Episode # 423: Nate Hansford
https://www.podbean.com/ep/pb-2mpt6-1b4e3c3
Nathaniel Hansford has taught every grade from preK to 12th, in places as diverse as South Korea, the United Kingdom, the subarctic of Quebec, and Ontario, Canada. In 2022, he won the Literacy Leader of the Year award from the Ontario International Dyslexia Association. Has taught for 14 years. Nathaniel has written hundreds of articles on the science of teaching. He is most interested in using meta-analysis research to help teachers implement methodologies that have been proven to work. He is the founder of SAGE Online Academy.
He is the author of the following books: The Scientific Principles of Teaching
The Scientific Principles of Reading
The Scientific Principles of Reading and Writing Instruction
The Scientific Principles of Math Instruction (will be out before the podcast episode comes out- is self publishing on Amazon).
Trench story: challenging experience in an alternative school. 2nd teaching experience. It helped him become a better teacher. Became more resilient.
Recent article: (on science of reading):https://www.teachingbyscience.com/reading-comprehension
In your article, you suggest that background knowledge instruction may have a stronger impact on comprehension than traditional comprehension strategies. How should schools balance explicit strategy instruction with systematic knowledge-building across grade levels?
There’s no one size-fits-all approach. Don’t oversimplify literature. It might be true that literacy, history, science is undertaught. There’s a time & place for strategies. Taught grade 2. Taught the main idea of a text. In the early grades, what matters most is vocab. As st’s got older, there was more of a diverse type of skills in reading comprehension. Reading a non-fiction text, st’s will require more background knowledge. Strategies & background knowledge are important from grades 7-8. He recommends teaching non-fiction texts. It’s not always the norm in HS. There’s a time component to this. Benefits of knowledge tend to take longer. Don’t just teach strategies @ the beginning of the year. Anytime a student reads a non-fiction text, they should be asked to summarize it.
Many secondary teachers feel pressured to “cover standards” rather than deeply build content knowledge. What practical shifts would you recommend for middle and high school classrooms that want to improve reading comprehension outcomes?
He’s seen issues on focus on silent reading. Choral reading or popcorn reading helps. Need st’s to follow along while t is reading. Build in vocab & background knowledge into text. If st’s can’t pronounce it, they don’t know the meaning of the word. Break down & model the text. St’s were given a book to read @ home a few decades ago, then to discuss in class. A lot more time needs to be spent on writing. They improve each other. Writing direction is stronger than reading direction.
How do you respond to critics who worry that a strong focus on content knowledge could disadvantage MLLs or students with gaps in prior knowledge? What scaffolds matter most in that context?
Research strategies have less data on MLLs. Alphabets don’t always match. There’s been some resistance for MLLs in phonics instruction. Having more fluency/decoding practice helps. Background knowledge may be more than we think, i.e. social studies.
If a district wanted to redesign its literacy curriculum based on the research you reviewed, what are the first two or three instructional changes you believe would produce the greatest gains in comprehension? He’s tried to be comprehensive in the article and has submitted it for peer review. T’s have collective experience. Don’t throw out everything or fix everything at once. It’s too much of a shock for t’s to absorb. Have a balance b/w fiction & non-fiction. Before grade 3, we see gains in vocab instruction. Be mindful in how to use strategy instruction. Ask “What is the point of the story”? Valuable skill teaching how to research & write an essay despite use of AI.
SAGE Online Academy: has been running since Sept. Isn’t quite a full school- tool to help Tier 1,2,3 instruction for homeschool parents. He got more interested in coding, wanted to make a difference. Found parts of instruction he could decode w/ instruction. Covers many subjects. K-8 w/ some HS instruction. Builds intrinsic motivation. 50 ?’s, then you can play a game. It’s about making school fun. Pretty new. Original inspiration is for kids who need help w/ reading. Has done a lot of initiatives throughout years to support. This provides indiv. reading instruction. It doesn’t require a human right in front of student. It’s very easy to code what st struggles w/ into the app. Can be done w/ parents or teachers w/o a background in reading. It’s free- math & reading program. They pay a subscription to join. There is a monthly cost. If you want access to reading, math & games, it’s free. It’s a motivation tool. They get arcade tokens, can play w/ friends. T’s are encouraged to play the games w/ st’s. Often gets this ? from moms about st’s struggling to read and they can’t afford a tutor.
