Educator Wellness Podcast Thu, 01 Oct 2026 12:33:49 -0500 https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu en-us © 2026 Educator Wellness Podcast yes 479092df-08f4-5a4c-a69d-02b87d1870cd Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, University of Iowa episodic false A podcast just for K-12 educators! Prioritize YOUR wellness to better care for your students and yourself. Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts nationally-recognized experts that help us explore and reflect on various dimensions of health and well-being. Take away strategies and tips to transcend wellness knowledge and practices into your classroom or school.


The views and opinions expressed by the hosts and guests in this podcast do not necessarily represent those of the University of Iowa.

]]> Buzzsprout (https://www.buzzsprout.com) educator, wellness, health, school, students, school mental health, professional development Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, University of Iowa https://storage.buzzsprout.com/p984tm7o2gd8o50mm4txs02hkcss?.jpg Educator Wellness Podcast https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu Kari Vogelgesang The Spaces that Shape Us ... The Spaces that Shape Us ... As schools begin a new year, students and educators are searching for connection, identity, and community. This episode explores the importance of “third spaces” beyond home and school and why libraries, youth organizations, and community gathering places may matter more than ever for student mental health, belonging, and civic engagement. The conversation will challenge listeners to rethink where meaningful learning and development actually happen. 

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]]> As schools begin a new year, students and educators are searching for connection, identity, and community. This episode explores the importance of “third spaces” beyond home and school and why libraries, youth organizations, and community gathering places may matter more than ever for student mental health, belonging, and civic engagement. The conversation will challenge listeners to rethink where meaningful learning and development actually happen. 

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health, University of Iowa Buzzsprout-19576347 Thu, 24 Sep 2026 14:00:00 -0500 2130 2 1 full false Game On: Harnessing The Power of Sports and Physical Activity for Mental Wellness Game On: Harnessing The Power of Sports and Physical Activity for Mental Wellness In this episode, Jon Solomon, the community and impact director of the Sports and Society Program at the Aspen Institute, joins Kari for a thought-provoking discussion about the far-reaching impact of sports and physical activities on youth mental wellness. This episode sheds light on the crucial role of coaches and educators in recognizing mental health challenges and creating supportive environments for all students. Uncover how physical activity can be a powerful tool for fostering empathy and overall well-being in students and tips for creating spaces where every young person feels valued and empowered through movement.

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]]> In this episode, Jon Solomon, the community and impact director of the Sports and Society Program at the Aspen Institute, joins Kari for a thought-provoking discussion about the far-reaching impact of sports and physical activities on youth mental wellness. This episode sheds light on the crucial role of coaches and educators in recognizing mental health challenges and creating supportive environments for all students. Uncover how physical activity can be a powerful tool for fostering empathy and overall well-being in students and tips for creating spaces where every young person feels valued and empowered through movement.

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-17074187 Wed, 30 Apr 2025 14:00:00 -0500 2595 3 8 full false Jon Solomon Kari Vogelgesang Beyond Survival Mode: How to Recognize and Recover from Job Burnout Beyond Survival Mode: How to Recognize and Recover from Job Burnout Have you experienced burnout? How do you work through it? Dr. Christina Maslach, leading burnout expert and author, chats with Kari about six key chronic job stressors and how educators can recognize the early signs of burnout in themselves and others. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed at work or looking to create a healthier, more balanced professional life.

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]]> Have you experienced burnout? How do you work through it? Dr. Christina Maslach, leading burnout expert and author, chats with Kari about six key chronic job stressors and how educators can recognize the early signs of burnout in themselves and others. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed at work or looking to create a healthier, more balanced professional life.

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16893438 Mon, 31 Mar 2025 16:00:00 -0500 4022 3 7 full false Nourishing Minds, Fueling Futures: How Food Impacts Students’ Ability to Thrive Nourishing Minds, Fueling Futures: How Food Impacts Students’ Ability to Thrive Dr. Marlene Schwartz, director of the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, joins Kari to discuss the critical role school nutrition programs play in the well-being of students, how schools and districts can advocate for better programs, and practical strategies for implementing improvements. Tune in to learn how you can be part of the movement to nourish our students' bodies and minds, setting them up for a healthier, more successful future. Join us as we dive into how we nourish to flourish!

