Logo
    Search

    About this Episode

    No time is wasted digging into the important stuff today….the first topic….Muppet Movies. Rick and Nick debate best, worst, under-rated, over-rated, and more. The guys find consensus on the epic status of “Muppets from Space” but almost come to blows over differing opinions regarding “The Muppet Christmas Carol.”

    It is Nick’s turn to share a blog this week and he pulls out a classic, sharing “Virtual Clubs: Connecting Students During a Challenging Year.” While written at the height of the pandemic, the issues and strategies conveyed here are just as relevant and critical post-pandemic. Teachers and administrators will love hearing innovative ideas for engaging both students and teachers. Anyone considering moving towards a career in school administration will want to listen closely as Nick shares valuable insight into his role as an administrator, the benefits, and challenges of school leadership.

    In the "Building the Brochure" segment, Dr. Nick and Dr. Rick continue their investigation into Search Institute's research on the 40 Developmental Assets. This week, they share experiences and reactions to the assets number Nine - Service to others: Young person is given useful roles in the community and Ten Safety: Young person feels safe at home, school, and in the community. The guys discuss the importance of kids working and serving in their communities in the midst of adolescent identity formation. Dr. Rick and Dr. Nick then move on to share their perceptions of the mental health crisis and the effect it is having on schools, educators, and support services. While the challenges are very real and daunting, there is so much opportunity to make a meaningful difference in kids’ lives.

    The Every Rose has Its Thorn segment focuses on Pizza Chains. On the one hand, Rick bases his rankings on reheatability. Nick, on the other hand, values innovation. Papa Johns and Dominos take the Roses, while for different reasons, Little Caesars finds itself on the thorny end of the conversation. 

    The last segment finds the guys digging back into the mailbag to respond to more fan questions. Nick (The Greatest Showman) responds to a question about his experiences officiating weddings. And Rick handles the last question from a school counselor interested in pursuing a post-masters counseling degree.

    Enjoy Episode Seven of Nick & Rick’s Excellent EdVenture!

    Recent Episodes from Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture

    Season 2 Episode 8: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (Every Rose Has Its Thorn: Sports Movies)

    Season 2 Episode 8: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (Every Rose Has Its Thorn: Sports Movies)

    Summary:

    In this conversation, Nick and Rick discuss their favorite sports movies. They cover a wide range of films, including St. Ralph, The Wrestler, The Cutting Edge, and Over the Top. They also debate whether certain movies are actually sports movies or fall into other genres. The conversation is filled with nostalgia, personal anecdotes, and passionate opinions about these beloved films.

    Takeaways:

    --Sports movies can evoke strong emotions and have a lasting impact on viewers.
    --Some movies may blur the line between sports movies and other genres, leading to debates and disagreements.
    --Certain movies, despite being critically panned, can still be enjoyable and hold a special place in people's hearts.
    --Movies based on true stories can provide a deeper level of emotional connection and appreciation.

    Chapters:

    00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
    00:57 St. Ralph - A Fictional Running Movie
    03:03 The Wrestler - Depiction of the Independent Wrestling Scene
    05:09 Movies That Are Not Sports Movies
    06:26 Movies from the 80s and 90s
    08:39 Movies with Inspirational Endings
    09:28 The Cutting Edge - A So Bad It's Good Movie
    09:57 Movies with Emotional Impact
    11:33 Movies That Sparked Disagreements
    13:03 Movies Based on True Stories
    14:13 Field of Dreams - Sports Movie or Drama?
    15:23 Mighty Ducks - A Childhood Favorite
    15:52 Best of the Best - A So Bad It's Good Movie
    16:46 Sports Movies Starring Animals
    17:18 Rookie of the Year - A Disappointing Movie
    18:20 Over the Top - A Guilty Pleasure
    20:59 Movies That Are Difficult to Watch
    21:20 Movies About Pete Rose
    22:31 The Cutting Edge - A Friend's Favorite Movie
    23:29 Over the Top - A Terrible Movie That's Fun to Watch
    26:02 Closing Remarks

    Season 2 Episode 7: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (The Blog)

    Season 2 Episode 7: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (The Blog)

    Summary:
    This conversation explores the power of simplicity and small actions in various aspects of life, including relationships, cooking, and education. The hosts discuss the importance of building strong relationships between teachers and students, as well as the impact of tone of voice on these relationships. They draw parallels between the simplicity of cooking a delicious sloppy joe and the effectiveness of simple teaching methods in education. The conversation also touches on the value of humility, the tendency to overcomplicate things in education, and the power of small actions to create significant change. The hosts conclude by encouraging feedback from listeners.

