Podcast appearances and mentions of ashanti branch

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

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 

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

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

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

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

In this episode, Ashanti Branch shares what he's been witnessing in schools and in the broader social climate surrounding ICE, Alex Pretti, and how it shows up in students' bodies, behavior, and sense of safety. He opens with a lunch conversation with a group of young men who name the pressures they feel: expectations, relationships, emotions, and not always having someone they trust when they're struggling.From there, Ashanti expands into a bigger message for educators and communities: when young people (and adults) don't have a safe way to release what they're carrying, they can end up walking around like “emotional landmines”, until one moment sets everything off.Don't wait for a crisis to make emotional well-being a priority. Ask students how they're doing, build spaces for honest conversation, and use mask-making as a practical tool for connection and healing.A lunch conversation with young men: pressure, relationships, emotions, and trust“Emotional landmines” and what happens when people store it all upMasculinity, power, and what violence can look like when manhood feels threatenedStories that show the impact of fear and rhetoric on young peopleWhy silence (and “staying in our lane”) isn't a protection planA direct invitation to educators: be proactive, not reactiveHow mask-making can open honest conversations in your school/community(0:00) Welcome + why Ashanti is speaking directly in this solo reflection(2:18) Lunch with young men: emotions, expectations, trust, and vulnerability(4:10) Naming “emotional landmines” and feeling the pressure personally(5:51) Early life reflections + how we learn to see the world clearly(7:54) A quote that frames masculinity, power, and the threat of equality(12:08) A young person's testimony: “How can I focus on school when I'm worried about my family?”(16:06) “What are we willing to do to protect what we say we believe?”(18:57) A story about a 10-year-old boy and the ripple effects of fear and threats(21:41) Why people “store it up” until one moment becomes an explosion(22:02) Protests, speaking out, and finding your lane for action(26:59) A direct ask for educators: don't wait for crisis—create emotional support now(29:21) Invitation: make a mask, invite others, and build connection before the “boom”Join/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 IdeasEmail 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 #millionmaskmovement #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #diaryofaconfusededucator #emotionalsafety #emotionallandmines #maskmaking #everforwardclub

What if the leadership move you need most right now isn't to push harder… but to pause?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ayodele Harrison, educator, facilitator, and founder of Black Male Educators Talk (BMEsTalk) joins host Ashanti Branch for a real, layered conversation about the masks Black men learn to wear in schools, in leadership, and in life. Ayodele shares how BMEsTalk is building a leadership ecosystem rooted in brotherhood, wellness, and nonjudgmental connection, because too many men are expected to “hold it down” while quietly running on empty.In this episode, they cover:The mask of the leader: extroversion on the outside, overthinking and introversion on the insideWhy Black men are conditioned to tie worth to usefulness, output, and performance“You're worth the pause”: making the case for wellness when the ROI isn't immediateHow to start men's healing spaces without forcing vulnerability too fast (tables first, circle later)Why “safe” isn't always the right word—and what a brave space invites insteadWhite supremacy as a system designed to disconnect—and what it does to relationships and identityThe power & privilege wheel: understanding marginalization and proximity to powerHow Black male privilege shows up (and why naming it can change how we show up for Black women)The “Dear Black Man” grounding practice that opens every BMEsTalk engagement(0:00) Welcome + Ashanti's self-doubt moment (even saying the guest's name)(0:35) Ayodele's story: Seattle roots, Howard alum, engineering → education(1:27) What BMEsTalk is building: brotherhood, wellness, leadership ecosystem(15:16) Public vs. private schooling—and how certain environments can stunt growth(17:03) Ayodele's “back of the mask”: creative, faith, introversion + expectations to lead(23:01) The performance trap: “being human is not enough” + the pressure to earn love(25:07) The “Dear Black Man” letter + pausing to reset expectations in the room(31:27) “You're worth the pause”: why men struggle to believe wellness has ROI(41:36) Designing for men's nervous systems: why circles can be too much too soon(44:15) When wellness gets weaponized: going “deep” without time to close the box(51:56) Wielding privilege to protect, provide, and stand with Black women(53:43) Why this needs a Part 2 (and what young men need from these conversations)(54:20) Where to find Ayodele + BMEsTalk(55:05) The Affirmation Crown: building something wearable that speaks life into you(55:35) Share your mask anonymously + invite a friend into the reflectionConnect with Ayodele HarrisonAyodele on LinkedIn (search: “Ayodele Harrison”)BMEsTalk (Black Male Educators Talk): national convener building leadership, culture, and community for Black educators.Affirmation Crown (hands-on reflection experience).Resources & Ways to EngageThe Million Mask Movement – Create a mask anonymously: https://millionmask.orgEducator Portal – Bring mask-making and emotional data into your schoolGlobal Young Men's Conference – Youth voice, belonging, and healing spacesEver Forward Club – Brotherhood, connection, and mentorshipConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub⁠Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/everforwardclub⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/⁠Support the Podcast & Ever Forward Clubhttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement #takingoffthemask #totm #BlackMaleEducators #BMEsTalk #BlackMenHealing #BraveSpaces #EmotionalWellness #SchoolLeadership #SEL

