Empowered Learning Podcast

In this inspiring episode of the Empowered Learning Podcast, Andy Bennetts sits down with Courtney Weidner, founder of Aligned & Alive and creator of The ALIVE Revolution, to explore what it really means to live a life rooted in purpose, values, and radical self-acceptance. After 27 years in the insurance world, Courtney felt called to something deeper—so she followed the tug on her soul and rebuilt her life around her true “why”: love. From corporate reinvention to starting a coaching movement, she now empowers others to discover what makes them come alive. Andy and Courtney dive into: This episode will leave you feeling uplifted, grounded, and ready to rediscover the parts of yourself you may have tucked away.

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 child became a metaphor for how she now shows up in the world—with openness, wonder, and contagious joy. From her early days as a competitive tennis player to divine nudges that led her into the world of radio, Denise reflects on the importance of saying “yes” to the unexpected. They talk about: Whether you're feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or simply in need of a little wonder, this episode will reignite your hope and help you reframe life as something far more magical than just a daily grind. 🔗 Connect with Denise at: www.surpriseinvite.com

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—overconfidence, binary thinking, emotional reactivity—and explains how to step into what he calls “sage mode.” You’ll hear the story of how a single workshop in Niger ignited a global mission to teach leadership through empathy and self-awareness. With insights drawn from decades in ed-tech and teaching, plus research-based models like Positive Intelligence and conflict styles frameworks, Mitch equips listeners with strategies they can implement immediately. He even shares the upcoming launch of his AI-powered leadership simulation—a first-of-its-kind training tool with 30+ real-world coaching scenarios. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, executive, or aspiring leader, this conversation will challenge you to rethink your thinking—and start leading with more clarity, calm, and collaboration. 🔗 Explore Mitch’s work: www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com 📌 Preview his AI-powered course (launching Oct. 2025): Request access on his website. ✨ Additional Resources from Mitch: Free lesson from the course MindShifting: Mastering Your Resourceful Brain: https://mindshiftingwithmitch.blog/demo-preview/ Buy the book on Amazon: https://a.co/d/cF1FjOR View the MindShifting Educators Newsletter: https://mindshiftingwithmitch.blog/ Learn more on his website: https://www.mindshiftingwithmitch.com/ Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mweisburgh/ 💡 If you enjoyed the book or this episode, consider leaving a review on Amazon or recommending Mitch to two other thought leaders.

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 everything from the sensory overload of today’s children to the correlation between wealth and shrinking families, and how both trends are reshaping public education and social systems. Debbie shares her passionate belief that reading—not just digital fluency—is the foundation of personal freedom, and introduces her AI-powered tool, WordWeaver, which creates personalized stories to help reluctant readers fall in love with books again. This episode covers everything from edtech and Khan Academy to CLEP testing, AI fear-mongering, and the psychology of learning in the digital age. Debbie also shares the powerful legacy of her father, futurist Herman Kahn, and how she’s modernized that intellectual spirit through storytelling, empathy, and smart digital tools. 🎧 It’s thought-provoking, fun, a little spicy—and filled with wisdom you won’t hear anywhere else.

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, international humanitarian work, and professional boxing—all paths that led her to her current mission: uplifting single-parent households through holistic, tech-powered support. As the founder of Mommy, Mommy-to-Be & Me, Masako is eliminating shame and financial barriers for families by blending services like mental wellness, swim lessons, and music programs into a platform that prioritizes dignity over charity. Masako reflects on how trauma shaped her, how Muhammad Ali helped her rediscover her fire, and why she believes emotional intelligence, AI literacy, and youth entrepreneurship are the keys to systemic change. She also opens up about her love language, her mother's influence, and how leadership should be rooted in alignment—not hierarchy. 🎧 This episode is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and building systems that serve people—not egos.

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 landing a deal on Shark Tank, Justin shares a career defined by listening, learning, and acting fast. He opens up about how a TikTok filmed by his daughter sparked $40K in sales in just 30 days, why obsessing over customer feedback is a superpower, and how his father’s quiet encouragement shaped his fearless approach to business. If you’re launching a brand, iterating on a product, or just wondering how to turn a random idea into a million-dollar business—this one’s for you. 🎧 Tune in for real-world advice, behind-the-scenes Shark Tank insight, and one of the most relatable entrepreneurial stories you’ll hear this year.

