Teacher Show Me the World

Betsy Rybarczyk
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Teacher Show Me the World is a podcast for teachers who want to venture beyond the four walls of their classroom and make their subject come to life through educational travel. This podcast will be a tool box of tips, tricks, and resources that will enable you to create a world travel program at your school that will enhance your students’ education through life-changing, hands-on, experiential learning and help you become a teacher who shows your students the world!

  1. The Hero School: Volunteer Opportunities with Matt Paneitz

    12/10/2025

    The Hero School: Volunteer Opportunities with Matt Paneitz

    Today’s guest is Matt Paneitz, the founder of Long Way Home (LWH). His work has earned global recognition and created one of the best service-learning opportunities available for teachers and students. His Story Before founding Long Way Home, Matt was a 911 Paramedic and later served in the Peace Corps (2002). After completing his service, he launched LWH and helped construct the first city park in Comalapa, Guatemala (2005–2008). In 2009, Matt began what became an internationally recognized sustainability project: the construction of the Hero School campus, a 20-structure educational environment made almost entirely from repurposed waste materials. This included: 35,000 used tires 550+ tons of reclaimed waste Designs optimized for local climate and environmental conditions The campus also incorporates: Solar power Rainwater catchment + purification Dry composting latrines that manage all grey and black water Systems intentionally visible as teaching tools Matt open-sourced every structure profile to allow others to replicate the designs → https://lwhomegreen.org Education Earned While Building While living and working in rural Guatemala, Matt earned: A Bachelor’s degree in Sustainability (2012) A Master’s degree in Education (2015) And he is currently completing his Doctorate in Education His academic work combined with his on-the-ground building experience led to the creation of the Hero School Education Model, which received the UNESCO-Japan Prize for Education for Sustainable Development in 2023. Workshops, Books & Programs Matt also developed: The Green Building Workshop, a one-month intensive green-building program The Green Building Manual A 4-course university certificate in Critical Pedagogy & Sustainability His current work as a Fellow with ASAP (Academics Stand Against Poverty) at Yale University Matt lived in Comalapa for 20 years, working alongside local builders, teachers, and families. Calling All Teachers: Bring Your Students to Guatemala for Service Learning Matt is actively looking for:✔️ Volunteers✔️ Teachers✔️ Student groups✔️ Service-learning programs✔️ Affordable international school trips Long Way Home provides a truly immersive and budget-friendly program where students can: Learn sustainable design Participate in green building Engage with the local community Experience environmental stewardship hands-on Make a real, lasting impact If you're a teacher dreaming of taking your students abroad for meaningful, purpose-driven travel, this is exactly the kind of program you're looking for. When you contact him, please mention that you heard his interview on Teacher Show Me the World. 🔗 Connect with Long Way Home Website: https://lwhome.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/lwhomeorgInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/lwhome_org/?hl=enYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGp4wuyTpyGytkXWSwYX1SALinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/long-way-home/

  2. Mindfulness, Resilience, and Joyful Journeys — A Conversation with Stefanie Lachenauer

    11/19/2025

    Mindfulness, Resilience, and Joyful Journeys — A Conversation with Stefanie Lachenauer

