Four Winds Learning Collective

About Four Winds Learning Collective

We are educators, parents, and advocates seeking to create spaces that empower students to discover their unique paths to learning and growth. And while we have big plans...for right now, 
all we have is a podcast.

Publisher

The Four Winds Learning Collective

Category

education · society & culture

Language

en

Explicit

Yes

First episode

17 Jan 2025

Latest episode

15 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

14 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   15 Sept 2026

   S2E6 - What School Consequences Are Actually For

   Episode Notes A student gets kicked out of class, spends some time with the behavior coordinator, and comes back carrying a bag of chips. The teacher, who's been managing the rest of the room and doesn't know what was said behind closed doors, sees that bag of chips and thinks: what the hell are we doing here? Tomorrow it happens again. That's where this conversation starts. Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dig into what happens when a student leaves the classroom: what does and doesn't get communicated back to the teacher, what the office actually does with the kid, and the moment-by-moment work Jen does when a student arrives in her room hot and not ready to talk to anyone. She walks through her routine: three minutes, a timer, no treats, then come back and ask what happened. The students willing to take that risk often surprise her. Those who've been dismissed too many times sometimes can't get there yet. Running under all of it is the premise that behavior is communication. Usually the message is that something isn't working. Not enough food. Not enough sleep. No sense that school was built for someone like them, that anyone knows what they're actually good at or cares enough to find out. Suspend the kid and none of that changes. When they come back, the behavior comes back with them. The harder question the three of them keep returning to is whether any of this changes inside the current structure. Restorative conversations help, when both sides show up. Spending real time to understand what a kid is carrying that day matters, even when it's slow and doesn't always work. But the system still has roughly one response for every kind of trouble. You can get good at triage and never touch the source

2. 

   15 Jun 2026

   S2E5 - AI for the Teacher, Not the Student

   Episode Notes There's been a version of this conversation happening in school hallways for years: the one about phones, about screens, about what we're doing to kids' attention. Most educators have watched it happen in slow motion: the iPads that seemed like a gift, the social media that ate everything, the kids who grew up without social interaction habits that being in a room with other people actually requires. Now artificial intelligence is arriving at a pace that makes all of that look gradual. Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dig into what AI actually means for the practice of teaching: not the policy debate, but the daily work. Stuart describes using it in real time to rewrite grade-level texts at a readable level so students can access content that would otherwise stay closed to them, improvising instruction the way a musician improvises. Kyle talks about what it would mean to finally have the one-to-one tutor that research has always said every student needs, not as a replacement for the educator in the room, but as something that helps educators do the thing that only a human can do: be present, make eye contact, teach kids how to be with each other. We also walk through what the labor data actually shows about which roles AI will hollow out and which ones it won't. But the conversation keeps returning to the same idea: if all you're offering students is content delivery, you can be replaced. If you're offering belonging, if you're teaching someone how to be a person in the world, that's the work that stays. What we don't resolve (and probably can't, on a Friday night in Vermont) is the question of student use. When does AI help a kid understand something, and when does it let them skip the understanding entirely? The answer we land on isn't a policy, but a relationship.

3. 

   4 May 2026

   S2E4 - Mini-Ep: The Dyslexic Mind

   Episode Notes On this mini-episode, Stuart shares a deep dive into The Dyslexic Advantage by Brock and Fernette Eide, a book that challenges the conventional deficit-based view of dyslexia and instead explores it as a distinct and powerful way of processing information. As educators, we often find ourselves working within systems designed for a narrow "middle," where a student's struggle with reading is treated as a problem to be fixed rather than a signal of a different kind of strength. Drawing on the research from the Eides and his own experience in special education, Stuart walks through the MIND framework: Material Reasoning : The 3D thinking and "tinkering" that often makes students gifted with their hands and visual puzzles. Interconnected Reasoning : The ability to see the "big picture" and identify patterns that others miss. Narrative Reasoning : A natural talent for storytelling and processing information through personal connection rather than abstractions. Dynamic Reasoning : The capacity for novel problem-solving and strategizing in complex, changing situations. Using the Circle of Courage as a guide, Stuart considers what Mastery looks like when we stop trying to "change the person" and instead change the system they are forced to fit into. He explores how giving a student time and space, rather than forcing them into a specific timeframe, can be the difference between a student feeling like a failure or discovering they have the mind of an Einstein or a Spielberg. If you’re a practitioner or parent navigating "the mess we’re all living in" within the public school system, this episode offers a shift in perspective: Flip the Script : Move from a deficit-based model to a strength-based one that leverages what a student can do. Provide the "Time Factor" : Recognize that different brain types often need more time to reach realizations, but the resulting solutions are frequently more creative and novel. Challenge Inclusion : Move beyond just giving students a "seat at the table" and start changing instruction to meet their unique neurological paths.

