Episode 80 of Downright Mindful focuses on the skills that matter beyond the classroom.

Matt shares a recent project he designed for his Criminal Justice students — a scavenger hunt with a breakout-style format that challenged students to work together, solve problems, and think on their feet. The activity was built around the SkillsUSA framework, emphasizing workplace-ready skills like teamwork, adaptability, integrity, and communication.

The conversation moves beyond the activity itself and into a broader discussion about what students actually need as they prepare for the real world. What does teamwork really look like? Can integrity be taught? How do students respond when they’re forced to adapt in real time?

Paul also shares more about recent conversations happening in his classroom with local leaders, including Gary Davis, Steve Lawson, Andrew Morgan, and Denny Collins. These moments continue to reinforce the idea that real leadership is often closer and more accessible than people think.

This episode is about preparing students for more than a test — it’s about preparing them for life.

Listen on Spotify
https://open.spotify.com/show/3sANbCaTFQag9nMCnR01N7?si=d4a1f013aab04481

Apple Podcasts
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/downright-mindful/id1776503597

Watch on YouTube
https://www.youtube.com/@downrightmindful

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