    Takeaways:
    ---Building genuine relationships with students is a fundamental and powerful approach in education.
    ---Small actions, such as smiling and using students' names, can have profound and meaningful impacts.
    ---Simplicity in cooking and teaching methods can lead to great outcomes.
    ---Humility and ego-check are important in personal and professional growth.

    Chapters:
    00:00
    Introduction and Excitement
    00:48
    The Power of Relationships and Tone of Voice
    01:56
    The Beauty of Simplicity in Cooking
    02:53
    Simplicity in Education: Building Relationships
    03:21
    The Value of Simplicity and Small Beginnings
    04:16
    The Impact of Smiling and Small Actions
    06:27
    The Power of Simple Ingredients and Actions
    08:16
    The Importance of Humility and Ego Check
    09:46
    Overcomplicating Education and the Need for Simplicity
    11:06
    The Mustard Seed and the Power of Small Things
    13:18
    The Parable of the Sloppy Joes
    14:04
    Conclusion and Call for Feedback

    Season 2 Episode 6: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (The Research)

    Season 2 Episode 6: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (The Research)
    Summary:
    In this conversation, Nick and Rick discuss the impact of tone of voice on student learning. They celebrate Rick's birthday and share a hiking adventure in the Superstition Mountains. The main focus is on a research study that highlights the importance of using a warm and supportive tone of voice in the classroom. This approach motivates students, promotes cooperation, and fosters a sense of connectedness. The conversation emphasizes the simplicity and practicality of this teaching strategy, as well as its potential to positively influence student achievement and well-being.
     
    Takeaways:
    • Using a warm and supportive tone of voice in the classroom can have a significant impact on student learning and well-being.
    • Motivation, cooperation, and connectedness are three key outcomes of using a warm tone of voice.
    • Teachers, parents, and coaches can easily implement this teaching strategy to create a positive and engaging learning environment.
    • School connectedness is crucial for students' physical and psychological health, self-esteem, and academic success.
    Chapters:
    00:00 Introduction and Birthday Celebration
    02:06 Hiking Adventure in the Superstition Mountains
    06:22 The Impact of Tone of Voice on Student Learning
    11:12 Summary of the Research Study on Tone of Voice
    19:34 Motivation, Cooperation, and Connectedness
    23:34 The Importance of School Connectedness
    27:00 Applying the Research to Personal Lives

    Season 2 Episode 5: Rick and Nick's Excellent Blog (Add Some Bacon)

    Season 2 Episode 5: Rick and Nick's Excellent Blog (Add Some Bacon)
    Summary:
    In this episode, Rick and Nick discuss the concept of adding bacon as a metaphor for adding passion and excitement to work and life. They explore the deliciousness of bacon and how it enhances other foods. They encourage listeners to integrate their personal interests and passions into their daily grind, whether it's through music, hobbies, or volunteering. The hosts also emphasize the importance of self-care and finding ways to make work more enjoyable. They discuss the need for educators to add bacon to their lessons and give students the opportunity to add their own bacon by incorporating choice and personalization. The episode concludes with a lighthearted discussion about favorite bacon variations.
     
