
In this episode of Elemental Educator, host Tyler speaks with Kate Hunter, an expert in elementary education, about her journey in education, the importance of grounded mindsets, and the role of leadership in fostering positive change. They discuss the significance of high expectations, relationship building, and the MTSS framework in supporting both educators and students. Kate shares her insights on navigating change, implementing new initiatives, and the importance of empowering educators to take risks in their teaching practices. The conversation emphasizes the need for collaboration, grace, and a growth mindset in education, ultimately aiming to create a better learning environment for all.
Takeaways
Teachers are inherently leaders and must develop leadership skills.
Setting high expectations is a form of love and care for students.
Building relationships is crucial for effective education.
MTSS provides a framework for supporting diverse student needs.
Empowerment in education leads to greater impact.
Change in education requires time and collaboration.
Data-driven decision-making is essential for effective teaching.
Grace and understanding are vital for educators' growth.
Risk-taking in teaching can lead to innovation and improvement.
A focus on core values can guide educational practices.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction and Welcome01:42 Kate's Journey in Education04:20 Maintaining a Grounded Mindset07:50 Building Relationships and Trust09:28 MTSS and Professional Learning14:28 Creating Lasting Value for Educators18:28 Navigating Change in Education22:53 Challenges of Being an Entrepreneur in Education25:51 Implementing Effective Changes in Education26:17 The Importance of Learning and Understanding the Why30:36 Involving Staff Members in Decision-Making and Connecting Initiatives to Student Impact33:04 Strategies for Implementing Changes in Curriculum and Meeting Student Needs38:31 Encouraging Educators to Take Calculated Risks in Teaching Practices41:07 Supporting Educators Through Risk-Taking and Holding High Expectations

Episode 43: Proactive Mental Strategies with Lynn McLaughlin

In this episode of the Elemental Educator podcast, host Tyler speaks with Lynn McLaughlin, an experienced educator and advocate for children's mental health. Lynn shares her journey from educator to superintendent and her commitment to promoting proactive mental health strategies for children. The conversation explores the importance of core values, teacher well-being, and research-driven approaches in education. Lynn emphasizes the need for collaboration among educators and the significance of maintaining integrity in mental health advocacy. The episode also addresses the challenges of navigating resistance and driving meaningful change in schools, while encouraging listeners to take action for their own well-being.
Connect with Me:
On my Website: www.elementaleducator.com 
Follow my Instagram @elemental_educator https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
Subscribe to my YouTube @elementaleducator
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Connect with Lynn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-mclaughlin-med-bed-ba-2a8b5384/
  https://www.instagram.com/lynnmcla/
  https://www.facebook.com/lynnmclaughlin.co/
    https://lynnmclaughlin.com/
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00:00 Introduction and Video Clips
01:55 Lynn's Journey to Advocating for Children's Mental Health
04:03 The Influence of Core Values on Lynn's Work
06:16 Reframing Success to Focus on the Whole Child
07:59 Navigating Challenges and Driving Change in Education
10:22 Overcoming Adversity and Building Resilience
13:04 Establishing Effective Relationships and Self-awareness
17:50 Implementing Change and Leading from the Middle
28:47 Implementing Changes to Support Students with Learning Disabilities
31:07 Collaboration and System Well-Being
36:42 Taking Risks and Making Bold Decisions for Mental Health Advocacy
42:36 Balancing Innovative Change and Risk in Children's Emotional Well-Being
44:40 Taking Action for Well-Being: Reflection and Proactive Strategies
46:25 Inspiring Change: Cultivating a Community of Caring and Curiosity
50:04 Future Plans: Podcasting, Publishing, and Game Development
 
education, mental health, children's well-being, proactive strategies, emotional intelligence, teacher support, collaboration, advocacy, research-driven approaches, leadership

Episode 42: Discover the SECRET to Better Teaching and Learning with Neuroscience with Mark Williams

