Taking Off The Mask

Two high schoolers come together in this TOTM Face to Face conversation. Our host, Wenceslao, is joined by Andres, a senior at Skyline High School in Oakland, CA, and a member of Youth Beat. ➡️➡️➡️ Youth Beat is an incredible organization that provides free digital media instruction for disadvantaged Bay Area students.  A future filmmaker, Andres finds common ground and shared humanity with Wenceslao. They share an interest in arts and self-expression; they both have biological fathers that live in Texas rather than with them in the Bay Area; they love accessorizing with rings and bracelets; and they both miss their grandparents. (0:00) Intro (8:22) Front of Andres’s mask (10:54) Front of Wenceslao’s mask (11:56) Back of Andres’s mask (14:17) Back of Wenceslao’s mask (15:25) A poem about beauty from Kahlil Gibran’s “The Prophet” (18:55) Card #1 from Ever Forward Club’s The Adventure Card Game (22:52) Card#2 from the Adventure Card Game (27:59) Card #3 from the Adventure Card Game (29:50) Andres’s love of filmmaking (44:28) How Youth Beat and The Ever Forward Club could collaborate (48:57) Closing remarks --- Connect with Youth Beat: https://youthbeat.org/ --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Donofriend, or Donovan Taylor Hall, joins Ashanti Branch, a master educator with 20+ years of experience in schools, to talk about what they are reflecting on as educators and what they’re seeing in the halls of modern-day schools. Donovan is an experienced teacher and positive youth development expert who travels around the country speaking at schools and pushing into classrooms. Learn more about him in episode 152. Topics include: video games, core values, extrinsic/intrinsic motivation, “call-out” vs. “call-in”, “book smart” vs. “street smart”, being a warm demander, and shared humanity amongst teachers and students. (0:00) Welcome! (1:30) Donovan and Ashanti introduce themselves. (4:00) Student behavior, engagement, and distractions (7:00) Video games and what they teach us about students (11:00) Making education entertaining (15:00) Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation (17:00) Core values (25:00) Safe vs. unsafe schools; accountability (30:00) Warm demander - running out of warm (34:00) When to “call-out” students, and desire for attention (40:00) “Book smart” vs. “Street smart” (43:00) Getting teachers more classroom management tools (45:00) Teachers showing humanity; dropping ego --- Connect with Donovan Taylor Hall: Website: www.donovantaylorhall.com Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Charles is a Christian, a father of two, a Recruitment Manager, and Ashanti’s COLLEGE ROOMATE! Charles loves helping people advance in their careers and developing a strategy for life. He’s currently spending much of his time outside of work studying for a PhD in Industrial and Organizational Psychology. Topics include: being diagnosed with ADHD, leaving Los Angeles for Wisconsin and how changing environments can change lives, raising snakes in a college dorm, feeding snakes (with rodents!) in a college dorm, food stamps in college, negative self-talk and how it affects student behavior, 30 years of friendship, and self-esteem. (0:00) Intro (6:20) Charles introduces himself (5:54) How Ashanti and Charles met (11:30) Front of Charles’s mask (12:49) Front of Ashanti's mask (16:40) Ashanti’s snake story (20:15) Food stamps in college (25:50) Charles growing up in LA (34:30) Back of Charles’s mask (43:20) Back of Ashanti's mask (48:00) Self-esteem and self-image (51:35) California college tour memories (54:20) Charles is a “cactus friend” (55:00) Closing and "main character syndrome" --- Connect with Charles Smith: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Careerengineer4u --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Johnny is the 26-year-old founder of Hey Brother Co., a men's work organization committed to reshaping the contemporary narrative of masculinity to promote a safer, more abundant world for all. As a survivor of domestic violence and a rigidly patriarchal upbringing, Johnny prides himself on his ability to transmute his painful lived experiences and traumas into opportunities for others to heal. Topics include: Having a father in the South African Border War & “Murder Battalion”; ketamin-assisted mirror work; negative self-talk; teaching in America vs. more appreciative countries; and Andrew Tate, Jordan Peterson, and young men. (0:00 Intro (6:20) Johnny introduces himself (8:25) Front of Ashanti’s mask (10:46) Switching from the traditional “wealth path” to teaching (17:08) Front of Johnny’s mask - and wearing CPTSD on the front of his mask20:24 Being our own worst friend (24:44) Back of Ashanti’s mask (27:40) Back of Johnny’s mask - ketamin-assisted mirror work and negative self-talk (31:55) Throwing away old recordings, literal and figurative (38:04) Johnny’s observations about young men (39:14) What’s up with young men (45:34) Johnny’s background with abuse, patriarchy, and ultimately healing (54:19) Closing --- Connect with Johnny Cole: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heybrotherjohnny/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heybrotherco/ Website: http://heybrotherco.com --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

