Beyond Games: Authentic Enthusiasm in Kids' Lessons with Keith Rodney

First Chair: PSIA-AASI Podcast · Jun 23, 2026 · 20m

How do you keep a group of teenagers engaged or turn a repetitive boot drill into the highlight of a student's day? In this episode of First Chair, host George Thomas talks with Keith Rodney—Chair of the National Children's Task Force and US Telemark Team member—about his 32 Degrees article, "The Fun Starts with You." Keith challenges the traditional idea of "forcing" fun for students, suggesting instead that instructors should focus on making the environment enjoyable for themselves first. Keith explains how this shift in perspective leads to authentic enthusiasm that students can sense…