Talk to me about your new book, The Scientific Principles of Math Instruction, out by August: he’s a big believer in the use of research on math instruction. There’s a benefit from being able to understand research. First 3 chapters are on how to read research. The state of math instruction is worse than the state of reading instruction. Look at research reflected in outcomes, there’s a decline in scores in Canada, US, UK, Canada has gone up in the past year.
PD- he has offerings on demand.
Out of everything: teachers are smart. We’re often told what to think & what’s best practice. We should build up their self-efficacy.
Where can ppl find you: www.teachingteachingbyscience.com (blogs)
www.sageonlineacademy.ca/landing
https://www.researchgate.net/profile/Nathaniel-Hansford
FB: @pedagogynongrata X;@natejoseph
To learn more about Nathaniel’s work in education, visit teachingbyscience.com, or follow him @Natejoseph19 on X (formerly Twitter). He is the author of The Scientific Principles of Teaching: Bridging the Divide Between Educational Practice and Research.
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/jEosmEaO9Ak
Episode # 424: Tom Hierck, Shan Jorgenson-Adam, Rita Marler
https://outofthetrenches.podbean.com/e/episode-424-tom-hierck-shan-jorgenson-adam-rita-marler/
Shan Jorgenson-Adam
Shan has been an educator for over 30 years working in a variety of educational roles (teacher, school administrator, director, assistant and deputy superintendent) in both British Columbia and Alberta. Shan has lead a research project on leadership development and co-authored numerous articles on leadership. Shan’s experience in leadership inspired her to co-author the book ““You’re A Principal Now! What’s Next” Shan has led literacy, inclusion, school culture, community engagement, strategic planning and leadership development in several school divisions.
Dr. Rita Marler is an educational consultant and former Superintendent with over 30 years of experience in K–12 education. Through JAM Educational Consulting, she now specializes in building leadership capacity, enhancing school and system culture, and professional development programs for educational leaders. She holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary, a Master’s in Educational Leadership from San Diego State University, and a Bachelor of Education from the University of Alberta. Her consulting work is grounded in research, practical leadership experience, and a deep commitment to empowering educators at all levels.
Tom Hierck has been an educator since 1983 in a career that has spanned all grade levels and roles in public education. His experiences as a teacher, administrator, district leader, department of education project leader, and executive director have provided a unique context for his education philosophy. Tom is a compelling presenter and staff developer, infusing his message of hope with strategies culled from the real world.
Trench story: Rita: When she was principal, low place in district. They siloed. Senior leadership change. She was approached to put her name in to become superintendent. Created a culture of collaboration. Shan: AP role came up right as she was finishing up her admin courses. Mid-year. .3 AP/.6 computer sciences. Tom: when someone sees something you didn’tt see. First AP role. Culture, behavior. Not a great mentor, he found a lot on the job. Leaned in. We have to recognize the strength in others. Trench-related themes are about someone recognizing the strengths.
What circumstance got you three to work on this book together? Tom has worked w/ them over time. Worked w/ them in a variety of contexts. There was a good connection through PD they did together. Want to work elbow to elbow w/ school leaders.
Talk about your new book called You’re a Principal Now! What’s Next? Release date, who wrote what part, is it for principals only or would it help AP’s. How does this stand out from other books for new principals?
They were passionate about different aspects, Alex K. relational guy, communication is key to them. Edited each other’s chapters. It’s also a good book for aspiring leaders. A reminder for current practitioners. Let something get away from them. It’s written in a conversational manner. Divided into several topics they felt like were good topics.
Book description from website: Whether you’re a new or seasoned principal, you don’t have to navigate your role alone. This essential guide provides the trusted wisdom of experienced school leaders, offering practical strategies and insights to help you build a strong school culture, develop collaborative teams, and find joy in your rewarding position. Use book chapters to lay out questions: You’re a Principal Now! What’s Next? | Resource for Leaders
How Do I Communicate Effectively? Reach out & say you’ll get back to them in a few days. One-on-one is better than emails. Listening is a huge piece before moving fwd. Be in control of the narrative, the “why”. It’s key in terms of the message received. It becomes obvious there are 2-3 favorites on staff who get out the word. Tough convos, really important to not beat around the bush.
