TAHPERD’s reMOVEing Layers

Building Stronger Communities: A Conversation with Amber Sladecek and Xavier Sampson

In this episode, hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, sit down with Amber Sladecek, District Elementary Physical Education Lead Teacher in Georgetown, Texas, and Xavier Sampson, PE teacher at Scott Johnson Middle School in McKinney, Texas. They explore the impact of community outreach and the role of professional associations like TAHPERD in supporting educators. Amber shares her passion for developing meaningful curriculum and promoting school and community health initiatives, while Xavier discusses his work with the Classic Young Gentlemen’s Club, a mentorship program that empowers inner-city boys through leadership and personal growth.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Leading the Way: A Conversation with Rachel Naylor

In this episode, host Lisa Fall, CMP, takes over the mic to interview her co-host Rachel Naylor, executive director of the Texas Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation, and Dance (TAHPERD). Together, they explore the upcoming 41st Annual Leadership Conference, scheduled for January 31–February 2, 2025, at the Lake Granbury Conference Center in Granbury, Texas. Rachel discusses the transition to a virtual format, the importance of member feedback, and how a revamped leadership structure is fostering better communication and collaboration. She also highlights key initiatives, including leadership training, awards restructuring, and the Texas Certified Teacher program, while sharing her inspiring journey within TAHPERD.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings. 

Driving Change at the Texas Capitol: A Conversation with Joel Romo

In this episode, hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, sit down with Joel Romo, president of Texana Public Affairs, to explore his extensive experience in Texas legislative affairs. Joel shares valuable lessons on the importance of patience, consistent messaging, and collaboration in successful advocacy efforts. The discussion covers how to balance diverse legislative issues, build strong coalitions, and emphasize the critical role of certified teachers. Joel also takes listeners behind the scenes at the Capitol, offering practical tips on the logistics of lobbying, including thorough preparation and effective coordination. Through personal stories of legislative victories and strategies for impactful lobbying, Joel highlights the dedication required to excel in advocacy, as well as the unwavering support of his family in his demanding career.
 
This episode is sponsored by Texana Public Affairs. 
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Advocating for the Profession: A Conversation with Dr. José Santiago and Dr. Ben Kern

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, as they dive into an insightful discussion with Dr. José Santiago, professor in the Department of Kinesiology at Sam Houston State University, and Dr. Ben Kern, associate professor at the University of Wyoming, on the critical role of advocacy in physical education. They explore the need for data-driven approaches to improve physical education policies, and discuss the challenges of PE access and class sizes, and the importance of ongoing professional development. Both experts highlight how professional organizations are essential in supporting educators and driving policy change.
For additional advocacy resources to promote healthy lifestyles, visit TAHPERD's advocacy page on its website: https://www.tahperd.org/tahperd-main-website-event/advocacy.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Presenting Solutions and Building Networks: A Conversation with Janet Scott-Carrier and Kenneth Hernandez

For our season 2 premier, hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, have an engaging conversation with Janet Scott-Carrier, a professional public-school educator and an experienced professional development presenter from Aldine ISD, and Kenneth Hernandez, coordinator of health and PE for Aldine ISD. The conversation highlights their professional journeys and the impact of their conference presentations. They also discuss key challenges such as teacher burnout, providing strategies for retention and support, and the significance of maintaining strong networks within the educational community.
This episode is sponsored by GOPHER Sport.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.
 
Show notes
Janet Scott-Carrier is a professional public-school educator and an experienced professional development presenter. She has served in many school districts including Dayton ISD, Sheldon ISD, Humble ISD and currently Aldine ISD.
She has presented at TAHPERD events and Aldine ISD for many years. Her topics have included Social Emotional Wellness and numerous presentations in collaboration with the TAHPERD Health Division Vice Presidents, as well as a featured panelist at the TAHPERD K-12 Administrator’s breakfast in 2023.
While speaking on the topic of “Yoga and the Athlete” at an Aldine ISD event in 2016, Janet realized she had grown into her abilities to speak publicly. And through that experience she was provided the opportunity to make contact with health teachers across the state and develop many lasting relationships. 
She has also served as a panelist with others speaking on the topic of “Females in Coaching” at the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators. And was recognized as an Outstanding Athletic Personality by the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Omicron Gamma Zeta Chapter.
Janet holds a master’s degree in Educational Administration Leadership and a Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology. She is a Texas Evaluation & Support System certified Appraiser (TTESS) and currently serves as the TTESS Specialist for her campus. And has previously served as Physical Education Department Chair. 
Janet is also active in her community serving as Mayor Pro-Tem for two terms and City Council woman for four terms until 2020. Some of her hobbies include cooking, gardening, sewing, decorating and reading.
But the MOST rewarding part of her life is being a MOTHER, GIGI to her grandson, and SISTER to her siblings. 
 