    In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I sit down with Stefanie Lachenauer, middle school educator, author, mindfulness teacher, and the 2025 New Jersey State Teacher of the Year. Stefanie’s work centers on helping both students and educators cultivate mindfulness, resilience, and emotional regulation—skills that are essential in today’s classrooms. We talk about her neuroscience-based approach to learning, the power of presence in teaching, and how mindfulness practices can help students manage stress, build confidence, and thrive both inside and outside the classroom. What truly stands out is how Stefanie extends learning beyond the school walls. As the founder of the Joyful Journeys Travel and Adventure Club, she takes students on global service-learning trips that combine travel, compassion, and leadership. Much like I believe travel transforms students’ perspectives, Stefanie shows how mindfulness and adventure together help young people discover who they are and what they’re capable of. You’ll hear: How mindfulness supports emotional regulation and student engagement Practical ways educators can integrate mindfulness and wellness into their classrooms and while traveling with their students. What neuroscience reveals about learning, stress, and resilience How travel and service experiences build empathy and leadership The inspiration behind her bestselling book, Let the Glitter Settle: Mindfulness for Teens Stefanie’s story is a powerful reminder that teaching is both heart work and brain work—and that our calm presence as educators helps students find their own center. Learn more about Stefanie Lachenauer: www.stefanielachenauer.com Let the Glitter Settle: Mindfulness for Teens — Available on Amazon Instagram: @NJSTOY2025 | @stefaniealachenauer | @LetTheGlitterSettleFacebook: Stefanie Lachenauer, 2025 NJ State Teacher of the Year ✨ “Mindfulness gives our students the tools to navigate the noise, find calm in the chaos, and let their own glitter settle.” — Stefanie Lachenauer If you are looking for additional resources that will help market and build your travel program, be sure to buy The Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit to help grow and expand your world travel program. Looking for more resources? The Ultimate Group Leader’s Travel Bundle has everything you need to lead a successful world travel program!

  3. Building Hope and Resilience in Schools — A Conversation with Iuri Melo

    11/05/2025

    Building Hope and Resilience in Schools — A Conversation with Iuri Melo

    In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I sit down with Iuri Melo, Licensed Clinical Social Worker, author, and co-founder of SchoolPulse, a nationwide program that helps students, parents, and educators strengthen their mental and emotional well-being through daily encouragement, optimism, and practical mindset tools. What makes Iuri’s approach so unique is how he brings learning outside the classroom. Through Adventure-Based Therapy, he uses real-world challenges—like those found in nature, teamwork, and personal goal-setting—to help students build confidence, resilience, and self-awareness. Much like travel, these experiences remind us that growth often happens when we step beyond our comfort zones. We talk about the power of connection, how to support students through life’s struggles, and how simple, consistent messages of hope can truly change school culture. You’ll hear: How Iuri turned tragedy into purpose through the creation of SchoolPulse What Adventure-Based Therapy looks like and why it works Strategies for helping students (and teachers) strengthen emotional resilience Why meaningful experiences beyond the classroom—like travel or adventure—are vital for student growth How a few kind words can change the course of a student’s day, or even their life Iuri’s mission to “bless the human family” resonates deeply with educators who believe learning extends far beyond the walls of a classroom. His work is a reminder that when we nurture curiosity, courage, and compassion, we’re helping students see their world—and themselves—differently. 📘 Learn more about Iuri Melo: SchoolPulse – Student Support Service Books: Know Thy Selfie | Mind Over Grey Matter Comprehensive Mental Health Resource Page ✨ “When we teach students to manage their minds, we give them the power to shape their lives.” — Iuri Melo If you are looking for additional resources that will help market and build your travel program, be sure to buy The Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit to help grow and expand your world travel program. Looking for more resources? The Ultimate Group Leader’s Travel Bundle has everything you need to lead a successful world travel program!

  4. Seeing the World with Curiosity and Courage — A Conversation with Adventurer & Author Wells Jones

    10/22/2025

    Seeing the World with Curiosity and Courage — A Conversation with Adventurer & Author Wells Jones

    In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I sit down with Wells Jones — adventurer, storyteller, and co-author of A Line in the Sand — for an unforgettable conversation about what it truly means to explore the world. From Navy Pararescue missions in Antarctica to mountaintop reflections and cultural crossroads around the globe, Wells has lived a life defined by curiosity and connection. We talk about how travel can become a bridge between people, a classroom for understanding, and a mirror for our own growth. You’ll hear: How Wells’s time in the Navy shaped his perspective on courage and compassion The story behind A Line in the Sand and how friendship, history, and travel intersect Why the most meaningful souvenirs aren’t the ones we bring home, but the insights we gain along the way How educators (and their students!) can use travel to deepen empathy and global awareness Whether you’re a teacher dreaming of leading your first student trip or a lifelong learner seeking new ways to connect across cultures, this episode will inspire you to see travel as more than movement — but as transformation. 📘 Learn more about Wells Jones:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/wstadjones🎧 A Line in the Sand — available now on Audible, narrated by Edoardo Ballerini ✨ “The true treasure of travel,” Wells reminds us, “is not the artifact or the destination, but the understanding forged between people.” If you are looking for additional resources that will help market and build your travel program, be sure to buy The Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit to help grow and expand your world travel program. Looking for more resources? The Ultimate Group Leader’s Travel Bundle has everything you need to lead a successful world travel program!

