Student Optometrist support focusing on the pre reg element and discussions with fellow Optometry students regarding their journey. linking into the key pre reg Optometrist competancies in line with the College of Optometrist clinical guidelines
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Optometry School Podcasts
Hey there, amazing teachers—this podcast is for YOU! Whether you’re just starting your teaching journey or you're a seasoned educator seeking inspiration, Rainbow Skies for Teachers is here to help you thrive in and out of the classroom. We’re Ashleigh and Alisha, your enthusiastic hosts and co-founders of Rainbow Sky Creations. With 20+ years of combined experience in primary education, we’re dedicated to sharing practical advice, supercharged tips, and game-changing strategies to help you ...
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It is 2025 and we are all faced with the challenge of continuing to build stronger and more productive practices while still enjoying every day. In this podcast we will have relevant conversations geared toward eye-care providers today. I am joined by my husband and business partner David Jasper and together with our guests we will discuss hot topics, practice management tips, patient care moments and vendor vignettes. For more resources from Dr. Jasper visit us at https://www.apriljasperedu ...
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112. The Ultimate Brain Break Toolbox for the End of the Year
14:08
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14:08The countdown is on, the energy is high, and if you’ve ever looked around your classroom and thought, “We need a reset right now,” this episode is for you. In this episode, we’re opening up our Brain Break Toolbox with eight quick and cheerful ideas to help your students reset, refocus, and release that festive season energy in a purposeful way. Th…
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The Next Frontiers: Digital Realities, Hybrid Meetings, and the Future of Advertising with Charlie Lee, CEO of Conexiant
19:54
19:54
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19:54On this episode of The Dr. April Jasper Show, we sit down with Charlie Lee, CEO of Conexiant, to explore how emerging digital technologies are reshaping the way we meet, collaborate, and advertise. We dive into the future of digital experiences, the evolution of meetings and events in a hybrid world, and how innovative advertising strategies are ad…
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111. 10 Classroom Management Secrets to Survive the Silly Season (and Still Smile!)
27:35
27:35
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27:35The countdown to Christmas is officially ON, and if your classroom is starting to feel more festive frenzy than focused fun, this episode is for you!In this episode, we share 10 practical and playful classroom management ideas to help you keep calm, maintain learning momentum, while sprinkling in some festive joy as the year wraps up. From creative…
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110a. Public Service Announcement - Don’t miss these updates!
4:50
4:50
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4:50Something big is happening behind the scenes at Rainbow Sky Creations, and we couldn’t wait to share it with you! In this special bonus episode, we officially unveil our fresh rebrand of Rainbow Sky Creations, complete with a beautiful new website and a fun teacher-friendly Scavenger Hunt that’ll get you rewarded just in time for Black Friday! Here…
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110. Ready for a Little Teacher Fun? Join Our Teacher Scavenger Hunt!
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17:06This week on Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re taking you behind the scenes of something we’ve been quietly working on for months… our brand-new website! And because teachers deserve a little fun at this time of year, we’re celebrating the launch with an interactive scavenger hunt that ends in free resources for YOU! In this episode, we’re sharing:…
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From Humble Beginnings to Optometric Impact: The Dr. April Jasper Show with Dr. Ken Lawson
24:05
24:05
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24:05Discover the story of Dr. Ken Lawson—entrepreneur, humanitarian, husband, father, and Florida-based optometrist—as he shares the moments that shaped his character, leadership style, and commitment to family and service. A candid, heart-led conversation hosted by Dr. April Jasper.