4. 

   6 Apr 2026

   S2E2 - We're All Impostors Here

   Episode Notes Everybody in education has felt the nagging sense that you don't quite belong there, that someone smarter or more prepared is about to walk in and take your seat. Jen would like you to know it's called imposter phenomena, not syndrome, and that distinction actually matters. In this episode, we're joined by Ryan, our audio engineer and longtime collaborator, to talk about why that feeling of being a fraud is so widespread among educators, and why naming it, laughing at it a little, and refusing to hide it might be one of the most important things a school community can do. We talk about how the structure of school itself creates and sustains imposter phenomena, not just for first-year teachers, but for experienced educators navigating a profession that keeps changing underneath us. Nearly every first-year teacher walks into a classroom feeling like they're not ready. That's not a personal failing. It's a sign that the expectations are impossible, that no one told them they'd need to be a therapist and a curriculum designer and a community builder all at once, and that most of their colleagues feel the same way and nobody is saying so. The antidote we keep coming back to isn't a program or a certification. It's reflection, presence, and belonging. A community where people can say "I don't know how to do this yet,” and then figure it out together. Embrace the yuck. We're all in it.

5. 

   17 Mar 2026

   S2E3 - Mini-Ep: The Shield is Cracking

   Episode Notes On March 2, 2026, the Supreme Court handed down its decision in Mirabelli v. Bonta, a case that started with two veteran teachers in Escondido, California who were told by their school to hide students' gender transitions from their parents. In this solo mini-episode, Kyle walks through what actually happened in the case. This isn't a legal analysis episode, nor a political one. Using the Circle of Courage as a guide, Kyle explores what belonging means for a student whose sense of safety at school just became uncertain, what independence looks like when the only framework we gave kids was secrecy, and what generosity asks of us when the parents on the other side of this fight are acting out of fear rather than hate. If you're an educator wondering what to do, this episode offers three concrete steps: know your district's current policy, convene your team to build a proactive family-engagement process before someone forces your hand, and advocate for a framework that treats students as developing human beings with agency rather than secrets to be kept or disclosed.

6. 

   9 Mar 2026

   S2E2 - Mini-Ep: When the World Is on Fire

   Episode Notes The world is on fire — and the kids in your classroom know it. In this solo mini-episode, Kyle sits with a question that a lot of educators are carrying right now: when something as large and frightening as a widening war is all over your students' feeds, what is your actual job? This isn't a geopolitics episode. It's about presence, belonging, and the difference between having a plan and being a person. Kyle draws on the Circle of Courage to think through what students need when the world destabilizes and what gets in the way of us giving it to them. No guests, no easy answers. Just a fifteen minutes for anyone who has young people in their life and is figuring out how to show up for them right now.

7. 

   24 Nov 2025

   S2E1 - Season Two Begins: Mental Health, Community Schools, and the Mess We’re All Living In

   Episode Notes Season Two opens with the three of us dusting off the microphones, forgetting how to introduce ourselves, and immediately diving into the deep end: mental health in schools, the crisis facing students and teachers, and why everything seems to be on fire. We talk SEL, trauma, the impossible pressure on educators, and the growing push toward community schools as a way to actually meet human needs instead of just…performing education. There’s history, there’s snark, there’s a surprising number of references to cannons, and there’s a whole lot of honesty about the state of things. If you work in a school, send a kid to a school, or ever went to a school, you’ll probably relate. Season Two starts by asking the same question we always end up circling back to: How do we build systems that actually help people thrive?

8. 

