unMASKing with Male Educators: Creating Emotionally Safe Classrooms & Schools for Male Students

Episoder

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  #83 | Behind the High Performer: What We Hide Behind the Mask w/ Ron Rapatalo 18.08.2026 41min

  What happens when someone appears confident, connected, and successful on the outside while privately navigating anxiety, avoidance, pressure, and self-doubt?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, coach, connector, podcast host, and social impact leader Ron Rapatalo to explore identity, vulnerability, high performance, community, leadership, and the emotional weight people often carry behind their public image.Together, they reflect on the version of ourselves we share publicly, the struggles we protect privately, and why true self-awareness requires looking beyond achievement, visibility, and professional success.This conversation dives into:Ron’s journey as the child of Filipino immigrants and a product of New York City public schoolsWhy education became an equalizer in his lifeHow Filipino cultural values shaped his commitment to community and connectionThe difference between a public brand and the person behind itWhy vulnerability is often shared only after it has been processedHow high performers can hide anxiety, avoidance, and private strugglesThe emotional and physical cost of constantly needing to succeedWhy educators should not have to sacrifice their health to serve othersHow ADHD, anxiety, deadlines, and performance can become deeply connectedWhy excellence does not have to look like sufferingThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Ron explore what it means to be visible without being fully known. They remind listeners that achievement does not erase struggle, vulnerability is not weakness, and the people who appear strongest may still be carrying experiences others cannot see.If you care about educator wellness, leadership, identity, high performance, emotional health, vulnerability, community, social impact, or creating more human-centered professional spaces, this episode is for you.Connect with Ron RapataloEmail: rapatalo@gmail.comPodcast: https://ronderings.podcastsmatter.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rapatalo/?skipRedirect=trueConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#BehindHighPerformance #WhatSuccessHides #HighPerformers #EducatorWellness #LeadershipAndVulnerability 
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  #82 | Behind the Confidence: Let Kids Learn To Live w/ Dr. Ray Boyd 11.08.2026 45min

  What does it mean to lead with confidence while carrying vulnerability, caution, and responsibility behind the mask?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with Western Australian educator and school leader Dr. Ray Boyd to explore leadership, childhood, boundaries, technology, masculinity, and the lasting impact teachers have on young people.Together, they reflect on the pressure educators carry, the importance of consistency, and why students need both freedom and clear expectations in order to grow.This conversation dives into:The confidence school leaders often show publiclyThe vulnerability and sensitivity many men keep hiddenWhy dependable leadership builds trustHow teachers constantly anticipate what could go wrongThe pressure educators carry beyond the school dayWhy children need opportunities to take healthy risksHow overprotection can increase anxiety and limit independenceThe impact of phones and social media on childhoodWhy clear boundaries must be followed by consistent actionThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Ray explore how strong leadership combines confidence with care, boundaries with support, and high expectations with humanity. They remind educators that students may not always express their appreciation, but the consistency and care they receive can shape their lives for years to come.If you care about school leadership, emotional safety, healthy masculinity, student independence, educator wellness, or creating consistent and supportive classrooms, this episode is for you.Connect with Dr. Ray BoydEmail: ray.boyd@education.wa.edu.auLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/rayboyd007/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#EmotionalSafety #HealthyMasculinity #StudentSupport #CaringClassrooms #PositiveDiscipline #ConsistencyMatters #YouthDevelopment 
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  #81 | Leading With Compassion w/ Joshua Stamper 04.08.2026 55min

  What happens when an educator chooses to look beyond behavior and uncover the story, need, or struggle beneath it?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with educator, author, speaker, and podcast host Joshua Stamper to explore relationships, leadership, student behavior, educator wellness, and the power of discovering purpose.Together, they reflect on the confidence educators show publicly, the self-doubt they may carry privately, and why meaningful change begins when students and staff feel seen, valued, and understood.This conversation dives into:Joshua’s journey from graphic designer to teacher and school leaderHow mentors can recognize leadership potential before we see it ourselvesWhy purpose can transform motivation and performanceThe importance of building relationships before expecting academic growthWhy knowledge of the brain must first pass through the heartHow educators can misinterpret students when pieces of their stories are missingWhy behavior should be viewed as a form of communicationThe role respect and trust play in student engagementThe confidence leaders display while privately carrying self-doubtIf you care about educator wellness, student behavior, school leadership, emotional intelligence, relationship-centered education, or creating healthier school communities, this episode is for you.Connect with Joshua StamperEmail: Joshua@joshstamper.comWebsite:https://joshstamper.comLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-stamper/YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@joshuastamperExplore Joshua’s books and podcasts, including Aspire to Lead, The Language of Behavior, and the VibeEDU Podcast.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#AspireToLead #TheLanguageOfBehavior #VibeEDU #EducationalLeadership #SchoolLeadership #EducatorWellness #TeacherBurnout #StudentBehavior #RelationshipCenteredEducation #EmotionalIntelligence
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  #80 | Beyond The Mask: What Education Owes The World w/ Professor Richard Weissbourd 29.07.2026 36min

