The Teach Different Podcast

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Steve Fouts is joined by Jarvis Funches. Together they explore the profound quote by Mahatma Gandhi: “The measure of a society is how it treats its weakest members.” They unpack the claim of the quote, highlighting the role of empathy in uplifting and empowering others. The dialogue also touches on the division in society and the need for unity amidst differing viewpoints. Through their discussion, they emphasize the significance of understanding and connecting with one another, regardless of political or social differences.

Episode Chapters

00:00 - Introduction

00:10 - Introducing the Teach Different Method

02:12 - Exploring Gandhi's Quote on Society

05:51 - Defining Weakness and Strength

09:58 - Different Perspectives on Empowerment

17:01 - Unity vs. Division in Society

22:33 - The Role of Empathy in Understanding

27:55 - Looking Ahead: A Call for Unity

28:27 - Teach Different Outro

Image Source: Anefo, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Mahatma_Gandhi,_Bestanddeelnr_916-6994.jpg 

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, hosts Steve and Dan Fouts explore a powerful quote by civil rights leader John Lewis: “Never ever be afraid to make some noise and get in good trouble, necessary trouble.” Using the Teach Different Method, they discuss the claim  of this quote in the context of social justice, the nature of conflict, and the boundaries of authority. They also unpack the counterclaims of this quote and pose some essential questions for consideration. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of courage in speaking out against injustice while navigating the complexities of societal reactions and the importance of dialogue in resolving conflicts. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - Understanding Good Trouble 04:18 - The Nature of Conflict 08:24 - Navigating Boundaries of Action 12:18 - Conflict as a Path to Peace 15:15 - Teach Different Outro Image Source: By United States House of Representatives - File:John Lewis-2006.jpg, Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=49741683  

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Steve Fouts and Jarvis Funches explore the Stoic philosophy of Epictetus, focusing on the quote, "It's not what happens to you, but how you react to it that matters." They explore the claim of the quote, discussing personal experiences related to this quote, the importance of mental preparation, and the power of decision-making in the face of life's challenges. They unpack the counterclaim of the quote, diving into the complexities of human emotions and the necessity of acknowledging external factors that can impact our reactions. Ultimately, they emphasize the significance of controlling one's mindset and decisions as a pathway to personal growth and resilience. Episode Chapters: 00:00 - The Impact of Family and Personal Circumstances 01:08 - Understanding Stoicism: Epictetus and Personal Reactions 03:58 - Personal Stories: Overcoming Rejection and Stereotypes 07:02 - Defensive Mechanisms: Responding to Criticism 10:10 - The Power of Control: Decisions and Reactions 13:09 - The Domino Effect: Cause and Effect in Reactions 15:57 - The Nature of Control: What Can We Really Control? 19:02 - Counterclaims: The Complexity of Emotional Responses 22:18 - The Weight of External Forces 24:58 - Facing Life's Harsh Realities 27:58 - The Power of Acceptance 30:52 - Harnessing Mental Strength 33:59 - Navigating Rejection and Perseverance 35:44 - The Importance of Mental Preparation 38:48 - Understanding Control and Decision-Making 42:54 - Teach Different Outro Image Source: Tucson, AZ, USA via Wikipedia Commons https://sco.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Discourses_-_Epictetus_%28illustration_1%29_%289021700938%29.jpg#file

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Dan and Steve Fouts are joined by Chris Johnson, a middle school teacher who was a part of the Teach Different Certification Program. They discuss the integration of technology in education, the challenges of teaching middle school students, and the importance of fostering individual growth in learning. The conversation also unpacks Aldous Huxley's quote on technological progress: “Technological progress has merely provided us with more efficient means for going backwards.” If you’re interested in exploring the balance between efficiency and human interaction in the classroom, this episode is the one for you! Episode Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to the Teach Different Podcast 00:10 - Chris Johnson's Teaching Journey 02:56 - The Joy of Teaching Middle School 05:33 - Challenges in Teaching and Learning 08:23 - Engaging Students with Technology 11:21 - The Role of Technology in Education 14:06 - Aldous Huxley's Quote on Technology 17:08 - The Impact of AI on Education 19:49 - Balancing Technology and Human Interaction 22:38 - The Importance of Individual Growth in Learning 25:29 - Navigating Technology in the Classroom 28:12 - The Future of Technology in Education 35:05 - The Role of Technology in Education 37:42 - Navigating Progress and Regression in Tech 39:35 - Human Decisions Behind Technology 40:25 - Embracing Failure in Technology Adoption 42:08 - The Importance of Adaptability in Teaching 44:07 - Integrating Technology with Existing Teaching Methods 45:24 - Teach Different Outro.mp4 Image Source: Aldous Huxley, photographed in 1930 By Unknown photographer. License: Falling into the open (Public domain)

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, host Steve Fouts is joined by Jarvis and Tree engage in a deep conversation about the challenges of being different and the pain that often accompanies it. They explore the quote, 'It hurts to be different, but I would rather hurt than be like my circumstance,' discussing the importance of self-identity, mentorship, and the impact of societal expectations. The conversation highlights the struggles of youth in Chicago, the role of mentorship, and the complexities of personal growth and community support.

