Gary Zaharatos - Podcast Details

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Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#27 - End-of-Year PE Reflections: Looking Back and Moving Forward with Adam MullisFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe It’s the final episode of the first year of the Distinguished PE Podcast — and it’s all about taking time to reflect. In this episode, I sit down with Adam Mullis to talk about wrapping up the school year with purpose: how to reflect on your teaching, your students’ growth, and the moments that shaped your PE program this year. We also take a moment to celebrate some big milestones — including the release of Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education T...2025-06-0936 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#26 - How the DPE Virtual Course Transformed Our Teaching with Jessie Erikson, Scott Harris, Byron Robinson, and Jen SmithFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe What happens when four PE teachers commit to growing their practice together? In this episode, I sit down with Jessie Erikson, Scott Harris, Byron Robinson, and Jen Smith - all participants in the Distinguished PE Book Study - to talk about how the experience reshaped their teaching. We dive into: What sparked their interest in the book study What they changed in their PE programs as a result How the community of teachers supported their growth The mi...2025-05-2850 min

PE Insights Podcast - PE ScholarEpisode 62 - Book Review Series (2) - Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher by Gary ZaharatosWelcome back to the PE Insights Podcast.This week's episode is the second in our book review series. I am joined by Dr Vicky Randall as we unpack the book 'Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher' by author, Gary Zaharatos.I hope you enjoy our conversation. Sit back, relax and as always, I would love to hear your thoughts.We are excited to share that we have formed a partnership with ⁠⁠Sports Directory⁠⁠, with their '⁠⁠My School Rewards' Scheme⁠⁠, you’ll get 10% back on every order, helping you to grow your department budget. Check it o 2025-05-231h 04

