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School Health Educators
School Health EducatorsUsing Analogies in HE Classes with Scott TodnemIn this episode of the School Health Educators podcast, nationally recognized health educator Scott Todnem joins us to share how he uses clever analogies and engaging activities to help students stay focused—no matter the unit being taught. Scott offers a variety of creative examples, demonstrating his passion for encouraging students to be mindful about what they’re learning. To learn more about Scott Todnem or to connect with him, visit his website, Life Is the Future. There you’ll find information about his books and the classroom podcast he produces alongside his students. Remember, you ca...
2025-06-2325 minUpgrade My Classroom
Upgrade My ClassroomSEL Exercises For Your Classroom With Scott TodnemI came across a teacher online who was doing some fantastic SEL exercises with his students and posting them online…I had to have him on as a guest to learn more! Scott Todnem is the author of “Growing Up Great! The Ultimate Puberty Book for Boys” and “Sex Education: A Parent’s Guide.” Scott has been teaching Health Education at the middle school level since 2001 and was awarded the 2019 National Health Teacher of the Year. He uses his platforms to promote cultural diversity, gender inclusivity, mental health awareness, and suicide prevention. Scott is a nationally-recognized presenter and travels to s...
2023-04-2642 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMaturing Through Middle School - S3 E15From childhood to teen years! This week's hosts, Naomi and Zoie interview classmates Julian and Emanuel and all four 8th graders discuss the middle school experience, focusing on lessons learned from 6th to 8th grade. Specifics include elementary worries about recess, lunch, and homework, physical growth and stress management, social circles and true friendships, and excitement for high school. RESOURCES Students: MindBe Education - 30 Mindfulness Activities for Teens Parents: Parent Learning Center - Expectations That Your Teen Will Appreciate In The Future Teachers: Chicago Tribune - 'No worse...
2021-02-1929 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureRethinking Schoolwork in the Pandemic World - S3 E14Schoolwork during a pandemic... what should that look like? This week's hosts, Tami and David interview classmates Tanuj and Olivia and all four 8th graders discuss the topic of schoolwork, focusing on remote and hybrid learning, grading, teaching techniques, learning apps, and considerations we should all take during the COVID pandemic. RESOURCES Kids, Teachers Making School Work During COVID-19 from USA Today Should Schools Be Giving Failing Grades This Year? from Education Week I Can’t Believe This, but I Would Rather Be at School from New York Times What Is Homework's Pu...
2021-02-0522 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens in a Pandemic Check In: Recap of 2020 & Hope for 2021 - S3 E13Pandemic check-in! Back for the new year... it's 2021! We are a doing these from time to time this school year-- a "temperature check" from our 8th graders on how everything is going in our COVID era of learning and living. This week's hosts, Naomi and Zoie interview classmates MeShauna and Tiffany and all four 8th graders have a conversation to recap all of the events of 2020 before looking ahead to 2021. Specifics include worldwide catastrophes and political events like wildfires, celebrity deaths, Black Lives Matter, murder hornets, Trump & Biden election, storming of the Capitol building...
2021-01-1625 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureWinter Break Fun: "Would You Rather" & "Never Have I Ever" - S3 E12"Would You Rather" & "Never Have I Ever"  This week, all four 8th grade hosts-- Tami, David, Naomi, and Zoie-- take a little break from their weekly interview routine. They've been through some important topics already this school year and decided to have a little fun the day before winter break. Listen in as they debate some great questions and laugh through random scenarios together. It's an entertaining episode and lets the teens speak candidly for a bit. Below are some resources I like to offer at this time of the year during the holidays and u...
2020-12-2122 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMental & Social Health in Middle School - S3 E11The crucial meeting point between mental and social health! How does cognitive and emotional wellness influence the interactions with family, friends, and society? And vice versa? This week our hosts Tami and David have a conversation with classmates Aimee and Lucas. Their discussion focuses on coping through the COVID pandemic, what is currently influencing emotional well-being in teens, how students are maintaining social interactions, if schools and Health Classes help, and recommendations to fellow middle schoolers on how to stay mentally healthy going into the new year. RESOURCES Mental Health: MentalHealth.gov...
2020-12-1426 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureWhat Do Teens Know About Illegal Drugs? - S3 E10Drugs. Teens. Is it inevitable the two will meet? Or is that a stereotype of the past? This week our hosts Naomi and Zoie have a conversation about drug use, focusing on medicine vs. illegal drugs, lacking knowledge and information, media influence on teenagers, peer pressure and social image, and other perceptions surrounding the topic. This week's guests, Sania and Mia, help process things with their own thoughts, and the four 8th graders ponder their own future before leaving younger listeners with recommendations for handling the decisions in middle school. RESOURCES Youth Risk Behavior Survey
2020-12-0720 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureIntroducing the Life Is The Future PodcastLife Is The Future! What influences exist in teenage life? What drives adolescent behavior? What else impacts physical, mental, and social well-being in this thing we call life? Tune in to hear directly from teachers and students as we dive into topics surrounding the lives of adolescents. Health Education teacher Scott Todnem and his middle school students open up conversations that get to the heart of it all. Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2020-11-2701 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens Reflect on the 2020 Presidential Election - S3 E9Let's get political! ;) 8th Grade hosts Tami and David invite classmates Sania and Sophie back to the podcast to discuss the 2020 American Presidential election. All four middle schoolers give their thoughts on the state of the nation and provide insight on teenagers' interest and education in politics and activism. This is a must-listen! Hear their mature conversation about the presidential debates, mail-in ballots and potential voter fraud, and recommendations to fellow young people on how to stay informed and involved while growing up. RESOURCES Harvard Institute of Politics: Youth Poll - Election 2020 Common Sense M...
2020-11-1221 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Ins & Outs of Teen Technology Use - S3 E8The many faces of technology! Naomi and Zoie interview two other 8th grade students, Saryah and Ania. All four discuss the positives and negatives of technology, with a focus on its addictive nature, schoolwork vs. recreation, human advances, popular online sites/apps, practical uses, and how age factors into screen time. RESOURCES Common Sense Media: Teens on Social Media & How Much Screen Time is Okay? Pew Research Study: Teens & Social Media Vox Recode: Teens Are Hooked On Social Media Adam Alter: TED Talk & "Irresistible: The Rise of Addictive Technology" Teaching...
2020-11-0522 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens in a Pandemic Check In: Remote Learning vs. Hybrid Set-up - S3 E7Pandemic check-in! We will do these from time to time this school year-- a "temperature check" from our 8th graders on how everything is going in our COVID era of learning and living. This week's hosts, David and Zoie interview classmates Mady and Baruni and all four 8th graders have a conversation about their current situation in our pandemic. Specifics include remote learning, hybrid approach, coping strategies, social health, media influence, testing and vaccine possibilities, and more. Below are some mental health resources we've always promoted during our podcasts. RESOURCES MentalHealth.gov Let's...
2020-10-2220 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureDealing With Stereotypes While Growing Up - S3 E6Stereotypes: generalizations based on a group in which a person belongs. (Ex: race, age, gender, income, neighborhood, etc.) This week's 8th grade hosts mix it up a bit, as Tami and Naomi partner up to interview classmates Anya and Aria. The four teens take on the repeating topic of stereotypes in middle school and in life. This is always a much needed conversation year-to-year. They bring up gender, race, and even sexuality a bit, talking through unfair perceptions of people, the influence from society and media, generalizations and home life, and just a bit about the "-isms"...
2020-10-1626 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSocial Health & Dating Relationships (Part 2) - S3 E5How are teens maintaining social health in 2020, and what are their thoughts on friendship and dating? Tami and David take their turn at this multi-episode focus, interviewing classmates Lucas and CJ. The four 8th graders discuss teen relationships and social health through the COVID pandemic, including family, friendships, and dating. Specifics include which online apps help friends stay connected this year, dating for image versus true feelings, and how adults could help teens navigate feelings of "like" and "love" while growing up. This is Part 2 of 2. Additional thoughts on the same topic came from different 8th...
2020-10-0726 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSocial Health & Dating Relationships (Part 1) - S3 E4How are teens maintaining social health in 2020, and what are their thoughts on friendship and dating? Naomi and Zoie start a multi-episode focus, interviewing classmates Meadow and Chloe. The four 8th graders discuss teen relationships and a bunch of related topics like managing social health through the COVID pandemic, influences on friends and dating, and recommendations for pre-teens. This is Part 1 of 2. Additional thoughts on the same topic come from different 8th graders in the following week. RESOURCES Students: LoveIsRespect.Org Parents: Coping with Teen Dating Teachers: Teaching Consent & Sex Ed...
2020-10-0123 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens Discuss the Black Lives Matter Movement & Race in America - S3 E3What race and social issues do teenagers see and experience? Our 8th grade hosts, Tami and David, take the lead in their first episode. They interview classmates Sophie and Sana, and the four 8th graders take on an enormous topic for their first offering-- social and racial justice, discrimination, Black Lives Matter, and related activism. Offered here is a real, emotionally-charged conversation about social issues in 2020 America (and beyond). RESOURCES Black Lives Matter - Resources 101 Anti-Racist Resources - Books & Literature on Bias, Racism, & Anti-Racism Indigenous Peoples' History - Smithsonian Webinar How Racial...
2020-09-2325 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Ups & Downs of Social Media Use in Teens - S3 E2Is it all drama or can anything good come from media use? What do teens wish adults knew about social media? Our 8th grade hosts, Naomi and Zoie, take the lead in their first episode. They interview classmates Sania and Zaara, and all four offer their thoughts about social media and teenagers. The group discusses both the positive and negative aspects of social media, how to use media correctly, and recommendations to both adults and younger kids about media use. RESOURCES Pew Research Study: Teens & Social Media Common Sense Media: Teens on Social...
2020-09-1521 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureVirtually Back in Action! (Starting Season 3) - S3 E1Getting virtually started with our new hosts! We meet our Season 3 podcast hosts, Naomi and Zoie, Tami and David! These 8th grade students will take the lead in weekly interviews with classmates. The students will start recording through the screen as we begin the 2020-2021 school year remotely in our pandemic and post-pandemic world. Wish us luck! These hosts will put Health Ed life skills into practice-- communication, decision making, and advocacy will help them create discussions and debates on the multitude of timely topics for today's teen. Check it out and make...
2020-09-1015 minINSHAPE
INSHAPEScott Todnem: Life Is The Future (INspire2020 Summer PLI)Life Is The Future Scott Todnem, 2019 National Health Educator of the Year, offers a vulnerable perspective on what it means to health education in an environment of uncertainty. We'll explore how he offers an authentic approach for educators worldwide to consider.
2020-07-1434 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMeeting Season 3 Hosts (Part 2: Tami & David) - S2 E25The end of another era! We are finishing up the 2019-2020 school year, and Salil and Shauna are moving on up. We meet two of our next podcast hosts, Tami and David! These 7th grade students will take the lead next year, and join two other students to be our Season 3 leaders. We sadly say goodbye to the 8th graders and discuss how it all went with Salil and Shauna in our second podcast season. The students talk through recommendations on topics and guests-- what worked well, how to get people talking, and the...
2020-05-2724 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What is a fart? Wacky Facts: Weird Odds & EndsHere's our final Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts for the COVID-19 pandemic and quarantine time. Thanks to everyone for listening in. Hopefully it brought a smile to your face every week during this time of e-learning and uncertainty. This week: What is a fart? + Weird Odds & Ends BACKGROUND To supplement remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring during the COVID-19 quarantine, I put together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my...
2020-05-2212 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMeeting Season 3 Hosts (Part 1: Naomi & Zoie) - S2 E24Passing the torch! We are finishing up the 2019-2020 school year, and Lauren and Rhys are moving on up. We meet two of our next podcast hosts, Naomi and Zoie! These 7th grade students will take the lead next year, and join two other students to be our Season 3 leaders. We sadly say goodbye to the 8th graders and discuss how it all went with Lauren and Rhys in our second podcast season. The students talk through recommendations on topics and guests-- what worked well, how to get people talking, and the whole process...
2020-05-2022 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: Why do we puke? Wacky Facts: Human Growth & ReproductionIt's Friday! Here's our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. Only one more week after this one! This week: Why do we puke? + Facts on Growth & Reproduction. BACKGROUND To supplement remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring during the COVID-19 quarantine, I am putting together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public as well. Hope you enjoy! ...