In this episode of Taking off the Mask, host Ashanti Branch welcomes Wesley Spence. Wesley is a 19-year-old entrepreneur, barber, and owner/operator of a clothing brand called iconicc22. Is comparison truly the thief of joy? Wesley and Ashanti delve into topics such as self-awareness, personal growth, and the journey to becoming the best version of oneself while finding common ground as entrepreneurs and fans of the book “The Alchemist.” (0:00) Intro (9:40) Front of Ashanti’s Mask. What he lets people see (12:40) Front of Wesley’s Mask. What he lets people see. (18:00) Back of Ashanti’s Mask. What he doesn’t let people see. (21:30) Back of Wesley’s Mask. What he doesn’t let people see. (23:20) Comparison being the thief of joy, while building a business (24:30) Talking about the book “The Alchemist” (29:05) Stoicism and how Wesley embraces it (33:54) What’s happening with young men in Wesley’s community? (46:00) Wrapping up and Wesley’s message to young people --- Connect with Wesley Spence: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ww3sleyy Get a Haircut!: https://www.instagram.com/yeswescutss/ Clothing: https://www.instagram.com/iconicc22/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@userarchive22 Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

This is one of the rare episodes where we did not make or share masks… But we sure did feel them come off. Trevor Taylor is back for part 2! (Listen to Part 1) Join Ashanti and Trevor as they explore nonviolent communication, how to communicate effectively to build community, the Think Feel Do methodology, and attachment to the process instead of the outcome. Trevor brings over nine years of dedicated practice to the mat, seamlessly blending strength and grace in his dynamic Vinyasa flows. Beyond yoga, Trevor is a content creator, sharing mindfulness techniques, motivation, and glimpses into his personal yoga journey with a global community. (0:00) Intro (7:30) Trevor’s work bringing movement, mindfulness, and meditation to both online and local communities that need it (16:30) Trevor’s rose and thorn (21:18) Ashanti’s rose and thorn (24:38) Is there anywhere you are fully known? (24:47) Trevor talks about his relationship with his partner (31:33) Nonviolent communication (38:23) Attachment to the outcome vs. the process, and anger (50:21) Think, Feel, Do methodology (54:33) Closing and gratitude --- Connect with Trevor Taylor: The Sanctuary: https://sunsolesanctuary.com/ Website: https://pillar.io/justliketrevor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justliketrevor/ --- Sign Up for the 20th Annual 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Live from SXSW 2024! Ashanti Branch, Wenceslao Soto Sanchez, Johnathan Pugh Jr., and Ryan Louie take the stage and the education landscape head-on by considering the questions: What’s up with young men? How does the way we present our identity affect the climate and culture of our schools? Through a profound conversation facilitated by a 20-year master educator, a filmmaker, and two high school boys with diverse perspectives, they gain insight into the challenges of marginalized communities in education and the importance of emotional well-being. They and the audience realize the change necessary to create healthy environments for your community and bear witness to what is possible when students and teachers recognize their shared humanity. (00:00) Welcome (06:15) Wenceslao’s background (07:05) Johnathan’s background (07:48) Ryan’s background (09:10) Johnathan’s journey (13:38) Wenceslao’s journey (16:28) Why men have a hard time talking about their feelings (18:21) How kids are different now versus in the past (22:52) What are adults getting right/wrong? (36:02) Mask activity (44:45) Q&A --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Join Ashanti and Matthew in a candid conversation about self-awareness, emotional/nervous system regulation, fatherhood, and the complexities of personal growth. Matthew has been a father since 2016 and a husband since 2013. He authors short, illustrated men's fiction for book clubs, men's groups, dad groups, and male studies courses. He Kickstarted his first book in 2011, called “Tulie’s Garden”, about his inner journey from boyhood to manhood—acknowledged by co-founder Bill Kauth of the Mankind Project as "soul poetry of worthy masculinity." His second book in progress, “Alexandra & the Moon”, is a story for mindful fathers raising spirited daughters. (0:00) Introduction and overview of the