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]]> Dr. Marlene Schwartz, director of the Rudd Center for Food Policy and Health, joins Kari to discuss the critical role school nutrition programs play in the well-being of students, how schools and districts can advocate for better programs, and practical strategies for implementing improvements. Tune in to learn how you can be part of the movement to nourish our students' bodies and minds, setting them up for a healthier, more successful future. Join us as we dive into how we nourish to flourish!

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16724856 Mon, 03 Mar 2025 10:00:00 -0600 1975 3 6 full false Educators and Parents Unite! The Power of Strong School-Family Collaborations Educators and Parents Unite! The Power of Strong School-Family Collaborations Building strong family-educator relationships is vital to healthy learning environments. Megan Olivia Hall, STEM educator and social emotional lead teacher at Open World Learning Community in St. Paul Public Schools, sits down with Kari to discuss proactive things educators can do to build more positive, collaborative relationships with parents. As both an educator and parent, Megan offers unique strategies to strengthen parent-teacher connections that result in more supportive and enriching learning environments for students. Join us for a compelling conversation as we unpack how to form these relationships, how they impact student learning, and more.

Access the full transcript: bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E5

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]]> Building strong family-educator relationships is vital to healthy learning environments. Megan Olivia Hall, STEM educator and social emotional lead teacher at Open World Learning Community in St. Paul Public Schools, sits down with Kari to discuss proactive things educators can do to build more positive, collaborative relationships with parents. As both an educator and parent, Megan offers unique strategies to strengthen parent-teacher connections that result in more supportive and enriching learning environments for students. Join us for a compelling conversation as we unpack how to form these relationships, how they impact student learning, and more.

Access the full transcript: bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E5

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]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16539273 Fri, 31 Jan 2025 09:00:00 -0600 2325 3 5 full false Alone Together: Navigating Loneliness in Education Alone Together: Navigating Loneliness in Education Recent research has found evidence that loneliness has detrimental effects on both our mental and physical health. Join Kari and expert Jillian Racoosin, executive director of the Foundation for Social Connection, as they unpack the crucial role that social connection plays in fostering a healthier, happier life. Discover how educators can foster meaningful relationships, improve student mental health, and create more connected learning environments. Learn practical tips to build your own "connection muscle" and transform your classroom into a hub of social engagement.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E4 

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]]> Recent research has found evidence that loneliness has detrimental effects on both our mental and physical health. Join Kari and expert Jillian Racoosin, executive director of the Foundation for Social Connection, as they unpack the crucial role that social connection plays in fostering a healthier, happier life. Discover how educators can foster meaningful relationships, improve student mental health, and create more connected learning environments. Learn practical tips to build your own "connection muscle" and transform your classroom into a hub of social engagement.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E4 

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16366146 Wed, 01 Jan 2025 11:00:00 -0600 2043 3 4 full false Jillian Racoosin Kari Vogelgesang The Attendance Crisis: Tackling School Avoidance, Together The Attendance Crisis: Tackling School Avoidance, Together Why aren’t students coming to school and what can educators do about it? Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, a renowned expert on school avoidance with over 25 years of experience in higher education, joins Kari to unpack this hot button issue. Learn why developmental factors play a larger role than you might expect, the root causes of school avoidance, how the pandemic reshaped attendance norms, and innovative approaches schools are using to tackle this urgent issue.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E3 

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]]> Why aren’t students coming to school and what can educators do about it? Dr. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty, a renowned expert on school avoidance with over 25 years of experience in higher education, joins Kari to unpack this hot button issue. Learn why developmental factors play a larger role than you might expect, the root causes of school avoidance, how the pandemic reshaped attendance norms, and innovative approaches schools are using to tackle this urgent issue.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E3 

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16207298 Mon, 02 Dec 2024 10:00:00 -0600 2403 3 3 full false Carolyn Gentle-Genitty Kari Vogelgesang Speaking the Truth from the Field Speaking the Truth from the Field In this episode, explore the ripple effects of policy changes, social media, and evolving communication norms through the eyes of passionate educators. Kari talks with the dynamic husband-wife duo Myles and Haley Finn from Indianola, Iowa. Haley, a middle school counselor, and Myles, a high school vocal teacher and TikTok influencer (@itsmrfinn) with 1M+ followers, offer valuable insights into the complexities of teaching in today's world and how to harness your authentic self as an educator.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E2 