How Do I Manage Professional Growth and Learning? ties in w/ instructional leadership. Observe teachers a lot. You can take PD & tailor to staff. Talk w/ them & find out their needs. Prof growth plans can guide your PD. Prof growth is key, you’re still learning. Model as a leader that you’re still learning.Staff meetings shouldn’t be about procedures. Get away from “flavor of the month”. Focus on basics of literacy & numeracy.
How Do I Fit in My Additional Responsibilities? schedule your day. Stick w/ it. Change your phone msg to they’re observing classes. Everyone has strengths- ask a colleague to take it on. Check in on things you hand off. Some leadership teams have too many duplicate tasks, can share w/ others. Recognize leaders in others, but own the results. Still maintain the oversight.
The Book also includes some reproducibles such as prof. growth plan, PD planning guide, interview q’s, etc. it’s intended to be a “coffee conversation”, it’s about coming to table to have dialogue. Scenarios & insights. templates are fairly generic.
Training, consulting, etc: They can give school or district-wide. They can support schools.
Out of everything: Rita– it’s a journey, the position of principal is one of the most challenging. Remind self it’s OK, you’re on a journey. Shan: she loved being a principal, you don’t need to know it all, ask colleagues, don’t be afraid to ask questions. Build a support network. Tom: notion of being vulnerable. It’s hard b/c you have the principal title. There’s a reason why you were put there. Focus on ownership of the work, not buy-in. Do we continue w/ notions of growth?
Where can ppl find you online: Shan and Rita have a website: jamconsulting.ca & on LinkedIn
rmarler@asba.ab.ca She has instagram and X account
Tom: www.tomhierck.com @thierck on X, LinkedIn, FB. they
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/8s5IkuK8lZ4
Episode # 425: Priten Soundar-Shah
https://outofthetrenches.podbean.com/e/episode-425-priten-soundar-shah/
Priten Soundar-Shah (repeat guest from April ‘24): Priten is the author of AI & The Future of Education (Wiley, 2023) and the forthcoming book Ethical Ed Tech (Wiley, 2026). He is a visiting researcher at the Harvard Department of Philosophy focusing on developing philosophically grounded, practical approaches to teaching critical, ethical reasoning at scale. He holds a B.A. in Philosophy from Harvard College and an M.Ed. in Education Policy & Management from the Harvard Graduate School of Education.
Trench story (in past 2 yrs): as an educator, fall 2025- was teaching a class on epistemology. Helped them understand the value of their own knowledge. Said not to use AI. A student came up at the end and said she didn’t want to take the class if she didn’t get to use AI. Has spent 6 mos. trying to bridge ground b/w middle ground for use on AI.
What is his experience w/ educators around academic integrity policies around policing-related policies.There are sometimes easy red flags. Right policies will be how to reframe assessment. At some point k-12 we’ll need st & parent buy-in. HW can be solely a formative exercise. T’s need to ask there to be policies & buy in. School/district level vs classroom. Protective policy-AI use for training, marketing, vetting tools for profiling. AI in the classroom/screentime needs to be decided in the classroom. What can tech only provide? PArents & students need to know what’s happening behind the scenes. AI literacy convos. F.ex. essay examples, refining their practice.
New book, Ethical Ed Tech, comes out this May with Wiley. The book focuses on how educators can make thoughtful, values-driven decisions about ed tech and AI adoption; much has changed since we last spoke. A few topics that might be a good fit for your audience:
How teachers can evaluate ed tech tools without adding to their workload first thing he’d recommend about procurement, company/vendor reaches out. Pitches land in admin’s lap. What is the problem we need to solve? Then look for tools. Detach the sales pitches from the schools’ needs. Involve t’s in the process. Gather a team of t’s to evaluate tech tools. Include t’s who are sceptical about AI/screentime to have diverse perspectives.
Balancing student privacy with AI-driven learning tools-parent informed consent is very important. AI policy regarding protections aren’t clear. What risks are we willing to tolerate? Be cautious rather than optimistic. What regulations are in place for 3rd party vendors?
Practical frameworks for navigating real-world technology dilemmas in schools- infrastructure hasn’t always caught up to t’s needs, so the internet can go down in buildings every so often. WE need more than 1 PD session w/ the ed tech contract company. Provide training to st’s, parents, etc. about charging devices. We have limited time w/o tech w/ students, so plan around no-tech days/activities.