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109. Why Vision Matters More Than You Think: Behavioural Optometry & Classroom Learning with Amy Fortescue
52:31
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52:31Could undiagnosed vision issues be holding your students back? In this eye-opening episode, Ash chats with behavioural optometrist Amy Fortescue to unpack how children’s vision, far beyond just 20/20 eyesight, can deeply affect their learning, behaviour, and classroom confidence. Amy introduces us to the world of behavioural optometry, where the ey…
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108. Your Free Christmas Resources: 7 Days of Festive Fun for the Classroom
25:37
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25:37It’s the most wonderful time of the year… especially when you’re a teacher with FREE Christmas resources up your sleeve! In this merry little episode, we unwrap all the goodness inside our 7 Days of Christmas celebration - a free, festive giveaway packed with engaging, educational, and totally classroom-ready activities for the end of the school ye…
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Merging Minds: The Future of Myopia with Dr. Jackson Lau & Dr. Randy Kojima
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47:32What happens when passion for ending myopia meets cutting-edge technology and science? In this special episode, the tables are turned as I step into the interview seat alongside Dr. Jackson Lau, Director of Professional Affairs at Euclid Vision Corporation, and Randy Kojima, a leader in R&D for Euclid, Visionary, KATT, and Medmont. Together, we exp…
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107. Two Years, Two Teachers: The Big Lessons We Didn’t See Coming
25:01
25:01
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25:01Today, we’re popping the confetti, lighting the birthday candles, and getting real about our personal truths behind teaching and education. To celebrate our second podcast birthday, we’re bringing you an extra special format: 2 teachers, 2 things we’ve learned, 2 things we’ve changed our minds about. From rethinking teaching strategies to embracing…
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106: Real Teacher Wellbeing with Daniela Falecki
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50:00It’s time to move beyond cupcakes in the staffroom and colourful sock days. In this powerful episode, wellbeing expert and veteran teacher Daniela Falecki joins us to unpack what true educator wellbeing really means and how to create it. With over 30 years in education and a decade focused on staff wellbeing across global schools, Daniela offers a …
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From Corporate to Private Practice: The Wisdom of Dr. Mark Perry
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17:30In this episode, I sit down with my good friend Dr. Mark Perry to unpack his inspiring journey from corporate optometry to building a thriving private practice. Dr. Perry opens up about the pivotal moments, lessons learned, and defining challenges that shaped his career and leadership style. Whether you’re a student, new graduate, or seasoned OD co…
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105. Teaching Kindness: Simple Strategies to Build a More Caring Classroom
21:08
21:08
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21:08Let’s sprinkle a little more kindness into our classrooms. With World Kindness Day on 13th November, now is the perfect time to create meaningful moments that teach students the power of compassion, community, and connection. In this episode, we’re sharing practical, heartwarming, and low-prep ways to promote kindness in your classroom. You may be …
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104. Supporting Students with ADHD: Practical Strategies Every Teacher Needs with Sharon Collon
47:03
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47:03Teaching students with ADHD doesn't have to feel overwhelming. In this enlightening episode, ADHD coach Sharon Collon joins us to share practical, brain-friendly strategies to help these incredible learners thrive. With a warm, collaborative approach, Sharon explains how teachers can better understand ADHD, build strong relationships, and support e…
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103. Why We Teach: Classroom Strategies, Student Connections & Finding Purpose
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53:47In this inspiring episode, Ashleigh sits down with passionate educator and podcast host Mathew Green for a heartfelt conversation that reminds us why we teach. Together, we explore the deeper purpose behind classroom leadership, the power of meaningful student connections, and the evolution of teaching from compliance to care. Mathew shares his car…
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Life After Optometry School — Real Talk with Dr. Amanda Aker & Dr. Nestor Garcia
20:42
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20:42What really happens after you cross the stage and grab that optometry degree? In this episode, I sit down with two of my favorite people — Dr. Amanda Aker and Dr. Nestor Garcia — to have an honest conversation about life beyond graduation. Together we tackle some of the burning questions you’ve been asking: How do you navigate your first few years …
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102. Spooky Math Fun: Halloween-Inspired Activities for Your Classroom
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20:28Halloween isn’t just about costumes and lollies, it’s a golden opportunity to spark excitement and curiosity when it comes to learning in the classroom! In this episode, we’re sharing our favourite ways to weave Halloween magic into your math lessons. From board games to fluency fun, these activities are all about boosting engagement without adding…
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101. STEM Made Simple: Creative, Hands-On Learning with Expert Dena Scoullos
37:58
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37:58STEM doesn’t have to be one more thing on your overflowing to-do list, it can actually make learning more fun, engaging, and hands-on (three things we are all about here at Rainbow Sky Creations). In this energising episode, Ash chats with educator and STEM advocate Dena Scoullos about how classroom teachers can easily integrate STEM (Science, Tech…
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On this episode of The Dr. April Jasper Show, Dr. April Jasper is joined by her daughter, Ally Jasper, and fellow optometry student, Colby Maynard, for a lively conversation on thriving in optometry school. Together, they share practical study strategies, lessons learned, and how collaboration with peers can make the journey not only easier, but mo…
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100 Episodes of Rainbow Skies for Teachers: Ask Us Anything!
