Mojo for the Modern Man

David Jurasek joins me today to share his profound insights on navigating shame, embracing authenticity, and embarking on the transformative journey towards self-discovery. Through heartfelt anecdotes and candid reflections, David illuminates the importance of confronting his inner demons of shame and self-doubt, which ultimately aided him in cultivating more genuine connections with others. As we explore the depths of human experience, David leaves us with a powerful reminder: "I want to live in the truth now," beckoning us all to strip away what’s unimportant and doesn’t truly serve us in the pursuit of a genuine life.Bio: INTEGRITY Therapy is run by David Jurasek, a father, husband, Sensei and Registered Psychotherapist (RP) with 25 years experience helping boys and men of all ages.LinkedInWebsite

I hope that you’re as excited as I am to welcome back Don Angelo Bivens for a captivating Act 2 of our conversation. Together, we navigate the intricate landscape of modern living, delving into the pressures of capitalism and the invaluable art of slowing down to foster genuine connections. Seeking answers amidst today's complexities, Don Angelo imparts profound insights on the power of self-awareness and the transformative journey toward authenticity, ultimately leaving us with a message of love, self-leadership, and the imperative of crafting a legacy rooted in integrity.Bio: Don’Angelo Bivens is a Certified Executive Coach, a Leadership Facilitator, and Speaker with a heart for humanity. While the bottom line in business is profit, how we attain that profit is key. Don’Angelo has both a deep understanding of what drives human behavior and the innate ability to produce results that are of great importance to leaders: meaningful, effective, and lasting solutions to obstacles that arise regularly. For this reason, Don’Angelo is highly sought after as a facilitator and coach who cuts through the noise.WebsiteLinkedIn

Today I had the absolute pleasure of chatting with Don’Angelo Bivens, delving into his fascinating upbringing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. From navigating the challenges of poverty and discrimination to embracing his identity as a gay Black man, Don’Angelo's journey is nothing short of inspiring. He has this inspiring aura of resilience and self-acceptance, and throughout our conversation, he emphasized the importance of grounding oneself amidst life's chaos and seeking support from genuine, agenda-free sources. It was a much needed reminder that authenticity and self-discovery go hand in hand, leaving me with a newfound appreciation for the power of embracing one's true self.Bio: Don’Angelo Bivens is a Certified Executive Coach, a Leadership Facilitator, and Speaker with a heart for humanity. While the bottom line in business is profit, how we attain that profit is key. Don’Angelo has both a deep understanding of what drives human behavior and the innate ability to produce results that are of great importance to leaders: meaningful, effective, and lasting solutions to obstacles that arise regularly. For this reason, Don’Angelo is highly sought after as a facilitator and coach who cuts through the noise.WebsiteLinkedIn

Today I am joined once again  by Dxter Spitz, the visionary behind the "How Men Cry,"  movement, revolutionizing men's mental health. We delve into the complexities of masculinity, exploring themes of compassion and authenticity, and Dxter's refreshing perspective challenges conventional stereotypes, emphasizing the strength found in vulnerability. Before wrapping up, Dxter leaves us with some sage advice;  "Vulnerability can be your greatest asset." Bio: Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes was raised in Prince George’s county Maryland, a suburb of Washington D.C. His curious mind led him to become a jack of all trades as a scientist/engineer, musician, spoken word artist, and entrepreneur.  Holmes relocated to Chicago in 2014 after graduating from Virginia Tech where he got his degree as a Materials Science Engineer and met his mentor Dr. Nikki Giovanni.He began the pursuit of his music career as Dxtr Spits, a witty, impactful, and energized lyricist. Holmes is the Founder and CEO of “Onli Packs”, an apparel and backpack brand that utilizes art from local artists. He prioritizes community reinvestment and creates community support initiatives utilizing his company and brands. His versatility and hustle has landed him attention locally and nationally including: NPR, The Chicago Tribune, Vocalo Radio, Voyage Chicago, & These Days News.WebsiteLinkedInFaceBookInstagramYouTube

In the latest episode of Mojo for the Modern Man, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dexter Spitz, a man who's as deep as he is insightful. Hailing from PG County, Maryland, Dexter opened up about his journey growing up in a whirlwind of family dynamics, divorces, and remarriages. We dove into his coping mechanisms, from creative outlets to the classic trio of sex, drugs, and rock 'n' roll. Dexter didn't hold back, sharing how his sensitivity often left him feeling overwhelmed and seeking escape.But here's where it gets real: Dexter unpacked the importance of compassion and mindfulness, urging listeners to slow down and embrace their vulnerabilities. His reflections on distinguishing between personal and external emotions were not only profound but downright enlightening. It's like he's handing out emotional wisdom nuggets left and right.As we wrapped up, Dexter left us with a challenge: to cultivate mindfulness and compassion as tools for navigating life's twists and turns. This episode was a crash course in emotional intelligence with a side of witty banter.Bio: Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes was raised in Prince George’s county Maryland, a suburb of Washington D.C. His curious mind led him to become a jack of all trades as a scientist/engineer, musician, spoken word artist, and entrepreneur.  Holmes relocated to Chicago in 2014 after graduating from Virginia Tech where he got his degree as a Materials Science Engineer and met his mentor Dr. Nikki Giovanni.He began the pursuit of his music career as Dxtr Spits, a witty, impactful, and energized lyricist. Holmes is the Founder and CEO of “Onli Packs”, an apparel and backpack brand that utilizes art from local artists. He prioritizes community reinvestment and creates community support initiatives utilizing his company and brands. His versatility and hustle has landed him attention locally and nationally including: NPR, The Chicago Tribune, Vocalo Radio, Voyage Chicago, & These Days News.WebsiteLinkedInFaceBookInstagramYouTube

I am back today with Luke Iorio and we kick off Act 2 by diving headfirst into the deep end of personal growth and manhood. Luke, a seasoned veteran in the world of personal development, dishes out some serious wisdom on vulnerability, transformation, and the art of men's work. Together, we uncover the magic of genuine connections and the transformative power of what Luke calls "soul ships" - those relationships that don't let us off the hook easily. As we wrap up, Luke leaves us with a gem: the journey to true freedom and authenticity is paved with friendships that challenge and uplift us.Bio: Luke is a dad, a husband, an entrepreneur, sought-after coach, and adventurer – of this great land and of the human spirit (especially his own). His journey has included working for his own father, starting and running his own small consulting practice, and then going on to join, build, and lead as CEO one of the largest and most prestigious coach training organizations in the world, iPEC.Since iPEC, Luke’s personal work – when he’s not with his family or with a private client – led him beyond the modern practice, science and research that drove his work in coaching, to exploring various wisdom, spiritual, and indigenous traditions as he sought to re-connect to his passion, a deeper purpose and calling, and grow himself to be of more service.Chronicled on the podcast series On This Walk with Luke Iorio, this path after several years led Luke to his current business partner and the organization, Man on Fire Rising. Man on Fire is a men’s personal growth organization focused on helping men rise with passion, power, and purpose. We know that the last breath every man wants is the breath of Freedom – which will be filled with fulfillment, joy, and the knowing that you loved, lived, and gave fully to this life.InstagramLinkedInXFaceBook

In today’s episode, I am joined by Luke Iorio, who brings us on a journey through his roots in New Jersey and shares some fascinating family tales, including a surprising brush with Prohibition-era bootlegging. With a mix of humor and introspection, Luke opens up about pivotal moments in his life, including the profound impact of witnessing 9/11 firsthand. Throughout our conversation, Luke emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and reconnecting with our true selves, urging us to take a closer look in the mirror and ask the tough questions about our identity and purpose. As the episode wraps up, Luke leaves us with invaluable advice: to embrace authenticity and delve deep into our innermost truths, guiding us toward a path of fulfillment and self-discovery.Bio: Luke is a dad, a husband, an entrepreneur, sought-after coach, and adventurer – of this great land and of the human spirit (especially his own). His journey has included working for his own father, starting and running his own small consulting practice, and then going on to join, build, and lead as CEO one of the largest and most prestigious coach training organizations in the world, iPEC.Since iPEC, Luke’s personal work – when he’s not with his family or with a private client – led him beyond the modern practice, science and research that drove his work in coaching, to exploring various wisdom, spiritual, and indigenous traditions as he sought to re-connect to his passion, a deeper purpose and calling, and grow himself to be of more service.Chronicled on the podcast series On This Walk with Luke Iorio, this path after several years led Luke to his current business partner and the organization, Man on Fire Rising. Man on Fire is a men’s personal growth organization focused on helping men rise with passion, power, and purpose. We know that the last breath every man wants is the breath of Freedom – which will be filled with fulfillment, joy, and the knowing that you loved, lived, and gave fully to this life.InstagramLinkedInXFaceBook

