The Old School

Today, the hosts enter a brave new world - the world of social media. Even though they have railed against it for years, the hosts sell their souls in hopes for greater and broader listenership. The hosts discuss the changes, what we hope to gain from it and what it might mean for them and their posterity. Follow us on Instagram.https://www.instagram.com/theoldschoolpodcast2021/This episode is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts dive into the ideas of grit and determination in an attempt to understand how it develops and how it can be engendered. In the course of the conversation, the hosts dive into examples of grit and determination in their own lives, with examples stretching from the classroom and the tennis courts to the parade grounds of bootcamp in Parris Island.A show announcement: Our next episode will reveal our new Instagram account. During the conversation, Dr. Bourgeois, who has researched the topic and read much upon the same, suggested two books which might be of interest to those willing and wanting to read further on the topic:Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance by Angela Duckworth Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. PinkThis episode is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Going into the Christmas holidays and not wanting to discuss the aforementioned day, the hosts decide to channel Jerry Seinfeld and do an episode about nothing. Now, as Seinfeld himself explained it, nothing does not mean nothing but it allows for an organic exploration of whatever topics pop into the minds' of the hosts and in doing so, they cover topics such as vamping, radio, funerals and pianists and a few other topics in between. In addition, the hosts make an announcement about the podcast going forward at the end of the episode. The episode is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Following a recent trip to the nation's capital, Mr. Miller introduces the history of the city and then, both hosts delve into the culture of Washington. Comparing it to other great cities, the hosts discover how the city compares to many of the world's great cities - the bounty of great people, wonderful cuisine and, of course, unmatched historical monuments and places. One of the museums that the Miller family explored was the Planet Word Museum. It is a remarkable visit and if you are ever in the city, please see the historical and national landmarks but don't forget this celebration of our language.This episode is sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller discuss anger and how it is manifested in modern culture and to what degree it is helpful. We also take a look at how religions and philosophies have attempted to address the issue of anger. In the discussion, we move from Christianity to Buddhism to Stoicism in search of an answer. And like most things, perhaps the answer lies within ourselves. During the podcast, Buddhist monk Thich Nhat Hanh's book Being Peace was referenced as a guide to disciplining one's mind from the chaos that surrounds us on a daily basis. Prior to the episode's focus, Mr. Miller referenced two historically bent podcasts he finds particularly intriguing. The first is The Ancients - a podcast found on all platforms that focuses on the ancient world, its people, civilizations and moments in time that altered the history of the regions set in. The second is American Elections; Wicked Game - a podcast does a deep dive on each presidential election. This is a fascinating look at the forces and people that have shaped those who have sought the highest office in the land.This episode is sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

There is no better way to start the second 100 episodes of The Old School then with a return appearance of Dr. Paul Weinhold. In this episode, the three readers discuss their first literary influences - either authors or literary characters. The three also discuss the notion of younger generations and the reading of entire books. This includes a look at curriculum as well as how testing has impacted the reading of books by students; be they good or bad ramifications. Please check out Dr. Weinhold's first appearance, where the conversation took the episode into a deep dive of Shakespeare. https://open.spotify.com/episode/6M8FT60opIHa4QsTKVG8gB?si=c1b067ca7f69493fCorrection: Mr. Miller got tongue-tied with his two references of Sherlock Holmes' books - he meant to refer to the A Study in Scarlet and The Sign of Four. This episode of the Old School is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts, over some Scotch and snacks, sit side by side to look back at how the podcast has developed over the last 100 episodes and what might happen in the coming years. It is a collection of shared stories, ideas of what's ahead and the people who have listened to the hosts ramble - sometimes coherently and intelligently - about the issues facing education and some not-so-serious experiences such as travel, history and culture. The hosts also want to make sure that the listeners know how much they are appreciated and valued - the hosts are humbled by those who choose to listen and are forever grateful.Consider leaving a comment about an episode or moment you've appreciated or enjoyed the most.