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 aging can open new doors (instead of closing them), and why now is the perfect time to try something new—whether that’s launching a show, starting a business, or simply having the bold conversations most people avoid. From menopause to media, homeschool hacks to launching a podcast in 3 hours, this episode celebrates reinvention, resilience, and the power of embracing where you are right now. 🎧 Tune in for laughs, life lessons, and a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to grow. BIO Jen Hardy is an award-winning podcaster, bestselling author, and content creator who knows what it takes to stand out in today’s crowded digital space. She’s the voice behind the Fabulous Over 50 podcast (Podcast of the Year—twice) and the creator of The Jen Hardy Show on YouTube (Broadcast of the Year), where she interviews judges, lawyers, elected officials, and ex-convicts—and has racked up over 3 million views and counting. Jen’s latest global initiative, LaunchWave is the first of its kind for creators. “Walk in with your idea, walk out with a show!” isn’t just a tagline – participants spend just 3 hours, and go from idea to launch of their podcast or YouTube Channel! Her Inaugural, International 50 Over 50 Podcaster Awards had nominees from three continents, winners from five countries, and is set to grow exponentially next year. As the founder of Hardy House Media, Jen has launched successful shows, books, and live events—and is helping others do the same. She knows how to grow an audience, make content that clicks, and turn creative ideas into award-winning results. Whether she’s talking about growing a YouTube channel from 38 to 90,000+ subscribers in a year or demystifying the tools and tactics that lead to digital influence, Jen brings a quirky, childlike wonder and a tenacity that gets big projects done—fast. She’s been featured in bestselling books, major industry news outlets, and national events that spotlight the future of media and content creation. Jen and her husband Dave have seven children, and live on a barrier island paradise in Florida. LINKS: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejenhardy/ Website: https://jenhardy.net/

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, risk, and ultimate freedom that came with burning the rulebook. From his early struggles in sales to mastering content creation and scaling online, JM shares raw lessons on growth, delegation, and redefining success. Together, they explore the dangers of “golden handcuffs,” the rise of podcasts as social media powerhouses, and how intentional learning (not hustle) is the real unlock to sustainable growth. Whether you're stuck in a stable job that no longer excites you, or you’re building your brand from the ground up—this episode will light a fire. 🎧 Listen in for real talk on mindset, media, and making the leap. Bio: Today’s guest is JM (Jean-Marc if you’re feeling French). He runs a 1.5 million-follower Instagram network that he built in just over a year… And the craziest part? He did it while still working 12-hour days in a corporate job. Before that, he was the classic good boy: straight-A student, high-level athlete, and double master's in Mechanical and Industrial Engineering from Top schools in both France and the US. That led to a dream job at a Fortune 100 company and spectacular opportunities like starting a $100MM manufacturing plant in Romania or managing European Supply Chain for billion-dollar brands… But then, he torched the playbook. He quit, burned the safety net, and went all in on solopreneurship to scale his Online Business. Today, JM runs a coaching and consulting business to help others master the social media game and build lives of freedom, fulfillment, and impact. Links: www.instagram.com/jm_herrada/

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.” Drawing from her heritage and the timeless code of Bushido, Lori shares how virtues like courage, integrity, and compassion can guide our lives, shape our leadership, and help future generations thrive. They explore how cultural identity, curiosity, and ethical living intersect, and why helping people discover their gifts and purpose is more vital than ever. Whether you're navigating a personal challenge, leading others, or seeking deeper meaning, this episode offers wisdom for the journey. 🎧 Tune in and walk away with insight, encouragement, and a renewed sense of direction. #EmpoweredLearning #Ikigai #BushidoCode #LoriTsugawaWhaley #LeadershipMatters #PurposeDrivenLife #Resilience #CulturalWisdom #TBIRecovery #EthicalLeadership #SamuraiVirtues Bio: I am a third-generation Japanese American who grew up in a rural, primarily- Caucasian community in southwest Washington State. Memories of WWII lingered, and prejudice was an obstacle to overcome. Although a very painful experience, something deep inside would not let the pain I felt defeat me. ​​Faced with a diagnosis of traumatic brain injury (TBI) from two automobile accidents later in life, this mysterious inner strength led me to explore my Japanese heritage. I discovered the ancient code of Bushido — "the Way of the Warrior" practiced by her Samurai ancestors. ​These timeless principles guided and encouraged me in my struggles to overcome TBI. The recovery fueled my passion to help others utilize these principles as a guide to overcoming life's challenges, just as they did for me. Connect with Lori: https://www.loriwhaley.com/