   17 Nov 2025

   S1E7 - The FAPE Paradox: When “Appropriate” Isn’t Appropriate

   Episode Notes In this episode, Three Educators Who’ve Seen Too Much™ dive headfirst into the mess that is FAPE: Free and Appropriate Public Education. We unpack how “appropriate” too often means “sit in a class you can’t access,” why canned curriculum is a billion-dollar confidence trick, and how grade levels still haunt us like a bad group project. From misinterpretations of special education law to the systemic forces pushing students toward frustration or checked-out disengagement, we trace how schools keep setting kids up to feel broken when it’s the system that’s cracked. We also explore what real inclusion should look like, why research doesn’t back most of what districts insist on doing, and how learning actually works when we’re not torturing children with timelines that exist only on paper.

9. 

   2 Jul 2025

   S1E6 - Holding Space

   Dawn, Vermont Teacher of the Year, joins Kyle, Jen, and Stuart to examine the evolving dynamics of teacher-student relationships and the challenges of supporting dysregulated students in middle school classrooms in this interview.

10. 

    7 May 2025

    S1E5 - Qualified to Care?

    Episode Notes In this episode, we explore the barriers that traditional teacher certification processes create, preventing passionate, talented individuals from entering the classroom. Joined by Maya, an experienced educator who transitioned from progressive private schools to traditional public education, we discuss how expensive degrees, unpaid student-teaching requirements, and rigid credentialing systems exclude gifted mentors. We ask critical questions about what genuinely qualifies someone to teach, share stories from personal experiences, and consider alternative pathways that prioritize connection, empathy, and true effectiveness over formal qualifications. Reflect on your most impactful teacher: what truly made them great? Share your stories and thoughts with us by emailing info@fourwindslearningcollective or reaching out on social media. Let’s continue the conversation about reimagining what qualifies someone to teach and mentor effectively. Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/four-winds-learning-collective/674a4c9e/qualified-to-care-/transcript)

11. 

    9 Apr 2025

    S1E4 - Attachment Styles: How Early Relationships Shape Us

    Episode Notes In this episode of the Four Winds Learning Collective podcast, Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dive into the fascinating world of attachment styles—how our early relationships with caregivers shape the way we connect with others throughout life. They discuss the four main attachment styles (secure, anxious, avoidant, and disorganized) and how they manifest in students and adults alike. The conversation touches on neuroscience, trauma, and how educators can help students build healthier relationships. The hosts also explore how modern factors like online interactions and societal shifts are leading to an increase in insecure attachment styles. Wrapping up, they discuss practical strategies for teachers and parents to create consistent, supportive environments that foster resilience and emotional well-being. Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/four-winds-learning-collective/d6acdba3/attachment-styles-how-early-relationships-shape-us/transcript)

12. 

    12 Mar 2025

    S1E3 - The Politics of Education: Wrestling with Project 2025

    Episode Notes Episode 3: The Politics of Education: Wrestling with Project 2025 Subtitle: A Deep Dive into Education’s Tug-of-War Over Values and Funding In this episode, Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dive into one of the most polarizing education policy proposals of our time: Project 2025. The team examines the potential dismantling of the U.S. Department of Education, the shift to state-controlled funding, and the far-reaching consequences for students, teachers, and families across the nation. Join the hosts as they explore: • The history and role of the Department of Education in U.S. schools. • How Project 2025 aims to redefine federal and state responsibilities in education. • The tension between regional control, equity, and systemic bias. • Potential implications for Vermont’s schools and property tax system. • Broader questions about the purpose of education and the values it reflects in a divided America. With their signature mix of candor and insight, they tackle questions about federalism, capitalism, and the intersection of policy and practice in the classroom. Whether you’re an educator, parent, or policymaker, this conversation will leave you thinking deeply about the future of education in America. Resources Mentioned: • Project 2025 • Historical insights into the Department of Education’s creation and evolution • Vermont’s Act 77 and Flexible Pathways Initiative • The role of federal funding in local school systems You can find a link to these and the resources mentioned in our podcasts by visiting the Resources page of our website: https://fourwindslearningcollective.org/resources.html (https://fourwindslearningcollective.org/resources.html) Call to Action: Join the conversation! What are your thoughts on Project 2025 and its potential impact on education? Reach out to us on social media or via email to share your perspective. Read transcript (https://pnc.st/s/four-winds-learning-collective/2f767b28/the-politics-of-education-wrestling-with-project-2025/transcript)

13. 

