Distinguished Physical Education Podcast Episodes

Gary Zaharatos

Welcome to the Distinguished Physical Education podcast, the show where PE teachers from around the world come to discuss how to create a rigorous, standards-based PE program that is safe and welcoming for all students. Are you passionate about growing as a teacher? Do you find yourself constantly reflecting on your teaching and seeking out new perspectives on physical education? Then you’re in the right place! In each episode, we will dive deep into topics such as: - Equity in PE - Strategies for ensuring that students display on-task behavior - Utilizing standards-based content and language objectives to drive instruction and student learning - Methods for effectively and efficiently assessing student progress towards objectives and tracking data - Providing academically focused and descriptive feedback and next steps to students - What rigorous instruction looks like in PE - How to differentiate for the diverse needs of students - The importance of focusing lessons on standards-based social skills - And much more!

  1. May 25

    #47 - Helping Every Student Find Their Thing | Amanda Flohrs

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com    Amanda Flohrs has been teaching physical education for 14 years. She is currently a middle school health and physical education teacher in Owatonna, Minnesota. She graduated in 2011 with her degree in Health and Physical Education and a minor in Adapted PE. In 2021, she earned her Master's in Teaching, Learning, and Leadership from Southwest Minnesota State University. She is also the 2025 Minnesota Shape Middle School Teacher of the Year.    Connect with Amanda on IG (oms_flohrs)   Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    24 min

  2. May 11

    #46 - Building a Student-Driven Fitness Program | Derek Thomas

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   Derek Thomas is a national board certified PE teacher at Cheyenne High School in North Las Vegas and the 2024 Shape Nevada and 2025 Shape America Western District High School teacher of the year. His teaching philosophy centers on movement with purpose.  Whether teaching, coaching, or mentoring colleagues, Derek's mission is to make PE a space where every student feels empowered, challenged, and proud of who they're becoming, both in and out of the gym.   Follow Derek on X (@coachDThomas84) or IG (@lovethegame1984)   Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    31 min

  3. Apr 27

    #45 - Q&A #1: SHAPE KC, Assessment, PETE Programs, Unit Durations, and More | Jen Smith

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   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 Becoming a Distinguished Physical Education Teacher 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. Click here for the direct link to sign-up: Register Here!   Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    38 min

  4. Apr 13

    #44 - Would You Want to Be on Your Own Team Today? | Liz Potash

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   Liz Potash has been teaching since 2002 and is currently an Elementary PE teacher at Goodnoe Elementary School in the Council Rock School District located in Bucks County, Pennsylvania. Liz is beginning her 5th year at the school teaching Grades K-6. Previously, she taught 10 years at Council Rock High School South and prior to that spent 9 years at Holland Middle School, all in the same district. For the last 14 years she has also served as the district curriculum coordinator, where she oversees the Health & PE programs for all 14 schools, with about 40 teachers under her lead. Liz is a strong believer in the importance of making Health and PE meaningful and relevant, while building strong relationships with her students.   Follow Liz on X (@crhpe) or IG Contact Liz: epotash@crsd.org    Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    34 min

  5. Mar 30

    #43 - Assessment and Social Skill Development | Derek Martinez

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   My guest today is Derek Martinez. Derek was born and raised in northern NV, then moved to Boise where he earned a Bachelors of Science Degree in K-12 Physical Education. After teaching for seven years in Nevada at the elementary level, Derek currently teaches secondary PE in North Carolina. He is passionate about high quality teaching and was recognized for his accomplishments by receiving the Nevada Elementary Teacher of the Year award in 2024.   Follow Derek on Instagram (@libertypeakpe) or via email: derekmartinez777x@gmail.com   Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    34 min

  6. Mar 16

    #42 - Leveraging AI in PE | Bryson Davis

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   Bryson Davis is a passionate K-5 Physical Education teacher at Ridgeview Elementary in Colorado and an active board member of SHAPE Colorado. He is quickly becoming a leading voice on the intersection of technology and physical education. Bryson will represent the state of Colorado by presenting on AI in PE at the SHAPE America National Convention this year. He was also recently honored as the 2025 SHAPE Colorado Young Professional Award winner.   Resources: List of useful AI tools Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    34 min

  7. Mar 2

    #41 - Leveling the Playing Field with Unique Experiences in Secondary PE | Victoria Wink

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   Victoria is in her ninth year of teaching 7-12th grade physical education on Long Island, New York. Three years ago she started teaching a dual enrollment exercise science class where high school students can earn college level credit. She is actively involved at her school and has been a club advisor for the student council and health club. In recent years she has also served as a mentor to student-teachers and new faculty members. Victoria was named softball coach of the year twice and also coaches volleyball. Most recently, she was recognized for everything that she does for students and her community by being named the 2025 Nassau County Secondary Physical Education Teacher of the year.    Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    45 min

  8. Feb 16

    #40 - Just Adapt It: A STEP Framework for Adapting PE So Everyone Can Play | Matt Barker

    For information on our K-5 Curriculum, self-paced graduate courses, ten-session live virtual course, facilitator certification program, book, or merch, visit www.distinguishedpe.com or email gary@distinguishedpe.com   Matt Barker is an award-winning Adapted Physical Education (APE) teacher, author, advocate, and creator of JustAdaptIt.com, a leading resource hub for inclusive PE. Now an itinerant APE teacher in Virginia’s largest school district, Matt holds certifications in Physical Education, Special Education, and Educational Leadership. His work spans inclusive programming, DIY equipment, and AI-powered tools like the Just Adapt Bot. A regular keynote and national presenter, he helps educators reimagine what’s possible in adapted PE.   Just Adapt It. A STEP Framework for Adapting PE so Everyone Can Play (Book) Website: justadaptit.com Follow Matt on Instagram (digittheape) and X (@DigitTheAPE)   Distinguished Physical Education Logos created by Alex Stone

    28 min
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Trailer

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Welcome to the Distinguished Physical Education podcast, the show where PE teachers from around the world come to discuss how to create a rigorous, standards-based PE program that is safe and welcoming for all students. Are you passionate about growing as a teacher? Do you find yourself constantly reflecting on your teaching and seeking out new perspectives on physical education? Then you’re in the right place! In each episode, we will dive deep into topics such as: - Equity in PE - Strategies for ensuring that students display on-task behavior - Utilizing standards-based content and language objectives to drive instruction and student learning - Methods for effectively and efficiently assessing student progress towards objectives and tracking data - Providing academically focused and descriptive feedback and next steps to students - What rigorous instruction looks like in PE - How to differentiate for the diverse needs of students - The importance of focusing lessons on standards-based social skills - And much more!

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