    Takeaways:
    • Adding passion and personal interests to work can make it more enjoyable and effective.
    • Integrating personal passions into teaching or counseling can help educators connect with students and make a difference.
    • Taking initiative to add excitement and variety to work can break out of plateaus and combat boredom.
    • Giving students the opportunity to add their own interests and choices to their learning can increase engagement and motivation.
    Chapters
    00:00Introduction and Season Two
    00:23Bacon-Themed Restaurant
    01:02Blog Introduction: Just Add Bacon
    02:00The Deliciousness of Bacon
    02:30Bacon as an Addition to Other Foods
    03:29Adding Bacon to Work and Passion
    04:54Integrating Personal Interests into Work
    05:28Finding Passion in the Doldrums
    06:18Adding Bacon to Different Aspects of Life
    07:55Feeling Tired and Making a Difference
    09:22Taking Initiative to Add Bacon
    10:33Allowing Students to Add Bacon
    11:57The Importance of Effort and Choice
    12:13Favorite Bacon Variations
    13:25Adding Bacon to School Counseling
    14:44Integrating Personal Passions into Work
    15:07Conclusion and Next Week's Episode
     

    Season 2 Episode 4: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture ("Do You See Me" Activity

    Season 2 Episode 4: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture ("Do You See Me" Activity
    Summary:
     
    In this conversation, Rick and Nick discuss an activity implemented by a middle school principal to help faculty learn students' names and identify students who may need additional support. The activity involves placing stickers on students' pictures based on the level of connection the teacher has with the student. The chapters cover the introduction and background, the details of the activity, reflection and insights, timing of the activity, interventions for disconnected students, the importance of connection and relationships, the impact on teachers, and the conclusion and closing remarks.
     
    Takeaways:
    • Using students' names is important for building connections and relationships.
    • The activity of placing stickers on students' pictures helps teachers identify students who may need additional support.
    • The activity should be done at a later point in the school year to allow teachers to get to know the students.
    • Interventions and initiatives are implemented to facilitate connections with disconnected students.
    Chapters
    00:00Introduction and Background
    00:43The Activity: Learning Students' Names
    03:13Reflection and Insights
    04:21Timing of the Activity
    05:14Interventions for Disconnected Students
    06:26Importance of Connection and Relationships
    07:14Impact on Teachers
    08:04Conclusion and Closing Remarks

    Season 2 Episode 3: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (Pop Culture Roses)

    Season 2 Episode 3: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture (Pop Culture Roses)
    Summary:
    The conversation starts with a discussion about the song 'Bust a Move' by Young MC and the question of why Harry has a brother named Larry who wants the main character to be the best man instead of Harry. The hosts explore this question and express their curiosity about the song's meaning. They then transition to discussing their roses and thorns for the year 2024, including upcoming trips and personal goals. The conversation concludes with a discussion about joining a gym and the benefits of working out with a partner.
     
    Takeaways:
    • The meaning behind the lyrics of songs can be a topic of curiosity and discussion.
    • It is important to reflect on personal goals and experiences when discussing roses and thorns.
    • Leaving for college can be a bittersweet experience for parents as they say goodbye to their children.
    • Visiting water parks and joining a gym can be exciting activities to look forward to.
    Chapters:
    00:00-The Harry and Larry Controversy
    06:55-Rose and Thorn for 2024
    16:11-Saying Goodbye to Kids Leaving for College
    18:29-Noah's Ark Waterpark
    21:03-Joining a Gym

    Season 2 Episode 2: Rick and Nick's Excellent Educational Wisdom (The Blog)

    Season 2 Episode 2: Rick and Nick's Excellent Educational Wisdom (The Blog)
    Summary:
    In this conversation, Nick and Rick catch up and discuss various topics, including packing for a trip, weather predictions, and the final blog post on educational leadership. They also delve into the 16 keys to educational leadership, highlighting the importance of resilience, vulnerability, punctuality, and simplicity. Nick shares his process of selecting and arranging the keys, and even submits an article on the topic. The conversation concludes with a plug for Riverside FM, the platform they use for recording.
     