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]]> In this episode, explore the ripple effects of policy changes, social media, and evolving communication norms through the eyes of passionate educators. Kari talks with the dynamic husband-wife duo Myles and Haley Finn from Indianola, Iowa. Haley, a middle school counselor, and Myles, a high school vocal teacher and TikTok influencer (@itsmrfinn) with 1M+ followers, offer valuable insights into the complexities of teaching in today's world and how to harness your authentic self as an educator.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E2 

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-16031920 Fri, 01 Nov 2024 10:00:00 -0500 4488 3 2 full true Haley Finn Myles Finn (@itsmrfinn) Kari Vogelgesang The Power of Us: Transforming K-12 Schools Through Collective Action The Power of Us: Transforming K-12 Schools Through Collective Action Andrea Forcum – (better known as Educator Andrea) – makes educators feel seen. With 1M+ followers on TikTok and Instagram, Andrea is widely admired for down-to-earth videos that lean into the chaos of teaching.  In this episode, Andrea sits down with Kari to explore the critical issues facing today's educators.

Together, they passionately advocate for teachers and students, discussing how collective action can transform our schools and drive meaningful change. This inspiring conversation will leave you energized and ready to take action in support of our K-12 schools.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E1

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]]> Andrea Forcum – (better known as Educator Andrea) – makes educators feel seen. With 1M+ followers on TikTok and Instagram, Andrea is widely admired for down-to-earth videos that lean into the chaos of teaching.  In this episode, Andrea sits down with Kari to explore the critical issues facing today's educators.

Together, they passionately advocate for teachers and students, discussing how collective action can transform our schools and drive meaningful change. This inspiring conversation will leave you energized and ready to take action in support of our K-12 schools.

Access the full episode transcript: https://bit.ly/EWPTranscript_3E1

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-15849599 Tue, 01 Oct 2024 11:00:00 -0500 3682 educators, teachers, wellness, schools 3 1 full false Andrea Forcum (Educator Andrea on TikTok) Kari Vogelgesang Reimagining MTSS: A Pathway to Whole School Well-Being Reimagining MTSS: A Pathway to Whole School Well-Being Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts the University of California Santa Barbara’s Dr. Michael Furlong (research professor and distinguished professor emeritus of school psychology) and Dr. Erin Dowdy (professor in the department of counseling, clinical, and school psychology) to rethink Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) as a holistic well-being framework that benefits the entire school community. During this conversation, we broaden the scope of MTSS and reassess the framework's foundational 'why' while unpacking how a reconceptualized approach can contribute to the flourishing of student well-being.



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]]> Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts the University of California Santa Barbara’s Dr. Michael Furlong (research professor and distinguished professor emeritus of school psychology) and Dr. Erin Dowdy (professor in the department of counseling, clinical, and school psychology) to rethink Multi-Tiered System of Supports (MTSS) as a holistic well-being framework that benefits the entire school community. During this conversation, we broaden the scope of MTSS and reassess the framework's foundational 'why' while unpacking how a reconceptualized approach can contribute to the flourishing of student well-being.



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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-15101507 Mon, 20 May 2024 10:00:00 -0500 2852 2 9 full false Nature Nurtures: How to Leverage the Outdoors for Enriched Learning Nature Nurtures: How to Leverage the Outdoors for Enriched Learning A rejuvenating conversation all about the power of outdoor education! Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts Dr. Angela Rekers, assistant professor at St. Ambrose University, and Jay Gorsh, director of the University of Iowa’s School of the Wild, to discuss the social, emotional, and mental health benefits of outdoor education for our students, educators, and education systems as a whole. Learn how to get nature-based programs started at your school or tips on integrating outdoor learning into your classroom. 