  5. Global Citizenship and the Power of Travel with Lily Fu

    10/08/2025

    Global Citizenship and the Power of Travel with Lily Fu

    In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I had the absolute pleasure of sitting down with Lily Fu, a lifelong educator and global leader whose story is both inspiring and thought-provoking. Lily grew up surrounded by education—her parents were both teachers in Taiwan—and from a young age, she carried that same passion into her own teaching career in Japan and Taiwan. But her journey didn’t stop in the classroom. Lily went on to play a key role in building executive education programs for Harvard Business School in China and expanding the global footprint of the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, with programs reaching as far as Dubai and Singapore. Today, she continues her work in global education at the New England Innovation Academy, where she helps students grow as curious, entrepreneurial thinkers and global citizens. In our conversation, we explored: Her roots in education – and how her upbringing shaped the way she sees global learning today. Moving from teaching to building partnerships at Harvard and MIT, and what she carries from those experiences into her current role. Defining global citizenship for American students and why it matters now more than ever. How to design student travel with purpose—beyond sightseeing—to create authentic cultural engagement. How school leaders can support global programs, even when travel feels optional in tight budgets. Stories of partnerships abroad that have transformed the way her students see the world. The everyday impact of travel, and how students bring those experiences back into their learning and problem-solving. Creating a curriculum without borders, where global thinking is woven into everyday study. One of the themes that kept coming up in our conversation is something I deeply believe in too: travel is the ultimate teacher. It shapes us, challenges us, and gives us the courage to see the world through new perspectives. Lily’s insights into how to integrate travel into education—in meaningful, lasting ways—are ones I know every teacher, parent, and student will benefit from hearing. Tune in, and get ready to be inspired by Lily’s story and her vision for global learning. If you are looking for additional resources that will help market and build your travel program, be sure to buy The Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit to help grow and expand your world travel program. Looking for more resources? The Ultimate Group Leader’s Travel Bundle has everything you need to lead a successful world travel program!

  6. From Safari to Sicilian Shores

    09/24/2025

    From Safari to Sicilian Shores

    In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I share unforgettable experiences from Southern Africa and Sicily. From visiting a school in Zimbabwe to sunset cruises on the Zambezi, and from climbing Mount Etna to exploring crystal-clear Sicilian waters, I break down the lessons, logistics, and takeaways that teachers can use when planning their own student trips abroad. Episode Highlights: Southern Africa: Visiting a school in Zimbabwe and playing a pick-up soccer game with students. Touring Nelson Mandela’s house. Safari adventures, including close encounters with wildlife. Crossing into Zambia by bicycle and a sunset cruise on the Zambezi, complete with hippos and the thunder of Victoria Falls. Sicily: Why Sicily stole my heart and how it compares to hotspots like Amalfi. Mount Etna adventures and body rafting experiences. Exploring Palermo catacombs and crystal-clear coastal waters. Wrapping Up: Key takeaways from each destination: student engagement, cultural immersion, and logistical lessons. To help market your world travel program, be sure to use the Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit . The Tool Kit comes with a dedicated marketing plan and all of the resources you will need to help advertise and build your world travel program. Check out more World Travel Resources that will help prepare your students for traveling overseas by clicking here! In addition, be sure to join the Teacher Show Me the World Facebook group to be a part of a community of like-minded educators who show their students the world!