2020-05-1511 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureStaying Positive Through the Pandemic - Teens in Quarantine S2 E23Quarantine Continues Another remote recording! This year's hosts meet online again to have their weekly conversation during the pandemic. Rhys takes the lead to discuss the current COVID situation, celebrating things like birthdays during the pandemic, and trying to find fun ways of coping through this time. We will hear from the teens two more times as we end this school year and head into summer. Below are some mental health resources we've always promoted during our podcasts. RESOURCES MentalHealth.gov Let's Talk About It World Health Organization (WHO) Self-Care...
2020-05-1419 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What's a booger? Wacky Facts: Funny QuestionsAnother end to the week! Here's our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts for Friday. This week: What's a booger? + Wacky Questions. BACKGROUND To supplement remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring during the COVID-19 quarantine, I am putting together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public as well. Hope you enjoy! Depending on the grade level...
2020-05-0811 minProject Alchemy
Project AlchemyScott Todnem - Being Yourself is the Best Thing You Can DoScott Todnem is a very well rounded guy. He is a Health Teacher, Author, Podcaster, Speaker, Crossfit Instructor, and the occasional poet. He was the recipient of the 2019 National Health Teacher of the year. Scott talks about how he impacts students and navigates the tough topics that involve a health class curriculum. He also shares a lot of great life advice along the way. Follow us @Projectalchemyco on Instagram, @projalchemyco on Twitter, and @projectalchemyco on Tik tok
2020-05-0750 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureLooking Past the Pandemic - Teens in Quarantine S2 E22Another Week in Quarantine We continue with our remote recordings! This year's hosts, Salil, Shauna, Lauren, and Rhys all meet online again to have their weekly conversation during the pandemic. Shauna takes the lead this time to discuss the possibility and ramifications of phasing out of social distancing. The group also examines moving into summer and beyond as well as more ways of coping through this time. We will hear from the teens each week through the end of the school year to get insight on their social and mental health during this difficult and unprecedented...
2020-05-0624 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What is earwax? Wacky Facts: Ridiculous Criminal StoriesFriday again! Check out our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. This week: What is earwax? + Wacky Criminals. BACKGROUND To supplement remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring during the COVID-19 quarantine, I am putting together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public as well. Hope you enjoy! Depending on the grade level, each Friday we start...
2020-05-0110 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMissing "Real Life" - Teens in Quarantine S2 E21Life in Quarantine Another remote recording! This year's hosts, Salil, Shauna, Lauren, and Rhys all meet online to have their weekly conversation during the pandemic. Lauren takes the lead this time to discuss the scale of this world event, social media, e-learning, new habits, and positive ways of coping through this time. We will hear from the teens each week through the end of the school year to get insight on their social and mental health during this difficult and unprecedented situation. Below are some mental health resources we've always promoted during our podcasts.
2020-04-2922 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What is spit? Wacky Facts: Funny State LawsIt's Friday! Check out our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. This week: What is spit? + Funny State Laws. BACKGROUND To supplement remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring during the COVID-19 quarantine, I am putting together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public as well. Hope you enjoy! Depending on the grade level, each Friday we...
2020-04-2411 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureBack with Our 8th Grade Hosts! - Teens in Quarantine S2 E20COVID-19 Quarantine Recording! We made it happen! This year's hosts, Salil, Shauna, Lauren, and Rhys all meet remotely to have a conversation about the pandemic, how it put a halt on not just the podcast but also the school year, and their thoughts and coping mechanisms in the meantime. It's great to hear from the teens again and get insight on their social and mental health during this difficult and unprecedented situation. Below are some mental health resources we've always promoted during our podcasts. RESOURCES MentalHealth.gov Let's Talk About It ...
2020-04-2220 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: Why do we sweat? Wacky Facts: The Earth & Outer SpaceAnother Fun Friday! Check out our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. This week: Why do we sweat? + The Earth & Outer Space. BACKGROUND Sadly, the COVID-19 quarantine has put a hold on the student-led podcasts for Season 2. However, to supplement the remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring, I will put together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with...
2020-04-1711 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What's a scab? Wacky Facts: Weird & Wonderful PeopleHere we are with another Fun Friday! Check out our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. This week: What's a scab? + Weird & Wonderful People. BACKGROUND Sadly, the COVID-19 quarantine has put a hold on the student-led podcasts for Season 2. However, to supplement the remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring, I will put together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to...
2020-04-1009 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: Why do we burp? Wacky Facts: The Animal KingdomAnother Fun Friday! Here's our Weekly Trivia question and Wacky Facts. This week: Why do we burp? + The Animal Kingdom. BACKGROUND Sadly, the COVID-19 quarantine has put a hold on the student-led podcasts for Season 2. However, to supplement the remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring, I will put together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public...
2020-04-0312 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureFun Friday - Trivia: What happens to swallowed gum? Wacky Facts: The Amazing Human BodySadly, the COVID-19 quarantine has put a hold on the student-led podcasts for Season 2. However, to supplement the remote teaching and e-learning that is occurring, I will put together a sample of some of the "Fun Friday" activities that usually occur within our Health classroom. I was going to just record these for students in my virtual classrooms, but figured I'd use this platform to share with the public as well. Hope you enjoy! BACKGROUND Depending on the grade level, each Friday we start the period off with some Wacky Facts or...
2020-03-2714 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens Talking Mental Health - S2 E19Mental health: our cognitive, emotional, and behavioral well-being-- in other words, the relationship between how we think, feel, and behave. This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have a conversation with classmates Sreenija, Vanshika, and Audi about mental health. Their discussion focuses on the perception of mental illness, having open dialogue about mental health, if schools and Health Classes help, and what influences emotional well-being in teens. RESOURCES MentalHealth.gov Let's Talk About It World Health Organization (WHO) Self-Care and Self-Help National Alliance of Mental Illness (NAMI) Top HelpLine Resources National...
2020-02-2821 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureIs Internet Privacy Possible? - S2 E18The Internet. Is it possible to be safe and private while still having fun with social media? This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, are joined by Sara, Danielle, and Brady. The group starts off by discussing if businesses should check social media prior to hiring employees. They continue the conversation to include Internet privacy, and the lack of, as well as young people lying to get on social media apps. The students end by offering tips for pre-teens to consider before getting on media. RESOURCES Pew Research Study: Teens & Social Media ...
