Empowered Learning Podcast

What if your life was actually a surprise party—and you just didn’t know it yet? In this uplifting episode of The Empowered Learning Podcast, Andy sits down with motivational speaker, author, and radio host Denise Metzger—best known for her powerful message: “Life is a surprise party… created to enjoy, not endure.” Denise shares how a surprise party thrown for her after the birth of her fifth chil...

Most leaders don’t realize they’re stuck in survival mode—until it’s too late. In this transformative episode of the Empowered Learning Podcast, Andy Bennetts sits down with Mitch Weisburgh, creator of the MindShifting framework, to explore how high performers can shift from reactivity to resilience. Mitch shares practical tools to recognize the hidden effects of operating from the limbic brain—ov...

In this refreshingly candid and deeply insightful episode, Andy welcomes Debbie Yetta Kahn Cunningham—educator, technologist, life coach, and the original “Virtual Jewish Mother for Rent.” With humor, heart, and a sharp analytical mind, Debbie tackles the growing tension between our rapidly advancing tech landscape and our very human need for connection, literacy, and meaning. They explore everyth...

In this powerful and deeply human episode, Andy Bennetts sits down with Masako Mai—Army veteran, champion athlete, tech founder, and lifelong servant-leader. From a childhood shaped by loss and injustice to a life dedicated to healing and community-building, Masako’s story is equal parts inspiring and instructive. Together, they explore Masako’s bold journey through military intelligence, internat...

What do cause-based marketing, iPad check-in apps, TikTok virality, and Shark Tank all have in common? Justin Baer. In this high-energy episode, Andy sits down with the serial entrepreneur and creator of Collars & Co.—the brand behind the viral “Dress Collar Polo™”—to explore what it really takes to build, scale, and pivot in today’s market. From raising millions for breast cancer research to...

Jen Hardy In this episode, Andy sits down with Jen Hardy, a vibrant content creator, award-winning podcaster, and fearless advocate for living fully—at any age. Together, they unpack Jen’s journey from podcasting rookie to YouTube star with over 100,000 subscribers, and how she’s helping people over 50 discover their voice in the digital world. They dive into the evolving meaning of success, how a...

Jean Marc Herrada Description: In this bold and energizing episode, Andy sits down with Jean-Marc Herrada, a former Fortune 100 engineer turned digital entrepreneur who built a 1.5 million-follower Instagram empire—all while holding down a demanding 12-hour-a-day corporate job. They dive into JM’s leap from a “safe” high-status career into the uncertainty of entrepreneurship, unpacking the fear, r...

Lori Tsugawa Whaley Description: In this powerful episode, Andy sits down with Lori Tsugawa Whaley, a speaker, author, and teacher who bridges ancient wisdom with modern challenges. From overcoming a traumatic brain injury to guiding women in prison and young people toward their purpose, Lori’s life is a living testament to the power of ikigai—a Japanese concept that means “reason for being.” Draw...

Minister Bernard Marrow Description: In this soul-stirring episode, Andy is joined by Minister Bernard Marrow, a passionate entrepreneur, minister, and community leader on a mission to serve others through faith, creativity, and action. Together, they dive deep into what it means to lead with conviction in uncertain times, build purpose-driven businesses, and stay focused on God's promises despite...

Greg Russell Description: In this episode, Andy sits down with Greg Russell, a digital marketing pioneer and purpose-driven entrepreneur who’s been in the game since the early days of the Internet. Together, they dive deep into how to build a business that brings freedom—not just another stressful job in disguise. Greg shares his journey from programming watches to launching websites in the '90s,...

Jason Webb Description: In this episode, Andy Bennetts is joined by Jason Webb, a resilient entrepreneur and the Vice President of Abundant TV, to explore the heart of empowered learning, leadership, and storytelling. Together, they unpack the power of authentic podcasting, the value of AI tools in content creation, and the deeper purpose behind their shows. Jason opens up about his early business...

Nick Blasi Summary: In this empowering episode, Andy Bennetts sits down with Nick Blasi, Co-Founder and COO of Personos, to explore how AI-driven personality psychology can revolutionize workplaces and education. Nick shares his journey from corporate finance to entrepreneurship, highlighting how understanding individual personalities can transform team dynamics, enhance communication, and streaml...