David Peralta joins me once again, and together we delve into a conversation of  personal growth, self-discovery, and interconnectedness. Throughout our conversation, David emphasized the importance of asking ourselves what we truly want and transforming our desires into a clear, crystallized vision for our lives. He shared a meditation technique called the deathbed meditation, encouraging us to envision ourselves at the end of our lives having fulfilled our purposes. Throughout our conversation, we explored the idea of living in a state of oneness with life and the significance of embracing vulnerability as a pathway to authenticity and transformation. David highlighted the role of community, relationships, and seeking support in our journey of self-discovery. Ultimately, our discussion underscored the power of listening to our intuition, embracing life's experiences with an open heart, and aligning with a vision that brings fulfillment and upliftment to ourselves and others.About David: I am a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) by the International Coaching Federation.Specialised in personal and executive coaching and coaching for musicians, I accompany you to achieve your goals with creativity and professional rigour.Maximize your potential and discover your hidden talents with the powerful tool for change that is coaching. Conveniently through the Internet.WebsiteLinkedInFaceBook InstagramX

In today’s episode, I am joined by David Peralta, and we delve into the highs and lows of life's journey, offering profound insights along the way. From childhood hardships to transformative spiritual awakenings, David's story was a whirlwind of emotions and growth. Through his experiences, he emphasized the importance of introspection, urging us to ponder, "What do I truly desire?" as a compass for authentic living. David's candidness underscored the value of embracing our authentic selves, paving the path to profound fulfillment and meaningful relationships. As we bring our discussion to a close, David leaves us with some wise words about the importance of turning suffering into meaning. His words inspire us to embark on our individual journeys towards fulfillment, encouraging us to seek out ways to create positive change in our lives and communities.About David: I am a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) by the International Coaching Federation.Specialised in personal and executive coaching and coaching for musicians, I accompany you to achieve your goals with creativity and professional rigour.Maximize your potential and discover your hidden talents with the powerful tool for change that is coaching. Conveniently through the Internet.WebsiteLinkedInFaceBook InstagramX

Today I have the pleasure of welcoming back Bryce Kenny, the Mohawk Warrior, and we dive right into discussions of purpose, resilience, and personal growth. Bryce shares his journey of overcoming challenges as a driver, reflecting on the pressures of performance and the importance of identity-driven goals. Through anecdotes and insights, Bryce emphasizes the distinction between pursuing happiness and finding purpose, urging us to uncover our passions and embrace resilience in the face of adversity. Before we wrap up our conversation, Bryce shares some sage words on the importance of turning suffering into meaning, inspiring us to discover our unique paths to fulfillment and how we can achieve positive impacts in our lives and communities.Bio: Bryce Kenny is a professional Monster Jam driver as the Great Clips Mohawk Warrior. Since his 2016 debut, Bryce has earned multiple awards including the 2021 Outreach Award for his work helping those in need and making positive contributions to the community. He also set a Guinness World Record in 2021 for the fastest speed in a monster truck and was the first driver to hit triple mile per hour digits in the sport. In recent years, Bryce has become an inspirational speaker and travels the country speaking to audiences of all ages about finding the courage to chase your dreams and overcome fear. His newest book, Geared for Life (Dexterity, 2023), guides readers to become unstuck in life and shift into the next gear to make a lasting impact on the world. Bryce also participates in national conferences and corporate events through his sponsorship with the international hair salon chain, Great Clips. Official site: www.brycekenny.comFacebook: @warriorbryceInstagram: @warriorbryceTikTok: @warriorbryceYouTube: @brycekennyBook order: www.amazon.com/Geared-Life-Making-Shift-Potential/dp/1947297783