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]]> A rejuvenating conversation all about the power of outdoor education! Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts Dr. Angela Rekers, assistant professor at St. Ambrose University, and Jay Gorsh, director of the University of Iowa’s School of the Wild, to discuss the social, emotional, and mental health benefits of outdoor education for our students, educators, and education systems as a whole. Learn how to get nature-based programs started at your school or tips on integrating outdoor learning into your classroom. 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14896557 Tue, 16 Apr 2024 13:00:00 -0500 4513 2 8 full false The Social Media Tug-of-War: How Much is “Too Much” for our Students? The Social Media Tug-of-War: How Much is “Too Much” for our Students? In today's digitally-driven world, social media and technology play an integral role in our students' lives. But what happens when tech use becomes excessive, unhealthy, or detrimentally affects our students’ emotional and mental health? Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Jacqueline Nesi, a psychologist and assistant professor at Brown University, to explore the latest research, healthy ways to incorporate it into our lives and classrooms, and safeguards that both educators and parents should consider as they navigate this complex topic. 

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]]> In today's digitally-driven world, social media and technology play an integral role in our students' lives. But what happens when tech use becomes excessive, unhealthy, or detrimentally affects our students’ emotional and mental health? Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Jacqueline Nesi, a psychologist and assistant professor at Brown University, to explore the latest research, healthy ways to incorporate it into our lives and classrooms, and safeguards that both educators and parents should consider as they navigate this complex topic. 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14872218 Thu, 11 Apr 2024 12:00:00 -0500 2908 2 7 full false Embracing Our Differences, Elevating Our Schools Through Global Education Embracing Our Differences, Elevating Our Schools Through Global Education In today's interconnected world, global citizenship is an indispensable skill set for understanding differences and analyzing local realities through a critical lens. Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts a compelling discussion with Dr. Will Coghill Behrends, Amy Andreassen, and Monique Cottman on how we can leverage global education as a powerful tool for establishing nurturing education systems for all. Uncover innovative ways to integrate global education best practices in the classroom that enable both educators and students to develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive.

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> In today's interconnected world, global citizenship is an indispensable skill set for understanding differences and analyzing local realities through a critical lens. Dr. Kari Vogelgesang hosts a compelling discussion with Dr. Will Coghill Behrends, Amy Andreassen, and Monique Cottman on how we can leverage global education as a powerful tool for establishing nurturing education systems for all. Uncover innovative ways to integrate global education best practices in the classroom that enable both educators and students to develop the knowledge and skills needed to thrive.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14692501 Thu, 14 Mar 2024 15:00:00 -0500 3313 2 6 full false Full Inclusion for Special Education Students Full Inclusion for Special Education Students In this episode of the Educator Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Justin Garwood, associate professor at the University of Vermont, to discuss the difference between self-contained classrooms and full inclusion for special education students. We unpack why full inclusion isn’t necessarily the best choice for all students and how different learning environments impact the well-being of not just students but their families and educators.

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]]> In this episode of the Educator Wellness Podcast, host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Justin Garwood, associate professor at the University of Vermont, to discuss the difference between self-contained classrooms and full inclusion for special education students. We unpack why full inclusion isn’t necessarily the best choice for all students and how different learning environments impact the well-being of not just students but their families and educators.

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14506676 Wed, 14 Feb 2024 18:00:00 -0600 3037 2 5 full false The Cost of Addiction: How Substance Abuse Damages Youth’s Brains, Bodies, and Communities The Cost of Addiction: How Substance Abuse Damages Youth’s Brains, Bodies, and Communities Substance abuse is a serious issue in our schools and communities. The statistics are alarming. Drug use among 8th graders from 2016-2020 increased by 61%; 62% of teens in 12th grade have abused alcohol; and 11% of overdose deaths are aged 15-24.

Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Jeffrey Johnston (founder of Living Undeterred) and Drew Martel (chief clinical and training officer at Foundation 2), for a powerful conversation about the effects that substance abuse has on the brains and bodies of children and adults. During this episode, tough questions are asked and powerful stories are shared, as we unpack how substance abuse affects our relationships, our students, and our schools. 

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]]> Substance abuse is a serious issue in our schools and communities. The statistics are alarming. Drug use among 8th graders from 2016-2020 increased by 61%; 62% of teens in 12th grade have abused alcohol; and 11% of overdose deaths are aged 15-24.

Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Jeffrey Johnston (founder of Living Undeterred) and Drew Martel (chief clinical and training officer at Foundation 2), for a powerful conversation about the effects that substance abuse has on the brains and bodies of children and adults. During this episode, tough questions are asked and powerful stories are shared, as we unpack how substance abuse affects our relationships, our students, and our schools. 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14278116 Tue, 09 Jan 2024 07:00:00 -0600 6361 2 4 full false Emotional Intelligence for Educators: The Transformative Power of Understanding Emotions Emotional Intelligence for Educators: The Transformative Power of Understanding Emotions Emotional intelligence is more than just a buzzword. It is at the heart of effective human interactions, including those with our students, co-workers, friends, and family. Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Erika Bocknek, a university professor, family therapist, and mom of 3, to discuss how emotional intelligence impacts our lives, and how by better understanding it, we can create harmonious and enriching educational environments. Also, Dr. Bocknek shares practical tips for emotional intelligence skill-building and the positive ripple effect it has on the lives of those we teach. 

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]]> Emotional intelligence is more than just a buzzword. It is at the heart of effective human interactions, including those with our students, co-workers, friends, and family. Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Erika Bocknek, a university professor, family therapist, and mom of 3, to discuss how emotional intelligence impacts our lives, and how by better understanding it, we can create harmonious and enriching educational environments. Also, Dr. Bocknek shares practical tips for emotional intelligence skill-building and the positive ripple effect it has on the lives of those we teach. 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14154455 Fri, 15 Dec 2023 12:00:00 -0600 3126 2 3 full false Challenging Behaviors in the Classroom - Whose Problem Is It? Challenging Behaviors in the Classroom - Whose Problem Is It? Challenging behaviors in K-12 classrooms have increased in frequency and intensity over the last few years. Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Allison Bruhn, professor of special education and executive director of the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health at the University of Iowa, to discuss what challenging behaviors are, who is at fault, and how we can work toward more supportive learning environments for both educators and students.

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]]> Challenging behaviors in K-12 classrooms have increased in frequency and intensity over the last few years. Host Dr. Kari Vogelgesang welcomes Dr. Allison Bruhn, professor of special education and executive director of the Scanlan Center for School Mental Health at the University of Iowa, to discuss what challenging behaviors are, who is at fault, and how we can work toward more supportive learning environments for both educators and students.

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-14041871 Mon, 27 Nov 2023 10:00:00 -0600 2288 2 2 full false Educator Wellness: Planning Your Summer for Personal Harmony Educator Wellness: Planning Your Summer for Personal Harmony During this episode, Dr. Ilana Nankin, CEO and Founder, Breathe for Change,  joins me in a conversation that offers information and practices for us to prioritize wellness and move into a space of personal harmony – which includes balancing the 8-dimensions of wellness. 

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]]> During this episode, Dr. Ilana Nankin, CEO and Founder, Breathe for Change,  joins me in a conversation that offers information and practices for us to prioritize wellness and move into a space of personal harmony – which includes balancing the 8-dimensions of wellness. 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-12980947 Mon, 05 Jun 2023 10:00:00 -0500 3427 1 8 full true Connecting to your Environment in a Meaningful Way to Support your Well-Being Connecting to your Environment in a Meaningful Way to Support your Well-Being During this episode, Craig N. Sawchuk, Ph.D., L.P., Chair, Division of Integrated Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry & Psychology at Mayo Clinic, joins me to engage in a discussion that will guide/encourage participants to think about what environmental wellness is and how it impacts their daily lives and well-being.

Environmental wellness encompasses not just your relationship with the planet and nature, but your relationship with your personal surroundings. When our personal surroundings are cared for, clean, and organized, we can experience greater comfort and less anxiety. In addition, this dimension of wellness involves being and feeling physically safe, in both our micro-environment (places we live, learn, work, etc.) and our macro-environment (our country, community, and the whole planet).

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]]> During this episode, Craig N. Sawchuk, Ph.D., L.P., Chair, Division of Integrated Behavioral Health, Department of Psychiatry & Psychology at Mayo Clinic, joins me to engage in a discussion that will guide/encourage participants to think about what environmental wellness is and how it impacts their daily lives and well-being.

Environmental wellness encompasses not just your relationship with the planet and nature, but your relationship with your personal surroundings. When our personal surroundings are cared for, clean, and organized, we can experience greater comfort and less anxiety. In addition, this dimension of wellness involves being and feeling physically safe, in both our micro-environment (places we live, learn, work, etc.) and our macro-environment (our country, community, and the whole planet).