    Takeaways
    • Resilience and embracing the challenges of educational leadership are essential for success.
    • Apologizing when warranted fosters trust and respect in leadership.
    • Punctuality reflects a leader's respect for others and their commitment to their work.
    • Simplicity in decision-making can lead to more efficient and effective outcomes in leadership.
    • Selecting and arranging key principles requires reflection and consideration of their flow and impact.
    Chapters
    00:00-Introduction and Catching Up
    02:03-Packing for a Trip
    03:27-Weather and Snow Predictions
    05:23-Final Blog Post on Educational Leadership
    11:52-Summary of the 16 Keys to Educational Leadership
    13:08-Resilience and Apologies
    14:07-Vulnerability and Trust
    17:55-Punctuality and Respect
    19:51-Being Late and Sending the Wrong Message
    22:50-Simplicity in Leadership
    27:49-Choosing the 16 Keys to Educational Leadership
    32:19-Arranging the Keys in a Meaningful Order
    32:58-Submitting the Article to PA Principles Association
    33:18-Closing and Plug for Riverside FM

    Season 2 Episode 1: Rick and Nick's Excellent Educational Wisdom (The Research)

    Season 2 Episode 1: Rick and Nick's Excellent Educational Wisdom (The Research)
    Summary:
    In this episode, Rick and Nick discuss the top research studies in the field of education for 2023. They focus on the ninth study, which is about social and emotional learning (SEL). The study found that students who participated in SEL programs showed improvements in academic performance, school climate, social emotional skills, and pro-social behaviors. The hosts also discuss the controversy surrounding the term 'social emotional learning' and the importance of involving parents in SEL. They recommend several SEL programs, including Second Step, Coping Cat, and Zones of Regulation.
     
    Takeaways:
    • Social and emotional learning (SEL) programs have been found to improve academic performance, school climate, and social emotional skills.
    • The term 'social emotional learning' can be controversial, and some people have negative associations with it. It may be more effective to use alternative terms, such as life skills or emotional regulation training.
    • Parents play a crucial role in cultivating social emotional learning in their children. Educators and counselors can provide resources and support to help parents in this process.
    • There are several recommended SEL programs, including Second Step, Coping Cat, and Zones of Regulation.
    Chapters:
    00:00-Introduction to Season Two
    01:33-Starting with Number Nine
    03:12-Meta Analysis on Social and Emotional Learning
    08:21-Controversy Surrounding the Term 'Social Emotional Learning'
    14:12-The Role of Parents in Social Emotional Learning
    16:23-Involving Parents in Social Emotional Learning
    21:38-Recommended Social Emotional Learning Programs
    23:51-Importance of Social Emotional and Academic Learning
    24:23-Wrap-up and Shout-out to Riverside

    Episode 30-Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture

    Episode 30-Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture

    Summary:
    In this conversation, Rick and Nick discuss various topics, including the weather, Spotify Wrapped, the role of educators and counselors as heroes, the use of artificial intelligence in education, the upcoming release of Corn Man 2, and a video game recommendation. They also touch on the final two developmental assets from the Search Institute's list. In this conversation, Rick and Nick discuss the final two factors that contribute to the resiliency and thriving of young people. The first factor is a sense of purpose, where a young person feels that their life has meaning and direction. The second factor is a positive view of personal future, where a young person is optimistic about their future. They explore the importance of purpose in guiding one's life and the various ways it can be found. They also discuss the significance of having a pathway to success and the role of educators in helping students navigate their goals and aspirations. 

    The boys also explore the importance of having a positive view of one's personal future and the role of optimism and resilience in achieving this. It emphasizes the need to acknowledge and learn from challenges while also finding the positive aspects in order to grow. The Strengthening Families Program is discussed as a valuable resource for improving family bonding and positive parenting skills. The episode concludes with reflections on the end of Season One, highlighting favorite moments such as guest interviews and a trip to Arizona, as well as the impact of the blog segment. Nick and Rick discuss various topics related to the holiday season. They talk about the value of blog posts and how they can be compiled into a book or brochure. They also discuss the importance of reconnecting with family and the fun experiences they have had together. 

    The conversation then moves on to Christmas wishes, including Nick's desire for a second pair of sneakers and Rick's love for Reese's trees. They also share the Christmas wishes of their children. The conversation concludes with a discussion about turkey preparation plans and holiday wishes for the listeners.

    Takeaways:
    -Having a positive view of one's personal future is crucial for optimism and resilience.
    -It is important to acknowledge and learn from challenges while also finding the positive aspects.
    -The Strengthening Families Program is a valuable resource for improving family bonding and positive parenting skills.
    -Reflecting on favorite moments can bring joy and appreciation for the journey.
    -Blog posts can be a valuable resource and can be compiled into a book or brochure.
    -Reconnecting with family and creating fun experiences together is important.
    -Christmas wishes can vary from practical items to favorite snacks and drinks.
    -Preparing a turkey for the holiday meal can involve different methods and techniques.

