SUMMARY

This episode is extra special—our producer, Katie Worden, had the privilege of working under the incredible leadership of Dr. Maricela Helm at Amy Parks Elementary in Rockwall ISD. As Katie's principal, Maricela left a lasting impression, showing her that when we focus on the well-being of each child, academic success will naturally follow.

In this episode, host Michelle Kinder sits down with Maricela for a heartfelt and thought-provoking conversation about what it truly means to be an educator today. They talk about the power of being present, building authentic relationships with students, and cultivating a love for learning. Maricela shares her insight on how shifting our mindset, practicing daily self-care, and establishing community agreements can transform not just classrooms—but entire school cultures.

After the interview, Michelle is joined by Chris Kent Phelps to reflect on the conversation. Together, they unpack the moments that stood out most, diving deeper into themes like vulnerability, empowerment, and what it means to raise up students as not only future change makers, but ripplemakers today.

This episode is a reminder of how impactful educators can be—and how putting connection at the center of our work can shape lives in lasting, meaningful ways.

TAKEAWAYS

• We need to focus on who students are right now, not just their future potential.
• It's important for kids to see us struggle, we are all learners all the time.
• Discipline should be viewed as an opportunity for relationship building, not punishment.
• Community agreements help establish a respectful and supportive environment and foster trust and communication.
• Empowering students to impact their present can lead to a more engaged and responsible future generation.
• Vulnerability in teaching can help students relate better to their teachers.
• Education should prioritize relationships over mere academic achievement.
• Empowering students to see themselves as change makers is vital.

CHAPTERS

00:00 – The Present Self: Embracing Who You Are Now 02:40 – Understanding the Role of Educators 04:03 – The Journey to Education: Personal Stories 06:11 – Creating a Love for Learning 10:27 – Mindset Shifts in Education 15:28 – Transforming Discipline into Relationship Building 19:17 – The Power of Circles in Education 22:05 – Building Community Agreements 26:12 – Addressing Systemic Issues in Education 30:06 – The Evolving Role of Educators 35:19 – Empowering Students to Impact the Present 45:26 – The Importance of Daily Self-Care for Educators 48:36 – Celebrating Teachers and Their Impact 51:07 – The Heart of Teaching: Stories That Inspire 52:14 – Building Relationships in Education 53:43 – The Power of Perspective 58:25 – Mindset as Self-Care 01:01:21 – Embracing Vulnerability in Education 01:04:12 – Community Agreements: Building Trust 01:07:20 – Transforming Education Through Relationships 01:10:17 – Empowering Students as Change Makers 01:11:11 – The Importance of Circles in Education

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Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project and proudly sponsored by Tacky Box.

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