What ethical leadership around AI actually looks like day to day Most pedagogical ethical decisions are made by classroom t’s. Can also be by curriculum coordinator or principal. F.ex using AI detector, base it on biomechanics.Very similarly, t’s have to make those types of decisions daily. 5 qu’s he says are a good starting place- #1 are we doing something good for our st’s, are we avoiding all harms (“do no harm”). #2- informed consent #4- are we doing it in a fair way, are only helping GT or marginalized st’s? #5: care- education is different- relation b/w a st & peer is different than in medicine. St’s need to have a good relationship w/ peers in CR.
Talk about your podcast Margin of Thought-insert(new): born as part of research around new book. Informed his research. He has shared all the interviews as part of the podcast. F.ex. ACLU lawyer, how to think about ed tech around all sorts of policies. Comes out T & Th.
Will be at ISTE in July-what digital civics means in AI-world. Book talks @ NCTE- rethinking how we can think about writing. Inter
No need to add explicitly promotional material about our courses or professional development. We can just mention the book at the beginning and end if that works for you!
Out of everything: we need to keep talking to each other. It’s the goal of the book.
Where can ppl find you online: More about the book is at ethicaledtech.org– Website: Priten Soundar-Shah (Priten Shah) | Educator, Philosopher, and Entrepreneur has link to upcoming PD/conferences
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/kPph67e2oGs
Episode # 426: Liam Pace
https://outofthetrenches.podbean.com/e/episode-426-liam-pace/
Liam is an English language coach, communication trainer, and content creator based in Milan, Italy. With a background in language education and professional communication, he works with individuals and organisations to help non-native English speakers communicate with greater confidence and impact.
Alongside his coaching work, Liam co-hosts and produces the Beyond Fluency Podcast and YouTube channel, where he explores the intersection of language learning, personal development, and effective communication. His work focuses on helping learners move beyond grammar and vocabulary to develop the mindset and skills needed for real-world fluency.
Trench story: He’s still in there. Story was very different b4 he moved to Italy. Went back to study Chinese medicine. That was his main focus for 11 yrs. Obvious thing in Italy was to start teaching English again. First few yrs in Italy was being in trenches.
You’re lucky to get a FT contract to work in a language school. 0 hrs contract. One of the companies he was working for had a focus on using language learning methodology. Good fit for his background. Coaching, helping ppl. Thought about how to bring his school to a bigger audience. Doing 1 hr of English practice a week is practice. Able to explain complicated ideas. Colleague and him fit each other well, Rams went to film school. Started almost 2 yrs ago. We take for granted what ppl are going to say.
Our ideal listener is a non-native English speaker, typically aged 25–45, working or studying in an international environment. The audience is mixed gender and globally distributed, with a strong base in Europe and other ESL-dominant regions.
They are upper-intermediate to advanced (B2–C1) learners who already “know the language” but want to use it with more confidence, clarity, and presence — especially in professional and social settings.
Is making YouTube videos geared towards the B2 professional learner who feels stuck at that level. Like 80-90’s Saturday morning TV. Self & colleague have a conversation f.ex. about the path of least resistance. F.ex. their point of view learning Italian as a 2nd language. They try to find bridge b/w education & entertainment. Segment “guess the idiom”. Other example “say the word” w/ non-native speakers for a pronunciation challenge.
segments are 30 sec-3-5m. they have opportunity to play w/ the format. Seasons have themes. They will open selves up to share personal journeys,ie w/ learning a second language.
Tell me about your teaching background and what brought you to Italy: Taught from 2010-12. In London, particularly in the summers. Was teaching in off season as well. Put teaching aside to focus on the studies. Challenge of COVID changed things for him career-wise. Then he decided to teach English in Italy as he couldn’t continue w/ Chinese medicine.
How did you get involved in podcasting? did it also w/ Chinese medicine. His dad was a comedian, actor, so he’s been around performance world for a long time.
Out of everything: everything you want in life is on the other side of fear. Speaking a second language is very challenging. Always start slow w/ an English learner. Pay attn to the audience. Keep a steady speed. He hopes to coach companies in the future on how to have better convos w/ native speakers.