2020-02-2418 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens, Fashion, and School Dress Codes - S2 E17Dress Codes: a set of rules with regards to clothing, often created out of social perceptions and norms, with a required manner of dress at a school, office, restaurant, etc. This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have a conversation with classmates Sydney and Manasvi about dress codes in school and the impact of clothing styles on teens. The group considers whether school uniforms would be beneficial in public schools, if dress codes are unfair, and what is influencing trends in clothing styles for teenagers today. What are your thoughts? Do our clothes help us b...
2020-02-0519 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureShould Teenagers Be Drug Tested in School? - S2 E16Drug testing: Is it legal? Invasive? A viable way to help or intervene? This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, are joined by Luke and Antwoyne. The group discusses teen influences, focusing mostly on drug use, and debating the possibility of drug testing in schools. First, could that ever be a thing, and next, is that the right type of help for students? Is that the intervention young people might need, or is it just an invasion of privacy and personal freedom? RESOURCES Youth Risk Behavior Survey CDC - E-Cigarettes Tobacco...
2020-01-3118 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureAdolescent Stereotypes - S2 E15Back at it with another discussion on teenage stereotypes! Stereotype: a generalization based on a group in which a person belongs. (Ex: race, age, gender, income, neighborhood, etc.) This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have their first conversation about stereotypes in school and society. They talk with classmates Nathan and Ethan about unfair perceptions of people based on example stereotypes, and all four 8th graders analyze what influences those generalizations. Earlier in this season, our other hosts, Salil and Shauna, took on the topic in Episode, They discussed things like gender, race...
2020-01-2719 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureAnalyzing Social Health in Middle School - S2 E14Socialization: the process of mixing and getting along with others; learning to behave in a way that is acceptable to society. This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, are back in action for 2020! They are joined by Siddarth, Megan, and Makenzi. The group discusses relationships and social interactions, with some tangents into school projects, Health Class activities, honors classes, and the potential of dating in middle school. RESOURCES Teens and Socializing: Relationships, Coping Skills, Substances from Newport Academy Socially Active Teens are Physically Healthier from Today Social & Emotional Learning Competencies from C...
2020-01-1417 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureManaging Future Expectations - S2 E13Expectation: a belief that someone will or should achieve something. Back for the new year... it's 2020! This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have a conversation with Lara and Melody about the pressure of the future teens feel at each present moment. The four 8th graders discuss high school classes, stress management, today's generation vs. their parents, and managing future expectations. RESOURCESStudents:MindBe Education - 30 Mindfulness Activities for Teens Parents:Parent Learning Center - Expectations That Your Teen Will Appreciate In The Future Teachers:Time...
2020-01-0717 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMotivation in Middle School Life - S2 E12Motivation: the desire and action towards a life goal. This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, are joined once again by Makenzi and Sathvik. The group discusses life motivation and more, focusing on wrapping up first semester of the school year, hopes for heading into winter break, and even potential topics that would be fun for students to discuss for future podcasts. RESOURCES: What is Motivation? from Psychology Today. The Scientific Guide on How to Get and Stay Motivated by James Clear. Managing the Seemingly Inevitable Holiday Season Stress from Elizabeth...
2019-12-1716 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureStudent Voice in Education - S2 E11Student voice: the values, opinions, and other perspectives of students in a school, which can lead to the development of student choices, interests, passions, and ambitions. This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have a conversation with Josh and Karshin about their new school project we have launched: "A Middle School Minute." The four 8th graders discuss student voice in education, focusing on this new creative outlet of journalism as another platform for students to practice life skills like communication, decision making, and advocacy. RESOURCESEdutopia - Students' input and expertise can help shape...
2019-12-1317 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureIs Homework Necessary in Middle School? - S2 E10Homework... the dread, the procrastination, the necessary evil? This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, take on the topic of homework and discuss the merits and downfalls of work outside of the school day. They interview classmates Drew and Ryan and all four talk through whether homework is worthwhile and what makes class projects fun and engaging. RESOURCES Homework or No Homework? Wrong Question. from Getting Smart. Homework Done Right from ASCD. What’s the Right Amount of Homework? from Edutopia. Down with Homework from Alfie Kohn. Should Kids Ha...
2019-11-1217 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Perceptions of Drugs, Alcohol, & Vaping (Part 2) - S2 E9What is the influence of drugs on teenage life? How do middle school students perceive vaping, alcohol, and marijuana use? This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have another conversation about drug use, focusing on media influence on teenagers, legalization, and other perceptions surrounding the topic. This week's guests, Aarushi and Nick, help process things with their own thoughts, and the four 8th graders leave younger listeners with some basic recommendations for handling the decisions that lay ahead. RESOURCES Youth Risk Behavior Survey CDC - E-Cigarettes Tobacco Free Kids Stanford Tobacco...
2019-11-0520 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Impact of Popularity in Teenage Life - S2 E8Popularity... What a loaded word. This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, discuss the concepts of popularity and social health in middle school life. They interview classmates Dhruv and Nina and all four talk through the positive and negative impact of popularity, how it matters in school and later in life, and recommendations for younger students looking ahead to middle and high school. RESOURCES: Popularity: Why It Consumes Teens & Affects Adults from MindShift. Does Being in the Popular Crowd Matter? from Newsweek. Does Our High School Popularity Affect Us Today? A...
2019-10-2918 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Perceptions of Drugs, Alcohol, & Vaping (Part 1) - S2 E7What are the current trends with teens and drugs? How do middle school students perceive vaping, alcohol, and marijuana use? This week our hosts Lauren and Rhys have a conversation with their guests, Dani and Inara. All four 8th graders examine drug use, focusing on perceptions surrounding the topic, influences on teenagers, and coping with related pressures. RESOURCES Youth Risk Behavior Survey CDC - E-Cigarettes Tobacco Free Kids Stanford Tobacco Toolkit NIH - Underage Drinking Illinois Policy - Marijuana Legalization Tune in next week as our other...
2019-10-2216 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Analysis of Gender, Race, and Age Stereotypes - S2 E6Stereotypes: generalizations based on a group in which a person belongs. (Ex: race, age, gender, income, neighborhood, etc.) This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, take on the topic of stereotypes in middle school and in life. They discuss topics like gender, race, and age with classmates Danielle and Sathvik. All four talk through unfair perceptions of people, the influence of generalizations on school and social life, and they even dive a little into the -isms of prejudice: racism, sexism, and ageism. RESOURCES: Gender Stereotypes from Teaching Tolerance Racial Stereotypes from Simply...
