Beyond Our Walls

Episode 9: Can everyone hear me?

Tim Dawkins — Tue, 12 May 2026 13:01:00 GMT

We all make assumptions about how we communicate. One of the most common those of us who find ourselves speaking often to groups of people make is that the audience can always hear us because they are like us. However, this isn't always the case, and we might be leaving people out more often than we'd like to admit.

In this episode, Tim explores the idea of access in communication and what it means to design for inclusion rather than assume it isn't necessary. Through personal stories and examples, he examines the ways we exclude people without ever meaning to, and how we can do better.

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If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond Our Walls wherever you get your podcasts, consider sharing it with a friend, and check out the newsletter at beyondourwalls.substack.com.

Want to get in touch? Email Tim at timdawks@gmail.com, and find more at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 8: For the Love of Dogs (with Henny Hiemenz)

Tim Dawkins and Henny Hiemenz — Mon, 17 Mar 2025 20:29:04 GMT

What is it about dogs that makes it so easy for us to open up, be vulnerable, and express emotions we sometimes struggle to share with other people? Why do we grieve them so deeply, and what can our relationships with them teach us about love, loss, and connection?

In this episode of Beyond Our Walls, Tim sits down with writer, podcaster, and fellow dog lover, Henny Hiemenz, to explore the unique emotional role that dogs play in our lives. We talk about how dogs create space for vulnerability, how they help us process grief, and why their unconditional presence can teach us to be better humans.

If you’ve ever felt like your dog understands you better than most people, you’ve experienced the profound grief of losing a pet, or simply loved a dog in your life then this episode is definitely for you!

For more of Henny, check out his work at SilentPunt.

Subscribe, Share, and Join the Conversation:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond Our Walls wherever you get your podcasts, consider sharing it with a friend, and check out the newsletter at beyondourwalls.substack.com.

Your support means everything. Like what you hear? Maybe buy Tim a coffee!

Want to get in touch? Email Tim at timdawks@gmail.com, and find more at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 7: Valentine's Shmalentine's (with Jerilyn Stellato)

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 14 Feb 2025 21:15:00 GMT

Welcome to Beyond Our Walls! This tim, we’re expanding the conversation—bringing in more voices, deeper discussions, and new perspectives on leadership, vulnerability, empathy, and the connections that sustain our lives.

And what better way to kick it off than on Valentine’s Day. But don’t worry—this isn’t an episode about heart-shaped chocolates and candlelit dinners. Instead, Tim is joined by his work BFF, Jerilyn Stellato, as they talk about the relationships that sustain us—the friendships, professional partnerships, and chosen-family connections that make life richer.

As we step into this new season of the podcast, this episode is a reminder that one of the best things we can do for ourselves is deliberately reach out and connect meaningfully with the people who show up for us, support us, challenge us, and walk beside us through all of life’s moments.

Your support means everything. Like what you hear? Maybe buy Tim a coffee!

Want to get in touch? Email Tim at timdawks@gmail.com, and find more at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 6: Small Acts, Big Power

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 22 Dec 2024 12:50:09 GMT

In this episode of Beyond Our Walls, Tim reflects on the power of quiet leadership—the kind that happens behind the scenes, in the margins, and through small, consistent acts of care and connection. Inspired by his experiences as a Hospice volunteer alongside his therapy dog Jim, his work transporting rescue dogs, and the everyday heroes in education, Tim explores how these quiet acts ripple outward, creating meaningful change.

Drawing on lessons from Disney’s Encanto, Tim dives into the invisible burdens leaders carry, the importance of sharing the load, and how empathy and connection can heal even the deepest cracks. Whether you’re a leader in your workplace, community, or family, this episode is a reminder that showing up, even in small ways, can have a profound impact.

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Find more from Tim at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 5: Holiday Hoopla

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 08 Dec 2024 13:30:00 GMT

In this holiday-themed episode of Beyond Our Walls, Tim explores the unique challenges leaders face during the festive season. While the holidays are often painted as "the most wonderful time of the year," they can also bring stress, heightened emotions, and overwhelming expectations. From managing day-to-day tasks to supporting others through difficult times, leaders often feel the weight of the season more than most.

Through practical strategies, personal reflections, and a deep dive into the timeless holiday classic It’s a Wonderful Life, Tim shares insights on how to navigate the chaos with grace, balance, and intention. Whether you’re leading a team, a classroom, or simply attempting to manage yourself, this episode offers advice to simplify the season and focus on what truly matters: connection, kindness, and perspective.

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Find more from Tim at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 4: Exhausted by Choices

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 24 Nov 2024 13:30:00 GMT

In this week’s episode of Beyond Our Walls, Tim dives into the reality of decision fatigue—a challenge that affects all of us, whether you are in a formal leadership position or not, because we all end up navigating endless choices and conflicts in our daily lives.