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#25 - Supporting English Learners in PE Without Speaking Their Language (Yet) with Kelly DonnellyFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe What would you do if 200 new students walked into your gym — most of them speaking a language you don’t understand? That’s exactly what happened to Kelly Donnelly, a PE teacher in Denver Public Schools. In this powerful episode, Kelly shares how welcoming a wave of Spanish-speaking migrant students changed her teaching, pushed her outside her comfort zone, and strengthened her belief that movement is a universal language. We talk about: How to overcome fear and anxi...2025-05-1340 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#24 - Highlights and Takeaways from SHAPE Baltimore 2025 with Jen SmithFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Jen Smith, a passionate PE leader and teacher from Denver, Colorado, who recently returned from the 2025 SHAPE America National Convention in Baltimore. Jen has been teaching for over 20 years and is known for her energy, thoughtful leadership, and commitment to elevating the field of physical education. In this episode, Jen and I discuss: What made SHAPE Baltimore stand out from past conventions How professional development helps reignite passion for teaching Memorable sessions, presenters, and ta...2025-04-2227 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#23 - Why Every PE Program Needs Yoga with Kristen SantosFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe Looking for ways to create a calmer, more connected PE environment? In this episode, I talk with Kristen Santos — a certified yoga instructor and Massachusetts Middle School PE Teacher of the Year — about how yoga can help students self-regulate, focus, and feel more included in your program. We explore: The benefits of yoga beyond flexibility How to align yoga with PE standards Ways yoga builds connection and inclusivity Strategies for integrating yoga without losing movement time Whethe...2025-04-0445 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#22 - How to Plan an Unforgettable Field Day with Drew BurrisFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Drew Burris, an award-winning physical education teacher in Missouri with 14 years of teaching experience and a passion for creating memorable learning experiences for his students. Drew currently teaches PreK–2nd grade at Ridge View Elementary and is well known in the PE community through his online presence, professional development work, and national recognition as Missouri’s 2021 SHAPE Elementary PE Teacher of the Year. In this episode, Drew and I discuss: What the weeks leading up to...2025-03-3041 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#21 – Why Dance Belongs in PE: Strategies, Confidence & Inclusion with Victor SpadaroFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Victor Spadaro, a dynamic and passionate physical educator from Arlington, Virginia. Victor teaches PreK–5th grade at Abingdon Elementary and was recently named the 2025 Southern District Elementary PE Teacher of the Year. He’s an OPEN National Trainer, former Dance VP of Virginia AHPERD, and a frequent presenter at state and national conferences. In this episode, Victor and I discuss: Why dance is an essential part of a high-quality PE curriculum Strategies to help PE tea...2025-03-2539 min $MAHPERD \$ MAHPERD "Voices From The field"Coaching PE Teachers: Insights from an Instructional ExpertSend us a textGary Zaharatos is a Physical Education Peer Observer and Instructional Coach in Denver Public Schools. He spends his days coaching and evaluating physical education teachers throughout the city. He has dedicated his career to supporting teachers as they strive to implement high quality instruction in physical education. Gary holds a Bachelors of Science in Physical Education and a Masters in Curriculum and Instruction.Having twenty years of experience in public education, Gary has taught, observed and provided feedback on thousands of PE lessons and was named Administrator of...2025-03-1952 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#20 - The Power of Adapted PE: Strategies, Tools, and Insights with Brad HunterFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Brad Hunter. Brad has been working with students in a physical activity capacity for 19 years—first through a nonprofit that brought meaningful play to schools, then as an elementary PE teacher, and now in his sixth year as an itinerant Adapted PE teacher for Baltimore City Public Schools. He serves on the Board of SHAPE Maryland, is the President of the Maryland Adapted PE Consortium, and Co-Chair of the Maryland State Department of Education Standards and Framework Validation Committee. Bra...2025-03-1853 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#19 - Becoming a Better PE Teacher Through National Board Certification with Patrick NoelFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Patrick Noel. Patrick received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from St. Bonaventure University and a Master of Arts in Kinesiology with a PE emphasis from Fresno Pacific University. He is in his 19th year of teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools—the largest district in Virginia and the 11th largest in the country. Patrick has taught at both the elementary and high school levels and is currently at Colvin Run Elementary, where he’s been since 2020. In De...2025-03-1443 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#18 - Motivating Secondary Students Through Student Choice with Austin Olsen and Caitlin SchovilleFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guests today are Caitlin Schoville and Austin Olsen, two nationally recognized middle school physical educators. Caitlin teaches 7th and 8th grade health and PE at Pleasant Valley Junior High in eastern Iowa. She was named SHAPE Iowa’s Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2022 and SHAPE America’s Central District Teacher of the Year in 2024. Austin teaches 8th grade at Pacific Trails Middle School in California. He was named the SHAPE America Western District Teacher of the Year and Calif...2025-03-0653 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#17 – From College to the Gym: Practical PE Insights with Christina CollinsFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Christina Collins, founder and owner of NeverStopMoving365, an organization focused on expanding access to physical education beyond the school day. Christina holds a Master’s in Sport Science and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a research focus on movement joy and physical literacy. She teaches in the Master of Arts in Teaching PE and Sport Pedagogy program at Manhattanville University and is a passionate educator, speaker, and ultra-endurance athlete. In this epis...2025-02-2240 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#16 – Preparing for a Physical Education Job Interview: Tips for Standing OutFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I explore how to prepare for a physical education job interview in a way that highlights your professionalism, instructional skills, and commitment to student growth. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator looking for a new opportunity, this episode offers practical strategies for communicating your strengths and experience with confidence. This episode included: How to show a growth mindset in your responses Communicating how you create a safe and inclusive PE...2025-02-1513 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#15 - Encouraging Learning and Growth in Physical Education Through Self-Reflection with Erin EvansFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Evans, an award-winning physical education teacher whose passion for teaching and dedication to her community have made a meaningful impact both in and out of the gym. Originally from Australia, Erin now teaches in Montana, where she leads with creativity, reflection, and a commitment to high-quality PE. We discuss: How expectations for PE vary across districts and states Designing curriculum that supports health and wellness Usin...2025-02-0248 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#14 - Legitimizing Physical Education Through Meaningful Assessment with Adam MullisFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe Today I’m joined by Dr. Adam Mullis, a passionate educator and advocate for health and physical education. Adam is in his 10th year of teaching middle school PE and health, holds advanced degrees in curriculum, assessment, and instruction, and has served in leadership roles across multiple professional organizations. He’s presented at numerous conferences, written over $60,000 in grants, and helped his schools earn national recognition as some of the “Healthiest Schools in America.” In this episode, we discuss: Wh...2025-01-1550 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#13 - Establishing a Culture of Excellence in PE with Sam HortonFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe Today I’m joined by Sam Horton, a dedicated PE teacher and swimming lead with seven years of experience in education. Sam was recently recognized for introducing the Swim England National School Swimming Award at his school. He’s developed full curricula for both PE and swimming and is passionate about helping students build not only physical skills but also social-emotional competencies through leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship. In this episode, we discuss: The importance of setting high expect...2024-12-2958 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#12 – Standards-Based PE Assessment Made Practical with Jen Smith and Jesse WeberFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Smith and Jesse Weber to explore what meaningful assessment can look like in a high-quality PE program. We discuss: How our views on assessment have evolved over the years Common misconceptions about grading and assessment in PE Outdated grading practices that still linger in some programs Clear criteria teachers can use when assessing students How to use assessment data to inform inst...2024-11-051h 07