Where can ppl find you online: @Beyondfluency podcast on YouTube. LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/in/liampacecoach/
The Beyond Fluency Video Podcast
https://www.youtube.com/@thebeyondfluencypodcast/featured
The Beyond Fluency Audio Podcast
Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/5fzHKi4Plhvq7qsFcgzEkH
Apple – https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-beyond-fluency-podcast/id1843343209
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Krr-FqU5FEk
Part 2: https://youtu.be/GJzTAdpezcQ
Episode # 427: Shemaiah Reed
Episode # 427: Shemaiah Reed | The Out of the Trenches Podcast
Shemaiah Reed is the executive host of I Am Refocused Radio, a flagship media platform recognized for elevating high-impact conversations with CEOs, industry leaders, innovators, and cultural influencers. As a media executive, producer, and creative strategist, he delivers purpose-driven dialogue that informs, inspires, and empowers audiences across demographics.
Since its founding in 2017, I Am Refocused Radio has evolved into a respected global platform, producing more than 1,000 interviews and engaging over 100,000 listeners worldwide. The program’s focus—leadership, mindset, purpose, and personal transformation—has positioned it as a trusted space for meaningful storytelling and strategic insight.
Leadership in Media & Creative Industries
Shemaiah’s work spans multiple disciplines, including broadcast media, music production, digital storytelling, and brand development. He has collaborated with major brands and media organizations, consistently delivering content that resonates with both emerging audiences and established professionals.
His career began with Refocused Magazine, a publication centered on personal development and vision-driven living. While the magazine has since transitioned, its mission continues through I Am Refocused Radio and the Refocused Network—multimedia platforms dedicated to elevating diverse perspectives and amplifying transformative ideas.
As a music producer and songwriter, Shemaiah’s original works have reached audiences in the U.S., Canada, Japan, Australia, Europe, and Africa. His creative portfolio includes video production, photography, and print media, reinforcing his reputation as a versatile and innovative leader in the creative sector.
Vision & Forward Strategy
Shemaiah Reed is committed to advancing the future of media through authentic storytelling, strategic partnerships, and culturally relevant content. His work is centered on empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and building platforms where purpose and creativity converge.
Whether partnering on branded content, dveloping new media ventures, or highlighting compelling stories, Shemaiah brings a forward-thinking approach grounded in clarity, excellence, and impact.
Trench story: Grew up in MI. Was a Detroit fan. Had good inspirational ppl around him. Not strong in academics. He tells about his educational piece. He was in the jazz band. Siblings were academic. He asked him to get into a program via a lottery ticket. Started certificate in production engineering. Graduated w/ HS diploma/Associated at the same time. When into computer 3D animation for another associates, then went to U of Toledo as a junior. Was passionate about sound design. Siblings helped him refocus. His story is about the power of being the underdog. You change how you think & live as underdog. Moved to San Antonio right after college graduation. Had lived there till he was 8. Worked at a local church doing 3D production. Started LLC in 2011.
Tell me about your podcast description: I Am Refocused Radio, hosted by Shemaiah A. Reed, is a purpose-driven interview platform hosted by Shemaiah A. Reed, featuring meaningful conversations with leaders, creatives, visionaries, and extraordinary everyday people who are shaping culture with intention started in 2017. What began in a San Antonio barbershop has grown into a global platform with over 1,600+ interviews, highlighting stories rooted in faith, resilience, personal growth, and real-life experience. Each episode is designed to help listeners slow down, think clearly, and reconnect with what truly matters—beyond trends, noise, and surface-level success. When he had a day off, he had a magazine called Refocus magazine. He did a story on one of the higher ups in the magazine, did a story about a cancer survivor. Had to discontinue the publication. Met Rico Rodriguez, former boxer who started his barbershop; he shared his story. Shemaiah was told he had a voice for the radio on his day off. Was told he should launch it from the barbershop; 1st episode was called “Keep it Moving”, interviewed mayors, other politicians. GM tapped his shoulder about doing a community show in 2019. He has had big celebrities, they Ppl came to the barbershop just to listen to the show. They now work w/ iheart radio. Hits all the networks, NBC, CBS. This show is built on one core belief: stories have the power to heal, unite, and awaken purpose.
What is the theme of the podcast? Through honest dialogue and thoughtful reflection, I Am Refocused Radio creates space for conversations that restore perspective, challenge thinking, and encourage perseverance. Whether you’re a creative searching for direction, a leader navigating responsibility, or someone moving through a season of transition, this podcast serves as a reset—grounded, intentional, and real. Name comes from her mom. This isn’t just a show. It started w/ a conversation. It’s a growing movement to refocus the world, one story at a time. There are 1,600+ interviews under our belt and reaching 450k+ listeners, Note: Interviews that align with the audience of the local radio station in San Antonio, TX, will be broadcast live across South Texas.