  What does it truly mean to raise caring, moral, and engaged young people?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with Harvard educator and Making Caring Common founder Professor Richard Weissbourd to discuss empathy, morality, purpose, civic responsibility, and the pressures shaping educators and students today.They explore why schools must look beyond academic achievement, how listening builds empathy, why young people need help finding truth in a divided media landscape, and why we cannot afford to become indifferent.This conversation is for educators, parents, and anyone committed to helping young people become thoughtful, compassionate, and engaged human beings.Connect with Professor Richard WeissbourdEmail: richard_weissbourd@gse.harvard.eduLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/company/making-caring-common-at-hgseConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators#SocialEmotionalLearning #EmotionalSafety #MoralDevelopment #CivicEngagement #StudentWellbeing #PurposeAndMeaning
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  #79 | Behind the Mask: The Masks We Wear, the History We Carry w/ Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr. 22.07.2026 50min

  What happens when a historian, educator, and cultural critic invites us to think more deeply about the masks we wear, the stories we inherit, and the truths we often avoid?In this powerful episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti sits down with historian, professor, author, and public scholar Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr. Known for his work exploring African American history, race, culture, and representation, Dr. Gooding brings both intellectual depth and personal reflection to a conversation about identity, education, and emotional truth.Ashanti and Dr. Gooding unpack the realities many Black men navigate every day, the tension between who they are and who the world expects them to be, the exhaustion of code-switching, and the emotional weight carried beneath carefully constructed masks.This conversation dives into:The concept of front-stage and backstage behaviorW.E.B. Du Bois' idea of double consciousnessWhy many young men hide vulnerability behind humor and performanceThe emotional safety students need before authentic connection can happenHip-hop as an overlooked educational and cultural teaching toolHow schools often overlook the strengths students bring from homeThe relationship between empathy, history, and educationThe hidden pain that can exist behind passion and advocacyWhy teaching honest history is essential to understanding the presentThe challenges and opportunities of being a Black male educator todayThroughout the conversation, Ashanti and Dr. Gooding explore what it means to lead with authenticity while navigating systems that often demand performance. Together, they challenge listeners to think differently about masculinity, education, empathy, and the power of human connection.If you care about education, history, emotional wellness, racial equity, authentic leadership, or helping young people feel seen and understood, this episode is for you.Connect with Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr.LinkedIn: Dr. Frederick Gooding Jr.Email: f.gooding@tcu.eduUpcoming Books:A book exploring Black statues and monuments in Washington, D.C., and what they reveal about visibility, memory, and representation in America.A Disturbance in the Force: Making Space for Race in the Star Wars Space, examining race, identity, and representation throughout the Star Wars universe.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #AuthenticMasculinity #BlackMaleEducators #EmotionalSafety #TeachingHonestHistory #EducationalEquity
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  #78: More Than One Way to Be a Man: Redefining Masculinity w/ Gabriel Mizunaka 15.07.2026 42min

  What happens when young people are only shown one version of what it means to be a man?Ashanti Branch sits down with educator, spoken word artist, and author Gabriel Mizunaka to explore the experiences, mentors, and moments that shaped his journey as a teacher and creative voice.Together, they discuss the masks men wear, the pressures young people face in defining masculinity, and the role poetry can play in helping students express emotions that often go unspoken. Gabriel shares how a simple classroom opportunity changed the course of his life and why educators should never underestimate the impact they have on students.This episode is a reminder that authenticity is not weakness. When young people are given permission to express who they truly are, they begin to discover the strength that has been there all along.How one classroom moment introduced Gabriel to spoken word poetryWhy educators often underestimate their influence on studentsThe power of creating spaces where young people can express their emotionsHow poetry can unlock conversations students struggle to have out loudWhy many boys are taught a limited view of masculinityThe difference between appearing strong and being emotionally healthyHow silence, avoidance, and bottled-up emotions affect young menWhy students are constantly learning from what educators model, not just what they teachThe importance of male role models who demonstrate empathy and vulnerabilityHow social media influences the way young people define manhoodWhy teachers cannot carry the responsibility for every student's outcomeThe value of recognizing indirect moments of impact in educationHow authentic relationships help young people embrace who they areWhy there is more than one way to be a manThe connection between creativity, identity, and emotional well-beingConnect with Gabriel MizunakaInstagram: @mizuonthemicTikTok: @mizuonthemicBook: To the Student That . . .: A collection of poems for students (and teachers) for the classroomConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducatoreEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #HealthyMasculinity #EducationPodcast #TeacherLife #StudentVoice #EmotionalIntelligence
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  #77: Student Rights Aren't Optional: Why Student Rights Can't Be Left to Chance w/ Preston Cary Green III 08.07.2026 48min