2019-10-1816 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSocial Media in Middle School - S2 E5Almost 90% of American teens now have their own smartphones, and some 70% use social media multiple times per day. This week we hear thoughts about phones and social media from five 8th graders, including our hosts Lauren and Rhys. The group discusses both the positive and negative aspects of phone use, the messages teens get from social media, and how to handle screen stress to maintain a healthy life balance. RESOURCES Pew Research Study: Teens & Social Media Common Sense Media: Teens on Social Media & How Much Screen Time is Okay? Adam Alter: TED...
2019-10-0815 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Benefit of Sports & Extra-Curriculars - S2 E4School is more than just an academic experience. This week's 8th grade hosts, Salil and Shauna, discuss extra-curricular activities in middle school with classmates Makenzi and Nico. All four work through some nerves and awkward pauses to practice communication skills and healthy dialogue surrounding the place that sports and other after-school commitments have in teenage life. RESOURCES: The Impact of Sports on Middle School Students from Livestrong.com Sports and Education Work Well Together from the New York Times Benefits of Extra-Curriculars by High School from Crimson Education Middle Schoolers May...
2019-10-0113 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureStress Management in Middle School - S2 E3Stress: The body's response to change. Distress is a negative pressure or threat; the "bad" stress. Eustress is beneficial challenge; the "good" stress. We continue our student-led podcasts this school year with our first offering from our second set of hosts, Lauren and Rhys. Like last week with our other two leaders for this season, Lauren and Rhys find their footing during live recordings and work to figure out the interview and discussion process with guests Sara and Avery. All four talk about starting 8th grade and the place that stress and stress management have in teenage...
2019-09-2417 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureProcrastination & Teens - S2 E2Procrastination: The art of keeping up with yesterday. We get started in our student-led podcasts this school year with our first set of hosts, Salil and Shauna. These two work to navigate the interview and discussion process with Sienna and Emerson, and the students talk about starting 8th grade and the role that procrastination plays in their lives. RESOURCES: Students: Teens Who Procrastinate from The Creativity Post. Parents: Procrastination in Teens-- How Can We Help from NobelCoaching.com Tune in next week as our other two hosts, Lauren and Rhys, take...
2019-09-1716 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureA New School Year! (Starting Season 2) - S2 E1Back in action and getting started with our new hosts! We meet our Season 2 podcast hosts, Salil and Shauna, Lauren and Rhys! These 8th grade students will take the lead in weekly interviews with classmates. By recording in this format, the students will put Health Ed life skills into practice-- communication, decision making, and advocacy will help them create discussions and debates on the multitude of timely topics for today's teen. Check it out and make sure to subscribe to keep up to date on our podcast episodes throughout the school year. Teaching...
2019-09-1308 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways Towards Self-DiscoveryWho are you, and who do you want to be? Here’s the final installment of the Summer Shorts podcast blogs. All summer I’ve asked my adult guests on the podcast for 3 tips to leave for listeners as recommendations for a better, more successful life. So, here are a few of mine. As we start the new school year and finally say goodbye to summer 2019, here are three quick recommendations I have towards success and self-discovery. Quick Tips: 1) Define success. 2) Just try it. 3) Remain mindful. Listen in for details.
2019-09-1206 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSincerely Hueman Stories - Maverick AquinoAUDIO STORYTELLING.   In the final installment of the 2019 Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Maverick Aquino, co-founder and chief creative officer of Hueman Media Group and the Sincerely Hueman podcast. Maverick and his partner Camille work to provide stories from diverse lives of change makers and compassionate humans. Their award-winning podcast focuses on real people, from celebrities to up-and-coming advocates, who are making a positive impact in the world. Tune in to listen as Maverick discusses his recent work, stories that have provided inspiration, and three things as recommendations for a better life.
2019-09-1021 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureBarbells For Boobs - Zionna HansonCANCER DOESN'T DISCRIMINATE. 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. Everyone deserves the right to education and the access to detection. In our second-to-last installment of the 2019 Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Zionna Hanson, founder of Barbells For Boobs, a cancer awareness and cancer detection organization. Zionna and Barbells For Boobs work to provide education on the significant benefits of fitness and support to access responsible and safe fitness instruction for those directly impacted by breast cancer. Their mission is to reduce breast cancer risk, reduce the prevalence and...
2019-09-0535 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Maintain a Dating RelationshipMore than friends! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to start or maintain a dating or committed relationship this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1)  Calm down. 2) Consent. 3) Communicate. Listen in for details. Resources! Love is Respect What is a healthy relationship? Consent It's simple as tea. Domestic Violence Hotline Free, confidential support with lifesaving tools for safety. It’s the end of summer! Continue to tune in to the Life Is The Future “Summer Series.” Coming your way will be one more qu...
2019-08-2811 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureReal Education for the Real World - Christopher PepperHIGH QUALITY, FACT-BASED INFORMATION. From managing media to vaping to sex ed to mental health, today's adolescent is in need of some real guidance. In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Christopher Pepper, award-winning health educator involved in comprehensive sexual wellness, substance use awareness, suicide prevention efforts, and more. Chris discusses his passion and advocacy, quality organizations that provide accurate information, and three things as recommendations for a better life. RESOURCES: Christopher Pepper: Mr. Health Teacher SFUSD Health Education Mentioned in the podcast: ...
2019-08-2637 minUnfinished Thoughts
Unfinished ThoughtsHealth Teacher of the Year Scott TodnemThis is the first episode of The Underground with Andy Milne. In this episode Andy talks to SHAPE America Health Teacher of the Year, Scott Todnem. Check him out on Twitter, @ScottAmpersand Check out his new book, Growing Up Great!: The Ultimate Puberty Book for Boys https://www.amazon.com/Growing-Up-Great-Ultimate-Puberty/dp/1641524642/#TW
2019-08-1838 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureRunning with Mindfulness - William PullenMOVEMENT AS MEDICINE. Are mindfulness and movement the perfect combination for emotional well-being? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews William Pullen, a London-based psychotherapist and founder of Dynamic Running Therapy (DMT). William talks through his work in mental health and guiding himself and now his clients through mindfulness therapy that includes movement as medicine-- walking and running alone or with others to ground yourself in nature and help alleviate conditions of low mood, anxiety, depression, and other mental health conditions. RESOURCES: William Pullen Therapist and...