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-12697822 Fri, 21 Apr 2023 15:00:00 -0500 3405 1 7 full false Challenging our Minds to Improve our Intellectual Dimension of Wellness Challenging our Minds to Improve our Intellectual Dimension of Wellness During this episode, Dr. Shelli Kesler, Director of the Brain Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Texas – Austin, joins me to talk about the importance of nurturing our intellectual wellness. We talk about how to cultivate mental growth as well as improve concentration, memory, and critical thinking skills. 

Reading, doing challenging puzzles, thinking through a creative project, learning how to play a musical instrument, etc., are just a few of the strategies we discuss. Tune in to learn more about how to challenge your mind and stimulate curiosity and creativity.  

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Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> During this episode, Dr. Shelli Kesler, Director of the Brain Health Neuroscience Lab at the University of Texas – Austin, joins me to talk about the importance of nurturing our intellectual wellness. We talk about how to cultivate mental growth as well as improve concentration, memory, and critical thinking skills. 

Reading, doing challenging puzzles, thinking through a creative project, learning how to play a musical instrument, etc., are just a few of the strategies we discuss. Tune in to learn more about how to challenge your mind and stimulate curiosity and creativity.  

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-12518462 Sun, 26 Mar 2023 14:00:00 -0500 2869 1 6 full false We are Professionals! Educator Compensation, Retention, and Attrition We are Professionals! Educator Compensation, Retention, and Attrition Special guests Mary Jane Cobb, Amira Nash, and Dr. Will Coghill-Behrends, join me for a captivating conversation about educator wellness and the future of the profession.

Each brings a unique viewpoint and expertise to the topic. Mary Jane is the Executive Director of the Iowa State Education Association, while Amira and Will both work in the University of Iowa College of Education. Amira serves as the  Associate Director of Programs and Partnerships in the Baker Teacher Leader Center, and Will is an Clinical Associate Professor of Multilingual Education. 

Learn about:

  • Tips to individually and collectively enhance educators' occupational and financial dimensions of wellness
  • Strategies educators can employ to positively impact the profession, their peers, and personal well-being


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]]> Special guests Mary Jane Cobb, Amira Nash, and Dr. Will Coghill-Behrends, join me for a captivating conversation about educator wellness and the future of the profession.

Each brings a unique viewpoint and expertise to the topic. Mary Jane is the Executive Director of the Iowa State Education Association, while Amira and Will both work in the University of Iowa College of Education. Amira serves as the  Associate Director of Programs and Partnerships in the Baker Teacher Leader Center, and Will is an Clinical Associate Professor of Multilingual Education. 

Learn about:

  • Tips to individually and collectively enhance educators' occupational and financial dimensions of wellness
  • Strategies educators can employ to positively impact the profession, their peers, and personal well-being


Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Buzzsprout-12346198 Wed, 22 Feb 2023 18:00:00 -0600 3048 1 5 full false How to Become Your Best Self by Loving Yourself Exactly as You Are How to Become Your Best Self by Loving Yourself Exactly as You Are January is often associated with a new, improved self. So, today special guest Dr. Susannah Coaston joins me to chat about self-improvement and how we can use self-compassion to counteract self-criticism.

A certified wellness counselor and independently licensed professional counselor and supervisor, Dr. Coaston has 15+ years of experience working with a wide-range of clinical concerns. She currently serves as Associate Professor of Counseling & Human Services at Northern Kentucky University.

Learn about:

  • Achieving self-improvement through self-compassion
  • Our spiritual dimension of wellness – finding purpose, values, and meaning in life
  • The paradox of being present and accepting what is in order to clearly see areas that need some work or practice

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> January is often associated with a new, improved self. So, today special guest Dr. Susannah Coaston joins me to chat about self-improvement and how we can use self-compassion to counteract self-criticism.

A certified wellness counselor and independently licensed professional counselor and supervisor, Dr. Coaston has 15+ years of experience working with a wide-range of clinical concerns. She currently serves as Associate Professor of Counseling & Human Services at Northern Kentucky University.