  What happens when the protections students depend on begin to disappear in plain sight?In this conversation, Ashanti Branch sits down with education law scholar Preston Cary Green III to explore how his journey shaped his commitment to protecting opportunity, dignity, and rights for all young people.Together, they discuss the masks educators wear, the ongoing fight for student protections, and why communities must stay engaged in defending educational justice.This episode is a reminder that opportunity is never guaranteed. It must be understood, protected, and fought for.How early educational interventions can change the course of a child's lifeWhy labels and misplaced assumptions can limit student potentialThe role educational law plays in creating opportunity and accessHow school desegregation shaped generations of students and familiesThe difference between educational choice and educational protectionWhy legal rights matter in every learning environmentHow giftedness, talent, and potential are often overlookedThe importance of making complex educational issues accessible to familiesWhy advocacy cannot stop at the federal levelHow local communities can protect and advance student rightsThe connection between dignity, equity, and educational accessWhy educators must understand the systems that shape student experiencesThe power of mentors who help young people see new possibilitiesWhat it means to continue the unfinished work of educational justiceConnect with Preston Cary Green IIIWebsite: www.drprestongreen.comBlueSky: @prestongreenX: @PrestonGreenLinkedIn: Preston Cary Green IIIConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducatoreEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators # EducationLeadership #StudentAdvocacy #EducationalEquity #SchoolLeadership #EducationPolicy #UnmaskingWithEducators
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  #76: The Power of Questioning: Why Critical Thinking Must Belong to Everyone w/ Colin Seale 30.06.2026 46min

  What if the behaviors schools label as problems are actually signs of untapped brilliance?In this conversation, Ashanti Branch sits down with educator, author, and Think Law founder Colin Seale to explore how his journey from struggling student to gifted learner, math teacher, and law school graduate shaped his mission to make critical thinking accessible to every child.Together, they discuss the masks educators wear, the invisible talents students carry, and what it takes to create classrooms where rigor, engagement, and humanity can thrive together.This episode is a reminder that students do not need less challenge. They need learning that helps them see what they are capable of becoming.How early labels can shape a student's identity and futureWhy critical thinking is often treated as a luxury instead of a necessityThe difference between classroom management and classroom controlHow giftedness and behavior are often misunderstood in schoolsWhy invisible talent exists in every classroomThe power of creating psychological safety around mistakesWhat educators miss when they focus only on complianceHow engagement can become a pathway to rigorWhy many students are underestimated before they ever get a chance to shineThe role of curiosity, advocacy, and questioning in student successHow real-world problems can make academic content more meaningfulWhy educators must challenge systems that limit opportunity for young peopleWhat it means to rehumanize instruction instead of simply managing behaviorHow educators can move from believing some students can to creating conditions where all students canConnect with Colin SealeWebsite: https://www.thinklaw.usInstagram: @colinsealeInstagram: @thinklawusBook: Thinking Like a Lawyer: A Framework for Teaching Critical Thinking to All StudentsConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducatoreEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #EducationPodcast #EducationalLeadership #StudentSuccess #TeachingAndLearning #ThinkLaw 
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  #75: What Does It Mean to Be Black in America’s Schools? w/ Brian Rashad Fuller 23.06.2026 51min

  What happens when your earliest memories teach you lessons about race, identity, and belonging before you even understand what those words mean?In this conversation, Ashanti Branch sits down with educator, author, and education leader Brian Rashad Fuller to explore his journey into education and the story behind Being Black in America’s Schools.Together, they discuss the masks educators wear, the power of joy and representation, and what it takes to create schools where Black and Brown students can thrive without sacrificing their humanity.This episode is a reminder that education is about more than test scores. It’s about helping young people see who they are and what’s possible.This episode is a reminder that education is about more than test scores. It's about helping young people understand who they are, what they are capable of becoming, and ensuring they have the support to pursue their dreams.How childhood experiences shape the educators we becomeWhy joy matters for Black boys and Black menThe power of representation in the classroomWhat Brian learned from working with students impacted by incarcerationWhy many students don't know what they don't know about college and opportunityThe connection between education and social justiceHow educators can challenge systems that were not designed for all students to succeedThe hidden costs of achievement-focused school culturesWhy reflection is essential for growth as an educatorWhat it means to disrupt inequity from inside the systemHow Brian's personal story became the foundation for his bookConnect with Brian Rashad FullerWebsite: https://www.brianrashadfuller.comFollow Brian for insights on educational equity, leadership, social justice, and creating schools where all students can thrive. Book: Being Black in America’s Schools: Student and Educator Reformers Call for ChangeConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #EducationLeadership #EducationalEquity #StudentSuccess #SchoolLeadership #SocialJusticeEducation
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  #74: Hope Dealers and Possibility: Reimagining What Young People Can Become w/ Hasan Davis 16.06.2026 1t 2min

