The Adult Education Wellness Podcast-Balance & teaching tools for everyone

Epizode

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  #26 Mindful Teaching – Part 3: Grounding, Feelings & Visualization 27.07.2026 35min

  How do you stay calm when life feels overwhelming?In the final episode of our Mindful Teaching series, Betina and Stacy share three simple yet powerful practices that can help educators—and anyone navigating a busy life—become more present, resilient, and compassionate.In this episode, you'll discover:🌿 Grounding is more than touching the grass with your bare feet.💙 Why recognizing your emotions is a strength, not a weakness.🧠 The surprising connection between stress and physical pain, and how simply being seen and heard can begin the healing process.✋ The "Fist to Five" check-in, a quick classroom strategy that builds trust, connection, and emotional awareness.✨ A one-minute visualization exercise that helps reduce anxiety before interviews, presentations, exams, or difficult conversations.💛 Simple affirmations and visual reminders that can shift your mindset throughout the day.🧦 The funniest grounding question you'll hear all week: …?"Mindfulness isn't about adding another task to your day. It's about bringing a little more intention to the moments you're already living.🎧 Whether you're an educator, student, administrator, or simply someone looking for a little more peace, we hope this episode reminds you to pause, breathe, and care for yourself with the same compassion you offer others.The Adult Education Wellness Podcast Hosted by Two Tranquil Teachers Betina Watkins & Stacy [email protected] and [email protected] 
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  #25 Starting Over with Courage: Lena Neumann & the Journey Behind Kinora Travel 01.07.2026 37min

  What does it take to start over in a new country, build a new identity, and launch a business from the ground up?In this inspiring episode, we welcome Lena Neumann, founder and CEO of Kinora Travel, a boutique travel company dedicated to creating thoughtful, personalized, and meaningful travel experiences. Originally from Germany, Lena shares her journey of immigrating to the United States, navigating uncertainty, and transforming her passion for travel into a growing business.✈️ The emotional challenges of starting over in a new country🌎 How immigration can reshape your sense of identity💡 The role Austin Community College's Entrepreneurship Program played in launching a business🚀 Why entrepreneurship is as much about personal growth as business growth❤️ How travel creates connection, memories, and healing🌿 Wellness practices that help entrepreneurs stay grounded👣 Why taking imperfect action is often more important than waiting for perfection🏡 What "home" means after building a life across different countriesLena reminds us that growth doesn't begin when everything is perfect—it begins when we decide to take the next step, even when we're uncertain. Her story is a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the courage to build a meaningful life in a new place.🌐 Kinora Travel 📱 Find Lena on social media and learn more about her personalized travel experiences. @kinoratravelClick here for a list of Lena's favorite books: https://tinyurl.com/LenasFavoriteBooks🎧 Hosted by Betina Watkins & Stacy Ramirez ✨ Adult Education Wellness Podcast – Conversations on mindfulness, resilience, personal growth, and the inspiring journeys of adult learners and professionals. Want to be a guest on our show or have a suggestion for the show? Email us at [email protected] and/or [email protected]
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  #24 Mindfulness, Technostress, and Human Connection with Abhinaya Rajasekaran 15.06.2026 45min

  In Part 2 of our conversation with Abhinaya Rajasekaran, educator, researcher, and mindfulness advocate, we explore a topic that affects nearly all of us: technostress.✅ What technostress is and how it impacts our daily lives✅ The hidden costs of constant notifications and digital overload✅ Why humans cannot truly multitask—and what task switching does to our brains✅ The concept of "attentional blink" and how it affects productivity✅ Technology, burnout, and the loss of boundaries between work and personal life"Beyond technology, productivity, and achievement, meaningful human connection remains at the heart of learning and wellness.”Stay tuned until the end, where we share a guided Non-Sleep Deep Rest (NSDR) practice inspired by Dr. Andrew Huberman.🎧 Hosted by Stacy Ramirez and Betina Watkins ✨ Adult Education Wellness Podcast – Where mindfulness, education, and personal growth come together.
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  #23 Mindful Transitions, Belonging & Adult Learning | Part 1 27.05.2026 58min

