Find Your Grind Podcast

In a recent fireside chat, founder Nick Gross sat down with Michelle Capasso and Peter Sukhoo, Assistant Principal and Career Development Teacher from New York, and highlighted how Find Your Grind is helping students explore passions, develop confidence, and prepare for life beyond the classroom. This conversation wasn't just theoretical. Cypress Hills Collegiate Preparatory School is putting these ideas into action with measurable success. Students have successfully completed Find Your Grind's 9-unit career development curriculum, aligning with CDOS (Career Development and Occupational Studies) standards for graduation. This initiative is about more than careers, it's about empowering students to shape their futures with purpose and clarity.

Scott Kerwien, Head of Student Success at Spokane Public Schools, joins Find Your Grind for a discussion on how education is adapting to better serve students in today's fast-changing world.  With traditional career readiness models becoming outdated, schools are seeking new ways to empower students to explore their options, develop real-world skills, and prepare for a future that excites them. Scott shares his perspective on this shift toward personalized career exploration and how Find Your Grind is playing a key role in this transformation. By providing students with engaging, self-guided experiences that highlight diverse career opportunities and lifestyle choices, the platform helps students move beyond a predefined path and toward a future that truly aligns with their values, strengths, and aspirations.

In an inspiring discussion, Find Your Grind connected with Margaret Pearlman, CTE Central District Resource Teacher, to explore how Hawaii is preparing students for success beyond the classroom. Margaret shares the transformative impact of Find Your Grind's curriculum, emphasizing how it helps students explore their interests, build confidence, and develop career-aligned skills. With a focus on personalized learning, real-world experiences, and purpose-driven education, Hawaii's model offers a glimpse into the future of student success.

Find Your Grind CEO Nick Gross recently met with Dr. Peter Licata, former Superintendent of Broward County Schools, for this engaging Fireside Chat. Dr. Licata shared his thoughts on the role of personalized education in shaping future-ready students, emphasizing the power of self-awareness and adaptability. From bold strategies to transformative initiatives, their conversation highlighted how schools can better prepare students for success in today's ever-changing world. This dialogue reaffirms our commitment to empowering the next generation with purposeful learning.

During a recent Fireside Chat, Brandon Langer, Director of Innovation and Strategic Partnerships from Pennsylvania, joined founder Nick Gross to dive into how Find Your Grind is transforming education.  Together, they explored how the platform helps students align career choices with their dream lifestyles through self-awareness and adaptability. Brandon shared how Find Your Grind's personalized approach stands out and the pivotal role technology plays, from AI to micro-credentials, in preparing students for the future. These conversations remind us why guiding students toward exciting, purposeful futures is so important.

Angie Oberg, an educator from Minden, Nebraska, is a traveler, concert-goer, reader, thinker, and educator with over 30 years of experience. Her teaching journey evolved from traditional lectures to fostering critical thinking. She emphasizes process over results, encouraging students to ask questions and engage in group discussions. Angie's Back Shelf Library initiative boosted student engagement in reading, allowing them to choose from a diverse collection of young adult novels. Her classroom promotes student agency, growth, and a love for learning, emphasizing curiosity and exploration over data-driven metrics. As she nears retirement, Angie hopes more educators can provide students with personalized, nurturing learning experiences that inspire curiosity and self-discovery.

Valerie began her career as a founder and Principal of an Independent Business school in rural Jamaica for underserved adolescents. Her thirst for an awareness of the structures and systems in public education led her to high school teaching at two of Jamaica's most prestigious schools. The thirst further led her to become an international teacher in South Bronx; a community that is economically and academically challenged.  Valerie holds  a Diploma in Teaching, a Bachelor  of Education from the College of Arts Science and Technology; two Master Degrees in Special Education  and Middle School Science from City College and  a certification in Education Leadership from College of Saint Rose. She believes  that education is the backbone of any great nation, and is passionate about education reform for all citizens; Valerie is confident that a good education will never decay.

Dr. Rudy Crew, former NYC Public Schools chancellor, advocates for a dynamic education approach in his white paper "Choosing To Be." He emphasizes integrating skills like math and reading into real-world problem-solving, connecting academic and career paths, and nurturing students' passions. This approach, he believes, builds social capital and is crucial for all students, regardless of their background or school type. In the post-Covid era, he urges interactive, self-motivated learning aligned with students' aspirations, making education a window of opportunity for all.