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37:38We’re popping the confetti because Rainbow Skies for Teachers has hit 100 episodes! To celebrate this massive milestone, we are answering your burning questions in a special “Ask Us Anything” edition. From classroom chaos to content creation, we’re pulling back the curtain on our journey, favourite tools, and everything in between. This episode is …
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99. AI in the Classroom: Empowering Teachers and Supporting Students
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1:02:44Today we sit down with educator and tech thinker Matt Esterman to unpack the current and future role of AI in education. From low-risk ways to explore AI tools to fostering student AI literacy, they dive deep into how teachers can harness AI for planning, differentiation, admin support, and more. Together, we tackle big-picture topics like ethics, …
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98. Teaching Diverse Classrooms: Simple Tweaks for Big Impact
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34:32In this rich and encouraging chat, we explore how teachers can meet the needs of every student, without feeling like they need to do everything. Dr Maggie offers real-life, research-backed strategies for creating inclusive, emotionally safe, and engaging classrooms with just a few thoughtful tweaks. In this episode, we explore: What diverse student…
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Unlocking the Secrets of Blue Zones: Preventing Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s & More (Feat. Professor Riona Mulcahy)
25:03
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25:03What if the world’s longest-living communities held the key to preventing devastating diseases like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, frailty, and sarcopenia? In this episode, I sit down with Prof. Mulcahy to explore what Blue Zones can teach us about protecting our brains and bodies as we age. We break down the latest science, identify major risk factors,…
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Ready to turn play into powerful learning? In this episode, we are diving into creative and cost-effective ways to repurpose familiar games for classroom learning. From Jenga to Connect 4, we explore how teachers can use everyday games to boost student engagement and reinforce essential skills across maths and literacy. Whether it's picking up seco…
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96. Function First, Fancy Later: Jamiela's Guide to Classroom Organisation
36:36
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36:36Feeling overwhelmed by classroom clutter? In this episode, we're joined by classroom organisation expert Jamiela, who shares her powerful journey from chaos to calm. Once an unorganised teacher herself, Jamiela now empowers educators to embrace simplicity and function-first thinking through her FAVS principles: Functionality, Accessibility, Visibil…
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The Hidden Link Between Processed Foods and Your Vision (Feat. Dr. Jans Fromow Guerra)
13:11
13:11
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13:11Discover the surprising connection between diet and eye health in this fascinating conversation with retina specialist and researcher Dr. Jans Fromow Guerra. We explore how ultra-processed foods impact macular pigment levels in both healthy individuals and those with age-related macular degeneration. You’ll walk away with groundbreaking insights th…
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95. Teacher Well-Being: Teaching Shouldn't Be a One-Woman Show
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27:42
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27:42Feeling like you're constantly running on empty or that everything is falling on your shoulders? You're not alone, and teaching was never meant to be a solo performance. In this episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re sharing five empowering strategies to help reduce teacher overwhelm and protect your well-being. From curating your very own “g…
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Hit the fast lane with friend and Nascar driver Tim Viens
31:00
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31:00Buckle up as we hit the fast lane with friend and NASCAR driver Tim Viens! In this high-octane conversation, Tim shares behind-the-scenes stories from the track, the mindset it takes to compete at top speed, and the lessons learned from chasing big dreams at over 200 miles per hour. Whether you’re a racing fan or just love inspiring stories, this e…
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What happens when a psychologist and a seasoned teacher team up to support neurodivergent learners? Insight, experience, and heart—all rolled into one conversation. In this episode, Ashleigh sits down with Lisa and Lianne, the passionate duo behind Elevated Teachers, to explore the powerful ways educators can better support neurodiverse students—wi…
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In this episode we’re showing you how a deck of UNO cards can become one of your most versatile teaching tools, especially for measurement! From comparing lengths in Kindergarten to converting units in Year 4, we’re sharing fun, hands-on activities that make maths more meaningful and less worksheet-heavy. We also take a trip down memory lane with s…
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The Miraculous Power of AquaNew's Watt-Ahh!