In this episode, Tyler welcomes Dr. Mark Williams, an internationally recognized neuroscience expert and bestselling author of The Connected Species. Dr. Williams shares his inspiring journey from a challenging youth to becoming a leader in neuroscience research and education. Discover actionable insights on collaboration, overcoming adversity, and applying neuroscience to improve teaching and learning.
🔥 Key Highlights: Collaborative Learning: Why connection matters more than content delivery in classrooms. Brain-Friendly Strategies: How simple habits like handshakes can boost learning outcomes. Overcoming Adversity: Dr. Williams' powerful journey from dropout to neuroscience leader.
📍 Action Steps: What neuroscience strategy will you implement today? Comment below! Like, subscribe, and share to spread these impactful lessons!
📌 Connect with Dr. Mark Williams: Website: https://www.drmarkwilliams.com
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⏱️ Timestamps with SEO Questions:
00:00 - What is Dr. Mark Williams' inspiring story from adversity to success?
03:08 - How do core values shape professional and personal growth?
10:12 - What neuroscience principles can improve classroom learning?
18:59 - How does technology affect our brains and learning?
21:25 - What simple strategies foster brain health and collaboration?

Episode 41: Tips for Empowering Through Proactive Leadership with Joshua Stamper

Join Tyler and Joshua Stamper, Director of Innovation for the Teach Better Team, as they dive into transformative educational strategies. From trauma-responsive techniques to building relationships with staff, this episode equips educators with actionable insights to revolutionize classrooms and leadership.
🔥 Key Highlights:
Implementing Trauma-Responsive Strategies: How to build trust and lasting connections with students.
Proactive Leadership: Why taking action early saves time and reduces stress.
Overcoming Resistance to Change: Proven methods for navigating challenges in school environments.
📍 Action Steps:
Share your thoughts in the comments: Which strategy will you implement?
Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more transformative episodes!
📌 Connect with Joshua Stamper:
Website: https://www.joshstamper.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshua__stamper
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/
Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Joshua__Stamper
Email: joshua@teachbetter.com
✨ Support the Channel:
Visit our website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
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⏱️ Timestamps with SEO Questions:
00:00 - What is trauma-responsive leadership, and why does it matter?
11:40 - How do trauma-informed strategies improve classroom outcomes?
20:23 - What are the challenges of being an administrator?
34:49 - How does proactive leadership save time and reduce conflict?
44:58 - How can educators address student behavior effectively?

Episode 40: How to Empower Kids to Embrace Their Potential with Mark Papadas

Welcome to The Elemental Educator! In this transformative episode, Tyler interviews Mark Papadas, the visionary behind I Am For Kids. Mark shares how his groundbreaking programs empower children to discover their identities, build resilience, and lead fulfilling lives.
Highlights:
Overcoming Adversity: How Mark’s challenging upbringing shaped his mission.
Revolutionizing Education: The impact of I Am For Kids on youth empowerment.
The Power of Perseverance: Why “going all in” is essential to success.
Call to ActionWhat’s one way you empower the kids in your life? Share your thoughts in the comments! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with fellow educators and parents.
Connect with Mark Papadas
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/markpapadas.thebegreatguy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markpapadas/
X: https://x.com/MarkPapadas
I Am For Kids Foundation: https://iam4kidsfoundation.org
The Be Great Guy: https://thebegreatguy.com
Email: mark@iam4kidsfoundation.org
Support the Channel
Website: https://www.elementaleducator.com
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elemental_educator
Podcast on Podbean: https://elementaleducator.podbean.com
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Timestamps (SEO Optimized):0:00 - What Does "Going All In" Mean for Leadership?0:27 - Meet Mark Papadas: A Journey of Perseverance2:10 - How a Challenging Upbringing Built Core Values3:53 - What’s the Secret to Empowering Kids Through Perseverance?6:17 - How I Am For Kids is Revolutionizing Youth Empowerment10:18 - Overcoming Adversity While Building a Movement21:50 - Why "All In" is the Only Way to Make a Difference34:09 - What Does the Future Hold for Mark’s Vision?