Between the Lessons

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.

Trailer: Between the Lessons

In this introduction episode, Susan and Kavan share who they are, why they started a podcast, and what you can expect in the episodes ahead. As Asian American Gen X educators, Susan and Kavan know all the in-betweens of school life, so they are here to share along in the journey with you. Thanks for joining and coming along for the ride.