
In this episode of the Teach Different podcast, Mattew Wood joins Dan and Steve Fouts to discuss civic responsibility through the lens of Theodore Roosevelt. He shares his journey as a middle school history teacher, discussing his passion for teaching and the importance of relationships in education. Together they unpack the quote “This country will not be a good place for any of us to live in unless we make it a good place for all of us to live in,” exploring its implications for community and individual responsibility in creating a better society. Listen for thoughtful reflections on classroom experiences, the impact of teaching philosophy, and the significance of engaging students in meaningful conversations.
Chapters
00:00 - The Journey into Teaching and Personal Background
05:06 - Experiences in Diverse Educational Settings
11:07 - The Importance of Relationships in Education
16:04 - Exploring the Quote by Teddy Roosevelt
24:31 - Creating a Positive Classroom Community
27:20 - The Political Spectrum and Community Values
31:20 - Counterclaims and the Nature of Good
34:28 - Essential Questions on Community and Individual Needs
36:23 - Historical Perspectives on Community Welfare
39:54 - Reflections on Leadership and Civic Responsibility
41:04 - The Importance of Critical Thinking in Education
41:57 - Teach Different Outro
Image Source:
Pach Brothers (photography studio), Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons