SUMMARY

Get ready to meet a woman whose story will stay with you long after the episode ends. In this raw and transparent interview, Michelle Kinder sits down with Tausha Nickleberry—an educator, leader, and fierce believer in the transformative power of connection and hope. Tausha’s journey from a traumatic childhood marked by domestic violence and instability, through a life-altering teen pregnancy at 16, to becoming a passionate advocate for students and school communities, is nothing short of remarkable.

She shares how one caring adult—her high school’s teen pregnancy social worker—offered her not solutions, but something far more lasting: a safe space and unwavering belief. That quiet act of showing up sparked a ripple effect that changed Tausha’s trajectory and, years later, that of her son—now a teacher and coach himself. Her story is a testament to the unseen impact educators can have, even when they feel like they aren’t doing enough.

Michelle and co-host Chris Kent Phelps unpack the conversation with awe and admiration, calling Tausha’s life a “love letter to educators.” They explore the power of vulnerability, the quiet force of hope, and how deeply seeing another person can be the most radical, life-changing act.

This episode is more than inspiring—it’s a reminder that every moment of connection matters. Listen in and be reminded why the work you do has the power to transform lives.

CHAPTERS

00:00 The Power of Connection and Hope
05:53 Tasha's Journey: Overcoming Adversity
16:55 The Impact of Educators
21:48 The Ripple Effect of Hope
29:21 Seeing Potential in Others
38:59 The Importance of Understanding Behavior
47:34 Embracing Our Stories
54:11 The Role of Self-Care in Education

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Oxygen for Educators is produced by Ripplemaker Project and proudly sponsored by Tacky Box.

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