What if the students who say they're “good” are the ones we need to check on the most?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Ashanti Branch pulls back the curtain on what young men are actually carrying beneath the surface, using real words, real data, and real stories from the Global Young Men's Conference and the Million Mask Movement.Drawing from over two decades of work with young men, Ashanti walks listeners through powerful mask reflections created by students across the Bay Area. These masks reveal a striking disconnect between what young men show the world, happy, funny, kind, and what they hide, sadness, anger, exhaustion, loneliness, fear. Through stories, statistics, and lived experience, Ashanti challenges educators, parents, and systems to stop mistaking compliance for wellness and silence for safety.This episode is both a wake-up call and an invitation: to slow down, ask better questions, create emotionally safer spaces, and truly mean it when we ask, “How are you doing?”Why “I'm good” is often a mask, not the truthWhat young men's masks reveal about loneliness, sadness, and emotional overloadThe dangerous gap between how students appear and how they actually feelWhy emotional safety is foundational to attendance, behavior, and academic successHow fear, violence, and instability shape students' ability to show up to schoolThe hidden emotional labor young men carry to protect others from worryingWhy humor, kindness, and being “the funny one” can be survival strategiesHow social media, isolation, and consumption culture deepen disconnectionWhat educators miss when curriculum matters more than connectionHow the Million Mask Movement helps schools get to the root, not just the symptomsWhy listening—not fixing—is often the most powerful interventionA call to parents, educators, and leaders to stop staying silentIn this episode, Ashanti explores:(0:00) Welcome to unMASKing with Male Educators(0:41) Why this conversation matters as we head into 2026(2:00) Data as words: listening to what young men aren't saying(5:04) Voices from the Global Young Men's Conference(6:28) Introducing the Million Mask reflections(12:00) Why students don't show up when they don't feel safe(15:12) Survival brains, fear, and school attendance(16:30) Front-of-mask data: happy, funny, kind(17:09) Back-of-mask data: sad, angry, tired, alone(19:34) What “happy” students are hiding(22:41) The emotional cost of never being asked twice(24:55) The funny kid: humor as armor(27:18) Social media, isolation, and identity fragmentation(30:47) Why words matter more than spreadsheets(33:15) Invitation to make a mask and bring this work to schools(35:33) Speaking truth to systems and school boards(38:00) A call to parents, educators, and advocates(40:00) Closing reflections and what's coming nextResources & Ways to EngageThe Million Mask Movement – Create a mask anonymously: https://millionmask.orgEducator Portal – Bring mask-making and emotional data into your schoolGlobal Young Men's Conference – Youth voice, belonging, and healing spacesEver Forward Club – Brotherhood, connection, and mentorshipConnect with Ashanti BranchInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter/X: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/Support the Podcast & Ever Forward Clubhttps://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement #takingoffthemask #emotionalSafety #SEL #youthvoice #schoolculture #mentalhealthineducation

What if the secret to real learning has nothing to do with cognition, and everything to do with emotion?In this episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Dr. Maurice J. Elias, Rutgers University professor, psychologist, and one of the nation's leading voices in social-emotional and character development, joins host Ashanti Branch for a powerful conversation about the emotional foundations of learning, teaching, and school culture.Drawing from 45 years at Rutgers and decades of work in schools around the world, Dr. Elias reveals why classrooms must be places of belonging, purpose, inspiration, and shared humanity. Together, he and Ashanti unpack the masks educators wear: the pressure to be the expert, the expectation to appear confident, and the hidden insecurities and self-doubt beneath the surface. They explore how emotions shape motivation, why students crave mattering, and how educators can build the kind of climate where young people feel seen, valued, and capable of greatness.This episode dives into the heart of school culture, why it breaks, how it heals, and what happens when educators lead with compassion, curiosity, and purpose.The emotional mask of the educator: confidence on the outside, insecurity on the insideWhy emotional experiences, not cognition, are the true engine of learningThe crisis of mattering: why kids act out when they can't matter in positive waysHow purpose, identity, and belonging fuel motivation and academic successWhy students must co-create classroom culture and normsThe power of names, stories, and authentic relationships in the classroomWhat happens when teachers feel called to serve, but systems push them outHow school climate either nurtures or destroys learningWhy male educators leave, and why networks of support are essential(0:00) Welcome & introduction (0:59) Dr. Elias on identity, humility & purpose (2:00) The educator's mask: confidence vs. self-doubt(4:00) Ashanti on fear of failure and legacy(6:00) Why students choose negative ways to matter(8:10) Purpose, mattering, and motivation (10:20) Why teachers tie their identity to student success (12:00) Creating school climates people want to be in (13:00) What it takes to build emotionally intelligent classrooms (14:30) Co-constructing classroom norms with students(16:20) Humanizing students: names, stories & connection (17:50) Aspirations, index cards & seeing students' inner worlds (19:00) Why students love meaningful conversations (26:00) The backstory behind greatness: work, purpose, discipline (28:00) Systems issues in education: what schools are getting wrong (29:30) SEL as preparation for democracy (31:30) The emotional labor of teaching (38:10) Why male educators leave the profession(40:00) Networks of support for male teachers(42:30) SEL4CA and a call to communityConnect with Dr. Maurice J. EliasSEL Research & Resources – Rutgers Social-Emotional and Character Development LabEmotionally Intelligent Parenting (multi-language editions)Reinvigorating Classroom Environments (new release)SEL4CA – Statewide SEL Network: SEL4CA.orgConnect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/⁠Website:⁠ https://www.branchspeaks.com/⁠Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club:⁠ https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support⁠Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub⁠Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/everforwardclub⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/⁠#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator #SEL #emotionalintelligence #schoolculture #teacherwellbeing

Do you ever feel like you're carrying the weight of your students' futures on your shoulders?That tension, between hope and exhaustion, between responsibility and grace, is familiar territory for Dr. José Luis Vilson, Executive Director of EduColor and author of This Is Not A Test: A New Narrative on Race, Class, and Education.In this powerful episode of unMASKing with Male Educators, Dr. Vilson joins host Ashanti Branch to talk about the humanity behind teaching, the unseen emotions, the quiet anger, and the relentless faith that change is possible through education. Together, they unpack the “mask” educators wear to stay strong for their students, and what lies beneath: doubt, exhaustion, but also deep love and purpose.Dr. Vilson shares his journey from computer science to classroom teaching, his struggle with imposter syndrome, and how he channels empathy and community to sustain his work. This is a conversation about purpose, healing, and redefining what it means to teach with heart.Timestamps(0:00) Welcome & introduction(1:00) Dr. Vilson on identity and purpose(3:45) The mission behind becoming a teacher(7:20) Teaching as spiritual and moral work(10:45) The mask: what students see vs. what we hide(18:15) Fear, insecurity, and anger behind the classroom door(23:30) Carrying loss and responsibility as educators(30:00) Teaching as spiritual and legacy work(33:00) Listening to young people, and learning from them(42:00) Helping students see themselves in the future(49:00) AI, forgiveness, and the future of teaching(53:00) Finding community and collective strengthConnect with Dr. José Luis VilsonWebsite – www.thejosevilson.comEduColor – a collective for equity and justice in educationThis Is Not A Test: A New Narrative on Race, Class, and EducationConnect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/⁠Website:⁠ https://www.branchspeaks.com/⁠Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club:⁠ https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support⁠Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram:⁠ https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub⁠Facebook:⁠ https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub⁠Twitter:⁠ https://twitter.com/everforwardclub⁠LinkedIn:⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/⁠#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

Street Soldiers Radio is thankful we are a safe place where you can talk and find solutions. We asked our callers to share the topics and issues they would like us to cover on our upcoming shows. We also caught up with Ashanti Branch and his upcoming event, the Global Young Men's Conference 2025.

