Run Your Life Show With Andy Vasily

Send us a textIn today's podcast episode, I have an in-depth discussion with Dr. Helen Street, the author of the well-known book Contextual Well-Being. This conversation with Helen is very timely in nature as many schools around the world face an uncertain, stressful time as they make important decisions about whether to return to face-to-face, virtual or a hybrid model of teaching and learning. Helen's work around contextual well-being has been recognized and praised by leading educators around the world. Over the years, Helen has committed herself to helping schools to truly define what well-being means based on their unique context while taking 4 important domains into consideration; The people of our community, policies and practices, social norms, and the physical space of schools. Helen is a wonderful person and is very passionate about the work she does. It was a pleasure to have her on my show and I would like to thank her for her time and energy. About HelenDr Helen Street is one of Australia’s most highly respected educators. With a passion for educational reform and for challenging the status quo, she has become known as a powerful advocate for childrens’ rights as well as a pioneer in the support of learning engagement, motivation and wellbeing in schools.  Helen works with schools and colleges from more than 15 countries in and including Australia, SE Asia and Europe. She has written four books including 'Standing Without Shoes' (co-authored with George Burns) which contains a foreword by His Holiness the Dalai Lama. Helen’s book ‘Contextual Wellbeing – creating positive schools from the inside out’ has been praised by leading educators around the world. Helen is an honorary research fellow at the University of Melbourne and the founder and chair of the Positive Schools Initiative with Neil Porter. The Positive Schools Initiative includes the Positive Schools conference series (positiveschools.com.au) and Positive Schools Online (positiveschools.com) launching in September, 2020Connect With Helen:Twitter: https://twitter.com/drhelenstreetWebsite: http://www.contextualwellbeing.com.au/Email: Helen.Street@uwa.edu.auHelen's Ted X Talk: Well-Being is Not a CompetitionSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Send us a textDr. Scott Kretchmar is a leading sports philosopher world wide with more than four decades of experience in the field of exercise and sport science. His research interests include the role of games and play in human evolution and theory of mind and the intellectual requirements of sporting activity. He has played a key role in making sport philosophy a legitimate field of scholarship and study and has had a huge impact on the physical education/health profession. In today's episode, Scott and I dive deeply into a discussion that focuses on how physical educators can plant the seeds for all students to flourish in a PE setting and how they can help young people to create personal narratives that include physical activity, sport, and exercise as part of the ongoing stories that they create for themselves. It was a pleasure to speak with Scott. He is an important mentor of mine and I always learn so much from our discussions. Scott's BioProfessor R. Scott Kretchmar is one of the leading sports philosophers in the country.  He has taught philosophy of sport for over three decades and played a key role in making it a legitimate field of scholarship and study.  He is one of the founding members of the Philosophic Society for the Study of Sport and served as its president.  He has also served as the president of the Philosophic Academy of the National Association for Sport and Physical Education.  He is a retired professor at Pennsylvania State University in the Exercise and Sports Science department, where he has served as department chair. He was elected as the president of the American Academy of Kinesiology and Physical Education and is leading the way to making the subject of sports philosophy an important facet of the study of Kinesiology.Scott has received numerous awards over the course of his career and the impact that he has on the field of physical and health has been felt around the world. Connect with Scott: Email: rsk1@psu.eduSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Send us a textIn this episode, Dr. Aaron Beighle and I have an in-depth discussion about quality teaching and learning in physical education. In particular, we dive into a conversation about what teachers need to think more deeply about when planning for high quality virtual learning lessons. As well, we discuss our thoughts about how teachers might reframe what's possible in regards to the learning experiences they offer students in relation to important health and fitness outcomes in physical education. Aaron is a not only a fantastic educator but a wonderful person who I am happy to have met and formed a friendship with. Thanks for being on the show for a second time Aaron. Aaron's Bio: Aaron Beighle holds a Ph.D. from Arizona State University and is currently a faculty member at the University of Kentucky. Dr. Beighle regularly collaborates with a variety of organizations interested in youth physical activity promotion. He has been a leading advocate for Comprehensive School Physical Activity Programs since its inception in 2006. Aaron has written more than 85 research-based and practical articles as well as six books, most notably Dynamic Physical Education for Elementary School Children. He recently collaborated with Dr. Bob Pangrazi and Gopher to make their widely used lessons plans available for free via dynamicpeasap.com. Connect With Aaron:Twitter: https://twitter.com/AaronBeighleSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/Closing Song: Thrive by Casting Crowns- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qQ71RWJhS_M