Join us for an insightful Fireside Chat with Amanda McCann, a dedicated EdTech expert with 10 years in the field. Originating from an unexpected entry into EdTech, Amanda's passion grew as she witnessed its transformative impact on students. Residing in Asheville, NC, with her family, they revel in the outdoors, soccer, and music. Amanda embodies the Connector, Leader, and Organizer lifestyles from Find Your Grind. Virginia's education scene is undergoing a seismic shift. With the partnership of Find Your Grind, students are experiencing an enriched self-awareness and career exploration journey. This curriculum doesn't just set a career path; it fosters a deeper understanding of oneself, connecting them with mentors from Virginia's leading industries. Virginia, your next educational chapter beckons, with Find Your Grind leading the way!

Join us for an insightful Fireside Chat with Tyler Harrington, a former High School Math & STEM educator who has also worked in EdTech companies in both America and New Zealand. Tyler is passionate about fostering authentic real-world education to empower students. Tyler shares his life with his beloved wife Sami and their two dogs, Peanut and Tui. He loves spending time hiking outdoors, dog agility training, and creative building projects. His Find Your Grind lifestyles are Leader, Competitor, and Entrepreneur. In the heart of the Midwest, Illinois is evolving with emerging career fields. To prepare the next generation, educators, administrators, and the community must collaborate. Empowering educators, customizing solutions, and fostering student autonomy through platforms like Find Your Grind are key. Together, we can empower Illinois' future leaders for success in a changing world.

Join us for an enlightening fireside chat with Katie Grothaus, the Career Navigator Specialist at Montgomery County Educational Service Center in Ohio. With a rich background, including over 12 years as a school principal, Katie provides a unique perspective on the intersection of education and career readiness. Throughout the discussion, we'll explore the intricacies of the Ohio Career Connection Framework and understand its role in shaping the futures of countless students. Listen as Katie shares her journey from leading a school to guiding students toward successful career paths. This conversation promises to be both insightful and inspiring, offering a fresh perspective on the ever-evolving landscape of education and work. Join the conversation and be part of a broader dialogue on preparing our next generation for the world beyond the classroom. Don't miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from a seasoned professional in the field.

Jace Biendera, a dedicated educator with a rich and expansive journey spanning over 30 years, has made significant contributions to the field of education, transforming countless lives and shaping innovative teaching methods. From wearing the hat of a dedicated teacher to shaping the corridors of decision-making as an administrator, Jace has lived through the transformative phases of educational trends. As the present-day Work Experience Teacher/Coordinator, his insights are a blend of grassroots classroom experiences and top-level curricular strategies. But who is Jace beyond these roles? He's a passionate advocate for crafting future-ready pathways for students, always with an emphasis on embracing a lifestyle-first mindset. As we dive into this conversation, get ready to explore the future of work, the importance of molding education to fit evolving societal needs, and the very essence of what makes learning a lifelong journey.

Join us for an enlightening fireside chat with Allyson Hernandez, a devoted educator with a Master of Arts Degree in Social Emotional Learning, committed to empowering students with vital life skills. In her 11-year teaching journey, she's transformed the lives of countless students. Allyson's unique approach focuses on social and emotional learning (SEL), emphasizing self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationship skills, and responsible decision-making. Her classes, including ‘Life Skills' and ‘Peer Helpers,' foster inclusivity and personal growth. Allyson's dedication extends beyond traditional academics, helping students map out their futures, set goals, and make informed decisions. Discover how her passion for teaching enriches lives and prepares students for success. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about education that goes beyond the classroom!

In less than 14 minutes, you'll learn from Evalaurene Jean-Charles a dedicated educator, advocate, and the CEO & Founder of Black on Black Education, an education consulting firm supporting schools in using student voice and student-centered practices to enhance school and classroom culture. Also, as a current 9th-grade history teacher in the Bronx, Evalaurene has made a profound impact on her students' lives. Recognized for her commitment to educational equity and social justice, she holds a Bachelor's degree in Unique and Interdisciplinary Studies and a Master of Arts in Teaching. She has participated in prestigious programs and conferences. As the CEO & Founder of Black on Black Education, Evalaurene continues to work towards a more inclusive and student-centered education system.