During the Old School's 99th episode, the hosts dive into their favorite films - but not necessarily the best films. One film from the 1950s, 1960s, 1970s, 1980s and 1990s, the list is meant to show the films that most impacted the hosts throughout their lives. Additionally, the hosts asks listeners to consider joining the conversation in the comments, either to add your own favorite films or to tell the hosts how well they are doing. If you do not like the episode, in the words of Rich Lowery from The Editors podcast, forget anything was said about leaving a comment or rating the podcast.This episode of the Old School is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller, trying to sound as even handed as possible, discuss what they see as the future of the teaching profession. While good things and people exist in the profession, other forces could irrevocably alter the profession. The two hosts consider what teaching might look like, the training of teachers and what it means to educate the youth of America.Some of the issues discussed in this episode are also discussed at length in the book The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Pick up a copy at Amazon.com.

Today is Dr. Bourgeois' turn to air his grievances. Unlike Mr. Miller, he has many more than one. The hosts go through a litany of issues in an attempt to bring solace and ultimate comfort to Dr. Bourgeois, as Mr. Miller experienced last week. The episode ends with the promise of more grievances in future episodes...but not right away...maybe.This episode sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

In what was meant to be a litany of lamentations from both hosts, Mr. Miller's top concern takes priority - as does baseball. While the hosts promise a more equitable presentation of gripes for a later date, the hosts focus on baseball and the ambivalence of owners to the suffering of fans.The hosts compare the lack of representation of fans to those fans of German soccer, as detailed in episode 79, linked here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/7uttUhkJ0UpfrFWsivztLx?si=c554-gx7SfiH-e5PEyWWaQThis episode is sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts tackle an aspect of education that has always been present - tutorials. The hosts examine the qualities and effectiveness as well as the difference between tutoring in school with one's teacher and hiring it out to be done - a field of endeavor that Mr. Miller is currently engaged in. Not only does tutoring look different in or out of school, but also through various subjects. Are you interested in a wider look at the education system, check out the hosts' book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, available exclusively through Amazon.This episode is brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Once more, the hosts are proud to present the estimable Dr. Alex Fingers to the podcast. This time, Dr. Fingers speaks on the value of sports and extracurricular activities to the student in their academic pursuits. From personal experience, Dr. Fingers speaks on the lessons learned from winning, losing and the tireless preparation for the moment. If you would enjoy a detailed look at the forces at work within public education, the good, the bad and the possible solutions, insofar as we know the solutions, check out our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Available through Ahart Education and for sale exclusively through Amazon.

In this episode, the hosts follow the advice of Jimmy Buffett and show their age - this time, by complaining about the state of etiquette today and whether it is a real problem or whether they are the problem.After consider the state of the world with the presence or lack of manners, consider doing a deep intellectual dive into our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.Brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

The hosts return to Mr. Miller's trip - the second part through Montana and Glacier National Park. As the story unwinds, the Miller family pass through Missoula, a garden of Buddhas, a mission church, complete with a member of rock n' roll royalty and the majestic peaks and valleys of the park itself. Mr. Miller finishes with a visit to Little Big Horn. After delving into the wonders of nature with this episode, consider doing a deep intellectual dive into our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.Brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

As Mr. Miller and his family attempt to shoe horn two more national parks before the start of the next school year, the hosts discuss the first of the two parks - Grand Tetons National Park in western Wyoming. In the course of this discussion, the hosts unpack the park itself as well as the drive there, Jackson Hole, the beauty of southeastern Idaho and the nature of cities in the northern mountainous states. After delving into the wonders of nature with this episode, consider doing a deep intellectual dive into our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Brought to you by Ahart Solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome back now three-time guest - Dr. Rick Westfall. In their discussion, the hosts and guest get into the dynamics of building school culture, including relationships with students, teachers and parents. The goal of striking a balance between a school's administration and the three "stockholders" is an intricately complicated process and Dr. Westfall brings his expertise on the matter to bear during this conversation. If the mood to expand your mind has gripped you after the great conversation with Dr. Currier and exploring continuing education opportunities for teachers, check out the hosts' tome over the American education system called, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.Sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