In this episode of "On Purpose," Janice had the pleasure of speaking with Ashanti Branch, a remarkable individual whose journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a passionate advocate for young men is both inspiring and thought-provoking.In our discussion, we explored the importance of vulnerability and emotional expression, particularly for men, and how Ashanti's work addresses the systemic issues within the education system. He shared insights from the "Million Mask Movement," a global initiative that encourages individuals to reveal their true selves and connect with others on a deeper level.This conversation is a powerful reminder of the importance of following one's passion and the impact that mentorship and support can have on young lives. Ashanti's story is not just about overcoming adversity; it's about embracing one's purpose and helping others do the same. Join us as we delve into Ashanti's journey and the lessons he's learned along the way, inspiring us all to seek our own paths to fulfillment and connection.Connect with Ashanti Branch at his WebsiteEmail Janice: stopdiets@aol.comJanice's Website: http://stopdiets.comIf you enjoy the podcast, please leave a positive rating and review!

In this special bonus episode, youth mentor Ashanti Branch talks with our listener Jen about her son's early observation about his skin color—and how to sustain conversations with young kids about race and identity. If you liked this episode check out: How To 'Do the Work' of Racial Justice Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. This episode is for Slate Plus members. Join now to unlock it—plus other exclusive How To! bonus episodes and ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen.

Jen is raising a pretty stellar 9-year-old son. With his tween and teen years on the horizon, she wants to steer him toward kindness, acceptance, and openness—and away from the pitfalls of toxic masculinity. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace brings on Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and host of unMASKing with Male Educators. Ashanti offers his advice on talking with boys about their emotions, understanding the "mask" that young men present to the world, and building trust and confidence—by acknowledging that adults don't have all the answers. If you liked this episode check out: How To Parent Less and How To Make Friends … Like a Man Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. This episode is for Slate Plus members. Join now to unlock it—plus other exclusive How To! bonus episodes and ad-free listening across all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ or ⁠Spotify⁠. Or, visit ⁠slate.com/howtoplus⁠ for access wherever you listen.

Jen is raising a pretty stellar 9-year-old son. With his tween and teen years on the horizon, she wants to steer him toward kindness, acceptance, and openness—and away from the pitfalls of toxic masculinity. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace brings on Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and host of unMASKing with Male Educators. Ashanti offers his advice on talking with boys about their emotions, understanding the “mask” that young men present to the world, and building trust and confidence—by acknowledging that adults don't have all the answers. If you liked this episode check out: How To Parent Less and How To Make Friends … Like a Man Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen is raising a pretty stellar 9-year-old son. With his tween and teen years on the horizon, she wants to steer him toward kindness, acceptance, and openness—and away from the pitfalls of toxic masculinity. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace brings on Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and host of unMASKing with Male Educators. Ashanti offers his advice on talking with boys about their emotions, understanding the “mask” that young men present to the world, and building trust and confidence—by acknowledging that adults don't have all the answers. If you liked this episode check out: How To Parent Less and How To Make Friends … Like a Man Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen is raising a pretty stellar 9-year-old son. With his tween and teen years on the horizon, she wants to steer him toward kindness, acceptance, and openness—and away from the pitfalls of toxic masculinity. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace brings on Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and host of unMASKing with Male Educators. Ashanti offers his advice on talking with boys about their emotions, understanding the “mask” that young men present to the world, and building trust and confidence—by acknowledging that adults don't have all the answers. If you liked this episode check out: How To Parent Less and How To Make Friends … Like a Man Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jen is raising a pretty stellar 9-year-old son. With his tween and teen years on the horizon, she wants to steer him toward kindness, acceptance, and openness—and away from the pitfalls of toxic masculinity. On this episode, How To!'s Carvell Wallace brings on Ashanti Branch, founder of The Ever Forward Club and host of unMASKing with Male Educators. Ashanti offers his advice on talking with boys about their emotions, understanding the “mask” that young men present to the world, and building trust and confidence—by acknowledging that adults don't have all the answers. If you liked this episode check out: How To Parent Less and How To Make Friends … Like a Man Do you have a problem that needs solving? Send us a note at howto@slate.com or leave us a voicemail at 646-495-4001 and we might have you on the show. Subscribe for free on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you listen. The show is produced by Rosemary Belson, with Kevin Bendis and Sophie Summergrad. Our technical director is Merritt Jacob and our supervising producer is Joel Meyer. Get more of How To! with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of How To! and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the How To! show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/howtoplus for access wherever you listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“We need safe spaces in which guys can drop into that boyhood, that kicking the ball, or throwing the ball, or goofing around and roughhousing with each other or telling jokes, whatever it is… Because being in those moments and acting that way, I believe, takes us back to a boyhood element of ourselves, which at some point was beaten out of us… ‘That's immature. What you're doing, you can't be doing. Stop!' What that does though is it cuts us off from the bridge that takes us to those other places of vulnerability where we really do need to share from. The boyhood energy is the bridge to get to the vulnerability for us.” - Noam RaucherEver Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Noam Raucher. As a spiritual coach, men's coach, rabbi, classroom teacher, and father of two, Noam navigates many roles at home and in the community. Because of this, Noam is deeply reflective about masculinity, as it relates to his inner critic and the spiritual stories connected to the critic inside all of us. Please enjoy this engaging conversation!---(6:30) Noam introduces himself, his work in the classroom and in coaching, and his identity and Jewish faith. He and Ashanti discuss the significance of finding meaning in life, and the role education plays.(15:00) Noam shares the front of his mask - strong, smart, compassionate.(17:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, intense, funny - and he and Noam discuss how they are learning to celebrate themselves and wrestle with their inner critic more often.(29:15) Noam shares the back of his mask - depression, questionable self-worth, “stupid?”, failure.(30:50) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of failure, self-doubt, worry/letting go.(37:00) Noam and Ashanti discuss and dissect all of the markers of traditional masculinity that are reinforced by what our culture defines as attractive.(48:30) Then, Noam and Ashanti consider what it really means to be on a team, and what it would take for men to be more open to asking for help.(52:00) Noam shares some last words for the listeners and how you can reach out to him.---Connect with Noam Raucher:Website: RabbiRaucher.comFacebook: facebook.com/noam.raucherInstagram: instagram.com/noamraucherLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/noam-raucher-20933b164---Join/Contribute to our Young Men's Conference: https://everforwardclub.org/global-young-mens-conference-2025 Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/---#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement  #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