    12 Feb 2025

    S1E2 - Reclaiming Passion in the Age of Distraction

    Episode Notes Episode 2: Reclaiming Passion in the Age of Distraction Subtitle: The Battle for Focus and Purpose in the Modern Classroom In this episode, Kyle, Jen, and Stuart dive into the pressing challenges faced by educators, parents, and students in a world dominated by screens. They explore themes from Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation, discussing how technology distracts from passion, creativity, and the pursuit of purpose. Join the hosts as they reflect on: • The rise of smartphones and their impact on learning, focus, and mental health. • The tension between progressive, passion-based education and the pervasive influence of social media. • Personal anecdotes from their classrooms and lives, including the role of play-based versus screen-based childhoods. • The critical need for awareness, balance, and intentional use of technology in education. Whether you’re an educator, a parent, or simply someone passionate about creating a better world for the next generation, this thought-provoking conversation is for you. Resources Mentioned: • The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt • The Coddling of the American Mind by Jonathan Haidt and Greg Lukianoff • NeuroTribes by Steve Silberman • The Social Dilemma (documentary) Don’t miss this engaging discussion on how we can reclaim passion, creativity, and focus in a distracted age.

14. 

    17 Jan 2025

    S1E1 - Breaking the Rules

    Show Notes: Episode 1 - The Four Winds Learning Collective Episode Title: "Breaking the Rules: Education in the Great Outdoors" Episode Summary: Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Four Winds Learning Collective podcast! Join Stuart, Kyle, and Jen as they embark on a candid and insightful discussion about the state of education, all while enjoying the great outdoors. This episode sets the stage for what’s to come, introducing the core philosophy of the Four Winds Learning Collective and teasing future topics. Key Topics Discussed: Introduction to the Four Winds Learning Collective: - The mission and vision behind the collective. - The importance of creating multiple pathways for young people to find their best path in life. Background of the Hosts: - Stuart, Kyle, and Jen share their extensive experience in education, from kindergarten to graduate level. - The journey from working in a school together to founding the Four Winds Learning Collective. The Four Winds Philosophy: - Belonging: Understanding where you fit in and how you connect with others. - Mastery: Finding something you excel at and the importance of persistence and grit. - Independence: Developing self-control, autonomy, and confidence. - Generosity: The natural tendency to give back and the importance of having a purpose. Challenges in Education: - The obstacles faced in trying to innovate within the educational system. - The importance of holistic development in students. Future Podcast Topics: - The anxious generation and the impact of technology on young minds. - Teacher and student burnout. - The myth of the high-quality teacher and the role of caring adults in education. - Neuroscience and attachment theory. - Standards and proficiencies in education. - Mindfulness and its role in holistic development. Quotes from the Episode: Stuart: "We're creating multiple products and there should be so many different ways for young people to find their best path." Kyle: "If you can get those four things—belonging, mastery, independence, and generosity—you've succeeded as an educator." Jen: "When you have a purpose and you feel your purpose and you can articulate your purpose, it feels good." Recommended Reading: Stuart's Pick: Moon Unit Zappa's autobiography – A funny, insightful, and smart read about growing up in the 90s and dealing with insecure attachment. Kyle's Pick: "A Distant Mirror" by Barbara Tuchman – A deep dive into the 14th century, which among many other things, touches on the the resilience of children through historical hardships. Jen's Current Studies: Adolescent development and abnormal psychology – Exploring the depths of depression and brain function. Join the Conversation: We invite you to join us on this journey as we explore various aspects of education and holistic development. If you have any topics you'd like us to cover or questions for the hosts, feel free to reach out! Contact Information: Email: info@fourwindslearningcollective.org Social Media: Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61572399892558) Subscribe & Follow: Don't forget to subscribe to the Four Winds Learning Collective podcast on your favorite platform and follow us on social media for updates and more educational content. Closing Note: Thank you for tuning in to our first episode! We look forward to sharing more insights and engaging in meaningful conversations about education and beyond. Until next time, stay curious and keep learning! Music Credits: "Volunteers," by Jefferson Airplane (1969) Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this podcast are those of the hosts and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any affiliated organizations.

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

4.3 / 5

6 ratings

Spotify

3.4 / 5

5 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 13 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

13

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

31