Darren Ward Summary: In this episode, old friends Darren Ward and Andy Bennetts discuss their history and connections in the education and technology industry. They also talk about the evolution of education technology and the enduring mission to support teachers and students. The critical need for immediate data collection and analysis in educational settings is also emphasized, with a focus on p...

Phil Routly Summary: In this episode, Andy and Phil discuss the format for their upcoming conversation on leadership and learning, with Phil sharing insights into his upbringing and career path. The conversation then shifts to a discussion about their children's accomplishments and their own diverse career journeys. Phil and Andy then delve into a candid discussion about the enduring effects of in...

Ken Brengle Summary: This episode between friends Kenneth Brengle and Andy Bennetts covers a wide range of topics. They discuss their experiences navigating the crypto space, emphasizing the lessons learned from losses and the significance of discerning legitimate projects. Kenneth provides insights into his entrepreneurial journey, detailing the challenges of hiring and managing employees while r...

Dr. Kassy Lopez-Sonchar Summary: Long-time friends, Andy and Kassy enjoy their time together discussing early education and their paths since parting ways as third grade teacher partners many years ago! Kassy presents her research findings on the impact of preschool attendance on kindergarten readiness for Indigenous students, emphasizing the role of classroom time in improving readiness skills. T...

Join Andy for this brief but exciting announcement about the culmination of Season 1, a boatload of new content, and the introduction of our brand-new newsletter, Empowered Learning Bytes! Sign up now: https://tagdeo.com/6XhTdH   And make sure to catch up on all the incredible episodes you missed in Season 1! Apple:  https://tinyurl.com/elp-apple Spotify:  https://tinyurl.com/elp-spotify YouTube: ...

Isabella Gipson Summary: In this episode, Isabella Gipson and Andy Bennetts discuss personal anecdotes and professional experiences. Isabella shares her personal and professional journey, from growing up in Germany to her current role as the Director of Channel Sales at Merge EDU. They also engage in a detailed discussion about the Merge Cube and Merge EDU platform, showcasing its innovative capab...

Clay Cromer Summary Andy and Clay engage in a friendly conversation, discussing their backgrounds, military experiences, and callings to ministry. Clay shares his journey from the Coast Guard Academy to his time at sea during Hurricane Katrina, his transition from active duty to seminary and his current role in the JROTC program. They also discuss the transformative impact of the JROTC program on...

Clayton Sampson Summary: Clay shares his humble beginnings in Trinidad and Tobago and reflects on the opportunities and success he found in the United States. He also discusses his retirement and how he now lives life on his own terms, emphasizing the importance of family and enjoying his passions. The episode then shifts to the critical role of mindset and personal development, stressing the need...

Justin Baeder, PhD Summary: In this episode, Andy and Justin discuss their backgrounds and experiences in education, highlighting their interest in leadership, learning, and technology in education. They also discuss the challenges in education, such as discipline reform, special education, grading reform, and the mass exodus of teachers. They emphasize the importance of thoughtful use of technolo...

Jay Lee Summary: Jay shared his personal journey from being an introverted, shy kid to finding faith and being called into ministry, despite challenges and resistance, particularly from his parents. He achieved significant success in church planting and evangelism, impacting thousands of lives. His story served as a testament to resilience, faith, and the pursuit of one's calling, even in the face...

Dee Larsen Summary: Dee Larsen and Andy Bennetts discuss a range of topics related to their professional experiences and interests. The two friends discuss their personal and professional journeys, expressing gratitude for the support and influence they received from each other and their colleague, Steve. They reflect on the changes and growth they've experienced, with Andy expressing how Dee and...

Meg Stevens Summary: Andy and Meg engage in a conversation about Meg's professional journey, including her experiences in leadership development, consulting, and organizational change. Meg shares her insights on the importance of mental health in the workplace and the need to connect individual needs with business needs during organizational change. The conversation also touches on the concept of...

Darrel Porter SUMMARY: This episode between Andy and Darrell focuses on various topics, including Darrell's military service, his journey to becoming a minister, and his experiences with Kingdom Wealth Group. They also discuss the history of currency, the Federal Reserve, and the life cycle of money. Darrell shares his insights on the importance of understanding God's principles for wealth and mon...