In this episode, Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome Dr. Carrie Currier from TCU to discuss China's geopolitical position - with their neighbors and with the west. In the process, the hosts and guest discuss what lies in store for China in the coming years, from growing tensions surrounding North Korea and Taiwan as well as their attempts to influence developing countries. The three also serve up a little tennis talk.Dr. Currier is the director of the North Texas National Consortium for Teaching About Asia - for teachers, a free class offered each school year on all topics related to East Asia, covering all aspects of life, from history and language to pop culture and philosophy. More information can be found at www.nctasia.org. If the mood to expand your mind has gripped you after the great conversation with Dr. Currier and exploring continuing education opportunities for teachers, check out the hosts' tome over the American education system called, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.Sponsored by Ahart Solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller, in what may be the start of a on-going series of state profiles, take a look at the 34th state to join the Union - Kansas. In particular, the hosts delve into its history - such as its history related to the Civil War and Civil Rights as well as the Wild West; its culture, including its food; the capital of Topeka and the government's efforts to change the reputation of the state; in short, everything that makes the Sunflower State worthy of consideration.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome Ksenia Filatov, a doctoral candidate at Boston College, to discuss her background that has led to her research on teacher agency and how college teacher training can both help or hinder new teachers entering the classroom. As with many of their guests, there is also the idea that more episodes with Ms. Filatov could be in the future.United World College Robert Bosch College in Freiburg, Germany is the mission-driven international school that Ksenia worked at between 2016 and 2020. In any academic year, about 200 students aged 16–19 from all over the world study and board there. Each cohort has students from over 90 different nations / states. Here is the founding, and now retiring, rector of the college, Laurence Nodder speaking about the ethos of the school. You can read more of Ksenia's thoughts about education and the teaching profession on her blog, On Teachers and Teaching.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller, using and summarizing Jonathan Haidt's book, The Anxious Generation, discuss the role technology plays in making many, especially the younger generations, more anxious than past ones and how they have seen the same in their students over the years. To discover the trends that have been seen in education that might have been partially responsible for the topic of the day, check out The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, published by Ahart Education and offered exclusively through Amazon.

The hosts are joined by the Reverends Jason and Estee Valendy as the four discuss the state of the Christian church and the challenges it faces. Want to be cool like Jason and Estee Valendy? Want the enjoyment of a good book that will change your life? Then check out our tome on the American education system, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, published by Ahart Education and available exclusively through Amazon.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller delve into a topic near and dear to their hearts - the state they call home. Through a series of five questions (six if you push it), the two hosts explore the qualities of the state and the degree to which people outside of Texas understand the 28th state.After enjoying the educational and cultural exploration of Texas, consider the musings of the hosts regarding a subject near and dear to their hearts - the American education system with their 5-star rated book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Available by Ahart Education and exclusively sold at Amazon.com.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller discuss the latter's efforts to buy a house and the issues and complications that often go into such a purchase. After enjoying the wit and witticisms of the two hosts on a lighter subject, consider their musings on a much weightier one - the American education system with their 5-star rated book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Available by Ahart Education and exclusively sold at Amazon.com.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome back the esteemed Dr. Rick Westfall to discuss how state and federal governments help or don't in the local government's pursuit of a good education. The trio also discuss if there should be changes in how the three levels of government impact or influence the education process.If you would enjoy a more detailed look at some of the issues mentioned in this episode and much more, check out our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Available through Ahart Education and for sale exclusively through Amazon.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller step away from their typical Algonquinian conversation to look at and discuss profanity. Not only the changes that has taken place on how and where it is used but its utility as well. The two hosts place profanity within the general context of things that are changing the culture, particularly in comparison to what life and societal standards were like when the hosts were young.To go back to the educational, check out our great tome, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education through Ahart Education and exclusively available with Amazon.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome theater teacher extraordinaire Brian Ketcham to the podcast to discuss his pathway from history, also known as the backbone of American education, to theater. The hosts also delve into the many joys and challenges Mr. Ketcham's job entails. As with the other guests, the gentlemen also discuss the possibility of future conversations and topics.Does the discussion over educational matters leave you wanting a deeper dive of such things in written form? Then, you are in luck. Please check out The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, offered by Ahart Solutions and exclusively through Amazon.