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 life’s challenges. Minister Marrow shares how his nonprofit, By Faith We Good Ministry, has impacted hundreds of families through community outreach—and how his creative brand, ShopBFWG, fuses faith with fashion. They explore how to turn God-given talents into meaningful work, the role of prayer in leadership, and how authentic networking tools like the Owwll App are helping kingdom-minded creators connect, collaborate, and thrive. 🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about walking by faith, leading with heart, and building a legacy that lifts others. #EmpoweredLearning #FaithAndLeadership #MinisterBernardMarrow #ByFaithWeGood #ShopBFWG #FaithBasedBusiness #ChristianEntrepreneur #CommunityOutreach #LeadershipMatters #Philippians413 #OwwllApp #PodcastWithPurpose BIO: Hello, I Am Minister Bernard Marrow originally from Philadelphia!, and currently residing in Chicago! Founder and President of By Faith We Good Ministry Inc. (A Nonprofit Organization), And Owner & CEO of ShopBFWG LLC. (Custom T-Shirt & Apparel Printing). Minister Bernard Marrow is an entrepreneur. A singer, songwriter, musician, minister, author, motivational speaker, leader and business owner who is a faithful hard worker. Strongly passionate about music, ministry, and inspiring others to be great! Focused to never stop doing what God has called me to do. I’m willing to go above and beyond to accomplish my dreams and goals to be very successful. While also connecting with and collaborating with other leaders, creators and innovators to support, adding value to their goals and mission as well. God has blessed me with many talents that I will continue to share with the world knowing that throughout life, we discover the many talents and gifts we are blessed to have. Some that are just hobbies, and some that we develop a strong passion and love for. That if we stay focused, invest in our crafts, and continue to work hard can make us very successful in life, inspiring others to do that same. Philippians ‪4:13 KJV “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” I believe that this scripture should be our daily confession. God wants us to be confident in the truth that, through Him, All Things Are Possible! Everyday of our life we have a choice. We can focus on the obstacles before us, or we can be confident in the truth that God is pouring His strength into us! Because With God, We Always Win!! LINKS: BFWGMinistry.comShopBFWG.com

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, surviving tough seasons, and ultimately mastering the art of strategic marketing, recurring revenue, and leveraging AI to scale smart. He opens up about the difference between selling and serving, the dangers of solo-entrepreneur burnout, and how to build systems that support both your business and your life. Whether you're a coach, consultant, or creative entrepreneur, Greg’s wisdom will help you rethink your approach to growth, mindset, and impact. 🎧 Listen in, and don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it! Bio: Hey there! I’m Greg Russell, a faith-filled entrepreneur, digital marketing expert, and coach on a mission to help people dream big and achieve bigger. I’ve spent over two decades empowering businesses and entrepreneurs to unlock the life-changing potential of the Internet, and I’m just getting started. Whether it’s teaching the secrets of online marketing, designing powerful business systems, or mentoring the next wave of success stories, I thrive on creating breakthroughs. Right now, my focus is on 7 Figure Path, a coaching program that equips ambitious entrepreneurs with the tools, strategies, and confidence to scale their coaching or consulting businesses to 7 figures in 12–24 months. This isn’t just another “program.” It’s a proven, step-by-step roadmap to turn big dreams into measurable success, while building a business that supports your lifestyle—not the other way around. From automated funnels and AI-powered ads to building powerful referral networks, I help my clients create momentum, scale smartly, and win consistently. Before all this, my entrepreneurial journey began way back in high school, when I launched my first business selling nutritional supplements. Fast forward to today, and my passion for innovation and my obsession with the Internet have fueled a career that’s helped thousands of people transform their businesses. From founding SuccessTeam1, where we "Make Technology Make Sense," to creating www.AskGregRussell.com for real-time insights and advice, I’m here to make success simpler for everyone I work with. When I’m not diving into the latest digital tools or helping someone achieve their “aha!” moment, I’m living my best life with my incredible family. I’m beyond blessed to be the husband of Tiffany, my rock and partner in everything, and the proud dad of my superstar daughter, Sydney. She’s not just a Broadway star and recording artist—she’s also my biggest inspiration. Her talent and determination remind me every day that when you lean into your gifts, amazing things happen. At the heart of everything I do is my faith. I believe my journey, both personally and professionally, is guided by God’s grace. Every success, every challenge, and every breakthrough is a testament to His plan. My faith fuels my passion to help others create freedom in their lives—freedom to grow, give back, and live abundantly. Whether you’re an entrepreneur ready to hit the next level or someone looking to unlock the potential of your business, I’m here to help you turn your vision into reality. Let’s create something extraordinary together! Links: https://7figurepath.com/guest