Send us a textIn this episode, I speak with long time friend and scientist, Dr. Al Scott. Al is doing some amazing work in the field of science and presently works in the Canadian space industry. He has a PhD in Laboratory Astrophysics and his current work focuses on developing laser communication systems for satellites. Al recently started up his own podcast called the Rational View and this is why I brought him on the show. I wanted to hear about Al's work and to learn more about the themes and topics he covers in each episode of his podcast. His podcast takes a deep dive into important societal issues and it is Al's hope that through each episode he provides a clear voice for the moderate majority on highly polarized issues such as climate change, social inequity, and the growth of anti-science sentiment. I highly recommend you have a listen to The Rational View, it's a fantastic podcast. I want to thank Al for taking the time to be on my podcast. About Al: My name is Dr. Alan Scott, namesake to the original Green Lantern. I grew up on the Scott Brothers' apple farm in the tiny village of Olinda, near Leamington Ontario where I was taught the value of an honest day's work in the orchards.  I determined at that time that it would be worthwhile exploring the big world and so I left the farm for University. I earned a BSc in Physics from the University of Guelph, Ontario. While there, I served as president of the College of Physical and Engineering Sciences student council. I was also a member of the varsity curling squad for which I was awarded the President's Trophy for combined academics/athletics achievement. Several years later, I graduated with a PhD in Laboratory Astrophysics from University of Waterloo under Professor Walt Duley. After this period of academic freedom I turned to the 'dark side' and entered the Canadian space industry working on the development of optical remote sensing instruments for scientific satellite experiments. I have been active in this field ever since, enjoying the opportunity to work with an amazingly broad range of cutting edge technology. I currently work for COM DEV/Honeywell as an 'Engineering Fellow' in optical technologies, developing laser communications systems for satellites. During this time I have also been involved in the Royal Astronomical Society of Canada, Ottawa chapter.  I served as the Ted Bean Telescope Loan Librarian for over a decade, and also as Counselor, VP, and President.  I was awarded a service award in 2016 by the Ottawa Center. As for my family, I have two wonderful teenage children, Clare and Will, a supportive and intelligent wife, Sarah, and a young kindergarten troublemaker, Rigel.Connect With Al: Twitter: https://twitter.com/AlScottRationalPodcast: https://therationalview.podbean.com/#Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AlScottRationalSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Send us a textI'm thankful to have had this round table discussion with my wonderful colleagues Laura Pendergast, Jessica Boland, and Carrie Mcewen about the role of the Pedagogical Coordinator and the work that we do at The KAUST School in Saudi Arabia. The role itself is a very unique one that not only involves being a coach, collaborator,  consultant, and curriculum coordinator but also to work side-by-side with the amazing teachers in our school helping to support them with their own professional growth journeys. Not a day goes by when I am not extremely appreciative and thankful to do the work that I do at the school and to be a part of such a great leadership team at Gardens Elementary School. A special thanks to Laura, Jessica, and Carrie for their willingness to share their insight and experiences. About LauraBorn and raised in small-town Ontario, Canada I always knew I wanted to be a teacher.I was very fortunate to attend local schools that were brimming with kind and passionate teachers who always went above and beyond to help me and my fellow students. I saw from an early age the power of teachers in my own life and the lives of my peers. While in university in Canada, and facing an unstable job market for newly qualified teachers, I decided to teach aboard. The plan was to spend two years teaching overseas in Kuwait and then move back home to Canada to continue my career. Well, nearly 15 years later I am still teaching overseas. Currently, I am a Pedagogical Coordinator at the KAUST School in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia.As a mother to three young boys I am furthering my own beliefs around learning and researching more about the power of play. I am finding ways to sneak vegetables into every meal I serve. Most importantly, I am eternally grateful for the opportunities to travel and connect with other people that life as an international Educator has brought me and my family.Twitter: https://twitter.com/penderlcAbout JessicaJessica Boland always knew that she would be a teacher.  As an educator for 20 years, in the states and internationally, she has held many roles, such as an elementary teacher, mathematics coach, Asst. Director of Math and Science and is currently working as a G1 Pedagogical Coordinator at KAUST. In addition to having two Masters in Curriculum and Instruction and Mathematics Education, she received the Presidential Award for Excellence in Mathematics Teaching for the state of Arizona in 2010 and received National Board Certification for Professional Teaching Standards as an Early Childhood Generalist in 2008 and received renewal in 2017. She contributed classroom vignettes and student work to the book, Beyond Answers: Exploring Mathematical Practices with Young Children. About CarrieI’m American, born in Iowa, grew up in Ohio and in 1998 started my teaching career in Texas.  I’ve been teaching internationally now for 17 years, in Syria, Bangladesh and now Saudi Arabia at the Kaust School.  My classroom experience is in the early years, teaching kindergarten, first and second grade.  My undergrad degree is in early childhood education and my masters is in International Education.  Four years ago, after a number of years in the classroom, I moved into the role of pedagogical coordinator.  I feel so fortunate to have opportunities to work alongside such highly professional teachers.  From our partnerships we work together to really have a lasting impact on student learning and growth. Twitter: https://twitter.com/clmcewenSpecial thanks to Bronx band Conversing with Oceans & Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.

Send us a textMy guest today, Morris Ervin Jr, has changed the lives of countless students and teachers through the work he does as an educator, entertainer and motivational speaker. Morris' authenticity shines through in this conversation as does the devotion and commitment he has for making the world a better place. In this episode, we dive into the work he does as a consultant, his experiences teaching in South Central Los Angeles, and the childhood trauma he had to overcome to be able to begin his own process of healing. Morris also shares how he and his family are dealing with recently testing positive for COVID and the impact that this has had on their lives. Morris is an inspiration and a shining light in a world that needs people like him to do the work that they are doing. Thank you to Morris for your time and energy. About MorrisMorris H Ervin, Jr. is an educator, entertainer, motivational speaker, and Youth Development Professional committed to helping the youth, families, communities, and institutions “turn fear into strength, and pain into passion.” Morris is the founder of Mansa Consulting and he has provided assemblies, workshops, mentoring programs, and leadership camps/retreats to 1,000s of students in over a dozen school districts across the country. For more than a decade, Morris’s programs, trainings, and retreats have helped the youth:Develop critical thinking skillsLearn and apply character strengthsBuild solid interpersonal communication skillsBecome confident and assertive in how they liveEmbrace the peace and harmony inside themselvesBecome reflective and purposeful about shaping their own futureMorris has spread his excitement, optimism, and passion to schools, churches,community centers, juvenile detention camps, colleges, and universities from the east to the west coast. He has developed curriculum and provided coaching to programs in districts from Compton to Ventura, California. Mansa Consulting has partnered with organizations such as FAMLI INC, Peace Over Violence, Making A Difference Consulting, and The California Conference for Equality and Justice providing Teen Summits that shape and empower our future leaders of tomorrow. Morris writes children’s songs to teach healthy habits and promote literacy development. Morris also writes and performs hip-hop music and performs on stages across the country using his humor and storytelling abilities. Morris is the Education Director for Open Doors Academy a non-profit that serves low income youth and families through extended learning opportunities, summer programming, and a college ready curriculum that challenges students to reach their full potential. Morris has a Bachelor’s Degree in secondary education from Kent State University and he is currently pursuing his master’s degree in Community Counseling. Morris believes that the ultimate measure of a man is seen through the eyes of his family. He has a beautiful wife, two teenage children, and two dogs. His ultimate, inspiration, motivation, and drive are fueled by his family’s love and unconditional support.Connect With Morris:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/morris.ervin.1Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/therealmansa/?hl=enSpecial thanks to Bronx based band Conversing with Oceans and Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Send us a textIn this episode, Dr. Martha James and I have an in-depth discussion about critical pedagogy, professional accountability, differentiation, and the importance of critical feedback. With over 30 years of experience in urban education, Martha shares her thoughts about what the biggest gaps are in the field of physical education and health and how schools can address these gaps in order to improve teacher practice and better engage students in their learning in physical education. I'd like to thank Martha for her time and for being on my podcast. Martha's Bio:Martha James is a researcher, teacher, and leader with nearly 30 years of experience in PK-21urban education. Dr. James is an Assistant Professor at Morgan State University in the School of Education and Urban Studies and serves as Policy Chair on the Baltimore City Board of School Commissioners. Dr. James earned her undergraduate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison inKinesiology; her Master’s in Education from Hamline University in St. Paul, Minnesota; andwith her dissertation, “Physical Education as a Medium for Anti-Racist Consciousness Raising,” she earned her Doctorate in Critical Pedagogy from the University of St. Thomas in Minneapolis, Minnesota. In 2016 she proudly participated in the inaugural cohort of AASA/Howard University Urban Superintendents Academy going on to earn AASA’s prestigious Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award for her work with social justice in education. Dr. James has served in leadership roles advocating for equity on numerous professionalcommittees related to her work at Morgan State University and across the nation. Currently, she serves as the President of the Maryland Association of Boards of Education and on the Board of Directors for the Council of Great City Schools. Recently she has also served as the Past Chair of the Resolutions and Policy Chair for the Council of Urban Boards of Education, SHAPE America Diversity and Inclusiveness Group, and of the Social Justice and Cultural Diversity Taskforce for the National Association of Kinesiology in Higher Education. Dr. James has written and presented extensively on the theoretical model of CulturalFluency, interdisciplinary teaching and learning, and best practices in education. She has earned numerous additional awards, including State and National teacher of the year, and the 2014 NAKHE outstanding young scholar in Kinesiology. She is a mother, friend, sister, aunt, and in 2008 became an Ironman by completing the 140.6-mile racecourse in 14 hours 9 minutes and 31 seconds.Connect With Martha: Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJamesHassanSpecial thanks to Bronx based band Conversing with Oceans and Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Join Professor Kevin Marks, a seasoned educator and sports psychology consultant from Solano College, as he delves into optimizing performance through mental strategies. He discusses the transformative power of mindfulness, breath work, and goal-setting. With fascinating insights from his experiences in both sports coaching and teaching in a prison, Kevin emphasizes the importance of resilience, social learning, and mental focus. Listeners will discover practical tools to enhance personal and professional success, as well as the quest for authenticity in challenging times.