2019-08-1721 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Expand Your Comfort Zone - 2019 Summer ShortsBecome comfortable being uncomfortable! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three steps to expanding your comfort zone this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1)  Decide If It’s Necessary. 2) Acknowledge Fear Exists. 3) Test and Retest. Listen in for details. Resources! IQ Matrix Expand your comfort zone. Achieve your goals. WebMD Don't leave it-- expand your comfort zone. Mayo Clinic Diagnosing anxiety. Psychology Today Finding a therapist in your area. It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune...
2019-08-1409 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureA Special Place for Special Needs - Olivia MayszakOPPORTUNITY & INCLUSION. What is the impact of involvement and inclusivity for those with special needs? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Olivia Mayszak, special education teacher and Special Olympics coach in Naperville, Illinois. Olivia talks through her work with self-contained classrooms, inclusion in schools, and how everyone can see and speak to individuals with special needs. She explains her own approach and helpful organizations that provide kindness, resources, and genuine care for people with unique learning needs within the world of special education. RESOURCES: Olivia...
2019-08-0934 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeachers of the Year - SHAPE AmericaEDUCATING THE MIND & BODY. What does good teaching entail? How can teachers reach the needs of every young learner? What are the rewards of being involved in education? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews the 2019 SHAPE America Teachers of the Year! This is a big group— five Physical Education teachers plus a SHAPE program director all join Scott for a round table discussion about education, social-emotional learning, and other life lessons. Represented here is Elementary, Middle, and High School Physical Education, Adapted P.E., Dance, and Health Education....
2019-08-0639 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Maintain Emotional Wellness - 2019 Summer ShortsManage those emotions! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to maintain emotional well-being this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1) Recognize a range of feelings. 2) Reduce clutter. 3) Get involved! Listen in for details. Resources! Everyday Health Happiness and Emotional Well-Being Acuity Mag 8 Ways to Clear Mental Clutter When A book by Daniel Pink. It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune in to the Life Is The Future “Summer Series.” Coming your way will be quick...
2019-08-0609 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Body Is Not an Apology - Sonya Renee TaylorCELEBRATE YOUR BODY. What does the notion of radical self-love entail? How can we overcome body terrorism? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Sonya Renee Taylor, author, spoken word poet, social justice activist, and founder of the The Body Is Not an Apology website and related media. Sonya works against discrimination, social inequality, and injustice to help us make peace with the body, our own and that of others. Her mission is global, radical, unapologetic self-love and a more just, equitable, and compassionate world. Sonya is...
2019-07-2923 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureExpressing the Genius Within - Brian AlexanderSELF-AWARENESS. How can we realize our potential and maximize our impact? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Brian Alexander, entrepreneur, strength and conditioning coach, and founder of CrossFit Illumine and Expressing the Genius Within. Brian brings more than fitness instruction to his community-- he talks through his experiences through business, entrepreneurship, failure, career change, and personal growth. He offers his unique perspective on the ever-evolving world of mindfulness, habit formation, and self-actualization. RESOURCES: Brian Alexander: CrossFit Illumine Expressing the Genius Within Mentioned in...
2019-07-2621 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Develop a Habit - 2019 Summer ShortsMake healthy habits stick! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to develop a habit this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1) Decide your focus. 2) Start small. 3) Keep it going. Listen in for details. Resources! The 20 Second Rule How to build a new habit. The Power of Habit A book by Charles Duhigg. Atomic Habits A book by James Clear. It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune in to the Life Is The Future “Summer Seri...
2019-07-2306 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSix Minute Sex Ed - Kim CavillCOMPREHENSIVE SEX ED. How do we reach a wide audience in terms of age, abilities, and needs? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Kim Cavill, comprehensive sexual educator, teen pregnancy prevention specialist, and founder of the Tea & Intimacy website as well as the Six Minute Sex Ed podcast. Kim works to provide high-quality, inclusive, and critical health information for people ranging from ages 8-90. She also specializes in working with people with disabilities as well as at-risk youth. In our time together, Kim discusses her passion...
2019-07-1535 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Manage Media - 2019 Summer ShortsBalance that screen time! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to manage media this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1) Clock screen time. 2) Limit allurement. 3) Make it purposeful. Listen in for details. Resources! Moment Less phone. More real life. Scientific American Pediatrician guidelines: No more than 2 hours of screen time a day. American Academy of Pediatrics New recommendations for media use. It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune in to the Life Is The Fu...
2019-07-1206 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMusic Matters - Chip StaleyART SPEAKS. Does music extend our livelihood? This week's Expert Insight comes from Chip Staley, a 30+ year music education teacher. Scott interviews Chip to discuss the impact of music on people both young and old, the crucial role of the arts in education, and the impact that music can have on the brain and overall wellness. Chip discusses his passion and advocacy, organizations where he draws inspiration, and three things that have made his life better. RESOURCES: Chip Staley's work: Merit School of Music ARTSpeaks ARTSpeaks204 Facebook Page Mentioned...
2019-07-0814 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Self-Advocate - 2019 Summer ShortsSpeak up for yourself! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to self-advocate this summer (and always). Quick Tips: 1) Use "I" Statements 2) Have an Opinion 3) Be Willing to Change Listen in for details. Resources! SARTAC Organizing self advocacy groups, particularly for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Good Therapy The power of "I"-statements. Big Think Strengthening the force of opinions. It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune in to the Life Is The Fu...
2019-07-0506 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureChunky and Friends - Joseph VivensTHE POWER OF STORY. Using story and animation to promote personal well-being. Can healthy eating and other wellness habits be cool? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Joseph Vivens, founder of Chunky and Friends. Chunky And Friends is an illustration and animated series that provides healthy eating tips and active play resources that kids of all ages can relate to. The stories spotlight Charles “Chucky” Spring, who is adoringly nicknamed “Chunky” by family and his cast of amazing friends. Joseph discusses his passion and advocacy, organizations that provide inspirat...
2019-07-0131 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Stay Active - 2019 Summer ShortsGet moving! Check out the next Summer Short episode with three ways to stay active this summer. Quick Tips: 1) Don’t overthink it. 2) Avoid what you hate. 3) Notice your heart rate. Listen in for details. Resources! Polar Heart Rate Zones Info on intensity zones that are determined from the percentage of your maximum heart rate. Top Fitness Apps For Kids Five apps that help teens get on the move. 30/30 Balance work and play. Select any task and amount of working time, followed by a selected amount of br...
