Get Inspired with Dr. Barb

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In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', we explore the innovative perspectives on education from a young author, Zoraib Nadeem, and his mother, Ambreen. They discuss the importance of fostering curiosity in learning, the challenges posed by traditional education systems, and the vital roles that parents and teachers play in empowering children. The conversation emphasizes the need for in...

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In this episode of “Get Inspired with Dr. Barb,” we explore the transformative power of therapy dogs through the inspiring project 'Woofers, Snow, and Sky'. The conversation delves into the journey of the hosts from Europe to India, the impact of therapy dogs on children and the elderly, and the innovative activities that can be implemented in educational settings. The discussion highlights the psycholog...

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In this inspiring conversation, I interview Dr. Jeff Karp, a Harvard Medical School professor and bioengineer, about the challenges faced by neurodivergent children in the education system. We discuss the importance of recognizing different abilities, the role of nature in fostering creativity, and the need for supportive structures in education. Dr. Karp shares his personal experiences overcoming labels...

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In this enlightening conversation, Dr. Robert Melillo and I explore the complexities of autism, focusing on the Melillo approach, which emphasizes understanding the brain's functional imbalances. We discuss the importance of early diagnosis, the role of primitive reflexes, and the need for systemic changes in education and medicine. The conversation highlights the unique gifts of individuals with aut...

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In this episode of "Get Inspired with Dr. Barb," Julie D'Ann discusses her role as an Illumination Guide and the importance of meditation and mindfulness in education. She shares her personal journey of discovering meditation and how it can transform the lives of children and adults alike. The conversation explores practical breathing techniques, the impact of mindfulness on student behavior, and how to ...

In this enlightening conversation, Barbara Vokatis and Sharlet Jensen explore the transformative power of animal-assisted therapy in education, particularly in the realm of speech pathology. They discuss the challenges faced by children with communication difficulties, the role of therapy dogs in facilitating learning and emotional regulation, and practical strategies for educators and therapists to incorporate animals into their p...

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Dr. Gina Anderson discusses her innovative approach to education through her company Luma Brighter Learning, which focuses on experiential learning and technology in the logistics and transportation sectors. The conversation explores the importance of authentic learning experiences, the role of gamification, and the significance of kindness in education. Dr. Anderson also shares insi...

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', Barbara Vokatis interviews Teri Holamon, a pioneer in Animal Assisted Play Therapy. They discuss the profound impact of therapy animals in educational settings, particularly how they help children develop emotional and social skills. Teri shares heartwarming stories of her therapy dog, Gibbs, the transformative experiences of children who interacted with him, and some activities. The...

In this episode, Dr. Barb interviews Johanna Järvinen-Taubert, a pedagogical director at LearningScoop, discussing the Finnish education system, its innovative approaches, and the importance of nature in learning. They explore the role of cultural exchange in education, the significance of breaks for students and teachers, and the introduction of the Lesson App designed to enhance lesson planning. The conversation emphasizes the ne...

In this episode of Get Inspired with Dr. Barb, Marjorie Borreda shares her insights on animal-assisted intervention through her nonprofit organization, Le Petit Ranch. The conversation explores the innovative activities offered at the ranch, the intergenerational connections fostered between children and seniors, and the transformative moments that arise from animal interactions. Marjorie emphasizes the importance of collaboration,...

In this episode of Get Inspired with Dr. Barb, special education teacher Ariel Farkash shares her journey into the field of special education, discussing effective teaching strategies, the importance of collaboration between educators, and innovative approaches like social stories to support students with special needs. Ariel emphasizes the need for flexibility and personalization in teaching, highlighting the role of special educa...

In this episode of the Get Inspired Barb show, Barbara Vokatis interviews Nancy Gillette, a relationship development intervention consultant, who shares her insights on supporting neurodivergent children, particularly those on the autism spectrum. Nancy discusses her journey in the field, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals in educational settings, and the importance of shifting perspectives from deficit-focused appr...

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', host Barbara Vokatis interviews Ligia Chacón Hernández, an English teacher and global ambassador for educational initiatives. They discuss the importance of mental health in education, memorable teaching experiences, and the power of authentic connections with students. Ligia shares her insights on innovative educational platforms like Upschool, emphasizing the role of parent...

In this episode of 'Get Inspired with Dr. Barb', AJ Cullen Langell discusses the transformative power of animal-assisted interventions in educational settings, particularly for children with emotional and behavioral challenges. AJ shares her experiences as a licensed clinical social worker and certified animal-assisted intervention professional, highlighting how therapy animals can facilitate communication, emotional expression, an...

In this episode, Dr. Barb discusses the innovative inclusion of therapy animals in schools to enhance children's social and emotional skills. She emphasizes the importance of kindness and community building through interactions with therapy dogs, sharing various activities that can be implemented in classrooms. The conversation highlights the transformative impact of therapy animals on children's learning experiences and encourages...