In less than 14 minutes, you'll learn from Felecia Gray, who has been in education for over 14 years. She has taught grades 7-12 in the areas of English, Psychology, and Leadership. Felecia has been an administrator for over four years. She has a true passion for educating and supporting students and teachers. Felecia considers herself the “ultimate cheerleader” as it is her life's purpose to be the champion that all educational partners need and deserve.

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Susan Hansen, Instructional Coach, public school educator for 18 years, children's writer, and collage artist. Susan emphasizes the need for teachers to take ownership of their learning. She highlights the power of reflection in professional growth and advocates for creating a supportive learning community where educators can openly share experiences and learn from mistakes. The chat encourages a culture of continuous improvement and collaboration for the greater good of education.

In less than 18 minutes, you'll learn from Christina Pickett, creator of “Know Your Learning Powers,” an online learning course encouraging students to embrace their authentic selves and identify their academic strengths. Christina is an experienced learning development professional with over two decades of expertise in teaching and developing youths and adults. Christina's commitment to a learner-centered approach began during her early days as a middle school teacher and has remained a constant throughout her career as a learning and development specialist.

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Robert Dusenbury, who shares his views on Place-based learning in career and technical education. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Catherine Casaus, who shares her views on The Power of Read Alouds. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Charmaine George, who shares her views what Powerful CTE looks like. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Gary Davison, who shares his views on 10 things educators should brief parents on. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Joseph Gawronski, who shares his views on including students in the educational development process. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Nick George, who shares his views on the power of language and poetry in schools. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed! With a strong background in performance poetry and mental wellness, Nick pulls from his own life experiences and personal challenges as inspiration for his work.

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Eric Denning, who shares his views on The Need for Social Emotional Learning and Mindset Training Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed! In this chat, these questions will be answered: What are some of the biggest hurdles facing our students today? What do you feel is the most important thing for your staff to grasp to become successful educators? What do you feel is the most effective way to handle student discipline?

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Brittney Reeves, who shares her views on the major hindrances of reaching maximum potential in US Education. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed! In this chat, these questions will be answered: What are the major hindrances to reaching maximum potential in US Education? In what ways is the US Education system antiquated?

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Mark Brown, who shares his battle with anorexia, to explain that focusing on who, not what, with students and peers, is the key to a more powerful conversation. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be disappointed!

In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Bradlee W. Skinner about how his journey from homeless pizza delivery driver to Theatre Director and teacher advocate brought  on a passion for educator health. Bradlee speaks openly about his mental health and how seeking help brought him back to education and the ability to help thousands of students and fellow teachers. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, commute, or downtime — you won't be wasting your time! Bradlee, a.k.a. Phony Stark, is an educational thought leader, former assistant principal, a playwright, author, a perspective giving speaker, and an expert in school culture and climate. He is known for his quick wit, creative thought, and humorous personality.

Fireside Chat with Gordon McNeill: Deep Engagement for Students Gordon McNeill, CEO of TGR Foundation (A Tiger Woods Charity) In less than 10 minutes, you'll learn from Gordon McNeill, CEO of TGR Foundation (A Tiger Woods Charity), about the importance of dynamic spaces, dynamic content, and dynamic educators. Too many organizations try to reach youth but come up short in one of these three areas. You need to have all three in order to truly give youth the environment they need to fully thrive. Watch this rapid-fire 10-minute Fireside Chat during your break, your commute, or your downtime — you won't be wasting your time! Founded in 1996, TGR Foundation (A Tiger Woods Charity) equips young people with the tools and support they need to discover their interests, enhance their knowledge and build their own path to personal and professional success.

Tony Hoffman was born as an athletic prodigy. At 14 years old, he held sponsorships and awards as a top-ranked BMX amateur. By the end of his senior year, Tony began to experience drug addiction and substance abuse. He was homeless by 2006 and sent to prison in 2007 for committing an armed robbery. But through these hardships, Tony realized it was time to turn his life around and utilize the gifts that he was given. That same year, he dedicated himself to staying sober and has been ever since. Through discipline and mentorship, he manifested his goals in being part of the Olympics, established a nonprofit providing youth mentorship through action sports, and now travels nationwide and gives public speaking presentations at schools. When it comes to redemption, Tony took a situation at rock bottom and climbed until he was on top.