    Episode 29: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture

    Episode 29: Rick and Nick's Excellent EdVenture

    Episode 29 begins with Rick sharing about his family's visit to Wonderworks in Pigeon Forge, TN. Nick gives an update regarding his recent hip replacement and has some recommendations for Hallmark Christmas movies. The guys discuss Liberty University's undefeated season and their recent status as a Tier One University based on the dining hall breakfast cereal selections.

    It’s Nick's turn to share a blog this week. Nick continues his examination of 16 Keys to Unlocking Education Success leadership principles. Nick reads through the blog and the guys discuss relevance for counseling and public education. 

    In the "Building the Brochure" segment, Dr. Nick and Dr. Rick continue their investigation into Search Institute's research on the 40 Developmental Assets. The discussion begins with 37. Personal power—Young person feels he or she has control over “things that happen to me.” and then on to #38. Self-esteem—Young person reports having a high self-esteem. Assessments, relevance for lifelong thriving, and suggestions for teachers, administrators, and counselors is discussed.

    The Every Rose has Its Thorn segment focuses on Caffeinated drinks. Rick starts things off by sharing about his aversion to anything bitter, including coffee but admits to an addiction to Sweet Tea. Nick prefers some of the diet sodas and Sweet Tea as well.  

    The last segment finds the guys digging back into the mailbag. Rick and Nick respond to a question about asking "Why questions."  

    Enjoy Episode XXIX of Nick & Rick s Excellent EdVenture!

    ---

    Summary:
    In this episode, Rick and Nick catch up after a break and discuss Nick's recovery from hip replacement surgery. They also share their favorite Hallmark Christmas movies and talk about their holiday season experiences. Nick then presents keys 9-12 of effective educational leadership, emphasizing the importance of kindness, assembling a talented team, active listening, and extreme accountability. They also discuss two developmental assets: feeling of control and high self-esteem. In this episode, Rick and Nick discuss the importance of recognizing wisdom and feedback as we mature. They delve into the concept of self-esteem and its multi-dimensional nature, highlighting the importance of understanding different aspects of self-concept. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale is introduced as a useful tool for assessing self-esteem. The conversation also touches on the upcoming asset of Sense of Purpose and the impact of aging on one's sense of purpose. Finally, the hosts share their personal preferences and experiences with caffeinated drinks, and address the potential issues with asking 'why' questions.


    Takeaways:
    Kindness and diplomacy are vital in cultivating strong relationships in educational leadership.
    Assembling a talented and dedicated team is crucial for long-term success.


    Effective communication includes active listening.


    Extreme accountability is necessary for leadership success.


    Feeling a sense of control over one's life is important for personal development.


    High self-esteem contributes to overall well-being and success. Recognizing wisdom and feedback becomes more important as we mature.


    Self-esteem is a multi-dimensional concept that encompasses various aspects of self-concept.


    The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale is a useful tool for assessing self-esteem.


    Sense of purpose may change as we age and face different life stages.


    Asking 'why' questions can be problematic and may lead to judgment or defensiveness.


    Chapters
    00:00
    Introduction and Check-In
    03:04
    Hip Replacement Surgery Recovery
    05:43
    Favorite Hallmark Christmas Movie
    07:27
    Holiday Season at the Albright House
    11:22
    Educational Leadership: Keys 9-12
    16:16
    Developmental Asset: Feeling of Control
    25:27
    Developmental Asset: High Self-Esteem
    38:55
    Recognizing Wisdom and Feedback
    39:24
    Understanding Self-Esteem
    40:51
    The Multi-Dimensional Nature of Self-Esteem
    43:16
    Using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale
    45:17
    Preview of Asset 39: Sense of Purpose
    46:15
    The Impact of Aging on Sense of Purpose
    47:09
    Every Rose Has Its Thorn: Caffeinated Drinks
    58:46
    The Problem with Asking 'Why' Questions