  In this powerful episode of the Adult Education Wellness Podcast, Bettina Watkins and Stacy Ramirez welcome Professor Abinaya “Abi” Rajasekaran from Austin Community College’s School of Career Readiness.Drawing from her own journey as an immigrant, former adult education student, educator, and scholar, Abby shares the inspiration behind her workshop:“Mindful Transitions: Cultivating Belonging and Purpose in Adult and College Learners.”Together, we explore how mindfulness, neuroscience, and compassionate teaching practices can support adult learners navigating stress, identity shifts, trauma, and major life transitions.✨ In this episode:Abby’s transition from professor in India to educator in the U.S.The role of belonging in student successMindfulness practices that support learning and emotional regulationCognitive load and the “invisible backpack” students carryThe student archetypes: The Juggler, The Drifter, and The SurvivorWhy simple questions like “How are you today?” can transform a classroomThis conversation blends research, lived experience, and practical strategies for educators, students, and anyone interested in human-centered learning.🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where Abby shares insights from her workshop on Technostress and the impact of technology overload on modern learners and educators.Click here to see a list of Abi's favorite books: https://tinyurl.com/AbinayaFavoriteBooksHosted by Bettina Watkins & Stacy Ramirez The Adult Education Wellness Podcast | Two Tranquil Teachers
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  #22 Integrating Deep Listening & Speaking from the Heart into your Classroom & Life 11.05.2026 41min

  👂 When was the last time you felt truly heard?  Not just listened to… but understood.👄 What would change in your conversations  if you spoke not to respond… but to care?👁️And what if the most powerful thing you could give your students… was your full attention?In this episode, Betina and Stacy explore deep listening and speaking from the heart — two simple practices that can transform your classroom, your relationships, and the way people feel around you.As part of their signature training, 7 Proven Techniques to Introduce Mindfulness in the Classroom, Betina and Stacy share two additional practices inspired by the books Happy Teachers Change the World and You Are One of Us, among other literature, and based on their own practices as coaches and meditation leaders. Through a guided visualization, real classroom stories, and practical techniques, they show how slowing down, listening with intention, and choosing words carefully can create more compassionate, engaging, and human-centered learning environments — all in an eye-opening and entertaining way, even featuring audio moments from Wayne’s World and Four Weddings and a Funeral to bring the message to life. • Guided practice: “Listen with your elbows” to build awareness and presence • Deep listening = being fully present, not planning your response • Simple tools: mirroring and asking for clarification • Why people seek AI to feel heard (no judgment, no interruption) • Speaking from the heart creates trust, safety, and connection • The Three-Gate Practice: Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary? • Real classroom moment: responding with empathy instead of reaction • Teaching polite, respectful communication in ESL settings • The power of kind words in shaping student confidence • Weekly challenge: keep a Kindness RecordWatch Wayne’s world extract: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8aXqgoiVb8E Watch Four Weddings and a Funeral’s extract: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2PubPWuEQp8 Book 1: Happy Teachers Change the World, A Guide for Cultivating Mindfulness in EducationBook 2: You're One of Us!: Systemic Insights and Solutions for Teachers, Students and Parents✨ HighlightsLook at this amazing website for more Wellness Books: https://www.parallax.org/
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  #21 Three simple ways to integrate mindfulness into the classroom 16.03.2026 52min

  Two Tranquil Teachers PodcastTeaching is one of the most stressful professions — and stress affects both teachers and students more than we realize.In this episode, we explore the science of stress and the science of mindfulness, and three powerful tools anyone can use in seconds to balance uneasiness: 1) Breathing, 2) Visualization, 3) Measuring bar.In this first episode of our mindfulness series, Betina and Stacy introduce the foundation of their signature professional development course: 7 Proven Techniques to Include Mindfulness in the Classroom.Presented at Adult Education state and national conferences, this workshop helps educators understand the science of stress and learn simple techniques to support emotional regulation, focus, and well-being in learning environments.Today we begin with the most powerful and accessible tool we have:Why teaching is one of the most stressful professionsHow stress impacts the brain and learningThe connection between breathing and the nervous systemThe Measuring Bar technique for observing stress levelsA simple breathing visualization for emotional regulationWhy mindfulness helps both teachers and students perform betterHow mindfulness is a technique for everyone.“We can’t always change what’s happening around us… but we can change what happens within us.”In the next episodes of this series we’ll explore additional mindfulness techniques including:• Deep Listening • Speaking with Intention • Grounding Practices🌿 What You'll Learn in This Episode✨ Quote from the Episode💬 Key TakeawayMindfulness doesn’t require perfection.  It begins with awareness.🎧 Coming Next
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  #20 Cross-Cultural Communication in Adult Ed: The Culture Map Book Study 17.02.2026 1h 14min

  Welcome to Season 3 of the Adult Education Wellness Podcast! In this premiere episode, hosts Betina & Stacy (the Two Tranquil Teachers) interview Rebecca Stanley, Career Pathways Coordinator for the Internationally Trained Professionals (ITP) program at Austin Community College Adult Education.We begin the episode with 4-7-8 breathing then dive in.We explore how The Culture Map (book) helps adult educators understand cultural differences in:communication styles (low-context vs high-context)time orientation and workplace normsfeedback and directnessleadership, hierarchy, and classroom expectationsRebecca shares how the ITP team built a book study for instructors, created shared language for cultural dimensions, and used culturally responsive structure to support student confidence and belonging.✨ Cultural clarity is wellness: when students understand expectations and unspoken norms, they feel less anxious—and more empowered.Click here to see Rebecca's book and podcast recommendations: https://tinyurl.com/RebeccaFavoritesFollow this podcast for more conversations on mindfulness, well-being, and intentional teaching in adult education.If you have suggestions or want to be a guest on this podcast please email us at [email protected] & [email protected].
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  #19 Never Too Late: An Adult Learner’s Journey of Transformation 19.12.2025 1h 15min

  In this powerful and deeply human episode, Irma shares her extraordinary life journey—from profound loss and fear in Mexico to rebuilding her life in the United States through education, work, and inner strength. Her story reflects the realities many immigrant women face: abandonment, economic hardship, language barriers, trauma, and health crises—yet it is ultimately a story of resilience, dignity, and lifelong learning.This conversation explores how adult education, community support, and mental‑health care can transform survival into purpose.Early Life & FamilyBorn in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mexico (1963)Mother of three children (including twin sons); grandmother to three boysUniversity‑educated accountant in MexicoThe Breaking Point Tune in to find outWhy She Left MexicoIrma reached a moment where staying meant emotional collapse. With no safety net and her mental health deteriorating, she chose migration as an act of survival—for herself and her children.Received unexpected help from strangers and church communities—“angels” who provided shelter, food, clothing, and job connectionsWorked exhausting jobs: restaurants, office cleaning (day and night)Lived in unstable and sometimes hostile housing situationsEntered a shelter program that changed everythingCould not afford ESL at Houston Community CollegeAfter moving to Austin, enrolled at Austin Community College (free ESL)Educational Milestones:Completed ESL Levels 1–4Earned her GED (graduated in May)Currently enrolled in ESOL, Office Clerk/technology classes, and micro‑credentialsHigh academic performance (90s average)Sewing began as a hobby in MexicoBecame her primary profession in the U.S.Worked 16 years in upholstery and interior décor (drapes, cushions, bedding)Now self‑employed as a seamstress and crochet artistMemorial Teddy BearsInspired during the COVID pandemic, Irma creates memory bears from loved ones’ clothing—deeply meaningful pieces that help families process grief. Her work is now shared through word of mouth, with plans to expand through digital platforms.Irma is a multiple‑cancer survivorHer Wellness Practice:“For me, going to school is my therapy.”Dreams of earning a fashion design certificate and growing her businessProud of supporting herself and paying for school through her own workIrma’s story highlights the power of:Adult education accessESL and GED programsMental‑health supportCommunity and human kindnessHer journey reminds us that learning does not end with age, trauma, or hardship—and that wellness can look different for everyone.Click here to see Irma's Memorial Teddy Bears: https://tinyurl.com/MimiandCo
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  #18 Executive Functioning, Neurodivergence & Mindful Teaching 02.12.2025 1h 14min