  What happens when one person sees your potential before you can see it yourself?Ashanti Branch sits down with Hasan Davis, educator, youth advocate, storyteller, and self-described "Hope Dealer," to explore the experiences that shaped his life and his commitment to young people. From childhood trauma and educational barriers to juvenile justice reform and national leadership, Hasan shares how a series of caring adults helped him discover possibilities beyond the circumstances he was born into.They discuss the power of belonging, the responsibility educators carry, and why behavior is often a reflection of survival rather than defiance. Hasan reflects on the teachers, mentors, and family members who refused to let his story end where others expected it to.Why behavior is often communication rather than a disciplinary problemThe importance of creating conditions where students feel they belongHow educators can hold students accountable without giving up on themWhy young people need adults who can see both their struggles and their potentialWhy relationships matter more than authority when building trust with young peopleThe impact of educators who create opportunities instead of barriersHow students often carry responsibilities and burdens that adults never seeWhy schools must address more than academics to support learningHow educators can avoid taking student behavior personallyWhy creating classroom agreements can help students develop ownership and accountabilityThe importance of helping young people imagine futures beyond their current circumstancesConnect with Hasan DavisWebsite: www.hasandavis.comLinkedin: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/hasandavis/⁠ Youtube: ⁠https://www.youtube.com/@HasanDavisSolutions⁠ Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #EducationLeadership #StudentBelonging #TraumaInformedEducation #PowerOfHope #YouthDevelopment #SeeThePossibility
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  #73: From Survival to Purpose: The Courage to Uncover Your Light w/ Steve Sapourn 09.06.2026 57min

  Content notes: This episode contains discussions of trauma, addiction, mental health, and psychedelic-assisted healing. Steve shares his personal experiences and perspectives. This conversation is not intended as medical, psychological, or professional treatment advice. Listeners seeking support should consult qualified healthcare or mental health professionals.What happens when the masks that helped you survive start keeping you from truly living?Ashanti Branch sits down with Steve Sapourn, host of The Neuro’s Journey, to explore childhood trauma, addiction, healing, and nervous system regulation. Steve shares how his journey from survival to success led him toward deeper self-understanding, purpose, and transformation.Together, they discuss how trauma shows up in classrooms, why behavior is often communication, and how one caring educator can change a life.This episode is a reminder that healing happens through choices, connection, and the courage to uncover your light.How childhood trauma shapes the nervous system and influences behaviorWhy some students act out while others hide their pain behind achievementThe connection between addiction, survival, and emotional regulationWhat educators can learn from students who struggle to sit still or stay engagedThe life-changing impact of one teacher who truly sees a studentWhy success, money, and achievement don't always heal emotional woundsThe difference between surviving and truly livingHow shame can keep people disconnected from themselves and othersThe role of community, reflection, and vulnerability in healingWhy apologizing can strengthen relationships instead of weakening themThe importance of regulating your own nervous system before helping othersHow uncovering your inner light can create positive change for everyone around youConnect with Steve SapournWebsite: stevesapourn.comPodcast: The Neuro’s JourneyFollow Steve for conversations about trauma recovery, nervous system regulation, personal transformation, and the healing journey that helps people move from survival to purpose.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #FromSurvivalToPurpose #UncoverYourLight #HealingJourney #TraumaRecovery #NervousSystemHealing 
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  #72: What Happens When the Hope-Giver Needs Hope? w/ Chase Mielke 02.06.2026 47min

  What happens when the people everyone relies on for hope, encouragement, and positivity are struggling to carry everyone else's burdens?In this powerful conversation, Ashanti Branch sits down with educator, author, and speaker Chase Mielke to explore the masks educators wear, the emotional labor of teaching, and the importance of creating spaces where both students and adults can be fully human.They discuss burnout, student engagement, social media's impact on learning, the importance of positive emotions in education, and why relationships matter more than ever in today's classrooms.This episode is a reminder that educators don't have to carry everything alone, and that small moments of connection often have a greater impact than we realize.Why educators often feel pressure to be the strong oneThe hidden emotional costs of caring deeply for studentsHow social media and instant gratification are changing learningWhat students today are struggling with mostThe relationship between joy, resilience, and academic successWhy positive emotions are essential for learningThe challenges of balancing teaching, parenting, and personal well-beingHow one assistant principal changed Chase's life foreverWhy your impact as an educator can't always be measured by dataThe power of small moments over big breakthroughsConnect with Chase MielkeWebsite: chasemielke.comFollow Chase on social media for insights on educator well-being, positive psychology, and effective teaching practices.Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ #UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub  #UnmaskingWithMaleEducators #ChaseMielke #TeacherBurnout #EducatorWellness #TeacherResilience #PositivePsychology #SchoolCulture
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  #71 | Helping Kids Feel Safe Enough to Connect w/ Fernando Deveras 26.05.2026 54min

  What happens when a certified educator, trauma-informed healing-centered facilitator, and community organizer starts asking deeper questions about masculinity, emotional safety, and the world our boys are growing up in?In this powerful episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Asahnti sits down with Mexican-American educator, former middle school teacher, community organizer, and Trauma-Informed Healing-Centered Facilitator, Fernando Deveras. is known for his thought-provoking commentary on history, politics, education, and current events through his growing online platforms and community work.Ashanti and Fernando unpack the emotional realities many young men carry behind the mask, the pressure to perform masculinity, the fear of vulnerability, and the impact of growing up in a world shaped by social media, violence, isolation, and emotional disconnection.This conversation dives into:What boys are really searching for beneath the surfaceWhy emotional safety matters in schools and communitiesThe hidden exhaustion educators carry behind the scenesTrauma, healing, and intergenerational patterns in Latino familiesThe role educators play in helping young people feel seenWhy “the kids don’t have time for adults to wait to be ready”Masculinity, community accountability, and the bystander effectThe importance of speaking up, even when your platform feels smallFernando also shares his personal story growing up as the son of immigrants, becoming a father while in college, transitioning from classroom teaching into community organizing, and helping families heal through culturally grounded practices.If you care about young men, education, emotional wellness, restorative practices, or building safer communities this episode is for you.Connect with FernandoInstagram: @fernando.deverasYouTube: Fernando De VerasSubstack: Fernando De VerasLearn more about and their family healing workshopsConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #MaleEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub #EducationLeadership #HealthyMasculinity #YouthDevelopment #EmotionalSafety #CommunityHealing
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  #70 | If You Didn’t Start Yesterday, Start Today — w/ Nigel Williams 19.05.2026 59min

  In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch sits down with Nigel Williams, a longtime friend from Oakland, retired probation professional, high school basketball coach, father, entrepreneur, and founder of Future Rich.Nigel reflects on the masks he wears as a man who leads with heart, hope, and resilience, while carrying the hidden pressure of looking good, seeming like he has wealth figured out, and navigating the unspoken shame many men carry around money, health, and struggle.He shares his journey from Calvin Simmons Middle School and Fremont High School to 25 years in probation, where he worked with young people, challenged systems that were not serving youth well, and learned the importance of giving people resources before they reach crisis. Nigel also opens up about his health journey, including surviving a staph infection and facing prostate cancer with a commitment to early detection, honesty, and helping other men take their health seriously.In this episode, we talk about:The mask of looking like everything is figured out Why men often hide money struggles instead of talking about them Growing up in Oakland and learning from mentors, family, and community Nigel’s 25-year career in probation and juvenile justice The difference between punishment, accountability, and real support Why young people need financial literacy earlierThe story behind Future RichCompound interest, the Rule of 72, and long-term discipline ETF dividend funds and building generational wealthWhy “future rich” is about freedom, not just money Men’s health, early detection, and prostate cancer awarenessStarting today, even if you did not start yesterday0:00 Welcome and introduction1:18 Nigel’s Oakland roots and Future Rich5:57 From engineering to education9:50 Nigel shares his mask16:43 Ashanti shares his mask21:22 Lessons from 25 years in probation29:32 The beginning of Future Rich36:14 Money, masculinity, and young men39:14 ETF dividend funds explained42:31 Compound interest and the Rule of 7247:52 Men’s health and early detection51:03 PSA numbers, MRIs, and prostate cancer54:42 Start today57:46 Closing and Million Mask Movement invitationConnect with Nigel Williams Website: futurerichnow.com Also mentioned: buildfuturerichnow.com TikTok / Instagram / Facebook: Nigel Williams Project: Future Rich Book / Resource: Future Rich book, workbook, and teacher’s guide Mentioned in this episode Future Rich Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #NigelWilliams #FutureRich #FinancialLiteracy #GenerationalWealth #MaleEducators #MensHealth #ProstateCancerAwareness #EarlyDetection #YouthMentorship #OaklandEducators #MillionMaskMovement #EverForwardClub
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  #69 | Are You In or Are You Out? — w/ Jay Wamsted 12.05.2026 50min