Today I am joined by Bryce Kenny, the Mohawk Warrior of Monster Jam, who takes us on a journey through his life, touching upon childhood adventures, early experiences with motorsports, and the crucial decision to prioritize relationships over a racing dream. Bryce shares powerful stories of his grandfather's influence, highlighting principles, sacrifice, and the profound impact of choices. We delve into the intricacies of balancing passion with personal connections, ultimately revealing a valuable lesson: true success lies not just in the pursuit of dreams but in the relationships we nurture. Bryce's advice resonates as he encourages listeners to get their "house in order" and prioritize what truly matters in life.Bio: Bryce Kenny is a professional Monster Jam driver as the Great Clips Mohawk Warrior. Since his 2016 debut, Bryce has earned multiple awards including the 2021 Outreach Award for his work helping those in need and making positive contributions to the community. He also set a Guinness World Record in 2021 for the fastest speed in a monster truck and was the first driver to hit triple mile per hour digits in the sport. In recent years, Bryce has become an inspirational speaker and travels the country speaking to audiences of all ages about finding the courage to chase your dreams and overcome fear. His newest book, Geared for Life (Dexterity, 2023), guides readers to become unstuck in life and shift into the next gear to make a lasting impact on the world. Bryce also participates in national conferences and corporate events through his sponsorship with the international hair salon chain, Great Clips. Official site: www.brycekenny.comFacebook: @warriorbryceInstagram: @warriorbryceTikTok: @warriorbryceYouTube: @brycekennyBook order: www.amazon.com/Geared-Life-Making-Shift-Potential/dp/1947297783

In Act 2 of my discussion with Keith Edwards, our discussion unfolds around the complexities of masculinity, the influence of socialization, and the journey towards authentic living. Keith shares anecdotes, including a story about a man questioning his love for football, illustrating the profound impact of socialization on identity. We move through the mazes of masculinity, both toxic and healthy, and we explore the idea of authentic masculinity, emphasizing the significance of curiosity, unlearning, and self-awareness in personal development. Before we wrap up, Keith muses about agency, choice, and conscious decision-making, ultimately highlighting the challenges of early socialization, the ongoing quest for authenticity, and how we, as men, can benefit from the practice of self-reflection.Keith's Bio:Keith helps leaders and organizations make transformational change for leadership, learning, and equity. His expertise includes curricular approaches to learning beyond the classroom, allyship and equity, leadership and coaching, authentic masculinity, and sexual violence prevention. He is an authentic educator, trusted leader, and unconventional scholar. Keith has consulted with more than 300 organizations, written more than 25 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and has more than 1,000 hours as a certified leadership and executive coach.He is the author of the book Unmasking: Toward Authentic Masculinity. He co-authored The Curricular Approach to Student Affairs and co-edited Addressing Sexual Violence in Higher Education.His TEDx Talk on preventing sexual violence has been viewed around the world. He is co-host of Student Affairs NOW, the premier podcast for student affairs.WebsiteLinkedIn

Today I am lucky enough to sit down and have a conversation with Keith Edwards, delving into his upbringing in a small Wisconsin town, the challenges of bullying, and the key moments that shaped his journey to self-confidence. Keith shares his deliberate choice to embrace a "fake it till you make it" mindset in college, deciding to believe in himself despite past difficulties. We explore his experiences as a camp counselor, the impact of external validation, and his evolving perspectives on men's roles in preventing sexual violence. The episode wraps up with a sneak peek into Act 2, promising a deeper dive into the concept of men's enoughness and the role of the inner critic. Stay tuned for more insights from Keith in the next installment.Keith's Bio:Keith helps leaders and organizations make transformational change for leadership, learning, and equity. His expertise includes curricular approaches to learning beyond the classroom, allyship and equity, leadership and coaching, authentic masculinity, and sexual violence prevention. He is an authentic educator, trusted leader, and unconventional scholar. Keith has consulted with more than 300 organizations, written more than 25 peer-reviewed articles and book chapters, and has more than 1,000 hours as a certified leadership and executive coach.He is the author of the book Unmasking: Toward Authentic Masculinity. He co-authored The Curricular Approach to Student Affairs and co-edited Addressing Sexual Violence in Higher Education.His TEDx Talk on preventing sexual violence has been viewed around the world. He is co-host of Student Affairs NOW, the premier podcast for student affairs.WebsiteLinkedIn