“When we can look young people in the eye, and see who they are, and tell them that they matter, and show them a book, and spark their imagination, and be right there… That's the thing. Going through the experience with them, build up their confidence… Put a battery in their back. They need that. Everybody needs that. That little bird that's about to jump off the nest, I'm sure the little bird needs a little bit of encouragement from big momma bird, like, ‘You got this, baby.'” - Amil CookEver Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Amil Cook. As a Hip-Hop educator and technologist, Amil teaches students and educators how to use their personal and historical narratives to increase self-efficacy, well-being, and capacity through the use of new media and technology. Amil is passionate about unlocking the unlimited potential of youth. He is able to see this potential, in part, because he is aware of his own emotions and, specifically, resentments that he is harboring and processing. We hope you enjoy this episode and enjoy learning how Amil's masks apply to his talents as an educator.---(1:30) Ashanti's introduction.(7:50) Amil and Ashanti look back on their South by Southwest experience. Then, Amil introduces himself, his work, and his mission.(13:20) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - dedicated, determined, caring - and how he manages the big expectations he has for himself.(16:20) Amil shares the front of his mask - thoughtful, optimistic, caring - and how positivity moves him into action.(22:35) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, getting old, fear.(25:40) Amil shares the back of his mask - resentful, mistrustful, scared - and how he is learning to let go of some of his resentments.(31:50) Amil and Ashanti observe and analyze certain resentments that can build up in the youth. And they discuss the flip side - all the different types of encouragement we can give kids.(38:50) Amil shares the level of emotional intelligence he's observing in the youth in Pittsburgh.(44:50) Amil looks back on his youth and how he was motivated to enter the world of education. And he shares a story about his work in South Africa.(51:05) Amil delivers a final message to the youth.---Connect with Amil Cook:Social Media and Podcast: linktr.ee/amilcookBootUp PGH: instagram.com/bootuppghHip Hop Ed: instagram.com/hiphoped---Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/---#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement  #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

“It's been a very challenging time and my way of coping with this adversity has been through humor. I think a lot of people have been using humor as a coping mechanism because it's a hard time, and you need to be able to laugh about it or see the absurdity in it.” - Arturo AviñaEver Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Arturo Aviña. As a Los Angeles-based theatre teacher, Arturo found his calling within education by first experimenting with incorporating film and theatre into his lessons. Now, he also uses his skills to create satirical content on social media to chronicle what its like working in education today. Arturo is a testament to the fact that humor has the power to get us through hard times and advocate change in our world for the better. We hope you enjoy learning about his masks!(0:00) Ashanti's introduction.(7:00) Arturo introduces himself and his journey in education - specifically, how he arrived at teaching theatre.(12:00) Arturo and Ashanti discuss how the masks of acting apply to the masks of real life.(16:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, hard-working, caring - and how opposing characteristics occupy the front of his mask.(21:15) Arturo shares the front of his mask - funny, friendly, creative, serious.(24:00) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - self-doubt, fear of failure, my brother's mental health/my sadness about it - and some of the self-evaluation that he has been doing around sharing his voice with the world and supporting his brother.(30:00) Arturo shares the back of his mask - anxiety, doubt, fear - and gives some advice to Ashanti along the way.(38:30) Arturo shares his perspective on humor in the classroom, education-based humor, and humor as a form of coping.(46:30) Ashanti and Arturo take time to appreciate teachers and analyze how the public has viewed teachers.(51:00) Arturo shares how you can get in touch with him, and shares his final message for the audience.---Connect with Arturo Aviña:Instagram: instagram.com/schooledbyarturoTik Tok: tiktok.com/discover/schoolbyarturo Twitter: twitter.com/schooledbyart---Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/---#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement  #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

July 13, 2025 Street Soldiers Radio dives deep into the discussion of men's mental health with community leaders Ashanti Branch of Ever Forward Club, Denzel Herrera-Davis of Create The Space, and Terrence Hanserd of Kings Accountability Group. 

“Life is impermanent. And that doesn't mean that we're not important or what we contribute to life is not important. The institutions we create are not going to live forever. But the energy, the way we live - this will live on forever.” - Alfredo Mathew IIIEver Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Alfredo Mathew III. Alfredo is the co-founder of ESO Ventures, an entrepreneurial support organization focused on providing the confidence, competence, and capital for any Black and Brown person to become an entrepreneur. With over 20 years of experience in New York City and California public schools, Alfredo has followed in his father's footsteps, but found a path within his family's journey that allowed him to be his best self. We hope you enjoy this episode and learn more about how family heritage and legacy have shaped Alfredo's mask.---(2:00) Ashanti's introduction.(6:30) Alfredo introduces himself and his heritage, and shares the best thing he's ever written in his entire life. Then, he and Ashanti discuss fathers, the idea of a father, and how these things played a role in their lives.(19:00) Alfredo and Ashanti look back on how they met and their teaching careers.(32:20) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, caring, dedicated.(39:00) Alfredo shares the front of his mask - hustler, dreamer, competent.(42:20) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of failure, sadness, not enough.(48:00) Alfredo shares the back of his mask - undervalued, fear of failure, chip on my shoulder.(55:00) Alfredo shares how you can reach him, and talks more about ESO Ventures.---Connect with Alfredo Mathew III:Website: https://www.alfredomathew.com/LinkedIn: ​​linkedin.com/in/alfredomathewEmail: Alfredo@eso-ventures.com---Contribute to our Dance-a-thon fundraiser: https://charity.pledgeit.org/EFC-DanceAThon Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/---#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement  #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