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27:32In this episode of The Dr. April Jasper Show, Dr. Jasper sits down with Rob Gourley, CEO and co-founder of AquaNew, the company behind the innovative Watt-Ahh® — a functional water engineered for cellular health. Together, they dive into the science, story, and vision behind Watt-Ahh, exploring how this ultra-pure, energized water is making waves i…
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92. Differentiation Secrets that are Simple, Smart, and Supportive
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53:20Today we’re joined by the fabulous Julia - an experienced classroom teacher who brings a calm, clear-eyed approach to differentiation that will leave you feeling capable, confident, and ready to make small changes with big impact. Together we explore what differentiation really looks like in action, and spoiler alert, it doesn’t have to mean rewrit…
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91. How to Make Math Joyful & Student-Centred with Kelsey Sorenson
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46:36This week Ashleigh flips the script as the guest, chatting with Kelsey Sorenson from Educate & Rejuvenate about all things maths, mindset, and making learning joyful. Ashleigh opens up about her personal maths journey (yes, her dad was a maths teacher!), shares easy ways to bring creativity into the classroom, and offers teacher-tested strategies t…
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If you have a body, you're an athlete | Dr. Fraser Horn Dean of Pacific University College of Optometry
19:24
19:24
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19:24In this episode, we dive into the powerful connection between nutrition and performance—specifically how Omega-3s and carotenoids can enhance vision, focus, and recovery for athletes of all ages. Plus, we break down what it really means when a supplement is NSF Certified for Sport™—because smart fueling isn’t doping.…
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90. 5 Outdoor Math Games That Kids Will Love
23:32
23:32
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23:32In this episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re sharing practical, fun ways to take your maths lessons outside. From number relays to times table soccer, we talk through simple activities that help students move, collaborate, and build confidence in their mathematical thinking. We also dive into the benefits of outdoor learning—from improving …
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NAIDOC Week. The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy
18:56
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18:56In this special collaborative episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we honour NAIDOC Week 2025 by exploring this year's theme: The Next Generation: Strength, Vision & Legacy. We are joined by five inspiring educators, each sharing their unique perspectives on how these pillars can be acknowledged and celebrated in the classroom. Our guests delve i…
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Expanding your business with Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Janelle Davison
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17:26In this inspiring episode of The Dr. April Jasper Show, we have the pleasure of welcoming Dr. Janelle Davison. Join us as we explore her journey from managing a single practice to successfully expanding into two, all while balancing a strong commitment to family and faith. Discover how choosing a personal "word of the year" can serve as a guiding p…
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88. Outdoor Classrooms: Big Benefits, Simple Steps
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43:16This week we venture beyond the traditional classroom with Victoria Hackett from Outdoor Classrooms, an expert in weaving nature, play, and purpose into everyday teaching. With over a decade of experience championing outdoor education, Victoria shares how learning gardens and nature-based activities can do wonders for student wellbeing, regulation,…
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87. Let’s Get Squishy: 8 Playdough Activities to Supercharge Your Maths Lessons
19:37
19:37
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19:37Think playdough is just for the early years? Think again! In this episode, we explore how playdough can become your secret weapon for teaching maths concepts in Grades 3–6. From creating number lines to measuring angles, they share 8 classroom-ready ideas that will make your maths block more hands-on, differentiated, and downright irresistible. Thi…
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Building a Legacy: Insights from Jeffrey A. Cole
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49:05In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Jeffrey A. Cole—entrepreneur, philanthropist, and author—as he shares the foundational principles that fueled his success in business and leadership. Whether you’re an eye care professional, a business owner, or just hungry for wisdom, Jeff’s journey is packed with practical insights, powerful lessons, an…
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86. The Veteran Principal breaking all the “rules” - An Interview with Principal Lamb