Once more calling in from Germany, Mr. Miller relays to Dr. Bourgeois the excitement as well as the political and economic tension of a soccer game with Borussia Dortmund creates.Correction: In the episode, I characterized the protest as being about a breaking from the 50+1 policy that German clubs are suppose to have and the unwanted presence of corporations at the club level. This is a backdrop to but not the reason for this particular protest. The German Football League (DFL) voted to sell some of their broadcasting rights for over $1b to corportions as a means of raising money and expanding the brand. But the fans worried about the untold influence the corporations would have over German soccer, including higher prices across the board, and pushed to have the deal scuttled. In late February 2024, the DFL backed down from the deal and now, presumably, are going back to the drawing board. Sorry for the confusion.If all this soccer talk has you ready to read about educational matters, then you are in luck. Check out The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, written by yours truly, for a detailed list of issues facing American education and our humble solutions to said problems.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome back Dr. Alex Fingers to talk about the challenges, benefits and the methodology of building a great school culture. If you are interested in the other characteristics that go into a great school, check out our book on the challenges of the American education system as well as our proposed solutions with The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.

After a short but less than enthusiastic revisit of sandwiches, Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller welcome former Superintendent Dr. Rick Westfall to discuss his new role in advising architectural firms on the building and designing of schools and how educational concerns factor into the buildings in which our students hope to excel. We also touch on what could be discussed on future episodes. After this discussion, consider continuing the intellectual deep dive into our education system with the purchase of our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, available exclusively on Amazon.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller dive into the cultural and social origins and impact of work in the United States, occasionally comparing it to other countries. The hosts also delve into the therapeutic qualities of work as experienced over the course of their careers.We have written a book on the characteristics of the American education system as well as the problems, complete with solutions, insofar as we know the solutions. Check out The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education exclusively at Amazon.

Mr. Miller takes advantage of the classically and jazz trained pianist in the room to ask Dr. Bourgeois questions on how the two styles are different, how listening to them are different and the qualities of each.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller are joined by Dr. Alex Fingers about the motivational and teaching styles that can help teachers in relating to and connecting with their students. After this high brow discussion, we are subjected to an elegy for the PAC 12 and the future of Dr. Bourgeois' childhood heroes in the brave new college football world.If you are facing the end of the college football season and looking for something to link to the burgeoning spring of baseball spring training that will intellectually edify you, check out our book on the American education system, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller bemoan recent changes in our favorite sports and the lurking influence and impact of technology on our national pastimes. If you'd also like to see our thoughts on the technological impact on our education system, as well as other problems we identify as critical, check out our book The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller contemplate the merits and problems with Homeschooling (and other forms of alternative education) in comparison to the public school system by first discussing the situation on the ground in...South Dakota? Once hearing your two favorite Luddites pontificate on a podcast, read the revealing and pointed investigation of the American educaiton system in their five-star rated tome, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, available exclusively through Amazon.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller address one of the more ancient forms of education as well as a new wave in educational thought - outdoor education. They discuss the traits and merits as well as the challenges in applying it to the current American public school model of outdoor education. Just finished a hike or a week-long camping trip where you taught your children to survive if they were ever abandoned in a desert - your own form of outdoor education? Then, an intellectual deep-dive into the modern education system and its problems might be just for you. Check out The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education found exclusively through amazon.com.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller push their luck in hopes that their listeners really liked the first sandwich episode. In this episode, they tackle the rest of the states, Jewish dietary restrictions and the general decorum and good taste that should go into making a great sandwich.After a hunger-inducing episode and perhaps, a sandwich of your own, you might be interested to feed of a different kind - the hunger to find out what issues ail our education system with our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller step away from the cerebral to tackle one of the pressing issues of our day - what constitutes a good sandwich. These type of conversations are not always easy but the two endeavor to shed light on this particular culinary quagmire. The Old School's The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education is a serious look at the challenges facing our education system and possible solutions...insofar as we know the solutions.