Kenneth Hernandez is the Coordinator of Health and PE for Aldine ISD. 
Kenneth states that working with the Aldine students, teachers, and community for the past 12 years has brought him tremendous joy. 
Kenneth says that beginning as a PE teacher and then transitioning to the Coordinator of Health and PE for the district has enabled him to teach, learn, and mentor these amazing educators so they can continue to have a positive impact on the students, teachers, and families in Aldine. 
His incredible wife of 13 years and his two sons continue to support and motivate him to take pride in what he does. 
To quote Kenneth, “my mission is to be passionate, prepared, and present to create healthy, lifelong learners.”
Kenneth is also an active member in TAHPERD currently serving on the Board as the Vice President Elect of the Health Division and previously serving in numerous other leadership roles.
 
 
 

Leading with Purpose: A Conversation with Alyson Van Hooser

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, for a fun conversation with Alyson Van Hooser, leadership expert, author, and keynote speaker at the 101st TAHPERD Annual Convention. Alyson shares her journey from a challenging upbringing to becoming a successful leader and mother of four. She discusses the importance of self-care, storytelling, and effective leadership, offering actionable advice on meeting people where they are, advocating for oneself, and finding a balance between personal and professional life. Join us for an inspiring conversation that explores the power of human connection, multi-generational communication, and the significance of understanding one's purpose.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.
 
Show notes
Keynote speaker, leadership expert, and author Alyson Van Hooser is on a sold-out mission to develop highly effective leaders who inspire positive change now and for generations to come. Having personally experienced the transformative impact that intentional acts of service can make, Alyson’s passion for helping others drives her to create extraordinary results for the clients she serves.
Despite a tough upbringing, Alyson quickly learned to embrace the power of an ownership mindset to transform the trajectory of a life and help anyone achieve audacious goals. It’s a mindset she’s brought to everything she’s done - management at Walmart, leadership in the banking and insurance industry, and elected city council member (all by the age of 30), as well as her roles as wife and mom to four.
Her experience navigating real-life leadership equips her to relate authentically with the challenges leaders are facing. She deeply understands the requirements of leadership — and she uses her experience to empower others to level up their ability to lead!
Through keynotes, training programs, books, and advising, Alyson guides people at all stages of their career to make practical changes that drive real-life results. Aligning radical responsibility with proven strategies for succeeding, her down-to-earth style will hit the heart, open the mind, and push anyone forward in their leadership!

The Impact of Conferences and Mentorship: A Conversation with Dr. Sharon Rice and Jordan Vardeman

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, for an engaging conversation with Dr. Sharon Rice, an assistant professor at Stephen F. Austin State University, and Jordan Vardeman, an elementary physical education teacher for Douglass ISD. Together, they explore the benefits of attending conferences for PE educators, sharing techniques for initiating conversations and building connections at these events. They also highlight the importance of mentoring and offering guidance to help new professionals grow and gain confidence in their roles.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Celebrating Every Day Successes: A Conversation with Joel Zeff

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, for a fun conversation with Joel Zeff, improvisational humorist, author, and keynote speaker at this year's TAHPERD Summer Conference. Joel shares how he uses improv and humor to enhance teamwork and leadership, offering a sneak peek into his keynote presentation and breakout session. Discover the importance of being present, breaking down communication barriers, and connecting with others through play and laughter. Joel also delves into finding one's passion and purpose, and emphasizes the need for positive support and recognition for teachers. Plus, they explore the value of self-reflection and advocacy in helping teachers thrive and grow. Don’t miss this fun and insightful episode!
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Getting Involved: A Conversation with H.C. Grimet and Rex Peebles

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, for an engaging conversation with H.C. Grimet, physical education, health and outdoor learning center coordinator with Katy ISD, and Rex Peebles, an elementary physical education teacher for Katy ISD. Together, they discuss the importance of being involved in TAHPERD, share their unique career paths, and explore the invaluable benefits of networking in the field.
 
reMOVEing Layers is produced by Association Briefings.

Elevating Coaching and Education: A Conversation with Thomasina Gatson

Join hosts Rachel Naylor and Lisa Fall, CMP, for an insightful conversation with Thomasina Gatson, M.Ed., MBA, MA, RAA, head girls basketball coach at Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD and current president-elect of TAHPERD. Explore topics ranging from student engagement in TAHPERD and the significance of physical education and health education to fostering relationships between coaches and students. Gain valuable insights into Gatson's personal journey with sports, coaching leadership development, and the pivotal role of professional associations in career advancement and job stability.