  7. From Long-Haul Flights to Saltwater Crocs

    09/10/2025

    From Long-Haul Flights to Saltwater Crocs

    🌍 Show Notes for Website In this episode of Teacher Show Me the World, I’m sharing lessons from my own summer of travel. After logging miles across continents, I’ve collected tips, strategies, and stories that I know will help you as you plan and lead student trips abroad. From packing smart to debating whether parents should come along, this episode is all about real-world takeaways from the road. Here’s what I cover: Setting the Stage My Polarsteps recap: miles traveled, countries visited, and days on the road. Why backpack-only travel was the smartest choice for navigating two seasons and 5 continents. Travel Logistics & Survival Tips How I survived the long-haul flights (yes, the sleeping pill tip!). My favorite way to maximize travel—adding bonus trips before or after the main tour. Big Picture Debates in Student Travel Parents or no parents on trips? I weigh the pros and cons. Destination Spotlights & Takeaways Australia & New Zealand: Why having a top-notch Tour Director matters. How I prepare families for the cost of extra activities. And the surprising reason you can’t swim in Cairns (spoiler: crocodiles!). If you’re a teacher planning your first student trip, a seasoned Group Leader—or just curious about what really happens behind the scenes—this episode is packed with insights you can use right away. To help market your world travel program, be sure to use the Ultimate Marketing Tool Kit . The Tool Kit comes with a dedicated marketing plan and all of the resources you will need to help advertise and build your world travel program. Check out more World Travel Resources that will help prepare your students for traveling overseas by clicking here! In addition, be sure to join the Teacher Show Me the World Facebook group to be a part of a community of like-minded educators who show their students the world!

  8. 05/21/2025

    Building a Successful Student Travel Program by Using Student Ambassadors to Grow Your Program

    In this exciting second episode with Carolyn Swaney, we dive into the powerful strategy of using student ambassadors to promote your student travel program. Carolyn shares her proven methods for selecting and empowering students who will work to recruit their peers and help build excitement around your trips. This approach not only strengthens the community within your travel program but also creates authentic, peer-driven testimonials that resonate with other students. Carolyn offers valuable insights on how to identify the right students to represent your program, how to equip them with the tools they need to succeed, and the best ways to leverage student testimonials for recruitment. From creating engaging promotional materials to encouraging students to share their personal travel experiences, Carolyn's model is designed to build a sustainable, student-driven travel program that grows year after year. Key Highlights: Building Your Ambassador Team: Learn how to select student ambassadors who are passionate about travel and motivated to spread the word about your program. Carolyn shares tips on what qualities to look for and how to engage them effectively. Leveraging Student Testimonials: Carolyn discusses the power of authentic, student-driven testimonials in recruiting new participants. She shares examples of how student ambassadors can share their experiences to inspire others to sign up for upcoming trips. Sustaining Growth: Carolyn’s approach is designed for long-term success. She explains how student ambassadors can help create a lasting cycle of recruitment, ensuring your travel program thrives and grows year after year. Creating a Strong Travel Community: By involving students in the recruitment process, you’re not only promoting your program but also building a community that supports each other and shares the excitement of world travel. If you’re looking to build a successful, sustainable student travel program, Carolyn's student ambassador model is a game-changer. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to expand your existing program, this episode is packed with actionable ideas and inspiration for making your travel program more engaging, impactful, and successful. Tune in to discover how you can use your students to recruit new travelers and create a thriving, student-led world travel program!

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About

Teacher Show Me the World is a podcast for teachers who want to venture beyond the four walls of their classroom and make their subject come to life through educational travel. This podcast will be a tool box of tips, tricks, and resources that will enable you to create a world travel program at your school that will enhance your students’ education through life-changing, hands-on, experiential learning and help you become a teacher who shows your students the world!

Information

  • Creator
    Betsy Rybarczyk
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    37
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    ©Teacher Show Me the World ©2024
  • Show Website
    Teacher Show Me the World