Send us a textIn this episode, I sit down with my friend and colleague, Donovan Hall, to have a discussion about his background playing professional rugby and how this led to his trajectory into educational leadership. Donovan is the Director of Educational Technology at The KAUST School in Saudi Arabia and, as you can imagine, was faced with the challenging task of getting the entire organization ready for distance learning during the COVID-19 public health crisis. Once distance learning was up and running, he and his team had to make sure that all stakeholders in the school had the support they needed to do their best work possible. Donovan shares this experience, what he has learned about himself as a leader, and how he and his team continue to think about the next steps needed to keep the school moving in the right direction. Thank you Donovan for your time and willingness to share your journey. Donovan Hall's Bio:Born in the phenomenal South Island of NZ and I have been in education since 1999, and International Education in Africa & The Middle East for 12 years. In August 2019, I moved into the role of Educational Technology Director at a K12 International School in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.​On a personal note, I am married with two young children who are growing too fast for our liking! As a family we enjoy reading, beaches, biking and board games together. Core values that are important to me are commitment, humility & relationships.​Growing up in NZ, I was always outdoors with brothers, whether playing sport or following outdoor pursuits. This remains a big part of my life and I try and stay on top of my fitness and well being by running, through team sports and connecting with the environment.​Personal growth is a big part of my life as I look to iterate on myself in all areas. In July 2018 I gained a Certificate of International Education through The PTC. By connecting me with outstanding international educators and current research, these courses helped broaden my mind by asking me to examine my thinking around education. Currently, I am working my way towards a Masters In Education through Massey University, NZ which I am thoroughly enjoying. Getting back into the rigours of academic studies and balancing this with my new role as an Ed Tech Director and family life has certainly, and will continue to prove challenging. Connect With Donovan: Twitter: https://twitter.com/donovanhallnzSpecial thanks to Bronx based band Conversing with Oceans and Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/

Send us a textHappy to release part 2 of my interview with professional adventure skier and filmmaker, Brody Leven. In this episode, Brody and I discuss the obstacles that he faces on an ongoing basis in the work that he does and how he has learned to manage the fear that can arise from the danger that he is constantly up against. He shares his insight around avalanche risk management, the role of fear, and the powerful impact that preparation, learning, and intuition play in keeping him and his partners safe during their expeditions. Despite having over ten years experience climbing up and skiing down some of the most challenging mountains in the world, Brody constantly takes on a beginner's mindset in order to stay open to new learning, so that he can continue to thrive, both personally and professionally in his field of work. Brody is an inspiring person who has a strong passion for the outdoors, educating others about the impact of climate change, and filmmaking. It was a delight to have him on my podcast. Brody's Bio:Brody Leven is best known as a professional skier and climber, as well as for being a climate change activist and conservationist. His photos and stories have been published in several magazines and press outlets. As a professional athlete, he has collaborated with a variety of brands and companies including Toyota, Utah State Tourism, and Urban Outfitters and he shares photos from his skiing and climbing with his over 50,000 Instagram followers. He was born on October 5, 1987 in Ohio. With a passion for the outdoors early on, he graduated from Westminster College and then chose to pursue his career in climbing and skiing. Traveling to a wide range of mountains and volcanoes, he began sharing photos from his journeys to Instagram in April of 2012.Connect With Brody:Instagram- https://www.instagram.com/brodyleven/?hl=enTwitter- https://twitter.com/brodylevenFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/brodylevenWebsite: http://www.brodyleven.com/Brody's Documentary 'Lost'https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XC5wu_uF4GwSpecial thanks to Bronx based band Conversing with Oceans and Alex Bondarev for creating the podcast music.https://www.conversingwithoceans.com/