Join us on this cozy episode of dropUp as we journey with Danielle Strachman, the bold co-founder of the Thiel Fellowship and the 1517 fund. Danielle shares her journey from choosing an unconventional educational path to leading a rebellion against rigid academic norms. She's a believer in individuality, inspiring listeners to reclaim their playful spirit of learning. Danielle's resilience shines through her endeavors, from creating a tutoring company to building a charter school. Her experiences shaped her advocacy for positive activism and a freer, more personalized education system.

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[00:01:35 ] Premature birth and creative upbringing.

[00:07:00 ] Early love of teaching, finding social role.

[00:11:47 ] School experience: music, fitting in, independence, flow. [00:16:40 ] Intellectual stimulation.

[00:23:39 ] Learning in school shaped and empowered me.

[00:29:03 ] Got deep in grad school, questioned path. Found calling in education, tutoring company.

[00:35:14 ] Adult stages of development often overlooked in society. Quarter and midlife crises seen as negative, but actually important milestones. Development should be approached with consciousness and a growth mindset.

[00:40:05 ] Passion for young people and human rights; changing definition of "young person"; struggle to find fitting role; opportunity with the Thiel Foundation and 1517; big impact and connection with individuals.

[00:48:42 ] Struggles and rewards of starting a school.

[00:59:26 ] Play extinguished, lack of learning from elders. Oberlin's culture crushed by administration.

[01:08:32 ] Students unaware of the need to challenge institutions. [01:13:52 ] Stepping out of comfort zone for activism. Quality over quantity. Using anger as fuel for change.

The sponsor for this episode is no other than Danielle's fund, the 1517 : https://www.1517fund.com – If you are a dropout, builder, or founder, you should definitely check all the ways they bring capital to young people!

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