LEAP Into Wellness Podcast Network

by EOU LEAP Lab

The Leap Into Wellness Podcast Network is a place of support for teachers and professionals who find that being busy, overwhelmed, and stressed interferes with their ability to prioritize self-care. This collaboration between La Grande School District and Eastern Oregon University provides content to inspire, teach, and support the ongoing professional and wellness journeys of school employees.

Programming includes:

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Podcast episodes

  • Season 2

  • Classroom 2 Calm: Spring Break

    Classroom 2 Calm: Spring Break

    In this episode of Fit to Teach, Kyle Pfaffenbach and Nathan Marshall discuss their personal fitness routines and the importance of balancing activity and rest, especially during spring break. They emphasize the need for educators to use breaks to reset and recharge, avoid overambitious plans, and incorporate achievable health and wellness actions into their routines. They also share their own plans for spring break, stressing the importance of enjoying the present moment and allowing for adequate rest. Tips include integrating variable fitness activities and listening to one's body to maintain long-term wellness.

  • Fit 2 Teach: Jake Chamberlain

    Fit 2 Teach: Jake Chamberlain

    In this episode of Fit to Teach, hosts Nathan Marshall and Kyle Pfaffenbach welcome Jake Chamberlain, a gym teacher at Central Elementary School in La Grande and an alum of Eastern Oregon University's Health and Human Performance program. The discussion covers the importance of combining weightlifting and running for balanced fitness, how to engage children in physical education, and the value of building personal relationships with students. Jake emphasizes the significance of creating a positive and inclusive environment in PE classes and shares his own routines and strategies for maintaining personal wellness. The conversation also highlights the challenges of transitioning from athletic careers to maintaining a healthy lifestyle and the role of educators in fostering lifelong fitness habits in students.

  • Turning Point: Roberts Brothers

    Turning Point: Roberts Brothers

    Hosted by Brett Smith, the Turning Point Podcast features a discussion with Scott Carpenter, Jess Roberts, and Jeff Roberts, highlighting their roles and experiences in the Grand School District. The conversation covers a range of topics including Scott's implementation of a March Madness-inspired attendance competition, Jess's journey from technology to teaching math, and Jeff's transition from business to IT in education. They discuss the challenges and rewards of their work, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic, and the importance of collaboration among different departments within the school district. The episode also underscores the significance of social-emotional learning and community involvement in creating a supportive and effective educational environment. The podcast concludes with recognition of the numerous extracurricular achievements of students in the district.

  • Fit 2 Teach: Maximizing the Benefits of Sleep

    Fit 2 Teach: Maximizing the Benefits of Sleep

    In this episode of 'Fit to Teach,' host Kyle Pfaffenbach and LEAP intern, Nathan Marshall, delve into the significance of sleep and its impact on health and productivity. Kyle recounts his recent travels to New York City for a professional track and field championship, highlighting how busy schedules can disrupt normal routines and overall wellness. The discussion centers around the book 'Why We Sleep' by Matthew Walker, emphasizing the biological and physiological aspects of sleep, circadian rhythms, and sleep hygiene practices. They stress the importance of consistent sleep patterns and offer actionable tips for improving sleep quality, particularly for teachers and school staff who often struggle with sleep and experience high rates of burnout.

  • Classroom 2 Calm: Interview with Edgar Romero

    Classroom 2 Calm: Interview with Edgar Romero

    In this episode of 'Classroom to Calm,' host Nathan Marshall, a senior at Eastern Oregon University, takes a break from the usual research paper discussions to introduce his close friend, Edgar Romero. Edgar, also a senior at Eastern Oregon University and a soccer player, shares his insights on nutrition, exercise, and wellness. The conversation covers topics such as protein intake, intuitive eating, balancing weight training and cardio, and the significant role of recovery in maintaining peak performance. Edgar emphasizes the importance of individualized fitness approaches, staying adaptable, and finding enjoyment in new forms of exercise. The podcast concludes with practical advice for people starting their fitness journeys, highlighting the value of being patient, seeking knowledgeable guidance, and recognizing the mental benefits of regular physical activity.