episode's themes. (05:29) Reminiscing about their early days together. (13:30) The front of Matthew’s mask (14:39) The front of Ashanti’s mask (18:11) The back of Matthew’s mask (18:20) Reflections on the role of fatherhood in personal growth and storytelling. (24:00) The back of Ashanti’s mask (32:00) Exploring the concept of nervous system regulation for emotional well-being. (45:16) Closing remarks, acknowledgments, and information on how to contact Matthew. --- Connect with Matthew Sloane: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew_sloane_author Website: https://fatherhood-dojo.com/ --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Embark on a journey into the depths of vulnerability as Solomon Adams, a deeply talented musician, writer, and educator, unearths the intricate layers of his emotional landscape in this episode. From the front-facing optimism that radiates through his creative work to the complexities that lie beneath, Solomon delves into the power of emotions often concealed. Join us as he shares the real vulnerability that goes beyond the performative, offering an intimate exploration of the struggles, triumphs, and nuances that shape his authentic self. --- (0:00) Introduction (9:00) Solomon's introduction and background (11:00) The front of Solomon's mask: Positivity, Creativity, Optimism (14:00) How Solomon stays optimistic (18:40) The front of Ashanti’s mask: Excited, Passionate, Caring (21:30) The power of somatics (23:27) The back of Solomon's mask: anger, rage, irritability, and real vulnerability (30:30) Navigating through real vulnerability versus performative vulnerability (33:07) The back of Ashanti’s mask: My work is my value, proud not to be prideful (37:42) Closing Reflections (40:00) Solomon's Instagram and upcoming projects --- Connect with Solomon Adams: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stillsolomonssoul Organization: https://www.instagram.com/mov3mentmakers --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Join Wenceslao, the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host, in an insightful conversation with filmmaker and educator Ryan Louie. Together, they explore the profound lessons learned from love, relationships, and the transformative impact of the Ever Forward Club. The discussion touches on fearlessness, self-knowledge, and the pursuit of authenticity, offering a unique perspective on personal growth and filmmaking. (0:00)  Introduction (5:30) Wenceslao’s front - funny, engaging, responsible. And his back - shy, soft. (8:50) Ryan’s front - easy-going, agreeable, fun-loving. And his back - desire to impress, opinionated, friendship. (10:30) Reflecting on Love, Relationships, and Big Brothers/Sisters (13:05) Ryan and Wenceslao play Ever Forward’s Adventure Card Game. (25:13) Contemplating Relationships and Divorce (27:20) Ryan's Filmmaking Journey (31:40) Personal Growth Through Filmmaking (39:30) Aspirations for the Future and College Plans (40:00) Lessons Learned from Podcasting (43:35) A Poetic Conclusion - on The Soul's Hidden Path --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Are you a teacher? An educator? Administrator? We’re excited to launch a new series under the Taking Off The Mask podcast feed: Education Monthly - with Donofriend! Donofriend, or Donovan Taylor Hall, joins Ashanti Branch to talk about what they are reflecting on as educators, what they’re seeing out in the schools, and what’s the latest news in education. You can learn more about Donovan, an experienced teacher and positive youth development expert,  in episode 152. (0:00) Welcome! (3:30) Donovan’s lesson for today. (18:00) Ashanti’s lesson for today. (23:30) Witnessing fear in the classroom. (30:30) Testing out our first episode. (34:35) Take this to your classroom. --- Connect with Donovon Taylor Hall: Website: www.donovantaylorhall.com Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“When I was younger, being bold was mistaken for being arrogant or a know-it-all all. If I’m honest with myself, I think I was arrogant or a know-it-all all. But I’d like to hope that it was out of a desire to do good. To fix something. To help someone.” - Kevin Cho Tipton Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Kevin Cho Tipton. Kevin is a Major in the United States Air Force and a critical care nurse practitioner serving in South Florida’s public hospitals.  