2019-06-2805 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureGiving The Talk - Julia FeldmanGIVING THE TALK. Like, as in, “THE Talk?” The birds and the bees? S-E-X ? In our next installment of the Expert Insight summer series, Scott interviews Julia Feldman, sexual wellness educator and founder of Giving The Talk. Julia works as a community health educator, providing comprehensive Sex Ed for this century. Her Instagram platform has a steady stream of content meant to empower all ages, genders, and identities with fun, compassionate, medically-accurate information free of stigma and shame. Julia discusses her passion and advocacy, organizations that provide accurate and updated information, and three things as r...
2019-06-2425 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Stay Mindful - 2019 Summer ShortsBe mindful! Check out the second Summer Short episode with three ways to stay mindful this summer. Quick Tips: 1) Pause for a minute. 2) Drop self-judgement. 3) Respond after reacting. Listen in for details. Resources! What is Mindfulness? Mindful.org offers lots of science and useful examples. CALM Calm.com and its app provide free access to teachers! Pocket Mindfulness A “start here” blog and app with tips for beginners. Association for Mindfulness in Education The Foundation for Teaching & Learning It’s summer... but that is not goi...
2019-06-1905 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureDo Good. Be Kind. - Chris & Brittany KurtzDO GOOD. BE KIND. Could it be that simple? Our first installment of the Expert Insight summer interviews includes Chris and Brittany Kurtz, founders and "chief kindness officers" at Do Good. Be Kind. Both Britt and Chris discuss their passion and advocacy, organizations and people whom they draw inspiration, and three things that have made their life better. RESOURCES: Clothing line and lifestyle: Do Good. Be Kind. Mentioned in the podcast: 4Ocean: Ending the ocean plastic crisis. Cotopaxi: Improving the human condition. John's Crazy Socks: What is possible when you give someone...
2019-06-1531 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The Future3 Ways to Stay Socially Connected - 2019 Summer ShortsStay social this summer! Check out the first Summer Short episode with three ways to stay connected this summer. Quick Tips: 1) Wake up! Don't sleep the day away. 2) Meet in real life. Media is a tool for social health, not a replacement. 3) Be flexible. Plan ahead, but also be spontaneous. Listen in for details. Resources! Sleep Foundation: Healthy Sleep Habits Social Barrel: Face-to-Face Interactions Are Better Than Social Media It’s summer... but that is not going to stop the podcast! Continue to tune in to th...
2019-06-1204 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMeeting Our Next Hosts (Part 2: Salil & Shauna) - S1 E20The end of an era! We are finishing up the 2018-19 school year, and Luke and Tadiwa are moving on up. We meet two of our next podcast hosts, Salil and Shauna! These 7th grade students will take the lead next year, and join two other students to be our Season 2 leaders. We chat more about how it all went with Luke and Tadiwa in our premiere podcast season, and ultimately say thanks and goodbye to our first hosts. The students talk a little about goals and strategies to come up with timely topics for today's teens...
2019-05-3120 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMeeting Our Next Hosts (Part 1: Lauren & Jannell) - S1 E19Passing the torch! We are finishing up the 2018-19 school year, and Luke and Tadiwa are moving on up. We meet two of our next podcast hosts, Lauren and Jannell! These 7th grade students will take the lead next year, and join two other students to be our Season 2 leaders. We chat through how it all went with Luke and Tadiwa in our premiere podcast season, and what the weekly interviews with classmates were like. The students talk goals and strategies to come up with timely topics for today's teens, how to get people talking, and the...
2019-05-3018 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureEnding Middle School & Entering High School - S1 E18The end of middle school! Luke and Tadiwa interview four other students to conclude our 8th grade interviews for this school year, what we are calling "Season 1" of our podcast. Olivia, Amelia, Nick, and Gabe open up to talk through their 3 years of middle school, summer plans, and the upcoming jump to high school. RESOURCES! Students: "16 Things For Teens To Do This Summer" from CBS News. Parents: "How To Help Your Kids Transition To High School" from TheConversation.com Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2019-05-2424 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Impact of Music on Teenage Life - S1 E17The power of music! Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Camilla and Keith, and the four 8th graders discuss the impact of music--  creating and playing music as a musician, listening to music in class, and the overall impact of music on teenage life. RESOURCES! Article: "How music affects the brain" from BeBrainFit.com Video: "How does music affect your brain?" from Wired Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2019-05-2217 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureDiversity & Tolerance in Teens - S1 E16Social justice! Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Ellie and Jack, and the four 8th graders discuss diversity and tolerance, including topics of race, religion, gender, culture, and sexuality differences.  RESOURCES! Students: "A Class Divided" - Jane Elliott ("Blue Eyes, Brown Eyes") Teachers: "Teaching Tolerance" - Social Justice Standards Parents: "Beyond the Golden Rule" - A Family Guide to Tolerance Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com 
2019-05-1423 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens & Physical Attraction (Part 3: Conclusion) - S1 E15The conclusion! Attraction... dating... crush interests. Luke and Tadiwa interview all four students in the final segment of this short series-- Haley and Ella are joined by Mark and Noah, and the large group of 8th graders discuss and debate binary gender behavior. This is Part 3 of the conversation about physical attraction differences in teens. RESOURCES! Teachers: Teenagers in Love Parents: Adolescence and the Teenage Crush Students: Scarleteen.com (For older teenage audiences) Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2019-04-2319 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens & Physical Attraction (Part 2: The Girls) - S1 E14It continues! Attraction... dating... crush interests. Luke and Tadiwa interview two more students, Haley and Ella, and the four 8th graders discuss more binary gender behavior. This is Part 2 with the girls. Part 3 will conclude the topic of conversation, as all four 8th graders join our hosts in one large conversation with gender and attraction differences in mind. RESOURCES! Teachers: Teenagers in Love Parents: Adolescence and the Teenage Crush Students: Scarleteen.com (For older teenage audiences) Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2019-04-1818 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeens & Physical Attraction (Part 1: The Boys) - S1 E13Attraction... dating... crush interests. Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Mark and Noah, and the four 8th graders work through the giggles to discuss attractions and social health. This is Part 1 with the boys. Part 2 will include two 8th grade girls to continue the conversation with gender and attraction differences in mind. RESOURCES! Teachers: Teenagers in Love Parents: Adolescence and the Teenage Crush Students: Scarleteen.com (For older teenage audiences) Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2019-04-1615 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureSpecial Edition - NPR Contest 2019This is a special podcast episode and our official entry for the 2019 NPR Podcast Challenge, recorded right in the Health Education classroom at Scullen Middle School. Our hosts Luke and Tadiwa take the lead and interview two other 8th grade students, Aminah and Armani. All four students give their thoughts and debate about gender differences in middle school and in life, focusing on expectations, stereotypes, athletics, and social media. The students wanted to keep their podcast raw and barely edited-- a lot like a typical conversation between teens, either in the classroom as a group...