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 failures, including a marketing misstep and a bankruptcy during the 2008 crash—hard-earned experiences that shaped his faith and commitment to education. As the first in his family to graduate college, Jason shares how embracing failure and living with purpose led him to platforms that uplift others. From podcast prep tips to faith-driven messaging, this episode offers rich insights for anyone striving to make a meaningful impact. 🎧 Listen in for an honest, inspiring conversation on growth, leadership, and redefining what it means to learn. Bio: As a struggling single dad barely making ends meet, I desperately sought change for financial stability and time freedom. One day, a small business owner friend offered to mentor me after a deep conversation about what it meant to succeed. Through months of trial and error, I found my niche and became proficient in sales, marketing, and operations. Through years of dedication and refinement, the results have transformed my life.

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 streamline productivity. Dive into discussions on leadership influences, practical applications of personality assessments, and why AI might just be the next groundbreaking innovation—comparable to electricity. Discover how psychology-driven insights can foster meaningful interactions in both professional and personal contexts. Bio: Nick Blasi is a co-founder of Personos, focused on making psychology-driven insights accessible in the workplace. His passion for improving employee experience stems from his background in financial wholesaling within the 401(k) industry, where he helped organizations enhance their benefits and support their people. A Colorado native, he earned his degree from the University of Colorado Boulder and spends his free time reading U.S. history and traveling with his wife. Links: https://www.personos.ai/ #EmpoweredLearning #AI #PersonalityPsychology #LeadershipDevelopment #FutureOfWork #EmployeeEngagement #EducationInnovation #PodcastEpisode #TeamBuilding #Personos

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 providing timely data to facilitate student growth and school improvement. The transformative effects of technology, particularly clickers on student communication and engagement were also discussed. The episode also covers the transformation of data collection practices in education technology, the company's evolution towards meeting district needs, and the challenges of managing siloed data in education. The potential implementation of AI technology for student feedback was also discussed, with an emphasis on maintaining a human element in the grading process. The meeting concluded with a discussion about the importance of servant leadership and impactful learning experiences, particularly the "All In" podcast, and the significance of fostering student confidence and engagement to enhance learning outcomes and empower future generations. Throughout the episode, Darren and Andy emphasize the importance of a customer-centric approach, actively listening to customer pain points, and avoiding assumptions about user needs. They also express their passion for the positive impact technology can have on education and their desire to be influential and helpful to their customers, particularly schools, districts, and businesses. The conversation underscores the inevitability of technology's influence and the futility of trying to limit its progress, emphasizing the need to embrace and leverage it rather than resist its advancement. Bio: Prior to founding ALL In Learning, Darren was instrumental in creating and leading eInstruction’s sales team and marketing efforts. He worked at eInstruction for 17 years and led the sales team that propelled eInstruction’s explosive growth. He pioneered eInstruction’s viral marketing approach that generated wide-spread interest in eInstruction’s response pad technology and a fervent following at trade shows around the country. The educational consultants selling team that he led was one of the most successful sales organizations in the education marketplace. He brings that experience, expertise and passion to ALL In Learning. The ALL In Learning team wants to partner with educators to make this become a reality and help teachers drive lasting progress for all students. Darren is married to Amy and is the father of three sons. Darren earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Business from Baylor University. Links: https://www.allinlearning.com/