Since 2010, he has served in the Florida National Guard and is currently assigned to the Critical Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) of the 125th Fighter Wing (Jacksonville, FL). In a civilian capacity, Tipton’s most humbling experiences have been his time caring for families impacted by Hurricane María in Puerto Rico, volunteering at street medicine clinics serving those facing homelessness, and uplifting the stories of his neighbors, patients, and peers through his advocacy work. (0:00) Welcome! (3:30) Kevin introduces himself. (6:25) The front of Ashanti’s mask - happy, caring, hard-working. (11:45) The front of Kevin’s mask - being bold, understanding, confidence. (15:00) The back of Ashanti’s mask - heavy sadness, worry, fear - and his and Kevin’s experiences with grief. (24:30) The back of Kevin’s mask - fear, disappointment, uncertainty - and Kevin’s reflections on boldness. (32:30) Thoughts on Black History Month and dealings with a more privileged nonprofit. (36:20) On the Tuskegee Airmen. (40:00) On Parker Palmer’s Critical Gap. (42:20) Kevin’s final thoughts and why he stresses finding community amongst the loneliness. --- Connect with Kevin Cho Tipton:www.HealthcareAgainstHate.com Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/KevinChoFL --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com ---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“Ultimately I’m just trying to simplify this human journey into, ‘We either operate out of love or we operate out of fear.’ … Love is a verb. It’s an active choice. And instead of reacting, let’s respond.” - Ruben Rojas Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Ruben Rojas. Ruben traded in his suit for a paintbrush. He began transforming blank walls into unique, empowering messages.  Today, the messages provided by these murals are uplifting communities and challenging the public to create new dialogues. As an artist, muralist, and designer, Ruben's mission is to inspire others to live through love. Ruben's murals can be seen in cities across the country and worldwide from Paris to New York and Florida to Mississippi. His portfolio of work extends beyond murals. He is also a TED speaker, helping spread the message of art creating impact, a designer, and a corporate consultant. Ruben works with companies to help businesses give back, enhance workspaces, and raise awareness on important issues. Past campaigns include clients such as BMW, American Express, Google & the NFL. --- (0:00) Welcome! (4:45) Ruben introduces himself and they discuss love and art. (8:45) Ashanti and Ruben makes their masks. (12:20) The front of Ashanti’s mask - funny, serious/hard-work, caring. (16:20) The front of Ruben’s mask - showing up daily no matter what, confidence, leading with love, integrity, work in progress. (17:20) The back of Ashanti’s mask - grief, health worries, get more efficient. (22:00) The back of Ruben’s mask - emotional rollercoaster, am I doing enough, what am I being perceived as, chasing perfection, the healing process. (24:45) Being the older sibling. (29:30) Love is everywhere. (35:30) Ruben’s message to the youth. (38:00) How to connect with Ruben. --- Connect with Ruben Rojas: Website: http://rubenrojas.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubenrojas/  Social, Podcast, and More!: https://linktr.ee/rubenrojas --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

"Everyone’s dream is having the “American Dream” right? Own property, own big cars, have a big family. But for me, that dream is fading away a bit. Hopefully, I’ll get part of that dream… having a good, relaxing life." This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Eloy Castro. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Eloy is a personal stylist and interior designer, who also supports the Ever Forward Club’s training programs. ➡️➡️➡️ Because they are both involved in the Ever Forward Club, Eloy and Wenceslao have developed a level of trust and friendship. As someone older than Wenceslao, Eloy has also become a mentor. As you listen, consider this - have you ever had a conversation like this with someone younger/older than you? Who was that person? And how much did you appreciate them? (0:00) Welcome! (4:20) Eloy introduces himself. (6:40) Wenceslao and Eloy make masks. (7:30) The front of Eloy’s mask - confident, put together, trustworthy, loyal, kind, supportive. (8:05) The front of Wenceslao’s mask - growing, learning, adapting. (9:10) The back of Eloy’s mask - anxious, nervous, stressed, insecure, unsure, struggle alone. (10:10) The back of Wenceslao’s mask - scared, vivid, not satisfied with myself. (11:55) Some rapid fire questions from The Adventure card game. (20:10) Poetry reading from Wenceslao. (22:50) Wenceslao interviews Eloy about the Ever Forward Club. (26:55) Poetry reading from Wenceslao. (32:15) Final thoughts from Eloy and Wenceslao. Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“Teachers will generally give longer wait time for kids that they think know the answer, than kids that they think don’t know the answer.” - Dr. Ray Swann Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Dr. Ray Swann. Ray knows a thing or two about acting and emotions. Pair that with a deep knowledge of teaching and learning, and you have an excellent educator.  