For this special episode I am joined by Stephen Shedletzky, and our conversation begins by unraveling the core themes of his new book, "Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Speak Up." Stephen expands on the book's title - delving into the vital role of vulnerability, curiosity, and grounded optimism in fostering environments where voices are heard. We explore the nuances of emotional agility, discuss stories from the book illustrating the impact of authentic leadership, and reflect on the personal growth that emerges when leaders embrace genuine communication. Join us for a heartfelt conversation on the power of creating spaces where individuals feel empowered to speak up, whether in corporate settings or family dynamics.Bio:Stephen Shedletzky — or “Shed” to his friends —  helps leaders make it safe and worth it for people to speak  up. He supports humble leaders — those who know they  are both a part of the problems they experience and the  solutions they can create — as they put their people and  purpose first.  A sought-after speaker, coach, and advisor, Shed has led  hundreds of keynote presentations, workshops, and  leadership development programs around the world. As a  thought leader on psychological safety in the workplace, he supports leaders and  organizations in all industries where human beings work. He is the author of Speak Up Culture: When Leaders Truly Listen, People Step Up (October 2023).  After years on a corporate track, Shed was introduced to and inspired by the work  of Simon Sinek and, soon after meeting him, became the fourth person to join his  team. For more than a decade, Shed has contributed at Simon Sinek, Inc., where, as  Chief of Staff and Head of Brand Experience, Training & Development, he headed a  global team of speakers and facilitators. Shed continues to speak and facilitate with  Simon Sinek helping to create a more inspired, safe, and fulfilled world.  Shed graduated from the Richard Ivey School of Business with a focus on  leadership, communication, and strategy. He also received his coaching certification  from The Co-Active Training Institute. He lives in Toronto with his wife and two  young children. Website: https://www.shedinspires.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenshedletzky/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shedinspires/Twitter: https://twitter.com/shedinspiresYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqS1_nB34wWVIOSK3ZxvrnA

I am joined once again by Jerome Green, and we continue our conversation by diving right into what makes working with challenging individuals so rewarding for Jerome. He speaks about his journey of addiction, reflecting on pivotal moments, and finding clarity through spirituality. That journey led Jerome from university work to a distinctive career, Jerome shares insights into his passion for working with “assholes” and his commitment to understanding the unique complexities of each person. We take some time to reflect on the pandemic's impact, the importance of empathy, and the pursuit of excellence over perfection. Before wrapping up our conversation, Jerome imparts insightful words of wisdom, providing a thoughtful send-off that resonates beyond the realm of personal development.Bio by Jerome: I spent 24 years working in higher education, university management, leadership development, and human resources, and just as many years in the pressurized sports world running a youth sports basketball business, coaching young adults, and consulting coaches and athletes both on and off the court. All of my experience, education, and training have helped me build quite a collection of tools and methods to support those I work with and open their doors to discovery. My background translates beautifully to my business today and all aspects of my life. It helped me through what was perhaps my most difficult year, as it was for many, 2020. What I thought was once simple, I no longer take for granted. By embracing a growth mindset and gaining new personal and professional insights, I am now doing some of the best work of my career.Website: https://jeromegreencoaching.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeromegreencoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-green-3173b012/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/IcanwinnowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChez2vl-MVIoHJ9vbJwxScg

Today I am lucky enough to have a conversation with Jerome Green, whose path towards a career in counseling and university leadership roles was paved with moments of self-discovery. He begins by unfolding the story of his youth, detailing the influence of Mr. Miller, a mentor who played a pivotal role in steering him from compliance to rebellion to the complexities of identity and the ongoing process of self-discovery. With a keen focus on heart-centered living, Jerome encourages us to embrace curiosity and face the shadows within and before wrapping up Act 1, Jerome imparts a powerful piece of advice: find your frequency, discover your identity, and remember that all is well.Bio by Jerome: I spent 24 years working in higher education, university management, leadership development, and human resources, and just as many years in the pressurized sports world running a youth sports basketball business, coaching young adults, and consulting coaches and athletes both on and off the court. All of my experience, education, and training have helped me build quite a collection of tools and methods to support those I work with and open their doors to discovery. My background translates beautifully to my business today and all aspects of my life. It helped me through what was perhaps my most difficult year, as it was for many, 2020. What I thought was once simple, I no longer take for granted. By embracing a growth mindset and gaining new personal and professional insights, I am now doing some of the best work of my career.Website: https://jeromegreencoaching.com/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jeromegreencoachLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerome-green-3173b012/Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/IcanwinnowYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UChez2vl-MVIoHJ9vbJwxScg 

 Today I am joined by Charlie Savill once again, and we dive right into Act 2 of our conversation by delving into the intricate realms of artificial intelligence, its societal impacts, and the ethical considerations that accompany its rapid evolution. Charlie takes time to discuss the balance between technological advancement and ethical responsibility, contemplating the potential consequences of our increasingly interconnected world. From the ethical implications of AI in healthcare to the broader societal implications, Charlie leaves us with insights that challenge societal preconceptions and spark contemplation about the future we are collectively shaping.