  In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch sits down with Jay Wamsted, a 20-year educator, father, writer, and author of The Lockdown Artist.Jay reflects on the masks he wears as a teacher, being in control, joyful, hopeful, and steady, while carrying the hidden weight of uncertainty, frustration, and concern about the future of public education.He shares his journey as a white educator in predominantly Black classrooms, how writing helped him process race and identity in schools, and why emotional safety matters deeply in math class. Jay also talks about replacing traditional warm-up problems with connection-building “cold opens,” using mistakes as teaching tools, and helping students feel like the classroom does not have to be a bad place.In this episode, we talk about:The hidden mask of classroom controlWhy students can “opt out” long before they leave the roomTeaching through COVID and learning what educators can and cannot fixRace, identity, and the myth of the neutral classroomJay’s journey from math teacher to writerThe story behind The Lockdown ArtistWhy educators should write down classroom storiesBuilding emotional safety in math classUsing jokes, trivia, and authenticity to connect with studentsWhy making mistakes publicly can help students feel safer0:00 Welcome and introduction1:31 Jay opens with a classroom breathing practice3:31 Ashanti shares the front and back of his mask6:33 Jay reflects on control, hope, and what he carries behind the mask9:25 The public misunderstanding of teachers and summers off11:18 How Jay navigates the pressure of caring for students14:28 COVID, burnout, and learning what teachers cannot fix15:53 Jay’s journey into writing16:11 Teaching as a white educator in predominantly Black classrooms18:06 Summer 2020 and writing about race in education19:35 The story behind The Lockdown Artist22:04 “Are you in or are you out?”23:37 Who The Lockdown Artist is written for25:28 Race, identity, and what adults call “neutral”30:56 Journaling, reflection, and writing classroom stories35:07 Emotional safety in math class36:43 Moving away from traditional warm-up problems38:35 Using “cold opens” to build connection43:19 Advice for educators who want to build more trust44:43 Being real with students in appropriate waysConnect with Jay WamstedWebsite: jaywamsted.comInstagram / TikTok / X: @jaywamstedJay WamstedBook: The Lockdown ArtistMentioned in this episodeThe Lockdown ArtistThe First Days of School by Harry K. Wong and Rosemary T. WongConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #PrincipalKafele #MillionMaskMovement #MaleEducators #SchoolLeadership #CulturallyRelevantPedagogy #EverForwardClub
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  #68 | Does Your Teaching Match Who’s in the Room? — w/ Principal Baruti Kafele 05.05.2026 45min

  In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch sits down with Principal Baruti Kafele, a 40-year educator, author, speaker, and school leader.Principal Kafele reflects on the mask he wore as a principal... “I’m good”, while carrying the hidden pressures of leadership, staff conflict, community expectations, and student needs.He shares how reading Malcolm X, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and Dr. Carter G. Woodson changed his life and led him into education. He also challenges educators to make learning culturally relevant, build real relationships with students, and ask whether their teaching truly matches who is in the room.In this episode, we talk about:The hidden mask of school leadershipWhy educators must understand students’ culture and lived experiencesHow to make learning relevant and meaningfulThe power of relationship before instructionPrincipal Kafele’s Young Men’s Empowerment ProgramWhy administrators must coach teachers, not just evaluate them0:00 Welcome and introduction 3:36 The mask of “I’m good” 8:56 Navigating school politics and union relationships 14:30 How education found Principal Kafele 17:42 Discovering Dr. Carter G. Woodson 20:32 Putting students in the lesson 23:04 Becoming someone students can hear 24:20 Young Men’s Empowerment Program 30:00 Does your teaching match who’s in the room? 35:50 Principals as instructional coaches 41:07 How to connect with Principal KafeleConnect with Principal Baruti KafeleWebsite: principalcafele.com Facebook / Instagram / LinkedIn / X: @principalkafele YouTube: AP & New Principals AcademyConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #PrincipalKafele #MillionMaskMovement #MaleEducators #SchoolLeadership #CulturallyRelevantPedagogy #EverForwardClub
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  #E67 | Clyde Cole on Emotional Safety, Authentic Leadership, and Helping Students Take the Risk to Trust 28.04.2026 47min

  Ashanti sits down with Clyde Cole, Principal of Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School, to explore identity, leadership, education, and the masks school leaders wear.Clyde reflects on his journey as the child of immigrants, his 35 years in education, and the classroom moment that shaped his calling. He also shares how calm leadership, transparency, and emotionally safe adults can help young men build trust and move beyond the mask.A powerful conversation for educators, school leaders, mentors, and anyone committed to helping young people feel seen.In this episode:The masks Ashanti and Clyde wear as educators and leadersWhy calm leadership can sometimes be misunderstood as not caringHow transparency helps students, families, and staff trust the decision-making processWhy young men need vocabulary to express what they are carryingThe fifth-grade teacher who changed Clyde’s life by choosing elevation over punishmentWhy educators should look for opportunities to lift students up, even in disruptive momentsHow Cristo Rey Brooklyn supports students through academics, work-study, service, and community partnershipTimestamps:00:01 Welcome and introduction00:44 Clyde’s background, identity, and Brooklyn roots02:26 Leading Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School04:48 Ashanti shares his educator mask08:32 Clyde shares his mask as a leader13:42 Calm leadership in difficult moments15:54 Using transparency to build trust19:14 The deeper work of education21:19 Helping young men move beyond the mask23:01 Giving young men language for their emotions26:17 Creating spaces for emotional risk-taking27:48 Why students need safe adults30:59 The teacher who changed Clyde’s path32:28 Elevating students instead of punishing them36:19 Clyde’s five domains of school leadership37:44 Academic leadership39:01 Cultural leadership40:01 Organizational leadership41:22 Team leadership42:28 Interpersonal leadership45:35 Cristo Rey Brooklyn’s work-study model46:24 How to support Cristo Rey Brooklyn students48:21 Closing reflections and mask invitationResources & Links Mentioned:Cristo Rey Brooklyn High School: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/ Faculty & Staff / Clyde Cole: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/faculty-and-staffConnect with Clyde ColeWebsite: https://www.cristoreybrooklyn.org/ Email: ccole@cristoreybrooklyn.orgJoin/Contribute to our Young Men’s Conference: https://everforwardclub.orgJoin our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345Submit Questions, Reflections, or Episode Ideas, Email us: totmpod100@gmail.comCreate your mask anonymously: https://millionmask.org/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #EmotionalSafety #MaleEducators #AuthenticLeadership #SchoolLeadership #CristoReyBrooklyn #YoungMenMatter #BehindTheMask #EducatorWellbeing
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  #E66 | Bishop Foreman on Transformational Teaching, Leadership, and Teaching for Real Impact 21.04.2026 40min

  Ashanti sits down with Bishop Foreman for an honest and powerful conversation about leadership, education, and the masks we wear.This episode explores what it means to lead while carrying pain, why consistency can become overcommitment, and how childhood experiences often shape the way adults show up as educators, mentors, and leaders. Bishop Foreman also shares why the best teachers do more than deliver information. They help students think, connect, and transform.If you are an educator, school leader, mentor, coach, or anyone who works with young people, this conversation offers both reflection and practical insight.In this episode:The masks Ashanti and Bishop Foreman wear in public and what they carry underneathThe connection between childhood instability and adult leadership patternsWhy authenticity matters in teaching and leadershipHow to move from information delivery to transformational teachingWhy educators should focus on the takeaway, not just the lessonHow engagement, humor, and interaction help students learnWhy students need adults who can connect before they can truly teachTimestamps: 00:06 Welcome and opening reflections 00:14 Meet Bishop Foreman 00:30 Bishop Foreman on leadership, impact, and honoring educators 01:21 His early love of teaching and starting a business at age 12 03:47 Ashanti on entrepreneurship, schools, and setting up the mask activity 05:32 Ashanti shares his mask 08:32 Bishop Foreman shares his mask 13:39 Consistency, leadership, and knowing when to let something go 15:34 Childhood responsibility, protecting others, and emotional attachment in leadership 19:44 Ashanti connects with the role of protector in his own story 20:40 Working with adults, youth, and communicating across audiences 22:56 Speaking with energy and connecting beyond information 24:37 Youth attention spans and the challenge to make learning worth their time 26:46 Moving from reacting to students toward building growth-centered structures 28:45 Starting with the end in mind and teaching for transformation 30:02 Why many educated people are not taught to think critically 31:14 Social media, swipe culture, and shrinking attention spans 32:38 Teaching critical thinking instead of just content 33:14 The educators Bishop Foreman still remembers and why they mattered 36:36 How to connect with Bishop Foreman 39:32 Closing invitation to share your mask anonymouslyResources & Links Mentionedbishopforeman.comText “BISHOP” to 55498 for discounts on books, coaching, and resourcesConnect with Bishop ForemanWebsite: bishopforeman.com Social media: @BishopForemanJoin/Contribute to our Young Men’s Conference: https://everforwardclub.orgJoin our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345Submit Questions, Reflections, or Episode Ideas, Email us: totmpod100@gmail.comCreate your mask anonymously: https://millionmask.org/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #EmotionalSafety #MaleEducators #AuthenticLeadership #EducatorWellbeing #BehindTheMask
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  #65 | Alexander Kopelman on Authenticity, Creativity, and Helping Children Stay Real 17.04.2026 48min