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#11 - Why Student Talk Matters in PE with Mark LombardiFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe Today I’m speaking with Mark Lombardi, a veteran physical education teacher who has spent the past 23 years at Godsman Elementary in Denver Public Schools. Mark earned his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in K–12 education from the University of Northern Colorado, and holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. His long-term commitment to one school community has allowed him to deeply connect with his students and continuously refine his practice. In this episode, we discuss:2024-10-1033 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#10 – Empowering Student Voice Through Peer Feedback with Peter RossiFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Peter Rossi, the physical education teacher at Stedman Elementary School in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood. After earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism and working as a reporter, Pete transitioned to education and completed a master’s in physical education at the University of Northern Colorado. Now in his 10th year of teaching, he also serves as a regional team specialist, planning and facilitating professional development for fellow PE teachers in the district. In this epi...2024-09-1728 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#9 – Chapter Two of Becoming a Distinguished PE Teacher: High Expectations for Student BehaviorFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I read Chapter 2 of my book, Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher. This chapter explores: Why high expectations for student behavior are essential in PE How consistent routines and expectations help create a safe and motivating environment Practical examples of what respectful behavior looks like in a PE setting The connection between student behavior and instructional effectiveness Ways to proactively address common behavior challenges ...2024-09-0242 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#8 – “What Are We Learning Today?”: Creating and Communicating Content and Language Objectives with Jen SmithFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Jen Smith, the Physical Education Instructional Curriculum Specialist for Denver Public Schools. Jen brings over a decade of teaching experience and a passion for supporting PE teachers in creating standards-based, student-centered lessons. In this episode, we discuss: What PE lessons can look like when they’re not aligned to standards How to write clear, standards-based content and language objectives (CLOs) Ways to make CLOs meaningful and student-friendly The...2024-08-2153 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#7 - Chapter One of Becoming a Distinguished PE Teacher: Promoting Inclusivity and EngagementFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this solo episode, I read Chapter One from my book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, titled “Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement.” This chapter explores: Why inclusivity should be a foundational part of every PE program Strategies for ensuring all students feel seen, valued, and supported Practical ways to boost engagement through intentional instructional decisions How to foster a sense of belonging and connection in your gym Whether...2024-08-1423 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#6 - Designing PE for Everyone: Equity, Inclusion, and Differentiation with Brian HullFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Brian Hull. Brian taught secondary physical education in Title I schools for 10 years in Denver Public Schools before becoming a full-time member of the SPARK and Gopher Sport team. He now works as an instructional coach at Quist Middle School in Adams County, Colorado. Brian was named the SHAPE Colorado High School Teacher of the Year in 2018 and the SHAPE America National High School Teacher of the Year in 2020. In this episode, we discuss: ...2024-08-0852 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#5 - Teaching PE to Preschoolers: What Every PE Teacher Should Know with Sara WhatmoreFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guest today is Sara Whatmore. Sara earned a BA in Child Development from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She taught kindergarten and first grade for 11 years—two of those in Charlotte, North Carolina, and nine in Aurora, Colorado. She later transitioned into teaching physical education while earning a Master’s in Physical Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Sara now teaches PE at Stephen Knight Center for Early Education in Denver Public Schools, where she combines her exper...2024-08-0746 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#4 - Back to School Strategies for Elementary PE Teachers with Tyler Quinn and Jessica TempletonFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe My guests today are Tyler Quinn and Jessica Templeton. Tyler has been teaching elementary physical education for seven years. After starting his career in Arlington Public Schools, he moved to Colorado in 2020, where he now teaches PreK–5th grade PE at Columbine Elementary in Denver Public Schools. Jessica brings 24 years of experience in Denver Public Schools. She spent 16 years as a third-grade classroom teacher before transitioning into PE. She currently teaches at Gust Elementary and also serves as a Reg...2024-07-3148 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#3 - Back to School Strategies for Secondary PE Teachers with Brian CraneFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Crane, a veteran PE teacher with over 20 years of experience across elementary, middle, and high school levels. Brian currently teaches at East Valley Academy in the Mesa School District and brings a wealth of practical wisdom, humor, and heart to the conversation. We discuss: Communicating clear expectations for student behavior Creating and reinforcing class rules Building mutually respectful relationships with students Reducing student anxi...2024-07-241h 04

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Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes#2 – Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher: IntroductionFor all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe In this episode, I read the introduction to my book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher. This book was written to help PE teachers reflect on their practice, grow in their craft, and elevate the role of physical education in schools. In the introduction, I share: Why I wrote this book What makes physical education a unique and powerful subject How instructional practices in PE can shift from outdated traditions to student-centered learning...2024-05-3008 min

Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes🎙️ #1 – Promo Episode: Welcome to the Distinguished Physical Education Podcast!For all things Distinguished Physical Education: https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe Welcome to the Distinguished Physical Education Podcast, the show where we discuss how to create rigorous, standards-based PE programs that are safe and welcoming for all students. In this short introductory episode, I share: What this podcast is all about The kinds of topics and guests you can expect My background as a PE teacher, coach, curriculum specialist, and author Why this podcast was created — and who it’s for Whet...2024-05-3013 min