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller engage in a great conversation with Dr. Weinhold on the life and works of William Shakespeare and how we can approach him today.Tired of reading the same ole thing? Needing some new and critical to read? Check out our book on the American education system and start your own revolution within your local school board.The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education

We welcome Dr. Shelita Cannon-Hoey and Dr. Marvin Rainey to discuss their new book on transformational, instructional, and servant leadership within schools. Musical credits:"Turning Back" Steven Bourgeois Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved "Blues" Steven Bourgeois and Wyeth Tvenge from Jazz Duo ©2004 All rights reserved

The two hosts, well known as old curmudgeons, tackle the seemingly foreign topic of hope and optimism. It turns out, both have much to say on the two concepts.Referenced works:The Greek legend of SisyphusThe Myth of Sisyphus by Albert CamusOptimism: An Essay by Helen KellerEssays and Aphorisms by Arthur SchopenhauerIf you are interested in more contemporary readings, we invite you to purchase and read and enjoy our own book:The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller go back to their bread and butter - education - with a look at how schools schedule their classes. We find the answer a bit depressing but there is joy in the discovery.If you've gone through half the summer and are currently panicing about not having polished off a good book for the season, may we kindly recommend our humble little book - The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education. Exclusively found at amazon.com. Follow the link the below and prepare to be overwhelmed with insight and humor.https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Contemporary-Education/dp/1736530518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=SDVRQSXE0WES&keywords=the+center+cannot+hold+a+critical+look+at+contemporary+education&qid=1690145328&sprefix=the+center+cannot+hold%2Caps%2C103&sr=8-1

Mr. Miller makes his way across Germany, diagnosing cultural distinctions and peculiarities.Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Mr. Miller returns to Italy, eluding authorities and creating havoc once again.Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Mr. Miller faces his very last week as a teacher. Prepare for a "special" episode of The Old School.Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

As Mr. Miller faces retirement, he along with Dr. Bourgeois faces the prospects (and fun) of changes to the podcast. Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller wonder what has happened to the school prank and whether something is lost by its disappearance. Looking over your home library and asking yourself, something is missing? A volume lacking? Consider our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education available through Ahart Education and exclusively through Amazon at:https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Contemporary-Education/dp/1736530518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2RFKHW5O4CV69&keywords=the+center+cannot+hold%3A+a+critical+look+at&qid=1682185630&sprefix=%2Caps%2C256&sr=8-1Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Dr. Steven Bourgeois and a suffering Mr. Ross Miller discuss the state of music education, focusing on what it looks like at the high school level. If you've listened to this podcast and thought to yourself, hey, these guys should write a book. Guess what? We did! Published through Ahart Education and offered exclusively on Amazon, pick up your copy at this link:https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Contemporary-Education/dp/1736530518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=BLLTE4XQM31U&keywords=the+center+cannot+hold%3A+a+critical+look+at&qid=1680360636&sprefix=%2Caps%2C340&sr=8-1Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Short on the particulars but very experienced with the effects, Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller dip their toes into the choppy waters of AI debate and discussion and look at how it could irrevocably change and hurt learning in general and public education in particular.For greater detail and more humorous anecdotes about the current education system and our proposals to fix the same, check out our book offered through Ahart Education and exclusively sold through Amazon at:https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Contemporary-Education/dp/1736530518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=2SPC3BM5O61GH&keywords=the+center+cannot+hold%3A+a+critical+look+at&qid=1678038682&sprefix=the+center+cannot+hold+a+critical+look+at+%2Caps%2C95&sr=8-1Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved

Dr. Bourgeois and Mr. Miller discuss the notion of happiness, how it is defined in schools and how we incorporate the notion of happiness within our curriculum. As mentioned in the episode, our book, The Center Cannot Hold: A Critical Look at Contemporary Education, is exclusively offered on Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Center-Cannot-Hold-Contemporary-Education/dp/1736530518/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1DLY0CMTRK95F&keywords=the+center+cannot+hold%3A+a+critical+look&qid=1670184214&sprefix=%2Caps%2C613&sr=8-1Musical credit: "Track 14" Steven Bourgeois from Out of the Darkness ©2004 All rights reserved