Ray is currently the Executive Director of the Foundation for Positive Masculinity, an NGO based in Melbourne Australia. He hosts The Understanding Boys podcast and wrote “The Seven Stories: Planting Seeds for Positive Masculinities” - a book full of mindfulness stories for boys.  (0:00) Welcome! (5:15) Ray introduces himself. (9:15) The front of Ray’s mask - calm, hard-working, engaged. (14:35) The front of Ashanti’s mask - hard-working, passionate, emotions. (15:35) What does “calm” really mean? (21:45) The back of Ray’s mask - sensitive, characters/voices, sad/melancholic. (24:30) William Shakespeare's "As You Like It". (31:30) How to make students feel safe to participate in class. (35:15) The back of Ashanti’s mask - fear of failure, sadness, worry. (42:45) “The Wasteland” by T.S. Eliot. (46:15) How acting and performing informs how Ray interacts with his students. (54:45) Final thoughts and how to get in touch with Ray. --- Connect with Ray Swann: Website: http://www.positivemasculinity.org.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrayswann/  Theater Company: www.identitytheatre.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-swann-6673531b/?originalSubdomain=au --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“If I continue to make myself small to fit their expectations, who am I truly letting down?” - Trevor Taylor Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Trevor Taylor. As a seasoned yoga instructor, Trevor brings over nine years of dedicated practice to the mat, seamlessly blending strength and grace in his dynamic Vinyasa flows. Beyond yoga, Trevor is a content creator, sharing mindfulness techniques, motivation, and glimpses into his personal yoga journey with a global community. Like anyone on this journey called life, it took Trevor some time and some struggle to get to the place he is at now. In this episode, Trevor looks back on those struggles and existential reflections. So please enjoy this conversation, as Trevor provides some valuable lessons on growth and purpose… --- (0:00) Welcome! (0:50) Ashanti’s introduction. (3:00) Trevor introduces himself and why he is a teacher at heart - whether it’s yoga, religion, philosophy, or K-12 education. (5:10) The front of Ashanti’s mask - passion, caring, driven - and how he spent MLK Jr. Day. (9:20) The front of Trevor’s mask - joy, discipline, articulate. (12:55) The back of Ashanti’s mask - worry, fear, grief - and his grandmother’s passing. (19:50) The back of Trevor’s mask - lack of confidence, low self-esteem, fear of failure. (24:30) Why Ashanti went into teaching vs. why Trevor went into teaching. (34:00) The difference between your “growth zone” vs. your “overwhelmed zone.” (39:20) The catalyst that led Trevor to make a career change, and how plants are a great analogy for growth. (46:30) Wrap up and final words from Trevor. --- Connect with Trevor Taylor: Website: https://pillar.io/justliketrevor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justliketrevor/ Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com ---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“If we put ourselves on our deathbed, and we look back on THIS moment, are we going to be proud of ourselves?” - Jason Kyle Budahazy Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Jason Kyle Budahazy. Jason Kyle’s journey has taken many twists and turns, and ups and downs - from stand-up comedy, to the Peace Corps in Albania, to Hollywood and “Two and a Half Men” and “The Big Bang Theory”, to today, being the Founding Creative and voice for the first men’s mental health app: Mental. Jason Kyle considers his current work to be his most meaningful because he gets to do what his younger self needed the most. He gets to help men move past their societal conditioning and nurture a healthy soul. We're excited for you to get to know Jason Kyle, his mask, and his past, present, and future. --- (1:20) Ashanti’s introduction (4:20) Jason Kyle introduces himself and the ups and downs of his life. Then he and Ashanti share some of the culture shocks they experienced as young adults. (15:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - passion, purpose, caring. He and Jason discuss the nuances of teaching. (22:20) Jason Kyle shares the front of his mask - charismatic, creative, hilarious. (30:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - my work is my value, proud to not be prideful, shame. (39:55) Jason Kyle shares the back of his mask - insecurity, chaos, self-portraits. (47:00) Jason Kyle shares how he started working with The Mental App, the men’s mental health app. (58:00) Ashanti and Jason Kyle wrap up their conversation. --- Connect with Jason Kyle Budahazy: Special Mental 25% Off Discount: http://getmental.com/totm  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmejasonkyle  The Mental App: https://www.instagram.com/thementalapp/  Website: https://www.getmejasonkyle.com/ --- Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

