

In the Trenches
Joshua Gibbs
In the Trenches is The Classical Teaching Institute's pedagogy podcast for educators and parents who prefer experience and common sense to theory. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books

18 snips
Feb 14, 2025 • 46min
The Valentine's Day Special
Explore the intriguing history of romance, diving into the complexities of marriage and the dynamics that evolve over time. Discover the tragic tale of Tristan and Isolt and its lasting impact on romantic literature. Delve into the paradoxes of love versus the stability of marriage, while examining modern societal expectations. Gain insights on restoring a healthy perspective on relationships and the importance of realistic expectations in contemporary romance.

Feb 11, 2025 • 36min
Talking With Mandi Gerth
Joshua Gibbs talks with Mandi Gerth about many things, including wonder's crossover to the mainstream.Visit The Classical Teaching Institute Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

7 snips
Jan 31, 2025 • 33min
How to Choose a Movie for Your Family to Watch when All Family Movies are Terrible
Choosing a family movie can be a real challenge in a sea of mediocre options. The discussion critiques the flawed notion that films with clear moral lessons genuinely teach values. Instead, it champions the magic of whimsical storytelling. The speakers compare modern films with classic gems from the 1940s and 50s, highlighting the importance of engagement for both kids and parents. They encourage families to actively select films that promote healthy communication and deeper connections.

Jan 22, 2025 • 42min
Youth Ministry
Many, many Christian youth ministers are becoming classical teachers. Is this good? Visit The Classical Teaching Institute Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jan 8, 2025 • 40min
What if There is No Rhetoric Stage?
The discussion kicks off by questioning the foundational beliefs of classical Christian education and its effectiveness in promoting independent thinking. It critiques the staged development theory, particularly concerning older students, while emphasizing the value of classic literature and philosophy over personal opinions. The conversation highlights high schoolers' struggles with critical thinking, urging innovative teaching methods to encourage creativity. Finally, it challenges the relevance of the rhetoric stage, suggesting a reevaluation based on students' developmental readiness.

Dec 20, 2024 • 35min
Say It Right
Explore the often overlooked clichés in classical Christian education and how they can frustrate prospective parents. Discover the impact of overused language, which can drain words of their power and meaning. The conversation urges listeners to reconsider educational phrases to breathe fresh life into dialogue, challenging the status quo. Join in as they emphasize the communal nature of language and the importance of reflection to preserve the potency of ideas.

10 snips
Dec 11, 2024 • 33min
The New Guy
New teachers at classical Christian schools often face exciting yet isolating experiences. They navigate self-awareness and humility while striving to fit into a close-knit community. One teacher shares their journey of curating music and film to enhance classroom atmosphere. This personal touch helps solidify their teaching philosophy. The discussion also dives into the practical challenges of embracing classical education, emphasizing mentorship and experiential learning as keys to success.

7 snips
Nov 28, 2024 • 43min
Questions from Listeners
Listener questions drive an engaging discussion on the challenges faced by educators in blending history and literature. Strategies for teaching historical literature effectively are shared, emphasizing the value of chronological organization. The debate between Christian and classical education is examined, prompting reflection on educational standards. The importance of well-rounded teacher training is highlighted, alongside inspiring success stories from supportive school environments and community-building efforts among educators.

30 snips
Nov 13, 2024 • 34min
What Makes Something Interesting?
Is it intriguing to call something 'interesting'? It can be! The discussion dissects how boredom and sensory experiences shape our engagement with entertainment. Familiarity versus novelty is analyzed, revealing how personal taste influences our perception of interest. C.S. Lewis and G.K. Chesterton are referenced to showcase how intentional change can spark new intrigue. The balance of predictability and surprise, especially in art and music, is explored, emphasizing how these elements keep our reality captivating.

Oct 16, 2024 • 40min
Do the Reading
Explore the transformative power of in-class reading, where teachers lead engaging discussions on classic literature. Discover the hurdles of assigned reading and the benefits of reading aloud for deeper comprehension. Dive into the intrinsic beauty of education, revealing how students connect with meaningful content. The conversation challenges the status quo of shallow classroom chats, advocating for a reflective approach that makes literature come alive, showcasing the vital role educators play in nurturing comprehension and values.