  In this episode, we sit down with Martha Dorow and Marie Trzeciak—two ACC professionals deeply experienced in student success, disability services, and inclusive program development—to explore executive functioning skills, neurodivergence, and what it really looks like in the classroom for both students and instructors.Opening Theme – Presence Before Problem-Solving • How slowing down and truly listening creates a deeper connection with students and colleagues.Student Support & Instructor Insight • Why meeting learners where they are—emotionally, academically, and culturally—matters more than perfect course design.Energy, Boundaries & Educator Well-Being • The cost of over-functioning, and how staff and instructors can protect mental and emotional bandwidth.Identity, Belonging & Showing Up Authentically • How visibility, shared humanity, and honoring your story help create safer learning environments.🥰 Final TakeawayYou’re not alone. Whether you’re a student who can’t get out the door some mornings, or an instructor juggling wave after wave of responsibilities — you can grow these skills, ask for help, and create supportive environments where every learner can thrive.Click here for a list of recommended books & videos from our guests: https://tinyurl.com/MarieandMarthaFavoritesRemember to please follow/subscribe to this podcast and leave us a review! It really helps! AND feel free to email us if you have suggestions or want to be a guest on our show! Aida.Watkins @austincc.edu & [email protected]
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  #17 The Science and Spirit of Gratitude 11.11.2025 32min

  Hosts: Betina & Stacy– Two Tranquil TeachersIn this episode, Stacy and Betina explore how gratitude connects science and spirit — calming the mind, rewiring the brain, and deepening our sense of connection at work, in class, and in life.1️⃣ Opening Meditation – Guided 5 minute gratitude meditation. 2️⃣ What Is Gratitude? – Research from Robert Emmons & UC Berkeley on how gratitude reshapes the brain. 3️⃣ Historical & Spiritual Roots – From Stoicism to Ho‘oponopono and Indigenous wisdom. 4️⃣ Famous Practitioners – Oprah, the Dalai Lama, Joe Dispenza, and more. 5️⃣ Gratitude & Thanksgiving – Finding light even in hard times. 6️⃣ Everyday Practices – Simple ways to build gratitude at home, school, or work. 7️⃣ Closing Reflection – Mindful breath, affirmations, and local resources.Click here to see a list of books mentioned in this podcast: https://tinyurl.com/Gratitude-booksThank you for listening! Please like and share this podcast with someone you think could benefit from it. Please share your gratitude practices or suggestions with us [email protected] and/or [email protected]
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  #16 Soul Care in the Workplace: Dr. Melissa Beigert on Spiritual Wellness and Belonging at Work 27.10.2025 53min

  In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Dr. Melissa Langley Biegert (Dr. B)—Director of Academic Success for High School Programs at Austin Community College—to explore what soul care really means at work.Dr. B shares her journey from small-town Arkansas to Harvard and Vanderbilt Divinity School, and her unique role as chaplain and crisis negotiator at UT. Together, we discuss spiritual wellness, belonging, and how educators can nurture compassion and resilience in themselves and their communities.In this episode we discuss:🌿 The meaning of soul care and why it’s vital for educators and staff🧘‍♀️ Simple practices for restoring balance and spiritual well-being at work💔 How to support ourselves and each other through student or community crises🤝 The power of “loving our students—and each other—to success”💡 What it means to create systems of belonging and purpose in education⚖️ How Qigong, Tai Chi, and mindfulness support resilience and clarity❤️ The intersection of faith, service, and educational reformClick here for Dr. B's favorite books and podcasts: https://tinyurl.com/DrBiegertfavoritesFollow and share the Adult Education Wellness Podcast for more stories that inspire balance, purpose, and well-being in and beyond the classroom and please email us if you have any questions or suggestions: [email protected] & [email protected]
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  #15 Universal Design for Learning (UDL) in Higher Ed.-Designing for Every Learner 14.10.2025 32min

