Outside The Mainstream

In this episode, I interview Bob Choat, a transformational master with a diverse career spanning the LAPD, Marines, and various business roles. Bob shares his life story, the influence of his multicultural background, and the critical role of curiosity and experimentation in his career. We discuss the importance of breaking down complex ideas into foundational elements, the value of self-knowledge...

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I'm excited to have Patrick Williams, a leading creativity expert, join me as we explore his journey from a young artist to a multifaceted creativity advocate. Patrick delves into the concept of 'creative colonization' and how education systems often stifle our natural creativity. We discuss how discipline plays a crucial role in fostering cre...

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sit down with AI entrepreneur Jordy Torres to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education. We discuss Jordy's pioneering journey in AI from the 1980s to the present, emphasizing how businesses and education systems can leverage AI for innovative learning and engagement strategies. Jordy shares invaluable insights on...

This week I’m joined by Katherine Geramita to talk about something we both care a lot about: how we teach science, and who we imagine it’s for. Katherine has been working with CreositySpace, a startup focused on making STEM education more inclusive, more engaging, and more connected to real life. In her own words: “We wanted to build something where kids could see themselves in science—not just as...

I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Brian Bratt —a longtime English teacher turned passionate career advisor and communications lead at his school. Students don’t need to have it all figured out —but they do need exposure to real options. Many young people end up “letting life happen to them” instead of taking charge of their path. That’s why Brian's made it his mission to help studen...

"Confidence is built through consistency, not perfection." In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I chat with Michelle Cullen Tang, a special education teacher who has employed theater, drama, and various educational methods across her diverse career. She dives into practical strategies for navigating transitions, the power of self-awareness, and how to stay aligned with your values...

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream , I sat down with Dean Mesick. Dean is the Executive Director of the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO), where he helps young entrepreneurs worldwide bring their ideas to life. With a background in humanities and cultural studies, and experience in film and the arts, Dean’s path to entrepreneurship has been anything but traditional. But as we disc...

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sit down with award-winning creative arts teacher and advocate for amplifying Black voices, Chay Ross. Chay shares her powerful journey from growing up in Los Angeles, navigating the challenges of being a teen mom, and almost getting caught up in gang life to becoming a passionate educator dedicated to serving her community. Through candid reflections,...

Most in education recognize the importance of preparing students not just for today’s jobs, but to be the creators of entirely new fields. In this episode, we’re diving into the world of education innovation with the incredible Laura McBain. Laura is the Managing Director and Co-Director of the K12 Lab at the Hasso Plattner Institute of Design at Stanford, and she’s had a fascinating journey throu...

In EdTech, it’s hard to measure success and make it sustainable. The market often undervalues its impact. Conflicting funding models, cultural differences, and the roles of government, nonprofits, and families all play a part in supporting access to education for all people. In this episode, I get into the fascinating world of education technology with Ji Kim, an innovator and self-described “big...

Life is all about making your own sovereign choices. What works best for you is what matters—not what society says. In this episode, I’m joined by Wouter Shahlenis—a men’s coach, wealth expert, and member of the Wealth Unlimited Club. Wouter shares his own journey from feeling like a “black sheep” in traditional systems to embracing personal growth, redefining masculinity, and creating a life of p...

AI isn’t a replacement for educators; it’s a tool to amplify the work they do. In this episode of Outside the Mainstream , I chat with Dr. Geri Gillespy, an experienced educator, innovator, and co-founder of Guardrailz, a COPPA-certified AI platform for education. Dr. Gillespy shares her inspiring journey, from overcoming learning challenges as a student to becoming a leader in educational technol...

Dieumerci Christel (or DM), has a vision for reshaping education that isn’t just about technology; it’s about cultivating human potential and creating systems that work with students to create engaging educational experiences. DM is the founder of Enlight App , a platform designed to help students feel seen, heard, and valued by nurturing their dreams and passions—things often overlooked in tradit...

Dr. Charles Prince has spent a great deal of time considering the potential for radically new models of higher education. With a career that has included exposure to international education, higher ed policy, and advocacy for Black voices, Charles brings a unique perspective to the table, and has seen firsthand how today’s students have different priorities and learning paths than those of years p...

Svetlana Tikhonov is the founder of Quadrat Academy, a unique educational model designed to break free from the traditional school system. With a rich background in international business, consulting, and education, Svetlana has worked across 30 countries, blending her entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for teaching. From her unexpected immigration journey as a teenager to her groundbreaking w...

Dr. Izdihar Jamil believes it takes “balls of steel” to wear a hijab in America. In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Izdihar—a computer scientist turned entrepreneur, author, and advocate—who has faced immense challenges with grace and determination. She opens up about her experiences with Islamophobia, the obstacles she faced after moving to America, and the transformative moment that insp...

In this episode, we explore what it takes to create inclusive, student-centered schools that foster success for every learner. Jon Robertson, an experienced teacher and principal, shares his journey in school leadership, highlighting how trust, effective support systems, and adaptive leadership can drive meaningful change. He provides actionable insights from his career on how to address systemic...

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream , I sit down with Dr. DeAndrea Fleming, an incredible educator and leader who’s committed to transforming education in low socioeconomic communities. Dr. Fleming shares her journey of working with over 52,000 students and how she ultimately changed the trajectory of an underperforming school district in Texas. With experience as a teacher, administrator, a...

How does a 10-year-old with an entrepreneurial spirit evolve into the co-founder of a leading global scaling institute? In this episode, Daniel Marcos shares his journey from his first business venture to building a fintech empire and creating the Growth Institute. Learn how continuous learning, accountability, and leadership methodologies are key to scaling any business successfully. Tune in for...

In this episode of 'Outside the Mainstream,' I sit down with the inspiring Dr. Raeshan Davis to delve into her unique journey from the Bahamas to becoming a prominent figure in the U.S. educational landscape. We explore her early educational experiences, the significance of dreaming big, and the multifaceted challenges black women face in academia. Dr. Davis shares her insights on navigati...

In this episode of 'Outside the Mainstream,' I talk with Shelly Munoz, a seasoned science educator with 25 years of experience, including significant time at NASA. Shelley shares her personal journey into STEM, beginning with childhood interests, and discusses the disparities in STEM education across socioeconomic and regional divides. The discussion covers barriers faced by women and unde...

In this episode of 'Outside the Mainstream,' we dive deep into the world of education innovation with Professor Patrick Murphy. As the Goodrich Entrepreneurship Chair and Founding Director of the Barefield Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Alabama in Birmingham, Professor Murphy shares his unique journey from dreaming of becoming a truck driver to becoming a prominent academic...

Join us as we delve into the transformation of the educational landscape in a compelling podcast episode that offers fresh insights and bold solutions for the challenges facing American education today. Featuring a dynamic conversation with Tara Rodoni from Inventorium, this episode is an eye-opener on the political, cultural, and systemic obstacles that impede our schools and how we can overcome...

In this episode of 'Outside the Mainstream,' we dive into the inspiring journey of Natalie LeGrand, co-founder and CEO of Galanthus International. Natalie shares her life's story from living with her grandmother in Honduras, overcoming adversity due to sickle cell disease, ADHD, and partial deafness and blindness, to becoming a global leadership coach and advocate. We talk about the im...

Discover how innovative minds and groundbreaking discussions aim to re-engage disengaged learners and reshape the future of education. Subscribe now to Outside The Mainstream and join the education revolution.