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45:57Get ready to meet the principal who’s rewriting the rulebook - one hallway conversation at a time. In this energising chat, we’re joined by Jared Lamb (commonly known as @principal_lamb), the dynamic school leader known for ditching the principal’s office in favour of a rolling cart, 20,000 steps a day, and a relentless commitment to connection. We…
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85. 6 Strategies to Help Your Students Love Math
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15:38
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15:38Are your students groaning when it’s maths time? Let’s change that—starting today! In this energising episode, we dive into six tried-and-true strategies for turning your maths block into one of the most engaging parts of the school day. If you are looking for fresh inspiration, these tips will empower you to create lessons that are hands-on, inclu…
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Why 20/20 Isn’t the Full Story: Dr. Megan Lott on Modern Optometric Care
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17:27When it comes to eye care, 20/20 vision is only part of the story. In this episode, Dr. Megan Lott joins Dr. April Jasper to explore the deeper role of optometry in solving real patient problems. From uncovering hidden visual challenges to delivering care that truly meets a patient’s needs, Dr. Lott shares how optometrists can make a life-changing …
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84. Breaking Down Barriers In Teaching Students With Autism
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47:59Breaking down barriers starts with small shifts, big heart, and the belief that every child deserves to thrive. In this empowering episode, we explore what it really takes when it comes to teaching students with autism—with real-life strategies, heartfelt stories, and a whole lot of teacher-to-teacher encouragement. We sit down with educator and au…
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83. Becoming a Classroom Champion with Aaron Johnston
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42:14In this energising episode, we sit down with classroom champion and education leader Aaron Johnston to explore what it really takes to thrive as a teacher, especially when navigating the challenges of composite classes and high expectations. Aaron brings his signature practical wisdom and heartfelt encouragement as we chat about his career in teach…
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Through the Lens: Reflections from Optometry School
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17:45In this special episode, Dr. April Jasper takes a walk down memory lane, sharing personal stories, pivotal lessons, and unforgettable moments from her time in optometry school. From late-night study sessions to life-changing mentors, she reflects on the experiences that shaped her both professionally and personally. Whether you're a current student…
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82. Work Smarter, Not Harder When Writing Report Cards
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18:12
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18:12Report card season doesn't have to mean late nights and coffee-fuelled stress! In this episode, Ash and Alisha are diving into practical, time-saving strategies to make report writing smoother, more efficient, and—dare we say it—more enjoyable. From creating systems that actually work, to harnessing the power of assessment books and AI tools, this …
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81. 10 Tips for Staying Sane When It Comes To School Politics
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25:26Let’s be honest—school politics can be a lot. Whether it’s gossip in the staffroom, unclear power dynamics, or just the unspoken rules of the workplace, navigating it all can take a toll on even the most passionate teachers .In this episode, we are getting real about school politics. They’re sharing practical, mindset-focused strategies to help you…
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80. Brain Breaks That Work with James Robinson from Amplify
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40:03How often do you pause during the school day to give your students (and yourself!) a chance to reset? In this energising episode of Rainbow Skies for Teachers, we’re joined by the wonderful James Robinson from Amplify to talk all things brain breaks—what they are, why they matter, and how to use them effectively in your classroom. James shares prac…
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The Drive to Succeed: Featuring Six-Time Motocross Champion Jeff Stanton
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42:47Join Dr. April Jasper and David Jasper as they sit down with legendary motocross icon Jeff Stanton, a six-time AMA Motocross Champion and Hall of Famer. In this inspiring episode, Jeff shares his journey from young enthusiast to motocross legend, revealing behind-the-scenes stories, lessons learned on and off the track, and insights into what it ta…
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