Original Air Date: May 16, 2023“What keeps me hopeful is our students. Our students and our youth, they're fearless; they're committed; they're open-minded. They have always been the anchor to the work that I do. When they realize that they've got adults that care for them and that believe in them, they give it right back. That's something that I'm really grateful for.”Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Jerome Hunter. Jerome is the co-founder and Chief Academic Officer at Seattle School for Boys. A proponent of healthy masculinity and its importance in an equitable society, Jerome is passionate about supporting young people to dismantle systems of oppression in education and build equitable futures. This conversation is about how we achieve these goals; specifically, it's about the things we may take for granted when trying to achieve them. A teacher may believe in this mission, but do they know themselves well enough to carry it out and lead a classroom effectively? That's where the mask comes in…(3:55) Jerome introduces himself and his work in schools and with boys.(5:45) Jerome shares the front of his mask - driven, funny, kind.(8:05) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - dedicated, serious, funny.(12:25) Ashanti finds the through-line in all of the masks he's made over the years. Then, he and Jerome discuss what behaviors they are seeing in young boys in 2023.(23:50) Jerome shares the back of his mask - imposter syndrome, anxious, sad.(31:45) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - sadness, worry, self-doubt - and he remembers his grandmother.(37:05) Then, Jerome and Ashanti discuss how teachers, students, and administrators can bring their full selves to school and coexist in a supportive, loving manner.(51:45) Jerome shares why he got into the field of education and how you can get in touch with him.---Connect with Jerome Hunter:Website: seattleschoolforboys.orgWebsite: jeromeleehunter.comInstagram: instagram.com/seattleschoolforboysInstagram: instagram.com/hunterj33---Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345 Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaksTwitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaksLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclubFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclubTwitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclubLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/---#unmaskingwithmaleeducators #millionmaskmovement  #takingoffthemask #totm #doace #UNWME #diaryofaconfusededucator

Original air date: April 30th, 2024Video Episode: https://youtu.be/-NwPW3-a688@donofriend  or Donovan Taylor Hall, joins Ashanti Branch, a master educator with 20+ years of experience in schools, to talk about what they are reflecting on as educators and what they're seeing in the halls of modern-day schools. Donovan is an experienced teacher and positive youth development expert who travels around the country speaking at schools and pushing into classrooms. Learn more about him in ⁠season 1, episode 152⁠.Topics include: video games, core values, extrinsic/intrinsic motivation, “call-out” vs. “call-in”, “book smart” vs. “street smart”, being a warm demander, and shared humanity amongst teachers and students.(0:00) Welcome!(1:30) Donovan and Ashanti introduce themselves.(4:00) Student behavior, engagement, and distractions(7:00) Video games and what they teach us about students(11:00) Making education entertaining(15:00) Extrinsic vs. intrinsic motivation(17:00) Core values(25:00) Safe vs. unsafe schools; accountability(30:00) Warm demander - running out of warm(34:00) When to “call-out” students, and desire for attention(40:00) “Book smart” vs. “Street smart”(43:00) Getting teachers more classroom management tools(45:00) Teachers showing humanity; dropping ego---Connect with Donovan Taylor Hall:Website: ⁠www.donovantaylorhall.com⁠Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend---Create your own mask anonymously at ⁠https://millionmask.org/⁠ Email us questions and comments at ⁠totmpod100@gmail.com⁠ ---Connect with Ashanti Branch:Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/⁠Website: ⁠https://www.branchspeaks.com/⁠---Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support⁠ ---Connect with Ever Forward Club:Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub⁠Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub⁠Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/everforwardclub⁠LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/⁠#TakingOff TheMask #millionmaskmovement #youarenotalone #podcast #podcastersofinstagram #pod #podcasts #podcastlife #podcaster #teachersofinstagram #teacherlife #education #educationmatters #educationispower #vulnerability #selfimprovement #mentalhealthawareness #madeonzencastr #vulnerabilityisstrength #mensmentalhealth #menswellness #lessonplan #lessonplanning #teachingmethods #teaching #productivestruggle #highschool #highschoolteacher #socialemotionallearning #middleschool #middleschoolteacher #videogames #corevalues #intrinsicmotivation #intrinsicvalue #booksmart #streetsmart #schoolcommunity #classroommanagement

Text Us Your Feedback! (Likes, Dislikes, Guest/Conversation Recommendations).

In this first episode of the new year, Shaun and Chris talk with Ashanti Branch, founder of the Ever Forward Club, an Oakland based nonprofit with a mission to address the underlying causes of drop out rates, youth violence, and the growing achievement gap through mentoring and social emotional development. The guys talk about vulnerability, happy hour, the desire to get rich, change of plans, having a calling, masks, the power of phones, the struggles and joys of teaching and entrepreneurship and more.Learn more about Ashanti and the Ever Forward Club hereThis episode is brought to you by Judson & Moore, Family Legacy American Whiskey. Born from Boundless Curiosity. Learn more about Judson & Moore here.

All it took was three months… I haven't been able to shake the story of freshman Jose Zamora, of Santa Clara High School. What happened to him is exactly what this podcast seeks to prevent. In this episode, you'll learn: What do statistics about bullying and suicide say about our male students Specific routines and systems you can implement to make students feel more welcome at school and in your classroom Personal stories from me (Ashanti Branch) about bullying (0:00) Class in session. (2:50) Some background on Jose Zamora and statistics on bullying and suicide. (11:00) Ashanti's perspective on bullying as an educator (11:30) Important things to ask yourself as a teacher in order to prevent bullying (15:30) Teachers need to demonstrate to students that they are aware of the undercurrent of behaviors so that students know they can trust a teacher to have their back (22:30) What the statistics about bullying and suicide say about our male students (25:00) Bullying is strictly about power Join our Skool Community: https://www.skool.com/efc-young-mens-advocates-2345  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