  In this inspiring and practical episode, Stacy and Betina explore Universal Design for Learning (UDL)—a proactive approach to creating classrooms that welcome every learner.Whether your students are neurodivergent, English language learners, or adults returning to school, UDL helps remove barriers and build confidence through flexibility, accessibility, and empathy.In this episode you'll learn: What Universal Design for Learning (UDL) is and why it mattersThe three core UDL principles: Engagement, Representation, and Action & ExpressionHow to proactively design inclusive learning experiences instead of retrofitting accommodationsWays to make lessons more accessible using visuals, captions, choice boards, and audio supportHow to integrate  culturally responsive, and neurodiversity-aware practices into your teachingSimple tips to use UDL in your next lesson, meeting, or presentationHere are the links to the resources we mentioned in the show:CAST: Universal Design for Learning GuidelinesTexas UDL Implementation Guide for EducatorsDon’t miss out on this powerful conversation about designing with empathy and intention.Follow the Adult Education Wellness Podcast on your favorite platform—Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or Google Podcasts.Share this episode with an educator or colleague who’s passionate about inclusion and accessibility.And if you loved it, please leave us a rating and review—it helps others discover the show!And of course if you have any suggestions or would like to be a guest on our show, email us at [email protected] or [email protected].
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  #14 Tips & Tricks to integrate laughter & sound healing into your classroom 22.09.2025 26min

  In this episode of the Adult Education Wellness Podcast, Two Tranquil Teachers (Betina & Stacy) explore the science and joy behind sound healing and laughter practices—two powerful, research-backed tools for stress relief and focus in the classroom.Learn how simple practices like humming, chanting, and vowel sounds can calm the nervous system, boost energy, and create a positive learning environment. Plus, discover the benefits of laughter yoga, playful classroom activities, and even ways to use humor in professional development to foster connection and ease tension.Whether you’re an adult educator, teacher, or lifelong learner, these quick, practical wellness tips can help you:Reduce stress and anxiety before tests or meetingsBring more joy and engagement into your classroomCultivate focus, creativity, and compassion through sound and laughterStay tuned for easy-to-try exercises and real classroom stories that will inspire you to weave wellness into your daily routine.✨ Don’t forget to subscribe, share this episode with a colleague, and leave us a review so more educators can discover these tools. ✨If you have any questions or ideas for the show or would like to be a guest on our show please email us at [email protected] and [email protected].
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  #13 Finding Your Life's Purpose through Dharma & Ikigai 🌿💖 08.09.2025 28min

  Welcome Back!Join your Two Tranquil Teachers, Betina and Stacy, as they explore two ancient frameworks—Dharma (India) and Ikigai (Japan)—to help you live with intention, balance, and joy. In this self-care month episode, discover how to align with your purpose and make meaningful daily choices. 🌟Grounding Exercise 🧘‍♀️: Start with a heart-centered meditation, focusing on your feet and body to feel grounded. Ask yourself, “Am I wearing socks?” to spark a smile and presence. 😊Dharma Explained 🌌: Learn how Dharma, your soul’s “right path,” reflects your unique role—whether nourishing, teaching, or creating—and why living it prevents feeling stuck.Ikigai Unpacked 🗺️: Explore Ikigai, your “reason for being,” through a four-circle Venn diagram: what you love, are good at, can be paid for, and what the world needs.Dharma vs. Ikigai 🔄: Dharma is your spiritual essence; Ikigai is its practical expression in daily life (e.g., cooking, teaching, or photography).Reflection Exercise 📝: Answer:What activities make you feel energized? (e.g., Stacy’s meal prepping, Betina’s reading)When do you feel most useful to others? (e.g., listening, sharing knowledge)What have people always sought you for? (e.g., health advice, book recommendations)Real-Life Examples 🚀: From ChatGPT:Culinary Therapist: Combines cooking and healing (Stacy’s vibe).Storytelling Strategist: Amplifies authentic voices (Betina’s passion).ESL Student Maria: Teaches tech basics, empowering others digitally.Self-Care Commitment 💕: Try one act of kindness this week (e.g., a walk, journaling, or Betina’s nightly reflection: “What was joyful today? What am I proud of?”).Aligning with your Dharma brings purpose; Ikigai turns it into actionable joy.Small skills matter—the world needs your unique gifts!Self-care isn’t selfish; it’s essential for Adult Ed students and teachers.Reflect: Journal your answers to the Dharma/Ikigai questions. What’s your purpose?Practice Self-Care: Commit to one kind act this week and share it with us!Engage: Follow us on LinkedIn for updates and connect with our community.Subscribe & Review: Rate us on your favorite platform to help us grow! 🌱Quote of the Episode: “Taking care of yourself isn’t selfish. It’s essential.” — Stacy & BetinaRecommended Books: https://tinyurl.com/IkigaiDharmabooksPicture of the Ikigai diagram: https://tinyurl.com/IKIGAIDIAGRAMThank You for Listening!Be gentle, stay grounded, and join us next time. ShaEpisode HighlightsKey TakeawaysCall to Action
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  #12 Resilience & Purpose with Maricela Juarez 18.08.2025 1h