Podcast host. Events producer. Master interviewer. By junior year of high school, Casey Adams was flying in and out of LA from Virginia attending events to meet some of the world’s top entrepreneurs. Now, at only 20 years old, Casey Adams has already interviewed over 150 people including Larry King, Drama, and Tilman Ferritta. Many students are unsure how to commit to their passions or will choose to wait until they are finished with traditional schooling. For Casey, however, he practices living in the moment — being present — to create opportunities for himself. What does it take to fully commit to your passion? Listen to how being intentional, the power of communication, and staying present will take you to exactly what you should be doing in life.

Spencer Taylor was never a fan of school. A college dropout who is still currently paying off his loans — his story of attempting a traditional post-secondary education rings true for 42.8 million students (in 2020) who have acquired student debt in the U.S. Through gaining his own experience in TV and film, developing mentorships, and tying in his own personal experience – he’s dedicated himself to educating students about college debt by touring across the country on the Student Debt Destroyer bus, and in the process of creating a documentary about the state + future of education. Listen to how education is a personal journey and can be acquired through many different avenues — not just traditional learning settings, but how there’s long-lasting value in mentorships, internships, applying real-life experience and developing your power skills. 

Producer, A&R extraordinaire, and music artist, John Feldmann wasn’t always regarded as the number one rock producer. Feldmann faced addiction as a teenager until he was a young adult, but his passion as an entertainer and skill set of an entrepreneur would give him the drive to prove he was more than just his past. Your industry can create a stigma around the lifestyle you live, but Feldmann’s honest journey proves that the stereotypes around your industry doesn’t have to dictate your lifestyle, self discovery is not a linear path, and life contains major pivots. Listen to how mentorship and surrounding yourself to study the greats impacted him and what you need to do today to break into the music industry (creatively and personally). With over 20 years of experience and running his own music label today, Feldmann provides an honest take on the struggles of what a rising artist can face and what’s needed in your own free will to get yourself out of your own way.

Prince Jackson separates his life by two timelines — before and after his father, the King of Pop, passed away. It hasn’t always been easy to live up to the pressure of his father’s legacy. That’s why Prince, connector and leader, has based his life around what he’s learned from his childhood experiences and what his mentor (his father) instilled upon him. Homeschooled for more than half his life while traveling the world, Prince Jackson learned and got first-hand looks about other cultures and communities. While he followed his interests like art, he always had a heart for advocating for those who weren’t able to speak up for themselves. In college, he studied business admin for entrepreneurship and co-founded a charity and works to end child hunger, homelessness, and abuse. Still building his own legacy, Prince knows it’s about what you learn about yourself that’s the truest form of education you can receive.

The Find Your Grind Podcast is back for Season 2 with special guest music artist, actor, and overall versatile entertainer — Travis Mills. 

The founders come together at Boulder, Colorado during the first stop of the Fall 2019 FYG U Fest to talk about Find Your Grind related news and what the future holds. Nick Gross, Luke “The Dingo” Trembeth, and Mike Smith, (missing Natasha Gross) sits down on a special, Season 1 finale episode of the Find Your Grind podcast to bring up important topics in education and why concentrating on culturally relevant programming and content sets Find Your Grind apart. They each express passion towards wanting students, young adults, and educators to experience the curriculum. Thank you to all our listeners and supporters so far! Check out the updated and FREE curriculum on findyourgrind.com.

Indie rock band, Joywave, started in 2010 and was founded by front man, Daniel Armbruster. The innovator and entertainer always held “delusional,” bigger-than-life dreams about music and songwriting then pursued it with an analytical approach. Graduating college during The Great Recession, Daniel realized after calculating his annual wage that working full-time at his retail job was taking away valuable time towards pursuing what he was really good at and passionate about. From having self awareness and belief that he was meant to write and perform music, he invested his 20s towards becoming exponentially better. After rejection from labels, he was finally signed at 29 years old. Since then, he’s written hits such as “Dangerous” and “Tongues,” toured with bands such as Blink 182, and currently on tour with Joywave supporting Bastille. Daniel’s story focuses on how far self-awareness and belief can take you, and how to get your way while combating popular opinion.