This episode originally aired on February 1st, 2022. “It turns out the fastest way to experience resonance is through laughter… One of the things that I show in my workshops with teachers is let's invest in moments of resonance, invest in moments of play… These games put us in a mindful state right away, in a state where we're aware of the other person. And so right away it's an entry point into joy, positive emotions, and awareness - and attunement with other people.” - Roni Habib Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Roni Habib. As the founder of EQ Schools, Roni is an expert in helping leaders, educators, and parents become happier, more resilient, and more playful. This expertise was jumpstarted after, early in his career, Roni struggled with the high stresses and demands of teaching, and he then discovered the power of integrating mindfulness, emotional intelligence, and positive psychology into his own life as well as in his classroom. We're excited for you to learn about Roni's mask, how he works with schools, and how he continues to work on himself. (1:30) Ashanti's introduction. (8:30) Roni introduces himself. He shares how he and his company seek to bring mindfulness to schools around the world. Then, he tells the story of a tragedy that took place at the high school he taught at. (16:10) Ashanti and Roni reflect on the importance of adults and teachers that are truly aware - that truly build relationships with students. Then, Roni shares his RAMP model. (24:40) Then, they discuss what can be done to transition out of the global pandemic, and they discuss the evolution of the student experience. (32:40) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, passion - and how it shows up as an educator and as an operator in the world of education. (36:40) Roni shares the front of his mask - my ability to give and receive love, my playful side, my fun side. (40:40) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, doubt, aging - and goes into why he wrote “aging” for the first time. (43:20) Roni shares the back of his mask - financial worry, fear of being alone, my physical limitations - and, among many things, an epiphany he had during the Santa Cruz fires. (49:55) Ashanti relates to Roni's story by reflecting on what he was going through when the whole world shut down in March. (55:40) Ashanti and Roni share closing thoughts, and Roni shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Roni Habib: Roni's new book: LINK Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/Roni_Habib⁠ Website: ⁠eqschools.com⁠ Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/eqschools⁠ Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/roni_habib81⁠ Watch ⁠The Edge of Success⁠ --- The ⁠National Suicide Prevention Lifeline⁠: 800-273-8255 --- Create your own mask anonymously at ⁠www.100kmasks.com⁠ If you are interested in being on the Face to Face podcast, email us at ⁠everforwardclub@gmail.com⁠ --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/branchspeaks⁠ Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ Website: ⁠branchspeaks.com⁠ --- Send in a voice message: ⁠anchor.fm/branch-speaks/message --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

This episode originally aired on November 28, 2023. “As much as people think I'm in my dad's shadow, in many ways I live my life to NOT be like him. And even though my dad was a psychologist, I always felt like he wasn't terribly emotional.” - Matt Englar-Carlson Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Dr. Matt Englar-Carlson. Matt is a professor of counseling and the director of the Center for Boys and Men at California State University, Fullerton. His work focuses on healthy/prosocial forms of masculinities, social justice, diversity issues in psychological training and practice, and theories of psychotherapy. In many ways, Matt is an originator in the psychology space when it comes to encouraging healthy and positive masculinity in school settings, and Matt also is the lead men's health clinical researcher for the first men's mental health app, Mental. Please enjoy this conversation! Like Matt, it's equal parts informative, entertaining, and emotional :) --- (5:30) Matt introduces himself, his passions, and how he helps boys and men seek help more effectively. (10:00) Matt shares the front of his mask - engaged, carefree, together - and how his words have changed from age 30 to age 50. (11:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, caring, passionate - and provides some thoughts on Senator Markwayne Mullin and Teamsters President Sean O'Brien. (17:10) Matt shares the back of his mask - the weight of responsibility, grief, shame. (19:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - the weight of responsibility, worry, self-doubt. (22:15) Matt looks back on his childhood and how he had a proclivity for psychology and gender studies. (30:40) Matt shares what he has noticed in his college students and “how men have been changing.” (37:30) Ashanti and Matt reflect on how students emote and ask for help differently. (42:00) Ashanti and Matt take time to consider the alarming rates of death by suicide amongst men. Then, Matt shares how he is involved with the app, Mental. (48:30) Matt shares some final thoughts and how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Matt Englar-Carlson: Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/drmattec⁠ The Mental App: ⁠instagram.com/thementalapp⁠ Website: ⁠hhd.fullerton.edu/counsel/faculty/MattEnglarCarlson.php⁠ --- Create your own mask anonymously at ⁠millionmask.org⁠ Email us questions and comments at ⁠totmpod100@gmail.com⁠  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/branchspeaks⁠ Facebook: ⁠facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch⁠ Website: ⁠branchspeaks.com⁠ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support⁠  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

This episode originally aired on June 25, 2024. Donofriend, or Donovan Taylor Hall, joins Ashanti Branch, a master educator with 20+ years of experience in schools, to talk about what they are reflecting on as educators and what they're seeing in the halls of modern-day schools. Donovan is an experienced teacher and positive youth development expert who travels around the country speaking at schools and pushing into classrooms. Learn more about him in ⁠episode 152⁠. Topics include: an ⁠Edutopia video⁠ reaction, self-determination theory, participation trophies, teen mental health, building a sense of independence and resilience in students and teens, self-reliance, autonomy, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Miyazaki, Halloween, grit, stick-to-itiveness, Do Hard Things by Steve Magness, helicopter parents, and stranger danger --- (0:00) Welcome and Edutopia video (4:00) Donovan and Ashanti introduce themselves. (6:00) Self-determination theory, helicopter parents, losing ability to build community, and Halloween (15:00) The participation trophy origin story, and valuing “productive struggle” (19:30) Miyazaki and Avatar, and what we can learn about youth wellness/mentorship from these films (25:00) Mentoring with curiosity instead of mentoring to “fix and solve” immediately (26:00) Allowing students to sit with silence and discomfort (29:00) Offering children advice instead of telling them what to do (32:30) Emotional language and articulating feelings/needs clearly - for both young people and adults (45:30) Final thoughts on providing room to explore and being transparent, vulnerable, and curious as an educator/parent/mentor Connect with Donovon Taylor Hall: Website: ⁠www.donovantaylorhall.com⁠ Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend Join our 5k Challenge: ⁠https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge⁠  Create your own mask anonymously at ⁠https://millionmask.org/⁠  Email us questions and comments at ⁠totmpod100@gmail.com⁠  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/⁠ Website: ⁠https://www.branchspeaks.com/⁠ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: ⁠https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support⁠  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub⁠ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub⁠ Twitter: ⁠https://twitter.com/everforwardclub⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Boys continue to be socialized to cover their true emotions, despite moves to shift away from this status quo. One of the strongest forces working to make change is Ashanti Branch, a pioneer in education reform and founder of the Ever Forward Club. Ashanti shares the necessary tools and support necessary to further rewrite this narrative.Show Notes:Join our LESS AWKWARD MEMBERSHIP Go to Quince.com/awkward for free shipping and 365-day returnsGet $25 off any Gabb smartphone GABB.com/AWKWARDGo to K12.com/AWKWARD today to learn more and find a tuition-free K12-powered school near you.Get 25% off your first order of Phyla, when you visit PhylaBiotics.com and use the code PUBERTY at checkout!Ashanti's Instagram/Twitter: @branchspeaksEver Forward Club Instagram/Twitter: @everforwardclubOrder our book This Is So AwkwardCheck out all our speaking and curriculum at www.lessawkward.com and our super comfy products at www.myoomla.comTo bring us to your school or community email operations@lessawkward.comTo submit listener questions email podcast@lessawkward.comWatch the full episode on Youtube!Produced by Peoples Media Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special 200th Episode, host Ashanti Branch beams in from the Ever Forward Club's new office and revisits some of the most powerful moments from the past year. This includes some parts work (internal family systems) with Jamin Heppell (ep. 159), discussion on self-love with Gael Aitor (ep. 160), and an analogy between life and repotting plants with Trevor Taylor (ep. 177). Topics include: parts work, internal family systems, IFS, self-love, self-hate, self-talk, positive self-talk, negative self-talk, mentoring, holding space, repotting plants, personal growth, changing environments (0:00) Introducing the new office and welcome (2:45) Jamin Heppell (21:45) Gael Aitor (31:00) Trevor Taylor (34:45) Final thoughts and reflections --- Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Donofriend, or Donovan Taylor Hall, joins Ashanti Branch, a master educator with 20+ years of experience in schools, to talk about what they are reflecting on as educators and what they're seeing in the halls of modern-day schools. Donovan is an experienced teacher and positive youth development expert who travels around the country speaking at schools and pushing into classrooms. Learn more about him in episode 152. Topics include: an Edutopia video reaction, self-determination theory, participation trophies, teen mental health, building a sense of independence and resilience in students and teens, self-reliance, autonomy, Avatar: The Last Airbender, Miyazaki, Halloween, grit, stick-to-itiveness, Do Hard Things by Steve Magness, helicopter parents, and stranger danger --- (0:00) Welcome and Edutopia video (4:00) Donovan and Ashanti introduce themselves. (6:00) Self-determination theory, helicopter parents, losing ability to build community, and Halloween (15:00) The participation trophy origin story, and valuing “productive struggle” (19:30) Miyazaki and Avatar, and what we can learn about youth wellness/mentorship from these films (25:00) Mentoring with curiosity instead of mentoring to “fix and solve” immediately (26:00) Allowing students to sit with silence and discomfort (29:00) Offering children advice instead of telling them what to do (32:30) Emotional language and articulating feelings/needs clearly - for both young people and adults (45:30) Final thoughts on providing room to explore and being transparent, vulnerable, and curious as an educator/parent/mentor Connect with Donovon Taylor Hall: Website: www.donovantaylorhall.com Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