Tim reflects on the toll of constant decision-making, sharing candid stories from his own experience, like the split-second choice of whether to be honest about feeling overwhelmed or putting on a brave face. Backed by research on the physical and mental impacts of decision fatigue, this episode explores why exhaustion sets in and how it affects our ability to lead effectively.

With practical strategies, relatable anecdotes, and a dose of pop culture wisdom from Parks and Recreation’s Leslie Knope, Tim offers actionable advice for simplifying decisions, delegating tasks, and reconnecting with core values.

Find more about the research around decision fatigue mentioned in the episode here and here.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond Our Walls wherever you get your podcasts, consider sharing it with a friend, and check out the newsletter at beyondourwalls.substack.com.

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Find more from Tim at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 3: Anchors Away

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 10 Nov 2024 14:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond Our Walls, Tim Dawkins explores the power of purpose as an “anchor” in uncertain times. When the world feels off-kilter, how do we stay steady and keep moving forward? Tim reflects on finding meaning in everyday acts of normalcy, sharing why showing up with purpose is so important—even when things don’t go as planned.

With a little help from Captain America, Tim discusses what he believes patriotism looks like in a time of division and how real leadership isn’t about having all the answers but staying grounded in values like empathy and resilience. Join Tim for a mindfulness moment, a weekly leadership challenge, and insights on finding calm in the chaos.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond Our Walls wherever you get your podcasts, consider sharing it with a friend, and check out the newsletter at beyondourwalls.substack.com.

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Find more from Tim at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 2: Cleared for Takeoff

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 27 Oct 2024 13:00:00 GMT

In this episode of Beyond Our Walls: The Podcast, host Tim Dawkins reflects on the chaotic beauty of airports and how they mirror the unpredictability of leadership. He also explores lessons in empathy and flexibility from iconic British television character Doctor Who while looking for ways to find calm in chaos.

Whether in an airport, a classroom, or a boardroom, this episode encourages listeners to show up fully—because how we respond matters more than having all the answers.

If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe to Beyond Our Walls wherever you get your podcasts and check out the newsletter at beyondourwalls.substack.com.

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Find more from Tim at bio.link/timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Episode 1: Let's Get Vulnerable

Tim Dawkins — Wed, 16 Oct 2024 22:08:05 GMT

In the first episode of the rebirth of Beyond Our Walls: The Podcast on Substack, host Tim Dawkins dives into the power of vulnerability and empathy in leadership. Tim shares his journey of being labeled "soft" throughout his educational career and explores how vulnerability, often seen as a weakness, can actually be a profound leadership strength.

This episode also introduces segments to keep the conversation dynamic, including:

* Leadership in Pop Culture: A look at Ted Lasso and how his vulnerability creates trust and connection.

* Mindfulness Moment: A quick breathing exercise to help listeners stay present.

* Leadership Challenge for the Week: A prompt for embracing vulnerability in your daily life.

Join Tim as he lays the foundation for the podcast’s future, sharing insights, personal anecdotes, and practical leadership strategies. Whether you work in education or are simply a lifelong learner, this episode is packed with meaningful reflections and actionable takeaways for anyone who wants to connect with others.

Subscribe, listen here or anywhere you get your podcasts, and step beyond the walls of traditional leadership—because this is just the beginning!

Your support means everything! Like what you hear? Maybe buy me a coffee?

Connect with Tim online at bio.link/Timothy.

Get full access to Beyond Our Walls at beyondourwalls.substack.com/subscribe

Let's Cancel "Learning Loss"

Tim Dawkins — Sun, 25 Apr 2021 13:50:50 GMT

This week, Jerilyn and Tim discuss the burgeoning panic over something called "learning loss" and how to own and reframe the narrative being created around teacher and student innovation during the Pandemic. Jerilyn discovers that she is an early Gen-Xer, and Tim learns that even something as innocent as savings bonds separate the generations.

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellato

Shout Outs:

Too Much Focus on ‘Learning Loss’ Will Be a Historic Mistake

‘Learning Loss, in General, Is a Misnomer': Study Shows Kids Made Progress During COVID-19

Leave us a voicemail on our website, anchor.fm/beyondourwalls

Follow Beyond Our Walls on Instagram at Instagram.com/beyondourwallspodcast.

Opening and Closing Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod, Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday, License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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New Challenges & New Triumphs with Cathy Geniti

Tim Dawkins — Mon, 12 Apr 2021 19:09:52 GMT

After laughing at (with?) Tim and his new-found journey to a regular yoga practice, Jerilyn interviews virtual elementary school teacher Cathy Geniti about her experience this year teaching third graders over the computer including how she has worked to build relationships without actually meeting her students face-to-face. A big thanks to Cathy for her willingness to be vulnerable and honest about her role this year. The hosts closeout the discussion by focusing on restorative approaches to community building and what seems to be a startling shift toward this podcast being focused on exercise.
Note: We know that this episode is long overdue (as in, like, 3 weeks), and we promise to do better moving forward!
Shout Out: Yoga With Adriene
Follow Beyond Our Walls on Instagram at Instagram.com/beyondourwallspodcast.
Opening and Closing Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod, Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday, License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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What Students Need

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 19 Mar 2021 15:26:08 GMT

This week, Jerilyn and Tim discuss the all-or-nothing approach to St. Patrick's Day and the stressors of home improvement. More importantly, they highlight the voices of four high school students who talk about how they're doing right now and what they need from adults moving forward. Jerilyn shouts-out pandemic baking. Tim gives thanks for technology (and central air conditioning).