  In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Maricela Juarez, Career Pathways Enrollment Specialist at Austin Community College, whose journey from teen mom and manual laborer to college graduate and community advocate is a testament to perseverance and purpose.Maricela opens up about:Overcoming personal loss and turning pain into purposeThe mindset, time management, and wellness practices that kept her goingHow she now pays it forward, inspiring other adult learners to keep going even when life doesn’t slow down💡 Key Takeaways:Transformation can begin at any stage of lifeEducation can be a powerful path to healing and purposeSmall wins fuel momentum—persistence mattersNature, movement, and spiritual practices can be simple, powerful wellness toolsSupport doesn’t have to come from family—it can be built in communityPlus, we guide you through a short breathing exercise and a simple hand reflexology technique to help calm the nervous system anytime, anywhere.📅 Mark Your Calendar:Sept 2 – Labor Day (U.S.)Sept 8 – World Literacy DaySeptember – Self-Care Awareness Month🎧 Tune in, take a deep breath, and be inspired to climb your own ladder—one step at a time.Maricela's Picks: https://tinyurl.com/MaricelaPicks
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  #11 Navigating Change-Practical Tips! 05.08.2025 24min

  Welcome to a New Season!Join hosts Stacy Ramirez and Betina, your Two Tranquil Teachers, as they kick off Season 2 with a fresh look, a new name, and a renewed focus on transformation, clarity, and practical change. This episode is all about embracing change in education and personal growth, inspired by the wisdom of modern Kabbalah. 🌟Rebranding Journey 📓💖: Discover the revamped Adult Education Wellness Podcast—new logo, new name, and a commitment to wellness and heart-centered teaching. The hosts share how they used the SMARTER framework to align their podcast with their mission.Kabbalah & Wellness 🕉️: Explore how Kabbalah’s principles—transforming reactive to proactive behavior, letting go for clarity, and viewing challenges as growth opportunities—apply to teaching and life. Learn from authors like Michael Berg, Yehuda Berg, Karen Berg, and Kathy Heller.Real Classroom Stories 🎙️: Stacy and Betina get candid about their early teaching struggles with “wild” classes, sharing how setting boundaries and reflecting on their approach transformed their classrooms. 🧑‍🏫Guided Reflection Exercise 🧘‍♀️: Join Betina’s Kabbalah-inspired meditation to release what no longer serves you. Reflect on questions like: What am I procrastinating on? What opportunities could open if I embrace change?Perfect for journaling! 📝What’s Next? 🚀: Expect more student voices, instructor insights, and wellness tools this season, plus live LinkedIn events with scavenger hunts and resource lists.Change is messy but necessary—pause, reflect, and set boundaries to grow.Small shifts (like a glass of water or a quiet morning) are powerful wellness practices.Ask for help! Whether from a supervisor, friend, or even AI, external perspectives spark growth. 🤝Fall In-Service for HCC Adult Ed: Join in-person on Tuesday, August 19, at the HBC Boardroom, or online on Wednesday, August 20. Register via email to meet your 15-hour PD requirement!Follow Us: Stay connected on LinkedIn for updates, tools, and fun challenges. Share this episode with someone navigating change!Reflect: Try the episode’s meditation and journal your answers to the reflection questions.Engage: Follow on LinkedIn for live events and share your feedback to shape Season 2.Subscribe & Review: Rate us on your favorite podcast platform to help us grow! 🌟Quote of the Episode: “It’s okay to do things differently. It’s okay to be me. I can do it my way.” — BetinaThank You for Listening!Whether you’re new or a Season 1 fan, you’re welcome here. Be brave, keep growing, and join us next time! 💪❤️Click here to see a list of Betina & Stacy's favorite books: https://tinyurl.com/StacyandBetinaBooks
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  #10 Season One Finale: Reflections, tools and looking ahead 28.07.2025 20min

