Between the Lessons

BtL talks Bucket List

In this episode, Susan and Kavan celebrate their 10th episode—and their final episode of 2025, the year they both turned 50—by sharing five bucket list items for themselves and five they wish for each other. With each reflection, they talk about why these hopes and experiences matter at this stage of life.
Join them for a thoughtful and lighthearted conversation about what feels meaningful, possible, and worth pursuing in midlife.

BtL talks Navigating School Relationships and Dynamics

In this episode, Susan and Kavan talk about the realities of working in schools—navigating relationships and communication with students, parents, and colleagues. They share specific scenarios where conflicts or challenges arise and reflect on how they’ve approached these moments over the years.
 
While there are no easy answers or quick fixes, Susan and Kavan offer their experiences and insights into the complex dynamics that come with working in schools.

BtL talks Grief

In this episode, Susan and Kavan talk about grief—and the many ways it can show up in one's life. They explore the pain of losing a marriage, the shifting sense of family, and the deep sorrow that comes from losing someone you love. Through their conversation, both reflect on how they found their way through those dark periods—by learning to love themselves and discovering gratitude on the other side.
An honest and uplifting reflection that shines light on the gratitude that can come from profound loss. 

BtL talks Educator Mental & Emotional Wellness

In this episode, Susan and Kavan dive into the mental and emotional wellness of educators. They reflect on how things have shifted since COVID and why seeking support and prioritizing personal well-being are more important than ever to prevent burnout among teachers and administrators. Both share their own mental and emotional health journeys—and why, despite the challenges, they still believe working in schools is one of the most meaningful professions there is.

BtL talks Relationships

On this episode, Susan and Kavan talk all things about relationships. And talking about relationships is different when you're young vs when you're in midlife. What does love mean after divorce? What does marriage mean when you've changed from the person you once were? Listen in as BtL talks love, toxic people, finding love and fulfillment at midlife.

BtL talks Parenting

In today’s episode, Susan and Kavan explore the journey, challenges, and joys of parenting. Drawing from their own strict upbringings, they discuss how they’ve worked to create safe, intentional spaces for their children. Reflecting on the parents they encounter in schools, they share insights on supportive parenting—and also the pitfalls of snowplow parenting.

BtL talks Education Today, and Tomorrow

Susan and Kavan reflect on what they’ve observed in schools over the past two to three decades, covering topics from standardized testing and college pressure to student disengagement and navigating the educational system. As seasoned educators, they also share insights on how parent involvement has evolved alongside the changing school landscape. Looking ahead to the 2025–2026 school year, they explore strategies for engaging students in an era shaped by AI.

BtL talks Why We Got Into Education

In this episode, Susan and Kavan share why they chose a career in education—and what has kept them there for so many years. They discuss the challenges that many new teachers face and what it takes to navigate those early, often difficult, years in the classroom. They also reflect on why they still love being in schools and offer a glimpse of where they see the future of education heading.

BtL talks What We Learned about Life Turning 5-0

In this episode, Susan and Kavan share their feelings and perspectives about turning the big 5-0. What has the last 50 years taught them and how do they want to move forward in their next phase of life. Listen along as they candidly share what 50 means to them. 

BtL talks from Invisible to Visible

Susan and Kavan are Gen X kids who grew up when Asians were 'invisible' in greater American culture, society, and textbooks. They share what it was like to be children of Asian immigrants - how they felt and what they experienced as young people. They reflect on being marginalized but also talk about how these experiences influenced their lives as adults where they wanted to make sure that those that followed them did not have the same experiences that they did in their youth.