  In this conversation, Ashanti sits down with Alexander Kopelman, founding president and CEO of the Children’s Arts Guild, to explore authenticity, identity, creativity, and what it means to help children thrive as whole human beings. Together, they reflect on the masks adults wear, the stories we carry from childhood, and how our own fears, wounds, and expectations can shape the way we show up for young people. Alexander shares his journey as a refugee from the Soviet Union, the origins of the Children’s Arts Guild, and the heart behind his book, For Real: Helping Children Remain Their Authentic Selves in a Limiting World.How identity gets shaped by what others assume about usWhy creativity can open doors to honesty, vulnerability, and emotional safetyHow the Children’s Arts Guild began through work with boys and creative expressionA powerful moment from a kickball game that opened a conversation about crying and griefWhy adults in a child’s ecosystem matter just as much as the child-focused program itselfWhy children need to be allowed to fully be the age they areHow post-pandemic expectations may still be out of step with where children really are00:02 Welcome to UnMASKing with Male Educators00:35 Meet Alexander Kopelman01:41 Alexander introduces the Children’s Arts Guild and For Real02:09 Coming to the U.S. as a refugee and rebuilding identity03:13 Assumptions, religion, and being seen from the outside05:25 Choice, identity, and the masks we wear14:39 Creative mortification and the fear of drawing17:34 How Alexander’s work with boys and adults began21:25 Kickball, crying, and the moment things shifted23:15 Why working with adults became essential25:09 Authenticity as a framework for educators and parents27:12 What games can reveal about fairness, emotion, and behavior29:17 Why adults need inner work and practice too31:45 Men’s work, circles, and learning to trust the process35:31 Realizing there were no men in his life37:04 New Warrior training and recognizing inner voices40:20 Parenting, anxiety, and reacting from fear41:35 What For Real offers adults43:34 Letting children be the age they are44:19 Post-pandemic development and shifting expectations46:41 A final reminder for parents and educators47:28 How to connect with Alexander48:34 Closing invitationResources & Links MentionedChildren’s Arts GuildFor Real: Helping Children Remain Their Authentic Selves in a Limiting WorldAuthenticity Works — Alexander’s websitemillionmask.org — share your mask anonymouslyMankind ProjectGirls Inc.Connect with Alexander KopelmanWebsite: authenticityworks.orgBook website: forrealbook.orgJoin/Contribute to our Young Men’s Conference: https://everforwardclub.orgJoin our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345Submit Questions, Reflections, or Episode Ideas, Email us: totmpod100@gmail.comCreate your mask anonymously: https://millionmask.org/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #AlexanderKopelman #Authenticity #CreativeExpression #EmotionalSafety #WholeChild #MaleEducators #Parenting #ChildDevelopment #Healing
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  #64 | Jason Biehl on White Discomfort, Belonging, and the Work of Healing 01.04.2026 47min

  In this thoughtful and timely conversation, Ashanti sits down with educator, facilitator, and author Jason Biehl to explore masculinity, whiteness, emotional honesty, and what it means to nurture healthy belonging for boys and men. Together, they reflect on the fears, grief, and uncertainty many young people are carrying right now, and why adults must be willing to face discomfort, tell the truth, and model courage in order to create more emotionally safe communities.Jason also shares about his upcoming four-part graphic memoir series, Unicorns: A Memoir for Young White Men, beginning with On White Discomfort, and explains why this work matters so deeply in this moment.In This Episode, We Talk About:What Ashanti and Jason are carrying on the front and back of their masksWhy hope, honesty, and vulnerability are essential in hard timesThe fears young people are holding about safety, identity, and the futureHow masculinity, whiteness, and patriarchy shape belonging and disconnectionWhy discomfort can be a necessary part of learning, growth, and healingThe importance of creating spaces where boys and young men can tell the truthJason’s new graphic memoir series, Unicorns, for young white menWhy adults and educators must stop waiting for crisis before doing proactive workTimestamps:00:00 Discomfort, healing, and growth00:34 Episode preview01:25 Welcome to UnMASKing with Male Educators02:02 Meet Jason Beale04:26 Working with white men, boys, and belonging06:52 Ashanti shares his mask09:41 Jason shares his mask12:24 “Hope is a discipline”14:35 Fear, silence, and speaking up16:28 Why more men need skin in the game17:03 Bullying, fear, and self-silencing19:08 Social media vs real courage21:09 What young people are carrying right now23:33 What gives Jason hope26:00 The need for healthier role models28:25 Why white discomfort matters30:49 Othering, privilege, and race33:15 Tulsa, erased history, and truth38:09 Algorithms and echo chambers40:30 Why schools wait for crisis42:54 Boys, patriarchy, and accountability45:16 Jason’s Unicorns book series46:19 Closing invitationResources & Links MentionedChange the Narrative — Jason’s websiteUnicorns: A Memoir for Young White MenNurturing Healthy Belonging series for young men and boysmillionmask.org — share your mask anonymouslyTalk to Your Boys by Christopher Pepper and Joanna SchroederConnect with Jason Biehl Website: changethenarrative.meJoin/Contribute to our Young Men’s Conference: https://everforwardclub.orgJoin our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345Submit Questions, Reflections, or Episode Ideas, Email us: totmpod100@gmail.comCreate your mask anonymously: https://millionmask.org/Connect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksX: https://x.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward ClubHelp us continue creating spaces for young men to be seen, heard, and supported:https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/supportConnect with Ever Forward ClubInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubX: https://x.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/#UnMASKingWithMaleEducators #JasonBeale #MaleEducators #HealthyMasculinity #Belonging #EmotionalSafety #AntiRacism #SocialJusticeEducation #YoungMen #VulnerabilityIsStrength