Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes

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. 

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. 

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. 
 

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
 

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. 

Distinguished PE is excited to announce the launch self-paced graduate courses! See below for more information on how to sign up.
 
My guest today is Brian Hull. Brian taught secondary physical education in Title I schools for 10 years in Denver Public Schools before becoming a full-time member of the SPARK and Gopher Sport team. He now works as an instructional coach at Quist Middle School in Adams County, Colorado. Brian was named the SHAPE Colorado High School Teacher of the Year in 2018 and the SHAPE America National High School Teacher of the Year in 2020.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
The difference between equality and equity in PE
Inclusive practices that meet students where they are
How to differentiate instruction to support all learners
The role of reflection and relationships in equitable teaching
 
Brian brings a powerful lens to this conversation—one grounded in experience, empathy, and a commitment to making PE meaningful for every student.
 
Distinguished PE has officially launched new self-paced courses! You can take them for graduate credits, for hours toward renewing your teaching license, or simply for your own professional growth and reflection.
Each course aligns with a chapter from the book Distinguished Physical Education and provides opportunities for authentic, job-embedded learning.
 
The following three credit, self-paced courses are now available:
DPE 101: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement
DPE 102: High Expectations for Student Behavior
DPE 103: Optimizing Use of Space and Resources
DPE 104: Standards-Based Content and Language Objectives
DPE 105: Assessing Students’ Progress and Understanding
 
You can earn three graduate-level credits for each course (15 total if you complete all five) through Colorado State University Pueblo, which can help teachers move over on their pay scale in many districts. These credits can also be used toward a Masters Degree at CSU!
If you’re looking for renewal hours, each one offers up to 100 hours toward your teaching license.
To learn more or get registered, email gary@distinguishedpe.com or head over to www.distinguishedpe.com and click on Virtual Courses.
 
Looking for more? Visit the DPE Linktree to:• Buy the book• Sign up for the DPE Virtual Course• Grab DPE merch
 
Podcast and Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone. 

Distinguished PE is excited to announce the launch self-paced graduate courses! See below for more information on how to sign up.
 
My guest today is Sara Whatmore. Sara earned a BA in Child Development from the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill. She taught kindergarten and first grade for 11 years—two of those in Charlotte, North Carolina, and nine in Aurora, Colorado.
She later transitioned into teaching physical education while earning a Master’s in Physical Education from the University of Northern Colorado. Sara now teaches PE at Stephen Knight Center for Early Education in Denver Public Schools, where she combines her experience working with children ages 3–6 with her passion for physical education.
Sara also serves as a regional team specialist, developing and leading professional development for other PE teachers, especially those working with younger grades.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
The unique needs of Pre-K students in physical education
How to structure developmentally appropriate lessons
Tips for managing transitions and behavior in early childhood PE
Strategies for aligning lessons to physical education standards
The role of play and imagination in supporting motor skill development
 
Sara brings a thoughtful and joyful approach to teaching early childhood PE—and it was a pleasure to learn from her.
 
Distinguished PE has officially launched new self-paced courses! You can take them for graduate credits, for hours toward renewing your teaching license, or simply for your own professional growth and reflection.
Each course aligns with a chapter from the book Distinguished Physical Education and provides opportunities for authentic, job-embedded learning.
 
The following three credit, self-paced courses are now available:
DPE 101: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement
DPE 102: High Expectations for Student Behavior
DPE 103: Optimizing Use of Space and Resources
DPE 104: Standards-Based Content and Language Objectives
DPE 105: Assessing Students’ Progress and Understanding
 
You can earn three graduate-level credits for each course (15 total if you complete all five) through Colorado State University Pueblo, which can help teachers move over on their pay scale in many districts. These credits can also be used toward a Masters Degree at CSU!
If you’re looking for renewal hours, each one offers up to 100 hours toward your teaching license.
To learn more or get registered, email gary@distinguishedpe.com or head over to www.distinguishedpe.com and click on Virtual Courses.
 
Looking for more? Visit the DPE Linktree to:• Buy the book• Sign up for the DPE Virtual Course• Grab DPE merch
 
Podcast and Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone. 

Distinguished PE is excited to announce the launch self-paced graduate courses! See below for more information on how to sign up.
 