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 individuals' decisions on team dynamics, drawing parallels from their personal experiences in sports. They also discuss the prevalent problem of selfishness and the absence of mentorship in various spheres, including education and sports. The conversation then shifts to a detailed discussion about the Salvation Army, shedding light on its historical beginnings and the impactful work of its founders, William and Catherine Booth. Phil also discusses his experiences with John Maxwell and the profound impact he has had on his leadership journey. Phil opens up about personal challenges, including his wife's health scare, and the reassurance they find in their faith. The meeting concludes with a heartfelt discussion about empowering learning for future generations, focusing on the central theme of love and its transformative impact. Phil shares insights from the book "Gentle Persuasion" and emphasizes the need for individuals to feel loved in order to be receptive to guidance and wisdom. Bio: Are you a Christian entrepreneur striving to reach new heights of success? Being good isn't good enough. You're ready to take it up a notch... or several! In the world of business, every entrepreneur faces unique challenges and opportunities on their journey to success. As you pour your heart and soul into building your organization, you may find yourself grappling with obstacles that hinder your growth and progress. Does this resonate with you? Perhaps you've experienced the frustration of missed opportunities for impact, knowing that there's untapped potential within yourself and your team. You're driven by a vision for your organization's future, but you're unsure how to navigate the path forward effectively. That's where I come in. With my program, "Leadership Accelerator," I provide entrepreneurs like you with the tools, strategies, and support needed to cultivate your leadership skills and drive meaningful change in your organization. Through a comprehensive 12-week coaching program, we'll explore the core principles of effective leadership, helping you to clarify your vision, enhance your decision-making abilities, improve your bottom line and maximize your impact as a leader. Together, we'll uncover your unique strengths and talents, empowering you to lead with clarity, confidence, consistency, and integrity. No more missed opportunities. No more frustration. It's time to unlock your full potential as an entrepreneur and make a lasting impact in your organization and beyond. It's time to raise your leadership, and just as important, level-up your team! Now, imagine the day when you are able to have more funds and more time to spend with your family? When you have the freedom for time out of the office, with those you love, enjoying the vacation that right now you can only dream of! If this perhaps resonates with you in any way, DM me to see if can give you any free advice or to see if I can further support you on your journey. To quote “Hannibal” Smith on the A-Team, “I love it when a plan comes together!” Ready to take the next step on your leadership journey? Let's connect and explore how "Leadership Accelerator" can help you achieve your goals. Links: https://www.facebook.com/phil.routlyhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/soulimpact.cahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-routly/

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 running an insurance agency. The discussion also touches on plans for a sequel to the documentary "The Highest of Stakes" and the potential of Pulse Chain as an Ethereum fork with faster transactions and cheaper fees. The conversation between Andy and Kenny also explores the potential of developing tools to make crypto more accessible and mainstream for everyone. They discuss the shift from traditional businesses to the software industry, citing its scalability and long-term potential for success. The conversation also touches on the personal motivations for entering the crypto space, including the desire for continuous learning and the belief in the transformative power of crypto in reshaping the relationship between individuals and their governments. Next, the two friends delve into the topic of leadership, with Kenny sharing his admiration for Elon Musk's emphasis on first principles and the need for standing on convictions. They also explore the complexities of software development, highlighting the challenges of building secure and reliable software in the crypto space. The conversation touches on the potential for empowering learning in future generations and hinted at a future discussion on the broken education system. They concluded the meeting with expressions of gratitude and plans for future discussions.