Alexandra Chando is an actress, producer, and director who got her start at a very young age in the TV industry. As she’s matured and gained seasoned experience, Alexandra has found that identity and self worth goes beyond what you’re currently working on. The actress takes us through her upbringing and journey — following her love of theatre and acting, landing her first pilot, and navigating her identity to her ultimate pivot of directing today. As a woman in the TV and film industry, Alexandra has faced personal challenges in arbitrary casting decisions, age, not shaming herself, personal relationships and how this all ties with looking at the greater picture of not attaching what you do to your self worth. Listen as she weaves us through the sequences of auditions and pilots with advice on how to get started and key things to know.

“I think in this day and age, it’s so easy to recognize other people’s lifestyles when yours is staring you in the face, and you don’t even really notice it,” shares Dylan Efron. The elite athlete and filmmaker navigates us how he’s been able to discover and fuse his lifestyle into a career. A natural athlete and lover of the outdoors, Dylan took a traditional path studying Finance and Economics in college, only to leave it behind to take an internship at Warner Brothers and learn how to produce movies. Year after year he took what he’s learned, grew through promotions, and tried different alleyways in film — from production to screenwriting. Now he’s been able to marry both his passions for adventure and exploration to the content he creates, being one of the 40 creators worldwide invited to the GoPro Creator Summit. With an open but focused path before him, listen to how patience, authenticity, and willingness to explore (and fail) gets you to right where you need to be.

Mikey Taylor discovered his purpose when he lost everything. The pro skateboarder hustled to fight for his passion, obtained sponsorships, and built a business model to support himself before he was 18 years old. At one point Mikey Taylor was being sponsored by the biggest in the industry, DC, Spitfire, etc. However, what he abruptly learned were the loopholes and expiration date for skaters which led him to pivot into his next career juncture as an entrepreneur and real estate investor. The day that Mikey learned he lost everything, he found his purpose through educating others in what they want to accomplish. His untraditional pro model shows that you can DIY and form your career path with gut, knowledge, and mentorship.

Bear Degidio has a way of knowing how to create viral moments while being able to connect others and build organic relationships. One of the biggest paintball ambassadors in the world, he’s used his career path to discover that what he loves most out of the sport isn’t playing pro but branding. Today, he’s taken his marketing experts to build and collab with brands, celebrities, and influencers such as Giant Tactical, LA Weekly, OVO, etc. and create social media moments with Ground House Burger.

Venice Ball is a community organization that uplifts streetball culture, bringing together the most talented players through tournaments, community service, and merch.  Venice Ball is one of the most recognized leagues today, is heavily involved in community building through building and sponsoring courts, and attracts hundreds every Sunday for the love of the game. Listen to Nick Ansom's story! 

Tygershark is an Advertising and Marketing agency that specializes in building out e-commerce and websites for music artists and leading popular brands such as October’s Very Own, Drake, The Toronto Raptors, NTWRK, Universal Pictures, Majid Jordan, and Find Your Grind.

Casey McPerry has a mesmerizing way with Instagram that initially looks ordinary, but is truly extraordinary. He combines still images, videos, and a song in a way that makes his instagram feed not only unique, but function as a single work of art. Straight from the beaches of Southern California, Casey is a self taught photographer that turned his instagram into a career. 

Ikonick is a Los Angeles brand putting a new spin on the business of inspiring others through art. The company is now the fastest growing digital art company in the world. Founder Mark Brazil recently partnered up with entrepreneurial icons Gary Vanerchuk and Scooter Braun to grow the brand and are dedicated to producing affordable high-quality canvas art.

Find Your Grind founders Nick Gross, Natasha Gross, Mike Smith and Luke "The Dingo" Trembath get together at the round table to discuss the origins of Find Your Grind and why they started the company. The founders offer insights, tools and tricks as to why the first 10% of the journey is the most important, and how you can get started on your own path this very moment.