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellato

Shoutouts:

King Arthur Flour's Sourdough Bread Recipe

Opening Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod, Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday, License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Outro Music: Drops of Brandy - The Mountain Kid by Aislinn

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One Year Later with Tom Murray

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 14:07:23 GMT

This week, Jerilyn and Tim share the joy of spending time in elementary classrooms, starting your day in coffee shops, and getting back into routines. Special guest, Tom Murray, talks about how the world of education has changed since March of 2020. Jerilyn sticks with yoga. Tim writes about his feelings.

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellato

Shout Outs:

Learn more about Tom and connect to his socials at thomascmurray.com.

Jerilyn's favorite yoga is Yoga with Adriene.

Opening and Closing Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod, Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday, License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Growth Happens

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 26 Feb 2021 15:56:13 GMT

This week, Jerilyn and Tim are back after a week off. They share how they disconnected during mid-winter break, and we hear from several teachers on how they've grown as educators since March of 2020. Jerilyn slows things down. Tim tracks his moods.

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellato

Shout-outs: Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence and Dr. Marc Brackett

Opening and Closing Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Background Narration Music: Almost Bliss by Kevin MacLeod Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/5032-almost-bliss License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Scary But Not Dangerous

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 12 Feb 2021 19:25:10 GMT

This week Jerilyn and Tim take a break from interviews and just spend some time talking about life right now. Tim has pandemic brain. Jerilyn discusses her mom, who we all want to meet. The hosts reflect on their interview from last week and talk about things that are scary but not dangerous. As always, they set goals that they may (or may not) achieve for the coming week.

Intro and Outro Music is Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod

Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday

License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

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Embrace The Crash with Christian Arehart

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 05 Feb 2021 14:27:31 GMT

This week Jerilyn silver-lines the Pandemic while Tim fails at meditation. Our guest, 18 year old South Glens Falls 12th grade student, BMX freestyle record setter, and all-around awesome kid Christian Arehart, leaves us inspired. Tim promises to make good use of the Yale Mood Meter while Jerilyn plunges into knitting and successfully casts on.

Find Christian on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/arehart_bmx/

World's Youngest BMX Triple Backflip - http://bit.ly/BMXFlip

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Wellness All Around

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 29 Jan 2021 17:05:24 GMT

Jerilyn makes fun of Tim for never having used a typewriter. The hosts are joined by members of the South Glens Falls Wellness Day planning team. Tim discovers meditation while Jerilyn tries to make a habit stick.

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Virtually Talented

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 22 Jan 2021 13:05:30 GMT

Tim and Jerilyn share their weekly gratitude, Jerilyn interviews a teacher and two fifth graders about their virtual school talent show, and the hosts commiserate over the difficulty of meeting goals right now.

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Let’s Take a B.R.Ak.E.!

Tim Dawkins — Fri, 15 Jan 2021 20:52:33 GMT

For our inaugural episode, we share gratitude, talk about a unique way to reach middle school students with some special guests, and set goals for next week.

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The Trailer

Tim Dawkins — Thu, 14 Jan 2021 19:33:38 GMT

Learn more about getting Beyond Our Walls with Tim Dawkins, Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, and Jerilyn Stellato, Director of Technology Integration and Information, at the South Glens Falls Central School District.

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Beyond Our Walls

Episode 9: Can everyone hear me?

Episode 8: For the Love of Dogs (with Henny Hiemenz)

Episode 7: Valentine's Shmalentine's (with Jerilyn Stellato)

Episode 6: Small Acts, Big Power

Episode 5: Holiday Hoopla

Episode 4: Exhausted by Choices

Episode 3: Anchors Away

Episode 2: Cleared for Takeoff

Episode 1: Let's Get Vulnerable

Let's Cancel "Learning Loss"

New Challenges & New Triumphs with Cathy Geniti

What Students Need

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellatoShoutouts:

Opening Music: Cheery Monday by Kevin MacLeod, Link: https://incompetech.filmmusic.io/song/3495-cheery-monday, License: https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

One Year Later with Tom Murray

Growth Happens

Scary But Not Dangerous

Embrace The Crash with Christian Arehart

Wellness All Around

Virtually Talented

Let’s Take a B.R.Ak.E.!

The Trailer

Connect with Tim and Jerilyn on Twitter: @timdawks and @jerstellato

Shoutouts: