Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes

#16 – Preparing for a Physical Education Job Interview: Tips for Standing Out

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
In this episode, I explore how to prepare for a physical education job interview in a way that highlights your professionalism, instructional skills, and commitment to student growth. Whether you're a new teacher or a seasoned educator looking for a new opportunity, this episode offers practical strategies for communicating your strengths and experience with confidence.
 
This episode included:
How to show a growth mindset in your responses
Communicating how you create a safe and inclusive PE environment
Aligning your lessons with state and national PE standards
Incorporating standards-based social skills into your instruction
Differentiating instruction to meet diverse student needs
Framing your experience in a way that resonates with hiring committees
 
If you enjoy this podcast and are interested in learning more about how you or the PE teachers in your district can earn licensure renewal credits through a facilitated book study based on the book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please fill out this form or email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education.

#15 - Encouraging Learning and Growth in Physical Education Through Self-Reflection | Erin Evans

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
In this episode, I’m joined by Erin Evans, an award-winning physical education teacher whose passion for teaching and dedication to her community have made a meaningful impact both in and out of the gym. Originally from Australia, Erin now teaches in Montana, where she leads with creativity, reflection, and a commitment to high-quality PE.
 
We discuss:
How expectations for PE vary across districts and states
Designing curriculum that supports health and wellness
Using heart rate monitors and other tools to inform instruction
The benefits and challenges of student self-assessment
Ways to reflect on your own teaching practice
How being a reflective teacher supports professional growth and helps prevent burnout
 
If you enjoy this podcast and are interested in learning more about how you or the PE teachers in your district can earn licensure renewal credits through a facilitated book study based on the book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please fill out this form or email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education.
 
Resources
Montana OPI Content Standards
Denver Public Schools LEAP Framework
Denver Public Schools Consent Decree

#14 - Legitimizing Physical Education Through Meaningful Assessment | Adam Mullis

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
Today I’m joined by Dr. Adam Mullis, a passionate educator and advocate for health and physical education. Adam is in his 10th year of teaching middle school PE and health, holds advanced degrees in curriculum, assessment, and instruction, and has served in leadership roles across multiple professional organizations. He’s presented at numerous conferences, written over $60,000 in grants, and helped his schools earn national recognition as some of the “Healthiest Schools in America.”
 
In this episode, we discuss:
Why assessment is essential to legitimizing PE
The difference between measuring effort vs. learning
How to break down and communicate daily objectives
Using assessment data to differentiate instruction
The power of student self-assessment
The importance of building a strong learning culture
How conferences and professional communities influence growth
 
X: @pe_mullis
 
If you enjoy this podcast and are interested in learning more about how you or the PE teachers in your district can earn licensure renewal credits through a facilitated book study based on the book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please fill out this form or email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education.

#13 - Establishing a Culture of Excellence in PE | Sam Horton

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
Today I’m joined by Sam Horton, a dedicated PE teacher and swimming lead with seven years of experience in education. Sam was recently recognized for introducing the Swim England National School Swimming Award at his school. He’s developed full curricula for both PE and swimming and is passionate about helping students build not only physical skills but also social-emotional competencies through leadership, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
The importance of setting high expectations for student behavior
Strategies for creating a strong and positive learning environment
Ways to enhance student motivation and engagement
How to use the STEP framework to differentiate for student needs
The "I, We, You" instructional model
Planning effective lessons and unit progressions
 
Sam can be found on Instagram @primary_pe_lead
 
 
If you enjoy this podcast and are interested in learning more about how you or the PE teachers in your district can earn licensure renewal credits through a facilitated book study based on the book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please fill out this form or email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education.
 

#12 – Standards-Based PE Assessment Made Practical | Jen Smith and Jesse Weber

Distinguished PE is excited to announce the launch of three, self-paced, graduate level courses! See below for more information on how to sign up.
 
In this episode, I’m joined by Jen Smith and Jesse Weber to explore what meaningful assessment can look like in a high-quality PE program.
 
We discuss:
How our views on assessment have evolved over the years
Common misconceptions about grading and assessment in PE
Outdated grading practices that still linger in some programs
Clear criteria teachers can use when assessing students
How to use assessment data to inform instruction and support student growth
Tools and strategies for efficiently tracking assessment data
Challenges and potential solutions to implementing standards-based grading in PE
 
Whether you're just beginning to shift your assessment practices or looking to refine them, this episode offers practical strategies and thoughtful insight from two experienced PE educators.
 