Share tips for multimedia/digital broadcasting teachers about how you got from humble beginnings with tech/being on top floor of the radio station. #1-believe in yourself. It’s OK to be nervous. #2: Learn about production & post-production. #3- apply what you’ve learned. There are a lot of ppl coming to the podcast game. He wants to address doing it for a good reason- what is your why. It’s not to be famous. What he’s learned is that you get opportunities and it will come. He didn’t go to college to go into broadcasting. He studied film, business & philosophy. Getting to where he is is a process. Kids set ambition to be YouTube star. Radio stations give tools to help you be successful in broadcasting. You remain as a student when you’re open to opportunities. Not everyone’s meant to be an entrepreneur. There’s a false narrative. Don’t chase #’s, chase opportunities. Mentor told him “you’re talking to the 1 listener”.
Marketing-he has a team who gives him tools. Booking guests-he gets emails from PR companies or podmatch.Word of mouth b/w 2020-25. 15-20 guests per week ask to be on the show. You need to sustain the value of what’s on the podcast. If you want to be the best- it takes a lot of discipline. There are “radio tours”- google form w/ radio station call letters, etc.
Release of episodes: 1x during week Sunday mornings to release on radio. 4 shows come out over the weekend. He really plans everything out. Don’t prepare to fail. He tells ppl about the power of listening. Great minds took the time to share wisdom. W/ famous guests- he thinks from a listener point of view-the “eagle track”. Don’t replace the human connection w/ AI. Ppl are sometimes using it to be polished. Don’t let it take the place of creativity. Technology is there to assist you, not replace. When it comes to students- it’s about communication. He’s always learning. He organizes the guest experience. Has lots of tools. Stays organized.
Out of everything: you only get 1 life to live. Time is racing. Don’ put things off. Force self to say “I will try”. Even if it’s hard to get a job. You have to work hard for what you want in life. Ppl are there who will mentor you. You have to go all in. Make that decision.
Where can ppl find you online: Watch full episodes on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@RefocusedNetwork 47K subscribers
https://www.facebook.com/iamrefocusedradio
https://www.instagram.com/iamrefocusedradio/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/shemaiahreed/
https://www.tiktok.com/@iamrefocusedradio
Press: https://voyagesanantonio.com/interview/conversations-with-shemaiah-reed/
Refocused Network Contact: admin@iamrefocusedradio.com Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/i-am-refocused-radio–2671113/support .www.iamrefocusedradio.com
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/u_DniaBDCPw
Episode # 428: Mohammed Ajoulou Rahmouni
https://outofthetrenches.podbean.com/e/episode-428-mohammed-ajoulou-rahmouni/
Mohammed Ajoulou Rahmouni is a French-Moroccan social entrepreneur and CEO of the NGO “Soyons Le Changement.” He is dedicated to helping young people from underserved backgrounds find their path and build a brighter future.
After studying advanced mathematics, Mohammed shifted his focus to youth empowerment and founded his organization at just 22 years old. What began in Bordeaux has grown into an impactful initiative supporting thousands of young people across Europe and Africa.
Recognized in 2024 as a Young African Leader in the Social and Solidarity Economy, Mohammed continues to expand his mission while pursuing a PhD focused on building ecosystems that empower youth from modest backgrounds.
Trench story: doesn’t have anything to do w/ his NGO. Grew up in Rabat. Did a part of his studies in math. Intellectual family. It shaped his view of the world. Lost his brother in a tram accident, he was 13 y.o. Was communicated about nationwide. Hundreds of ppl came to their home. Spoke to brother’s spirit. Asked him to rest in peace. Saw solidarity from others who wanted to participate, take things off his shoulders. It transformed the Moroccan society. Felt a brotherhood.
What inspired you to shift from studying advanced mathematics to focusing on youth empowerment? Was very passionate about math. Found problems in theoretical work through tools. Thought about how to build our future as a young person. Fron 19 y.o. thought about it. Moved to France to pursue diploma.
How did you build “Soyons Le Changement” from a local initiative into an organization impacting multiple countries? Beautiful adventure that’s built collectively. Was bedridden 6 months. Asked family to meet w/ deputies, others on social challenge initiative during his recovery. Different skills & talents young ppl learned about. Created & constructed the program. Now works w/ more than 3000 youngsters in Europe & Africa.