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Dan and Steve Fouts are joined by Angela Escanilla. Angela shares her journey as a teacher and the importance of taking risks in education. The conversation revolves around a quote about courage and opportunity, emphasizing that missing an opportunity due to fear hurts more than trying and failing. By using the Teach Different Method, the discussion explores the claims, counterclaims, and essential questions presented by the quote. The episode highlights the significance of calculated risks, the role of failure in learning, and how fostering vulnerability and empathy in the classroom can encourage student voice and leadership. It concludes with reflections on mentorship and the future of teaching. Episode Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:05 - Teaching Journey and Influences 06:02 - Exploring Courage and Risk-Taking 13:35 - The Importance of Failure and Learning 14:31 - Embracing Failure and Personal Growth 20:10 - The Role of Mentorship and Personal Boundaries 24:01 - Fostering Vulnerability in Conversations 28:19 - The Importance of Authentic Conversations 32:39 - Teach Different Outro

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Mattew Wood joins Dan and Steve Fouts to discuss civic responsibility through the lens of Theodore Roosevelt. He shares his journey as a middle school history teacher, discussing his passion for teaching and the importance of relationships in education. Together they unpack the quote “This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in,” exploring its implications for community and individual responsibility in creating a better society. Listen for thoughtful reflections on classroom experiences, the impact of teaching philosophy, and the significance of engaging students in meaningful conversations. Chapters 00:00 - The Journey into Teaching and Personal Background 05:06 - Experiences in Diverse Educational Settings 11:07 - The Importance of Relationships in Education 16:04 - Exploring the Quote by Teddy Roosevelt 24:31 - Creating a Positive Classroom Community 27:20 - The Political Spectrum and Community Values 31:20 - Counterclaims and the Nature of Good 34:28 - Essential Questions on Community and Individual Needs 36:23 - Historical Perspectives on Community Welfare 39:54 - Reflections on Leadership and Civic Responsibility 41:04 - The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education 41:57 - Teach Different Outro Image Source: Pach Brothers (photography studio), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In this episode, Dan and Steve Fouts are joined by Mitchell Conway to explore a quote from Henry David Thoreau: “It’s not a man’s duty as a matter of course, to devote himself to the eradication of any, even the most enormous wrong, but it is his duty at least to wash his hands of it.” Mitchell shares his diverse experiences in education, emphasizing the importance of philosophy in teaching across various age groups. The discussion explores the role of age in philosophical discourse, the transformative potential of education, and the significance of the Teach Different Method. Together they unpack Thoreau's views on civil disobedience, reflecting on the ethical responsibilities individuals hold in the face of injustice. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction 00:10 - Mitch's Background in Philosophy and Education 02:14 - The Role of Philosophy in Education 04:55 - Philosophy for All Ages 07:19 - The Misconception of Youth and Philosophy 10:24 - The Importance of Open-Mindedness 13:18 - The Teach Different Method Explained 16:22 - Thoreau's Quote on Civil Disobedience 18:54 - Interpreting Thoreau's Message 22:02 - Real-World Applications of Thoreau's Ideas 24:45 - The Duty to Act Against Injustice 27:49 - The Complexity of Ethical Obligations 30:57 - Conclusion and Reflections on Responsibility 41:12 - Thoreau's Moral Duty and Civil Disobedience 43:42 - The Complexity of Ethical Obligations 44:43 - Criteria for Opposing Injustice 46:17 - Exploring Civil Disobedience 48:57 - Philosophy Walk on Civil Disobedience 49:44 - The Role of Education in Philosophy 51:07 - Teach Different Outro Image Source: National Portrait Gallery, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, hosts Dan and Steve Fouts welcome Candace Fikis, a seasoned educator from West Chicago Community High School. Candace shares her extensive teaching experience, focusing on economics and government, and discusses the evolution of political discourse and its impact on education. Today’s episode explores a quote by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr: “In the final analysis, a riot is the language of the unheard.” With Candace, Dan and Steve unpack the claim, counterclaim and essential questions that come to mind from the quote, exploring its implications in contemporary society and education. Chapters 00:00 - Introduction and Candace's Teaching Journey 02:21 - The Evolution of Education and Politics 05:59 - Challenges in Teaching History 09:09 - The Importance of Student Engagement 13:02 - Teaching in a Diverse Classroom 15:59 - Implementing New Teaching Methods 18:45 - Understanding Economic Perceptions 23:33 - The Power of Quotes in Education 28:36 - Exploring the Language of the Unheard 37:37 - Justifying Riots: A Complex Discussion 41:58 - Teach Different Outro   Image source: IISG Photograph:  Ben van Meerendonk Derivative work:  Jahobr, CC BY-SA 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Dan and Steve Fouts are joined by Jason Artman to discuss a quote by William Fulbright: “In a democracy, dissent is an act of faith.” They unpack the claim of the quote, speaking to the importance of dissent in democracy, the impact of social media on political discourse, and the role of educators in fostering healthy discussions in the classroom. They unpack the counterclaim of the quote, sharing examples of when dissent could be viewed as anti-democratic. The conversation ends with some essential questions for further exploration.. Image Source: Public Domain, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=1159987

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Dan and Steve Fouts explore the wisdom of Benjamin Franklin through the quote, “By failing to prepare, you are preparing to fail.”. They discuss the claim of the quote: the importance of preparation is essential in setting yourself up for success. They explore the counterclaim: the importance of going with the flow instead of preparing too much, especially when it comes to teaching and parenting. Lastly, they pose some essential questions for further considerations in your discussions of the quote. Image Source: Joseph-Siffred Duplessis, CC0, via Wikimedia Commons https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/3b/Benjamin_Franklin_%281706%E2%80%931790%29_MET_DP312881.jpg  

In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Dan and Steve Fouts explore a quote by Booker T. Washington regarding success: “Success is to be measured not so much by the position that one has as by the obstacles which he has overcome.” They explore the claim of the quote, the significance of measuring it by the obstacles one has overcome rather than societal position. They unpack the counterclaim of the quote, the significance of character and status in defining success. The conversation concludes with some essential questions for further discussion, emphasizing the need for a balance between spontaneity and structure in discussions, particularly in educational settings, and reflects on how success can be perceived both internally and externally. ​ Image Source: https://www.stockvault.net/photo/200299/booker-t-washington