Welcome to 2024!

In this episode of the Optimalist, we talk with Bryon Carpenter, host of the Fresh Air at Five podcast. Brian shares how he transitioned from working in a pharmaceutical company to becoming a teacher after volunteering. He now teaches at an online school, working with students in media and robotics. Bryon discusses the challenges and benefits of online learning, emphasizing the importance of encouraging students and teaching them problem-solving skills. 

The conversation explores the transition from using Google tools to Microsoft tools and the importance of embracing the messiness of the learning process. Bryon discusses the challenges of engaging students online and emphasizes the importance of building relationships and providing support. He also shares his experience with podcasting and the impact it has had on his teaching. 

Sara and Bryon with a reflection on finding balance between technology and offline activities and the importance of connecting with nature. 

Key reflection: Reflect on the concept of nonlinear career paths as inspired by Bryon’s journey. Have you experienced or witnessed unconventional career shifts? How might these diverse experiences contribute to one's teaching style or approach within an educational setting?

 Chapters

(0:01:27) Teaching at an online school with in-building component

(0:03:23) Teaching experience in a regular high school and online school

(0:06:00) Distinction between homeschooling and online public education

(0:08:17) Identifying as a scientist and critical thinker

(0:11:59) Navigating the Complexity of Upbringing

(0:12:06) The Joy of Teaching and Witnessing Students' Growth

(0:15:28) Ensuring Academic Integrity in Online Education

(0:27:47) The Challenge of Online Learning and Building Discipline

(0:37:14) The Origin of the Podcast Journey

(0:39:14) Podcasting as a Tool for Learning and Making a Difference

(0:41:58) The Significance of ChatGPT and Ethical Use of Technology

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Links Mentioned:

Bryon on Twitter: @BryonCar

Fresh Air at Five Podcast

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The Optimalist Podcast is brought to you by Swivl. At Swivl, we understand that the biggest challenge in education is the rate of change. Policy revisions, technological advancements (accelerated by AI), evolving job markets, and ongoing research constantly identifying new best practices are only some of the factors affecting the rate of change in education. To learn how Swivl can help you be more reflective, engaged, and adaptable - including Mirror, our newest tool for complete transformation - visit swivl.com. You can also follow us on Twitter. 

We are SO EXCITED to introduce Mirror by Swivl - a new tool made to recognize the potential of reflection in classrooms. We built Mirror to thrive with AI, reflect easier, and partner with teachers. I think Mirror is where you and your students are going to meet your potential self.

Click here to sign up to try Mirror for FREE as part of our unique demo program starting in January 2024.

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Credits:

• Music: “Goodnight, Shapeshifter” by MusicForNothing, used under Creative Commons BY-ND 3.0.

Audio Editing & Production: Tim Belmont (@tbelmontedu)