Today I am joined by Charlie Savill, whose roots in Shropshire have profoundly shaped his perspective of the world. We begin by exploring Charlie's upbringing, marked by a deep connection to nature and farming, and we delve into his experiences in hunting - all a part of the transformative impact of his move to the countryside. We unravel the intricate relationship between humanity and the natural world, and our conversation takes us through the beauty and challenges of rural life, touching on themes of sustainability, conservation, and the evolving dynamics of living close to the land. Before wrapping up Act 1, Charlie imparts some wisdom that will undoubtedly resonate, leaving us with valuable reflections on our own place in the world.

Today I am joined by Ashanti Branch for Act 2 of our conversation, and almost immediately, we explore the genesis of the "Million Mask Movement," a powerful initiative aimed at helping individuals unmask their true selves and fostering empathy. Ashanti shares deeply personal stories, revealing the challenges he faced during a workshop and the wake-up call that fueled his commitment to continuous growth. As we journey through Ashanti's experiences at the Kennedy Center and his reflections on receiving the Surgeon General's medallion, we witness the humility and dedication that define his work, and before wrapping up our conversation, Ashanti leaves us with a profound reminder that the movement is not just about reaching a million masks; it's about creating a world where people feel seen and valued, fostering empathy on a global scale.Bio: Mr. Branch, born and raised by a single mother on welfare in Oakland, California, took the road less traveled to get out of the ghetto and attended one of California’s premier engineering colleges, California Polytechnic - San Luis Obispo. Ashanti studied Civil Engineering and worked as a construction project manager in his first career. After tutoring struggling students and realizing his true passion was teaching, Mr. Branch changed careers. He had suddenly found the “fire” that was missing in his life and he hoped to ignite a similar enthusiasm in his young students.In 2004 as a first year teacher, Ashanti started The Ever Forward Club to provide a support group for African American and Latino males, who were not achieving to the level of their potential. Since then, The Ever Forward Club has grown to serve both young men and women and become a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The Ever Forward Club has helped 100% of its members graduate high school and 93% of them have gone on to attend college.With over 19 years mentoring youth and 10 of those years as a math teacher educating inner city youth, Ashanti was awarded with a Fulbright Exchange Fellowship to India, a Rotary Club Cultural Ambassadorial Fellowship to Mexico and a 2010 Teacher of the Year Award from the Alameda-Contra Costa County Math Educators.Mr. Branch is on a mission to change the way that students interact with their education and the way schools interact with students.Website: https://everforwardclub.org/ashanti-branch-bioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/

In this episode, I sit down with Ashanti Branch, an inspiring educator, to discuss his transformative journey as a teacher and mentor. We delve into the challenges he faced and the innovative methods he employed to connect with and guide struggling students, and throughout our conversation, we explore the power of mentorship and the profound impact of creating a supportive environment for students to thrive. We also uncover the personal struggles that Ashanti encountered and the profound changes that occurred as he navigated the complexities of teaching, and before wrapping up Act 1, Ashanti shared some wise words about the invaluable lessons and insights gained from his dedication to empowering students and fostering a sense of community and growth. Bio: Mr. Branch, born and raised by a single mother on welfare in Oakland, California, took the road less traveled to get out of the ghetto and attended one of California’s premier engineering colleges, California Polytechnic - San Luis Obispo. Ashanti studied Civil Engineering and worked as a construction project manager in his first career. After tutoring struggling students and realizing his true passion was teaching, Mr. Branch changed careers. He had suddenly found the “fire” that was missing in his life and he hoped to ignite a similar enthusiasm in his young students.In 2004 as a first year teacher, Ashanti started The Ever Forward Club to provide a support group for African American and Latino males, who were not achieving to the level of their potential. Since then, The Ever Forward Club has grown to serve both young men and women and become a 501(c)3 non-profit organization. The Ever Forward Club has helped 100% of its members graduate high school and 93% of them have gone on to attend college.With over 19 years mentoring youth and 10 of those years as a math teacher educating inner city youth, Ashanti was awarded with a Fulbright Exchange Fellowship to India, a Rotary Club Cultural Ambassadorial Fellowship to Mexico and a 2010 Teacher of the Year Award from the Alameda-Contra Costa County Math Educators.Mr. Branch is on a mission to change the way that students interact with their education and the way schools interact with students.Website: https://everforwardclub.org/ashanti-branch-bioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/