2019-03-3011 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FuturePhysical Injury & Resiliency - S1 E12Almost everyone will sustain a physical injury in life that they need to overcome. Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Sarah and Blake, and the four 8th graders discuss setbacks, recovery, and resiliency after injury. RESOURCES! Parents: What Physical Injury Taught Me About Mental Health Students: Got Bounce? Resiliency For Teens. Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com 
2019-02-2615 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureThe Decision Making Process - S1 E11Decisions, decisions! Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Aaliya and Aryan, and the four 8th graders discuss decision making--  including choices and related topics like like academics, sports, musical interests, procrastination, and the influence of others.  RESOURCES! Decision Making Study: Teenage Brains Have a Totally Different Way of Making Decisions Rational Decision Making: DECIDE Model Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com 
2019-02-1916 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeenagers & Phone Addiction - S1 E10The age of phone addictions! Luke and Tadiwa interview two other students, Sara and Mason, and the four 8th graders discuss phone use--  including overuse and addiction, friend connections, and social media. RESOURCES! Students & Teachers: Smartphone Addiction Parents: Psychology Today Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com 
2019-01-2420 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Relationships & Dating Expectations - S1 E9Back at it in 2019! Luke and Tadiwa start off by interviewing two other students, Ella and Noah. The four 8th graders discuss teen relationships and a bunch of related topics like expectations, break-ups, media portrayal, and sexual well-being. RESOURCES! Students: LoveIsRespect.Org Parents: Coping with Teen Dating Teachers: Teaching Consent & Sex Ed in America Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com 
2019-01-1719 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Gratitude & Coping with Change - S1 E8Change is inevitable. Luke and Tadiwa finish 2018 by interviewing two other students, Sydney and Tolu. The four 8th graders discuss positive items in teenage life, with a focus on what they are thankful for as well as how teens perceive and handle change. RESOURCES! Students: Coping with Emotions Parents: Surviving Your Child's Adolescence Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-12-1814 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTeen Values & The Masks We Wear - S1 E7What are your priorities? Luke and Tadiwa interview two other 8th grade students, Colin and Devin. All four discuss life values, with a focus on what teens tend to prioritize and the influence of friends and family in their lives. They also get into the "masks" people wear in terms of hiding or protecting our authentic self. RESOURCES! Parents: Teens Aren't Just Risk Machines Students & Parents 5 Masks We Wear & Why We Should Take Them Off Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-12-0416 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureTechnology & Teens - S1 E6The inescapable media. Luke and Tadiwa interview two other 8th grade students, Stefan and Amiah. All four discuss technology, with a focus on social media and its influence in their lives. RESOURCES! Pew Research Study: Teens & Social Media Vox Recode: Teens Are Hooked On Social Media "Irresistible": Rise of Addictive Technology Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-11-2017 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FuturePeer Pressure & Refusal Skills - S1 E5Is peer pressure always around? Luke and Tadiwa interview two other 8th grade students, Caleb and Laniyah. All four discuss peer pressure, both positive and negative, and how they manage the influence of others. RESOURCES! NIH: Monitoring the Future Study CDC: Teen Sexual Risk Behaviors Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-11-1316 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureStress & Life Balance - S1 E4Stress, stress, and more stress. Hosts Luke and Tadiwa interview two other 8th grade students, Gabe and Kayla. All four discuss teenage stressors and life balance, talking through what activities they juggle each week, how they perceive stress, and what they do for self-management. RESOURCES! Students: Kids Health Parents: Managing Stress in Teens Teachers: SHAPE America - SEL Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-11-0914 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureVaping & Teen Perception - S1 E3Is vaping a gateway? Our hosts Luke and Tadiwa interview two other 8th grade students, Jack and Kayla. All four students examine drug use, focusing on vaping devices such as JUUL, and teen perceptions surrounding the topic. RESOURCES! Students: Tobacco Free Kids Parents: CDC E-Cigarettes Teachers: Taking Down Tobacco Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-10-3013 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureGender & Social Media - S1 E2Who has it tougher on social media? Our hosts Luke and Tadiwa take the lead and interview two other 8th grade students, Aminah and Armani. All four students give their thoughts on gender differences and social media in middle school. RESOURCES! Parents: Common Sense Media Teachers: CyberSafe & Edutopia Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-10-2315 minLife Is The Future
Life Is The FutureMeeting Our First Hosts, Luke & Tadiwa - S1 E1Getting started! We meet our first podcast hosts, Luke and Tadiwa! These 8th grade students will take the lead in weekly interviews with classmates. In practice will be Health Ed life skills of communication and advocacy to create debates and discussions on a multitude of timely topics for today's teen. Check it out and make sure to subscribe to keep up to date on our podcast episodes throughout the school year. Teaching insight, blog posts, and more from the Health Education classroom: LifeIsTheFuture.com
2018-10-1611 minSHAPE America\'s Podcast - Professional Development for Health & Physical Education Teachers
SHAPE America's Podcast - Professional Development for Health & Physical Education TeachersAction Pack with Scott TodnemWhat are your goals for your school year? What new things are you implementing / adding to your curriculum or program? How do you reflect as an educator? What's in your Action Pack? An Action Pack includes, goals for your school year, new things that you are adding to your curriculum or program, self-care, and how you reflect as an educator. Join SHAPE America Podcast Host, Stephanie Sandino, as she interviews Health Educator, Scott Todnem, and finds out what's in Scott's Action Plan. Guest: Scott Todnem has been teaching Health Education for 17 years at Scullen Middle School in Naperville, Illinois...
2017-12-1946 min