Learn about:

  • Achieving self-improvement through self-compassion
  • Our spiritual dimension of wellness – finding purpose, values, and meaning in life
  • The paradox of being present and accepting what is in order to clearly see areas that need some work or practice

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Buzzsprout-12346087 Wed, 18 Jan 2023 18:00:00 -0600 3199 1 4 full false Connecting with Others in Difficult Times Connecting with Others in Difficult Times Just in time for the holidays, I welcome Dr. Jacob Priest to the podcast. Jacob, Associate Professor and Director of Couple and Family Therapy at the University of Iowa College of Education, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Director of the LGBTQ Counseling Clinic. 

Learn about:

  • Managing emotions to meaningfully connect with others during stressful times
  • How to navigate different types of relationships
  • Setting firm and kind boundaries in relationships 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Just in time for the holidays, I welcome Dr. Jacob Priest to the podcast. Jacob, Associate Professor and Director of Couple and Family Therapy at the University of Iowa College of Education, is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist and Director of the LGBTQ Counseling Clinic. 

Learn about:

  • Managing emotions to meaningfully connect with others during stressful times
  • How to navigate different types of relationships
  • Setting firm and kind boundaries in relationships 

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Buzzsprout-12346052 Wed, 14 Dec 2022 18:00:00 -0600 3546 1 3 full false Creating Habits to Support Your Physical and Mental Health Creating Habits to Support Your Physical and Mental Health An expert in brain health and the author of Move the Body, Heal the Mind,  Dr. Jennifer Heisz joins our podcast today to explore how our physical wellness connects to our mental health.

She is Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Brain Health and Aging at McMaster University where she directs the NeuroFit lab. Her award-winning research examines the effects of physical activity on brain function to promote mental health and cognition in young adults, older adults, and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Learn about:

  • Physical activity’s effect on brain function
  • Ways to create and maintain health habits to build a stable wellness system
  • Fascinating discoveries connecting  movement and sleep


Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> An expert in brain health and the author of Move the Body, Heal the Mind,  Dr. Jennifer Heisz joins our podcast today to explore how our physical wellness connects to our mental health.

She is Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair in Brain Health and Aging at McMaster University where she directs the NeuroFit lab. Her award-winning research examines the effects of physical activity on brain function to promote mental health and cognition in young adults, older adults, and individuals with Alzheimer’s disease.

Learn about:

  • Physical activity’s effect on brain function
  • Ways to create and maintain health habits to build a stable wellness system
  • Fascinating discoveries connecting  movement and sleep


Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Buzzsprout-12346006 Wed, 16 Nov 2022 18:00:00 -0600 3944 1 2 full false Your 8-Dimensions of Wellness and Creating a System to Support Your Well-Being Your 8-Dimensions of Wellness and Creating a System to Support Your Well-Being In our inaugural podcast episode, I chat with Dr. Peggy Swarbrick, Research Professor and Associate Director of the Center of Alcohol & Substance Abuse Use Studies at Rutgers University. 

She has worked for 25 years as the Director of the Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey Wellness Institute. Recently Dr. Swarbrick developed a Wellness Training Learning Collaborative (W-TLC) designed to support the wellness of the workforce and is a collaborator on peer support models for healthcare professionals and educators to prevent burnout.

 Learn about: 

  • The connection between prioritizing educator wellness and centering the needs of students and families
  • How identity plays a role in the 8-dimensions of wellness
  • How our wellness habits impact our brain, emotions, perspective, etc
  • What the relationship between self-care and burnout looks like

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> In our inaugural podcast episode, I chat with Dr. Peggy Swarbrick, Research Professor and Associate Director of the Center of Alcohol & Substance Abuse Use Studies at Rutgers University. 

She has worked for 25 years as the Director of the Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey Wellness Institute. Recently Dr. Swarbrick developed a Wellness Training Learning Collaborative (W-TLC) designed to support the wellness of the workforce and is a collaborator on peer support models for healthcare professionals and educators to prevent burnout.

 Learn about: 

  • The connection between prioritizing educator wellness and centering the needs of students and families
  • How identity plays a role in the 8-dimensions of wellness
  • How our wellness habits impact our brain, emotions, perspective, etc
  • What the relationship between self-care and burnout looks like

Thanks for listening! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn, and YouTube.

Visit our website: https://scsmh.education.uiowa.edu

]]> Scanlan Center for School Mental Health Buzzsprout-12313544 Wed, 19 Oct 2022 18:00:00 -0500 4086 1 1 full false