In this episode, host Ashanti Branch welcomes Antwone "Diirt Da Dreamsaver" Johnson, a motivational speaker and entrepreneur who has dedicated his life to helping individuals understand the importance of continuous learning and education. Through his organization, Growing with DiiRT, he inspires others to take charge of their own destinies, emphasizing that education is key to achieving one's dreams. Topics include: survivor's guilt, perfectionism, grieving, college tours, the public school system, leadership, stages of grief, history, African American history, oppression, and depression (0:00) Welcome (4:00) Antwone introduces himself. (8:28) Front of Ashanti's Mask - serious, passionate, driven(12:25) How the vision might overwhelm people (16:27) Front of Antwone's Mask - gratefulness/gratitude, work ethic, mannerisms (21:13) 4 years to life - preparing young people for life after high school (25:33) Back of Ashanti's Mask - worry, fear of failure, grief (29:10) Antwone's childhood (31:05) Back of Antwone's Mask - perfectionism, survivor's guilt, grieving stages, self-discovery (37:03) Antwone's collaboration with the Village Method (40:08) Why college tours for underserved young people are important (41:38) The public school system has failed (45:18) Closing thoughts from Antwone and how to get in touch --- Connect with Antwone Johnson: Website: https://thevillagemethod.org/  Website: www.growingwithdiirt.com  Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/diirtdadreamsaver/ --- Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

June 2, 2024 Street Soldiers Radio discusses Men & Mental Health with rapper Mistah FAB who started a monthly men's therapy session called THUG Therapy along with guest EverForward founder and Million Mask Movement creator Ashanti Branch. 

We just celebrated our 20th Anniversary! At the anniversary, Bilal, who you can get to know better in episode 161, went around and asked guests a series of rapid-fire questions. Listen to the questions in quick succession. And as they get deeper, the answers lengthen. Before Bilal's section, please enjoy host Ashanti Branch's thoughts on teacher burnout, social-emotional learning in schools, Mental Health Awareness Month, and what his experience as a private school educator made him see in his former public school. Topics include: favorite teacher, getting things off your chest, little-known facts, brotherhood, challenges of being a man, teacher burnout, school culture and climate, teacher morale, classroom budgets, Skyline High School shooting --- (0:00) Welcome! (0:10) Ashanti's introduction. Getting things off his chest when it comes to education. (17:40) Getting deep with Bilal (26:00) Going even deeper - what challenges are you facing as a man? (37:00) Closing --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Discover the realities behind the composed and stoic exterior that men often present. Ashanti Branch, the leader of the EverForward Club, joins us to discuss the complexities of masculinity and how the masks we wear can hide our deepest emotions. Together, we explore the challenges of manhood, the impact of unspoken grief, and the importance of vulnerability.Our conversation explores the experiences of young men, uncovering the hidden burdens they carry. We introduce a mask exercise highlighting the fears and insecurities often kept out of sight. Our discussion provides an insightful look at the societal pressures on men to appear in control and offers strategies to promote a culture of openness and emotional well-being.As we wrap up, we address men's mental health, emphasizing the importance of brotherhood and the simple act of asking, "Are you okay?" We highlight the varied expressions of modern manhood and the need for emotional connection among men. This episode invites you to join us in redefining masculinity and supporting a future where men can express their full range of emotions.Ashanti BranchEver Forward Club WebsiteCreate & Submit your mask: MillionMask.orgSupport the Show.Additional Resources:Magic Mind: Get 58% Off Your First Order Subscribe/Rate/Review on iTunes ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐: >>>HERE

Ashanti Branch is joined by Blair Daly, a dedicated advocate for boys and men in Washington state. As the founder of the Washington Initiative for Boys and Men, Blair leads efforts in advocacy journalism and grassroots political advocacy to enhance the well-being of boys, male youth, and men in the state. He holds a Master of Public Administration degree from the University of Washington and earned his bachelor's degree from Whitworth University.  After college, he spent four years living in Malaysia and later drummed in a rock band in Seattle for three years. Outside of his professional life, Blair enjoys baseball, basketball, pickleball, and ping-pong. Topics include: special interest groups, lobbying for men, getting male perspective and advocacy into government, depression, divorce, confronting grief, & family --- (0:00) Intro (7:20) Blair introduces himself (11:07) Front of Blair's mask, his athleticism, and his older brother (14:56) Front of Ashanti's mask and the boundaries he's working on (22:14) Back of Blair's mask, his history with depression, and being a child of divorce (26:15) When is it appropriate to share difficult things with others(28:17) Back of Ashanti's mask and an emergency with his sister (34:30) What are you thinking vs. what are you feeling (37:07) Grief, and the different ways we handle it - healthy and unhealthy (43:22) Special interest groups for men (46:00) A State Commission on Boys and Men (49:21) Closing (51:00) Final words from Blair --- Connect with Blair Daly: Website: https://waboysandmen.org/ Website: https://wibm.us/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/waboysmen Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WABoysMen/ --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Ashanti Branch is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club, a non-profit organization dedicated to eliminating the dropout rate through youth mentorship. He has created the award-winning #MillionMaskMovement with 75,000 participants worldwide. He is a recipient of the 2023 US Surgeon General's Medallion, 4x Tedx speaker, podcaster, and a Fulbright Fellow. His work with youth as an ‘emotional locksmith' has been featured on CNN with Lisa Ling, and on the Kelly Clarkson Show. Contact Ashanti Branch: LinkedIn.  Instagram.  Facebook. http://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club Follow 365 Brothers on IG @365brothers or visit us at 365brothers.com for more info.  Host Rahbin Shyne - IG @365shyne

Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Frederick Marx. Frederick, best known for Hoop Dreams (1994), is an acclaimed Academy Award and Emmy-nominated filmmaker of 40 years. Throughout his career, he has addressed significant social issues through his films, and he has been named a Chicago Tribune Artist of the Year, a Guggenheim Fellow, and a recipient of a Robert F. Kennedy Special Achievement Award. To this day, filmmaker Frederick Marx remains driven by a commitment to storytelling and social change. Topics include: grief, regret, filmmaking outside of the Hollywood system, public service, problems with the term “nonprofit”, nonprofit vs. social profit, social entrepreneurship, legacy, and succession (0:00) Intro (7:05) Frederick introduces himself and his rich history with Ashanti. (12:50) Frederick and Ashanti make their masks together. (14:38) Front of Frederick's Mask, and how he doesn't hold back. (16:47) Front of Ashanti's Mask (20:56) Back of Frederick's Mask (24:47) Back of Ashanti's Mask (25:50) Diving deep into experiences with grief (30:50) How personal suffering informs public service (33:50) Two nonprofits reaching their 20-year anniversary - Warrior Films and the Ever Forward Club (36:50) Legacy and successors - who do we pass the torch to before we're gone? (42:50) Frederick gives Ashanti a serious challenge (46:06) Frederick's book (47:20) Closing --- Connect with Frederick Marx: Website: http://warriorfilms.org/  Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/warriorfilmspage/ --- Join our 5k Challenge: https://charity.pledgeit.org/20thAnnualEF5KChallenge  Create your own mask anonymously at https://millionmask.org/  Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com  --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BranchSpeaks Twitter: https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch/ Website: https://www.branchspeaks.com/ --- Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support  --- Connect with Ever Forward Club: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/everforwardclub Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/everforwardclub Twitter: https://twitter.com/everforwardclub LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-ever-forward-club/ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

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

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

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

Join host Tess Connolly, LCSW, in a thought-provoking conversation with Ashanti Branch, a master in building healthy relationships in schools, a pioneer in education reform, and in youth mental health, with over 18 years of experience. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing the dropout rates of marginalized students through youth mentorship and teacher professional development. ⭐Learn how Ashanti empowers young men to discuss their emotions and cultivate healthy relationships. ⭐Tess and Ashanti explore the unique struggles boys encounter on their journey to emotional openness and the pervasive tendency to conceal their feelings. ⭐Ashanti talks about the inception of the EFC and its profound influence, including the global reach of the million mask movement. ⭐Tess and Ashanti talk about how his business is growing and they are looking at ways to reach out to girls as well to help them balance their feelings and the masks that they wear.  ⭐Tess and Ashanti explore the complexities of social media's impact on adolescent development. They discuss strategies for helping young people navigate the pressures of social media and develop a healthy relationship with technology, promoting authenticity and emotional well-being in an increasingly digital world.  ⭐Gain deeper insights into Ashanti's personal journey and his role in the documentary "The Mask You Live In," shedding light on the masks young men wear in society. ⭐Tess and Ashanti explore the concept of emotional masks and how individuals often conceal their true feelings. They discuss practical tips for parents to help their children recognize and understand the masks they may be wearing, fostering a deeper understanding of emotions and promoting authentic self-expression for healthier relationships. ⭐Tess and Ashanti talk about the documentary The Mask You Live In that Ashanti featured in. Ashanti talks about what is in the documentary and how it can help young men understand the masks that they carry around and be more open about expressing themselves.  ⭐Ashanti shares valuable insights into effective communication strategies with children, emphasizing the importance of creating an environment where children feel seen and heard. Exploring ways parents can cultivate meaningful connections with their children, providing opportunities for genuine dialogue and mutual understanding. ⭐Ashanti elaborates on the work that he does in schools and how he helps the students in these engaging workshops to create more meaningful connections, healthier communication, and deeper engagement. ⭐Ashanti is most grateful to his Mom for raising him as a single parent at 22 yrs old and how he does his work that he does to make her proud.  Find our more about Ashanti Branch here

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

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

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

Our guest this week on the special Bruce Lee Foundation edition of the Bruce Lee podcast is Ashanti Branch! Ashanti is a key-note speaker, has been consulted by the US Surgeon General's office on the youth mental health crisis, is a Fulbright Fellow and 4x Tedx Speaker. His work with youth has been featured at SXSW, on CNN with Lisa Ling, on the Kelly Clarkson Show, and in the documentary about American masculinity 'The Mask You Live In', which premiered at Sundance Film Festival. He is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non-profit organization that ensures underserved students graduate high school by addressing the underlying causes of dropout rates and youth violence, and providing grassroots solutions like mentorship, safe spaces and emotional tools. Learn more about Ashanti Branch in the podcast show notes! Show notes and more episodes at Brucelee.com/Podcast