Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 123, Molly is joined by Kristen O’Leary, who inspires us to #ChooseKind and empower all children to thrive academically, spiritually, emotionally, and socially. Kristen models the courage she ignites in her students, though she never thought she’d be in education! Born and bred in Yonkers, NY, she recalls being bullied as the “odd man out”, though that taught Kristen to have the backbone to stick up for herself. While loving her college studies in theatrical/stage design, she realized it wouldn’t be a fulfilling career path. An innocent question from friends was all it took to open an unexpected door in the field of education for this 19-year-old. Kristen fell in love with teaching kids and talks about how her field work was critical to her studies. Thanks to her aunt, a chance internship at a school for the deaf led to a turning point. As she delved into special education, Kristen was moved by being immersed in the day-to-day struggles—part of a child and their family’s personal journey—and called by the opportunity to help and in many cases change the trajectory of people’s lives. Kristen is open about integrating married life and being a mom... the reality of daycare being way more expensive in the real world! Working part-time was their solution and created the path to her now dream job. Learn how her faith, community and early start in theater provided the foundation for Kristen to find her passion to help every child meet his or her potential. She offers thoughts for parents to best support their children, including not berating yourself for wishing you did something sooner or differently! And she encourages compassion in all, “we have no idea of what’s gone on for that person this morning.” Hear what she wishes for her own 17-year-old son, and don’t miss the many nuggets about leading oneself to choose kind, succeed on your terms and be the change you want to see in the world.

Learn more about the amazing John Cardinal O’Connor School, dedicated to children with learning differences: https://johncardinaloconnorschool.org

Resources to help you #sayskillfully: