Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Victor Spadaro, a dynamic and passionate physical educator from Arlington, Virginia. Victor teaches PreK–5th grade at Abingdon Elementary and was recently named the 2025 Southern District Elementary PE Teacher of the Year. He’s an OPEN National Trainer, former Dance VP of Virginia AHPERD, and a frequent presenter at state and national conferences.
 
In this episode, Victor and I discuss:
Why dance is an essential part of a high-quality PE curriculum
Strategies to help PE teachers feel more confident teaching dance
Ways to make dance engaging, inclusive, and accessible to all students
How dance supports creativity, expression, and social-emotional growth
The impact of attending and presenting at conferences on professional growth
Tips for trying new things in your teaching—even if they feel outside your comfort zone
 
If you’ve ever felt hesitant about incorporating dance into your PE program, this episode will give you practical ideas, encouragement, and insight from one of the best in the field.
 
Follow Victor on YouTube!
 
Secure your spot for the 2025-2026 DPE Virtual Book Study, facilitated by Gary Zaharatos and Jen Smith. Buy tickets here! Feel free to email gary@distinguishedpe.com for group discounts or any questions. 
 
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.

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Brad Hunter. Brad has been working with students in a physical activity capacity for 19 years—first through a nonprofit that brought meaningful play to schools, then as an elementary PE teacher, and now in his sixth year as an itinerant Adapted PE teacher for Baltimore City Public Schools. He serves on the Board of SHAPE Maryland, is the President of the Maryland Adapted PE Consortium, and Co-Chair of the Maryland State Department of Education Standards and Framework Validation Committee. Brad was named the 2023 SHAPE Maryland Adapted PE Teacher of the Year and the 2025 Eastern District Adapted PE Teacher of the Year.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
Why it’s important for all PE teachers to develop an adapted PE skill set
Strategies for making physical activity accessible for students with diverse abilities
Creative equipment adaptations that support learning and engagement
How PE and APE teachers can build strong, collaborative partnerships
Adapted PE resources every teacher should know about
And more
 
Brad is a true expert in the field of Adapted PE, and it was a pleasure to learn from him.
 
Resources and National Convention Sessions
Why All Physical Education Teachers Need an Adapted PE Bucket
https://blog.shapeamerica.org/2025/03/why-all-physical-education-teachers-need-an-adapted-pe-bucket/
 
Baltimore 2025
Adapted PE = High Quality PE
Wednesday April 2nd
3:15-4:15pm
 
Why We All Need An Adapted PE Bucket
Thursday April 3rd
8:00-9:00am
 
Just Adapt It - Brad Barker
 
Secure your spot for the 2025-2026 DPE Virtual Book Study, facilitated by Gary Zaharatos and Jen Smith. Buy tickets here! Feel free to email gary@distinguishedpe.com for group discounts or any questions. 
 
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.

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Patrick Noel. Patrick received his Bachelor of Science degree in Physical Education from St. Bonaventure University and a Master of Arts in Kinesiology with a PE emphasis from Fresno Pacific University. He is in his 19th year of teaching in Fairfax County Public Schools—the largest district in Virginia and the 11th largest in the country. Patrick has taught at both the elementary and high school levels and is currently at Colvin Run Elementary, where he’s been since 2020. In December 2023, he earned his National Board Certification in Early and Middle Childhood Physical Education.
 
In this episode, Patrick and I discuss:
Why Speak Out Day matters and how teachers can advocate for high-quality PE programs
What the National Board Certification process looks like
The impact certification has had on his teaching and reflection practices
How certification can elevate the PE profession
Advice for teachers considering pursuing National Board Certification
 
TikTok - @MrNoelsTrickShots
Twitter/X - @pm_noel
YouTube
 
Resources
CLO Check For Understanding Questions
 
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.

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guests today are Caitlin Schoville and Austin Olsen, two nationally recognized middle school physical educators.
Caitlin teaches 7th and 8th grade health and PE at Pleasant Valley Junior High in eastern Iowa. She was named SHAPE Iowa’s Middle School Teacher of the Year in 2022 and SHAPE America’s Central District Teacher of the Year in 2024. Austin teaches 8th grade at Pacific Trails Middle School in California. He was named the SHAPE America Western District Teacher of the Year and California Middle School PE Teacher of the Year in 2023.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
The power of student choice in physical education
Strategies to motivate and engage middle school learners
How to integrate standards-based social skills into units and lessons
The impact of building a student-centered classroom culture
 
Join us over at The Health and PE Collective! 
 
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.

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
My guest today is Christina Collins, founder and owner of NeverStopMoving365, an organization focused on expanding access to physical education beyond the school day. Christina holds a Master’s in Sport Science and is currently pursuing a Doctorate in Educational Leadership, with a research focus on movement joy and physical literacy. She teaches in the Master of Arts in Teaching PE and Sport Pedagogy program at Manhattanville University and is a passionate educator, speaker, and ultra-endurance athlete.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
What future professionals are learning in college PE prep programs
How to intentionally plan for transitions and classroom routines
Strategies for managing equipment and attention during instruction
The role of standards-based social skills in student development
Advocating for your PE program with administrators and parents
Using instant activities to start strong and set expectations
Reflective teaching strategies to improve your practice
 
Christina brings an energetic and thoughtful perspective to every conversation, and I’m excited to share her insights with you.
 
Email: christina@neverstopmoving365.com
IG: neverstopmoving.365
 
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.

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.

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

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.

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.
 

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