  Today’s episode is the closing chapter of our very first season! Since January, we’ve shared 10 powerful episodes full of wellness practices, honest stories, and transformative tools. In this final episode, we hit pause to reflect on where we started, what we’ve learned, and where we’re headed next.Start listening if you want to discover what we found along the way—and follow along with our special Scavenger Hunt for curious listeners:🔎 Scavenger Hunt – Can you spot… 📚 How many book recommendations did Stacy and Betina gather? 📖 What trends and themes did they discover in this rich collection of titles? 🧘‍♀️ How many wellness techniques have been shared so far? 🌿 What practices did our guests bring to the table? 💡 What did we do well this season? 🔧 What can we improve moving forward? ⏭️ And… what’s coming in Season 2?Betina shares her lifelong connection to Oscar Wilde, and how his work helped her survive and thrive as a young artist.Stacy reveals four books that helped her align body, mind, and spirit—including Deepak Chopra, Joe Dispenza, and Alisa Vitti.  These aren’t just books—they’re blueprints for becoming.If you’ve been walking with us on this journey, thank you for being part of the ACC Adult Education World community. And if you’re new—this is the perfect time to jump in.Don’t forget to subscribe or follow this podcast on your favorite platform and leave us a review! It really helps us!We’ll see you again at the end of July! Until then…Let’s breathe, reflect, and grow—together. 🌱You will also find: Betina & Stacy’s Book Reflections:https://tinyurl.com/StacyandBetinaBooks
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  #9 Aligning with Purpose: Exploring Dharma & Education with AE Program Director, Susan Gusler 05.05.2025 44min

  🎙️ Welcome Back to episode 9 of the Adult Education World Podcast! Join Bettina Watkins & Stacy Ramirez and as they dive into the world of adult education, exploring the passion and dedication that drives educators and impacts communities.🌟 Special Guest: Susan Gusler is the Program Director of the Adult Education Department at ACC. Discover her inspiring journey from teaching ESL to leading adult education programs.📚 Susan's Story:  Susan shares her personal connection to adult education, inspired by her father's journey from GED completer to teacher. Learn how her diverse experiences shaped her career.🔍 Role of a Program Director: Susan describes her dynamic role, from supporting instructional teams to analyzing data and ensuring student success. Every day is an adventure!🌿 Personal Insights:  Get to know Susan personally as she shares her love for gardening, exercise, and her favorite book, "Dare to Lead" by Brené Brown.🌅 Wellness Practices: Susan's sunset practice and her passion for staying active highlight the importance of self-care and balance.Susan's Favorite Books: https://teach.link/SusanFBooksSusan's Favorite Podcasts: https://teach.link/SusanFavPodcastsGeneral Announcements:🌸 Celebrating Mother's Day: Acknowledge the incredible mothers and caregivers in our community. Explore diverse cultural celebrations of parental figures in your classroom.🎉 Upcoming Events in Austin: Check out the Mother's Day Market at Mueller Lake Park, Blues on the Green at Zilker Park, and the End of Term Celebration at ACC Highland.📆 Looking Ahead: Summer is coming! Explore courses offered at ACC for personal growth and learning opportunities.Adult Education Programs: https://adulted.austincc.edu/Career Pathways: https://adulted.austincc.edu/career-pathways/adulted.austincc.edu+2adulted.austincc.edu+2adulted.austincc.edu+2College Prep Program: https://adulted.austincc.edu/college-prep/adulted.austincc.eduCommunity Education: https://continue.austincc.edu/corporate/community-educationLifelong Learning: https://continue.austincc.edu/lifelong-learningACC Continuing EducationWorkshops & Events: https://students.austincc.edu/welcome-center/workshops-events/ACC District 🌟If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe/follow this show, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who might appreciate Susan’s episode.  If you have suggestions or want to get in touch with us feel free to email us at [email protected] and [email protected].
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  #8 Journaling and Self-Compassion in Adult Education with Jessica Listi 21.04.2025 1h 3min