Resources:
Data Tracker and Rubric
 
Distinguished PE has officially launched three new self-paced courses! You can take them for graduate-level credit, for hours toward renewing your teaching license, or simply for your own professional growth and reflection.
Each course aligns with a chapter from Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher and provides opportunities for authentic, job-embedded learning:
Promoting Equity and Inclusion in PE.
High Expectations for Student Behavior
Standards-Based Content and Language Objectives
 
You can earn three graduate-level credits for each course (nine total if you complete all three) through Colorado State University Pueblo, which can help teachers move over on their pay scale in many districts. If you’re looking for renewal hours, each one offers up to 100 hours toward your teaching license.
To learn more or get registered, head over to www.distinguishedpe.com and click on Virtual Courses.
Click here for the direct link to sign-up: Register Here!
 
Looking for more? Visit the DPE Linktree to:• Buy the book• Sign up for the DPE Virtual Course• Grab DPE merch

#11 - Why Student Talk Matters in PE | Mark Lombardi

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
Today I’m speaking with Mark Lombardi, a veteran physical education teacher who has spent the past 23 years at Godsman Elementary in Denver Public Schools. Mark earned his Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology with an emphasis in K–12 education from the University of Northern Colorado, and holds a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction. His long-term commitment to one school community has allowed him to deeply connect with his students and continuously refine his practice.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
How our views on student talk in PE have shifted over time
Common misconceptions about encouraging student talk in PE
What accountable talk structures are and how they support student learning
Which structures work especially well in a PE setting
Challenges PE teachers may face when implementing accountable talk
Practical ways to embed talk structures into PE lessons
 
If you're interested in helping your students reflect, communicate, and engage more deeply in PE, this episode is packed with insight.
 
If you enjoy this podcast and are interested in learning more about how you or the PE teachers in your district can earn licensure renewal credits through a facilitated book study based on the book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please fill out this form or email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education. 

#10 – Empowering Student Voice Through Peer Feedback | Peter Rossi

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Peter Rossi, the physical education teacher at Stedman Elementary School in Denver’s Park Hill neighborhood. After earning a bachelor’s degree in journalism and working as a reporter, Pete transitioned to education and completed a master’s in physical education at the University of Northern Colorado. Now in his 10th year of teaching, he also serves as a regional team specialist, planning and facilitating professional development for fellow PE teachers in the district.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
The benefits of teaching students how to give academically-focused, detailed feedback
Structures that support accountable peer-to-peer feedback
When to prioritize peer feedback during a unit
The impact of peer feedback on student learning and engagement
Common challenges and how to overcome them
 
Whether you’re just starting to explore peer feedback or looking to refine your current practices, this episode offers practical strategies to strengthen student learning through meaningful interaction.
 
If you enjoy this episode and are interested in learning more about how the PE teachers in your district can get involved in a book study based on the text Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, please email gary@distinguishedpe.com.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education. 

#9 – Chapter Two of Becoming a Distinguished PE Teacher: High Expectations for Student Behavior

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
In this episode, I read Chapter 2 of my book, Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher.
 
This chapter explores:
Why high expectations for student behavior are essential in PE
How consistent routines and expectations help create a safe and motivating environment
Practical examples of what respectful behavior looks like in a PE setting
The connection between student behavior and instructional effectiveness
Ways to proactively address common behavior challenges
 
Whether you're a veteran teacher or just getting started, this chapter offers a clear look at how setting a strong behavioral foundation can elevate your entire program.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education. 
 

#8 – “What Did You Learn in PE Today?”: Creating and Communicating Content and Language Objectives | Jen Smith

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Jen Smith, the Physical Education Instructional Curriculum Specialist for Denver Public Schools. Jen brings over a decade of teaching experience and a passion for supporting PE teachers in creating standards-based, student-centered lessons.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
What PE lessons can look like when they’re not aligned to standards
How to write clear, standards-based content and language objectives (CLOs)
Ways to make CLOs meaningful and student-friendly
The impact that consistent use of CLOs has on student learning and the reputation of your program
Strategies for getting started with CLOs if this is new to you
 
This episode offers a practical guide to embedding purpose and clarity into every PE lesson—and why it matters.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education. 
 
Resources
Language Function and Form Resource
 

#7 - Chapter One of Becoming a Distinguished PE Teacher: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
In this solo episode, I read Chapter One from my book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, titled “Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement.”
 
This chapter explores:
Why inclusivity should be a foundational part of every PE program
Strategies for ensuring all students feel seen, valued, and supported
Practical ways to boost engagement through intentional instructional decisions
How to foster a sense of belonging and connection in your gym
 
Whether you’ve already read the book or are hearing it for the first time, this chapter highlights core ideas that can strengthen your classroom culture and student relationships.
 
If you haven’t already, be sure to join our Facebook group where we have assembled quite the group of experts, always willing to share their insights and help out colleagues with their problems of practice. Simply search for Distinguished Physical Education. 
 
This podcast is being released along with my new book, Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher, which is available on Amazon.