What are the biggest challenges young people from underserved backgrounds face today, and how can we better support them? They intervene in 3 diff. pillars. They have the opportunity to have passions & jobs. Works around developing soft skills, empowerment though creating impactful projects. They had to work on the way youngsters see themselves, how to work w/ a loss, construct opportunity around a loss. Change the way the youngster sees themselves & get support in the world.
What does building an ecosystem for youth empowerment look like, and what are you hoping to achieve through your PhD research? When you have a challenge w/ multiple stakeholders, you have the society, enterprises. Each one sees the challenge through its own prism. Everyone’s trying to make a solution through their own prism. In order to make a systemic change, we need a moral entrepreneur to push them to work w/in a way in order to find solutions. It’s a universal challenge.
Out of everything: Each one of us has a several talents that need to be identified in order to flourish. We can talk to them about their future, how they see themselves. W/in your own community, we need to create an environment to share experiences.
Where can ppl find you online: http://citizchool.com/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohammed-ajoulou-rahmouni-00533966/
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/9hDPv8vuJko
Episode # 429: Michael T. Brown
https://outofthetrenches.podbean.com/e/episode-429-michael-t-brown/
Michael T. Brown, LPC (Licensed Professional Counselor) has been empowering individuals, families, businesses and communities with tremendous success, for over 25 years.
Michael serves as the Principal of Browns’ Leadership Consulting, which provides counseling support to individuals and families; consulting services to organizations and businesses.
Michael also served as a national trainer for the Why Try, LLC; one of the nation’s leading resilience education programs that specializes in student achievement. Michael also partnered with the DC Office of the Attorney General – to serve as a trainer for their Violence Interrupter program since 2020.
Michael Authored – Born to Achieve (2012) & A Beautiful Challenge (2017). In 2013, Michael hosted – The Brown Bag with Michael T. Brown on Blog Talk Radio, interviewing some key community difference makers and flashing the spotlight on the pertinent issues facing our society.
Michael is committed to empowering others & communities through education, inspiration mobilization. Michael also enjoys spending time with family and friends.
Trench story: a season he worked as a school counselor, Felt winds of change blowing. Felt like time in the school district was coming to an end. Took a risk.
How do we build healthy relationships in terms of adults to students? Health relationships have to have trust. No significant learning takes place w/o a significant relationship. It take time. Have a heart for young ppl. You may not remember the content, but how they made you feel.
What makes an effective leader? He works w/ a lot of different types of leaders. Understands leadership is about influence, not just about power or control, not titles. They’re willing to invest in themselves. It’s influence that produces results. Great leaders understand goals are important and immobilize others. They have vision and can articulate it. “It you want to go far, go together”. Results come from
How do we strengthen our school systems? How to engage youth, tying into relationships. Multi learning approach- not all students will sit & get, reach them where they are. Educators need to understand learning needs to be fun. Educators shouldn’t forget what it was like to be young.
How should I go about starting a business and monetizing what I do? In terms of edupreneurs. The theme resonates w/ a lot of ppl, they have a day job and may have aspirations outside of 9-5, they convert into ideas that can be monetized. Blossom where you’re planted. Your system doesn’t need to combat what you do. You’re building expertise. Start where you are. You don’t have to leave your day job overnight. Take a risk-step out on faith. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Find a mentor, someone who’s doing something similar.
How can we make the workplace a healthy environment for success? Individual responsibility, don’t worry someone will outshine you. Those who want to invest in others want their teammates to shine. Culture matters, how do we create a culture where ppl feel valued and where their skills/expertise are brought to the forefront. Everything is brought to the forefront regardless of title. Never underestimate the ability of 1 person to have an impact. Character also matters. Healthy schools are made up of healthy individuals. Understand the importance of personal growth. Leaders aren’t perfect & need to understand ppl are watching.
Mental health issues: can tie in both youth & adults. Society, pressure, bullying. Anxiety, depression. post-traumatic stress. Social anxiety. The more screen time, the more anxious we get. Reach out to a counselor or find someone you can’t vent to.
Brown Leadership Consulting: support looks different. Effective communication. One-on-one support, coaching, counseling. Goal is to help others grow.
Out of everything: Don’t rest until you find your purpose. Giftings deserve a return on investment.
Where can ppl find you online: https://brownsleadership.com/Home.php
View this episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/NjjaAR9f0YQ