In this solo episode, Ashanti Branch tells the story of his encounter with the most popular girl in school… A story about emotions, class, wealth, status, bullying, family structures, and what we need to provide for our young people as educators. Then, he looks ahead at what’s in store for the Ever Forward Club in 2024.  --- (0:00) Ashanti introduces the episode and his story about the most popular girl in school. (13:10) Ashanti reflects on the story and applies it to the work he and the Ever Forward Club do in schools, advocating for more social-emotional learning. (25:20) Ashanti provides some updates on the Ever Forward Club. Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch Website: branchspeaks.com --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: instagram.com/everforward Facebook: facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 3, with Lewis Howes. Enjoy! In this Podcast, Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by New York Times Bestselling author, Lewis Howes, author of the hit book,The School of Greatness and his newest book, The Mask of Masculinity. He is a lifestyle entrepreneur, high-performance business coach and keynote speaker. A former professional football player and two-sport All-American. He hosts a top 100 iTunes ranked Apple podcast, The School of Greatness, which has over 250 million downloads and just reached their 1000th episode since it launched in 2013.  During their conversation, Ashanti and Lewis talked very little about all of his success as an athlete and podcaster but spoke about the masks that they wear and what gets in the way of being our full authentic selves. This conversation is about emotional well-being of men and how ignoring our emotions leads men to unhealthy outcomes and emotional overload.  (7:38) Together, they discuss how Lewis’s childhood shaped his understanding of the pitfalls of masculinity;  (24:30) And how Ashanti’s life and work is tied directly to Lewis’s The Mask of Masculinity, as well as how the norms of masculinity can explain the country’s violence and divisiveness.  (35:18) Then, Lewis and Ashanti participate in the #MillionMaskMovement by sharing their masks. --- Create your own mask anonymously at www.100kmasks.com If you are interested in being on the Face to Face podcast, email us at everforwardclub@gmail.com --- Send in a voice message: ⁠https://anchor.fm/branch-speaks/message⁠ --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ashantibranch Twitter:   https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn:    www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter:   https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn:   ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“I knew that if I wanted to control the outcome before someone was about to make fun of me, or judge, or criticize; it was better for me to be the first one to make a joke about myself.” - Diego Estrada Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 143, with Diego Estrada. Enjoy! Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Diego Estrada. Born and raised in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mėxico, Diego currently speaks at conferences and delivers workshops on authenticity. Diego lists his job title as an Alegrador de Vidas; the closest translation to English is a “Brightener of Lives”. He loves to connect with people and help them be themselves, and, in this conversation, he and Ashanti are allowed to do just so. (0:45) Ashanti’s introduction. (2:45) Diego introduces himself and his work; and he explains why he’s feeling impatient. Then, he and Ashanti find common ground around their work promoting emotional authenticity. (12:45) Ashanti and Diego make their masks together.  (16:10) Diego shares the front of his mask - courage, authentic, open. Then, he shares the back of his mask - doubt, constant comparison, physical stature. (18:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - caring, serious, dedicated.  (20:10) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - impatient, self-doubt, sadness. (21:45) Ashanti and Diego discuss self-compassion. (26:20) Ashanti breaks down an interaction he had with his godson in Mexico. (29:00) Diego explains the difference between “fitting in” and “belonging.” (36:30) Diego shares how you can get in touch with him and provides some final words for the audience. --- Connect with Diego Estrada: Instagram/Tik Tok: ⁠instagram.com/tuvidaesincreible⁠ Podcast: ⁠#TUVIDAESINCREÍBLE⁠ Books Mentioned by Diego: Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett --- Create your own mask anonymously at ⁠millionmask.org⁠ Email us questions and comments at ⁠totmpod100@gmail.com⁠  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/branchspeaks⁠ Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch⁠ Website: ⁠branchspeaks.com⁠ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: ⁠anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support