  In this episode, Stacy and Betina welcome Jessica Listi, a passionate language arts instructor in the College Prep department. Jessica shares her journey from teaching middle school to adult education, highlighting her innovative approach to incorporating journaling and self-compassion into her teaching practice. The conversation delves into the transformative power of journaling, the importance of self-love, and the unique challenges and rewards of working with adult learners. 🎙️ Jessica's background in education and her transition to adult education. 📚 Journaling in the Classroom: How Jessica uses journaling to help students reconnect with themselves and build self-confidence. 🌟 Student Success Stories: Inspiring anecdotes about students who have thrived through journaling and self-reflection.🧘‍♀️ Incorporating Yoga and Self-Compassion:Jessica's journey to becoming a yoga instructor and how she integrates mindfulness practices into her teaching. 🌍 Diverse Student Experiences: The rich diversity of adult learners and the unique perspectives they bring to the classroom. 📖 Podcast Recommendations: Jessica shares her favorite podcasts & Yoga teachers that inspire her teaching and personal growth.Tara Brach Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tara-brach/id265264862Cole Chance Yoga: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCao6WJ3ryV6IjLmZa-PCv8wDavid O Yoga: https://www.youtube.com/@DavidOYogaJessica's Favorite Books: https://tinyurl.com/JessicaFavBooksJessica's Favorite Speeches: https://tinyurl.com/SpeechesJessicaAdult Ed Announcements:Click here to register for Blackboard Ultra Training.DLTI Conference Registration Link:  https://dlti25.vfairs.com/If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe/follow this show, rate, and review our podcast on your favorite platform. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who might benefit from Jessica's insights on journaling and self-compassion in education.If you have suggestions or want to get in touch with us feel free to email us at [email protected] and [email protected].
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  #7 Spring into Renewal: Revamping Resolutions with Ancestral Wisdom 07.04.2025 25min

  🌸 Welcome to Spring!- In this episode, Betina and Stacy embrace the fresh start that spring offers. In this episode you’ll learn:🌱 Reframing Resolutions- Stacy shares her experience of feeling like her resolutions have been on the back burner, while Betina talks about her goal of financial recovery and the steps she's taking to achieve it.🌿 Family Constellations Therapy- Betina introduces Family Constellations Therapy, explaining how it can help release hidden family patterns that might be holding us back. She guides listeners through a powerful letting-go exercise.   https://tinyurl.com/AncestralWisdomintheClassroom 🧘‍♀️ Letting Go Exercise- A guided exercise to help listeners release old family beliefs and step into the new season with clarity and support from their ancestors.🌼 Embrace Growth- Betina and Stacy remind listeners that growth happens in seasons, just like nature, and encourage them to be kind to themselves as they adjust their goals.📅 Exciting Announcements🎓 Applications for the CPW Summer Program are now open! A great opportunity for students to improve language skills and earn valuable certifications.🎉 A big thank you to everyone who participated in the successful ITP end-of-term celebration.👗 Spring cleaning? Donate gently used items to the Student Advocacy Center pop-up thrift stores in April.  Thrifting at ACC🌍 Celebrate Earth Day at Huston Tillotson University on April 12th. EarthDay🐣 Easter is coming on April 20th! Consider creating a class to explore the traditions and history of the holiday.💬 Join the ConversationPlease remember to follow this podcast and if you know someone who could benefit from listening, please share it with them!If you have any questions, comments or would like to be a guest on this show please email us at [email protected] or [email protected].