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. The two friends share their experience teaching students from the reservation and stressed the importance of culturally responsive training for educators. They also discuss their shared passion for early childhood education and mental health consultation, particularly in tribal communities. Kassy shares her extensive experience working with tribal nations and indigenizing the Special Olympics young athletes' curriculum, emphasizing the importance of inclusive practices and play-based learning in early childhood education. They also talk about leadership and empowerment in education, emphasizing the need for positive relationships, shared decision-making, and trust within teams. Kassy opens about her entrepreneurial journey, sharing the personal significance of the name Lil Sass Early Childhood Consultation and her decision to start her own practice after feeling limited by an organization. They touch on the impact of inclusive practices on Kassy's career, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in education. Additionally, they explore the idea of empowering future generations through learning from mistakes and play, highlighting the significance of reflection and improvement. Ultimately, Kassy and Andy advocated for a workplace environment that prioritizes mental health and positivity, emphasizing the impact of laughter on releasing happy chemicals in the brain. Bio: Dr. Kassy has over 20 years of experience in the field of education. She has been a teacher, director, curriculum coordinator, early childhood mental health consultant, psychology professor, and early childhood education college professor. Dr. Kassy has collaborated with Native American and Alaska Native Head Start programs for a decade. Currently, she is an ECE faculty member at Pikes Peak State College in Colorado Springs. Additionally, Dr. Kassy is contracted with Special Olympics Young Athletes as a consultant to Indigenize the curriculum. Integrating traditional games, language, and food into the fully inclusive program of Special Olympics is groundbreaking work. Most recently, Dr. Kassy started her own early childhood consultation business, where training and support are built on a foundation of mental health. Her deepest passion is to positively impact the lives of children and support the adults who have a direct impact on their learning and well-being. Links: https://www.a-lil-sass.com/

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! https://tinyurl.com/elp-applehttps://tinyurl.com/elp-spotifyhttps://tinyurl.com/elp-youtubehttps://tinyurl.com/elp-shorts

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 capabilities and educational potential. The conversation also touches on Merge's trajectory and development, with Isabella providing insights into her experience working with the company since its early days. They explore the company's transition from selling VR headsets to the launch of the Merge EDU platform, highlighting the pivotal moment when Merge collaborated with educators to create educational content. Isabella also shares details about the founders and the company's growth, including the milestone of selling 1 million Merge Cubes to Walmart. They also delve into the importance of empowering students to become leaders and the transformative role of technology in education. They highlight the positive impact of technology on student empowerment, confidence, and engagement and the significance of tactile learning. Andy and Isabella also talk about the two-week free trial promotion for Merge. Sign up here: www.trymerge.com/WardsMediaTech. BIO: Isabella Gipson, Director of Channel Sales at Merge, brings a wealth of experience and a global perspective to her role. Raised in Germany, Isabella earned both her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration and an MBA from German universities while advancing her career. She began her professional journey in the oil and gas industry with her employer sponsoring her education. After three years, she transitioned to a direct sales manager role, focusing on AI-based software solutions. In December 2016, Isabella moved to the United States, where she has been an integral part of Merge for the past seven years. Her contributions have been crucial in developing sales strategies, optimizing processes, and collaborating with resellers worldwide. Isabella is a regular presence at industry conferences and frequently visits schools to demonstrate the innovative Merge EDU platform. Committed to continuous learning, she is currently pursuing a second Master's degree in Industrial and Organizational Psychology at Harvard Extension School. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabella-gipson-mba-pmp-b14536b7/https://mergeedu.com/https://mergeedu.com/edu-resources/researchtrymerge.com/WardsMediaTech

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 cadets' lives and the crucial role of dedicated instructors in guiding and supporting the students. The episode highlights the importance of mentors and the value of broadening perspectives, emphasizing the significance of guidance during formative years. Clay's journey serves as a testament to the impact of influential figures and the value of considering alternative paths. They also discuss the importance of a well-rounded education and the value of pursuing extracurricular activities, encouraging students to take advantage of these opportunities during their secondary education and college years. The conversation concludes with Andy expressing genuine appreciation for Clay's leadership and character, and they engaged in a rapid-fire question session, discussing the leader Clay most admires, impactful learning experiences, and empowering learning for future generations.