My guests today are Tyler Quinn and Jessica Templeton.
Tyler has been teaching elementary physical education for seven years. After starting his career in Arlington Public Schools, he moved to Colorado in 2020, where he now teaches PreK–5th grade PE at Columbine Elementary in Denver Public Schools.
Jessica brings 24 years of experience in Denver Public Schools. She spent 16 years as a third-grade classroom teacher before transitioning into PE. She currently teaches at Gust Elementary and also serves as a Regional Team Specialist, supporting PE teachers across the district through professional learning.
 
In this episode, we discuss:
How to create a safe and welcoming gym environment from day one
Gym setup strategies that reinforce expectations for student behavior
Planning for entry and exit routines and other essential procedures
Activities to build classroom culture during the first week
Key advice for new teachers heading into the school year
 
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your approach, this conversation is full of actionable ideas to help kick off the school year with confidence and clarity.
 
Distinguished PE has officially launched new self-paced courses! You can take them for graduate credits, for hours toward renewing your teaching license, or simply for your own professional growth and reflection.
Each course aligns with a chapter from the book Distinguished Physical Education and provides opportunities for authentic, job-embedded learning.
 
The following three credit, self-paced courses are now available:
DPE 101: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement
DPE 102: High Expectations for Student Behavior
DPE 103: Optimizing Use of Space and Resources
DPE 104: Standards-Based Content and Language Objectives
DPE 105: Assessing Students’ Progress and Understanding
 
You can earn three graduate-level credits for each course (15 total if you complete all five) through Colorado State University Pueblo, which can help teachers move over on their pay scale in many districts. These credits can also be used toward a Masters Degree at CSU!
If you’re looking for renewal hours, each one offers up to 100 hours toward your teaching license.
To learn more or get registered, email gary@distinguishedpe.com or head over to www.distinguishedpe.com and click on Virtual Courses.
 
Looking for more? Visit the DPE Linktree to:• Buy the book• Sign up for the DPE Virtual Course• Grab DPE merch
 
Podcast and Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone. 

Distinguished PE is excited to announce the launch self-paced graduate courses! See below for more information on how to sign up.
 
In this episode, I’m joined by Brian Crane, a veteran PE teacher with over 20 years of experience across elementary, middle, and high school levels. Brian currently teaches at East Valley Academy in the Mesa School District and brings a wealth of practical wisdom, humor, and heart to the conversation.
 
We discuss:
Communicating clear expectations for student behavior
Creating and reinforcing class rules
Building mutually respectful relationships with students
Reducing student anxiety in PE
Planning for the first week of school
Setting boundaries around cell phone use
The benefits of small-sided modified activities
Motivation strategies for secondary students
Effective end-of-class routines
 
Brian shares actionable advice and reflections from two decades in the field — a must-listen for any secondary PE teacher preparing for the year ahead.
 
Distinguished PE has officially launched new self-paced courses! You can take them for graduate credits, for hours toward renewing your teaching license, or simply for your own professional growth and reflection.
Each course aligns with a chapter from the book Distinguished Physical Education and provides opportunities for authentic, job-embedded learning.
 
The following three credit, self-paced courses are now available:
DPE 101: Promoting Inclusivity and Engagement
DPE 102: High Expectations for Student Behavior
DPE 103: Optimizing Use of Space and Resources
DPE 104: Standards-Based Content and Language Objectives
DPE 105: Assessing Students’ Progress and Understanding
 
You can earn three graduate-level credits for each course (15 total if you complete all five) through Colorado State University Pueblo, which can help teachers move over on their pay scale in many districts. These credits can also be used toward a Masters Degree at CSU!
If you’re looking for renewal hours, each one offers up to 100 hours toward your teaching license.
To learn more or get registered, email gary@distinguishedpe.com or head over to www.distinguishedpe.com and click on Virtual Courses.
 
Looking for more? Visit the DPE Linktree to:• Buy the book• Sign up for the DPE Virtual Course• Grab DPE merch
 
Podcast and Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone. 

For all things Distinguished Physical Education:
https://linktr.ee/distinguishedpe
 
In this episode, I read the introduction to my book Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher. This book was written to help PE teachers reflect on their practice, grow in their craft, and elevate the role of physical education in schools.
 
In the introduction, I share:
Why I wrote this book
What makes physical education a unique and powerful subject
How instructional practices in PE can shift from outdated traditions to student-centered learning
The themes and structure of the book
What readers can expect from future chapters
 
Whether you’re a veteran PE teacher, just entering the field, or someone who supports PE educators, this book — and this episode — is for you. Let’s set the stage for a year of meaningful growth and reflection.
 
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 both Amazon and my website, www.distinguishedpe.com.