Podcast appearances and mentions of ashanti branch

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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

“Teachers will generally give longer wait time for kids that they think know the answer, than kids that they think don't know the answer.” - Dr. Ray Swann Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Dr. Ray Swann. Ray knows a thing or two about acting and emotions. Pair that with a deep knowledge of teaching and learning, and you have an excellent educator.  Ray is currently the Executive Director of the Foundation for Positive Masculinity, an NGO based in Melbourne Australia. He hosts The Understanding Boys podcast and wrote “The Seven Stories: Planting Seeds for Positive Masculinities” - a book full of mindfulness stories for boys.  (0:00) Welcome! (5:15) Ray introduces himself. (9:15) The front of Ray's mask - calm, hard-working, engaged. (14:35) The front of Ashanti's mask - hard-working, passionate, emotions. (15:35) What does “calm” really mean? (21:45) The back of Ray's mask - sensitive, characters/voices, sad/melancholic. (24:30) William Shakespeare's "As You Like It". (31:30) How to make students feel safe to participate in class. (35:15) The back of Ashanti's mask - fear of failure, sadness, worry. (42:45) “The Wasteland” by T.S. Eliot. (46:15) How acting and performing informs how Ray interacts with his students. (54:45) Final thoughts and how to get in touch with Ray. --- Connect with Ray Swann: Website: http://www.positivemasculinity.org.au Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drrayswann/  Theater Company: www.identitytheatre.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ray-swann-6673531b/?originalSubdomain=au --- 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

“If I continue to make myself small to fit their expectations, who am I truly letting down?” - Trevor Taylor Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Trevor Taylor. As a seasoned yoga instructor, Trevor brings over nine years of dedicated practice to the mat, seamlessly blending strength and grace in his dynamic Vinyasa flows. Beyond yoga, Trevor is a content creator, sharing mindfulness techniques, motivation, and glimpses into his personal yoga journey with a global community. Like anyone on this journey called life, it took Trevor some time and some struggle to get to the place he is at now. In this episode, Trevor looks back on those struggles and existential reflections. So please enjoy this conversation, as Trevor provides some valuable lessons on growth and purpose… --- (0:00) Welcome! (0:50) Ashanti's introduction. (3:00) Trevor introduces himself and why he is a teacher at heart - whether it's yoga, religion, philosophy, or K-12 education. (5:10) The front of Ashanti's mask - passion, caring, driven - and how he spent MLK Jr. Day. (9:20) The front of Trevor's mask - joy, discipline, articulate. (12:55) The back of Ashanti's mask - worry, fear, grief - and his grandmother's passing. (19:50) The back of Trevor's mask - lack of confidence, low self-esteem, fear of failure. (24:30) Why Ashanti went into teaching vs. why Trevor went into teaching. (34:00) The difference between your “growth zone” vs. your “overwhelmed zone.” (39:20) The catalyst that led Trevor to make a career change, and how plants are a great analogy for growth. (46:30) Wrap up and final words from Trevor. --- Connect with Trevor Taylor: Website: https://pillar.io/justliketrevor Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/justliketrevor/ 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

“If we put ourselves on our deathbed, and we look back on THIS moment, are we going to be proud of ourselves?” - Jason Kyle Budahazy Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Jason Kyle Budahazy. Jason Kyle's journey has taken many twists and turns, and ups and downs - from stand-up comedy, to the Peace Corps in Albania, to Hollywood and “Two and a Half Men” and “The Big Bang Theory”, to today, being the Founding Creative and voice for the first men's mental health app: Mental. Jason Kyle considers his current work to be his most meaningful because he gets to do what his younger self needed the most. He gets to help men move past their societal conditioning and nurture a healthy soul. We're excited for you to get to know Jason Kyle, his mask, and his past, present, and future. --- (1:20) Ashanti's introduction (4:20) Jason Kyle introduces himself and the ups and downs of his life. Then he and Ashanti share some of the culture shocks they experienced as young adults. (15:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - passion, purpose, caring. He and Jason discuss the nuances of teaching. (22:20) Jason Kyle shares the front of his mask - charismatic, creative, hilarious. (30:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - my work is my value, proud to not be prideful, shame. (39:55) Jason Kyle shares the back of his mask - insecurity, chaos, self-portraits. (47:00) Jason Kyle shares how he started working with The Mental App, the men's mental health app. (58:00) Ashanti and Jason Kyle wrap up their conversation. --- Connect with Jason Kyle Budahazy: Special Mental 25% Off Discount: http://getmental.com/totm  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getmejasonkyle  The Mental App: https://www.instagram.com/thementalapp/  Website: https://www.getmejasonkyle.com/ --- 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

In this solo episode, Ashanti Branch tells the story of his encounter with the most popular girl in school… A story about emotions, class, wealth, status, bullying, family structures, and what we need to provide for our young people as educators. Then, he looks ahead at what's in store for the Ever Forward Club in 2024.  --- (0:00) Ashanti introduces the episode and his story about the most popular girl in school. (13:10) Ashanti reflects on the story and applies it to the work he and the Ever Forward Club do in schools, advocating for more social-emotional learning. (25:20) Ashanti provides some updates on the Ever Forward Club. 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

Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 3, with Lewis Howes. Enjoy! In this Podcast, Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by New York Times Bestselling author, Lewis Howes, author of the hit book,The School of Greatness and his newest book, The Mask of Masculinity. He is a lifestyle entrepreneur, high-performance business coach and keynote speaker. A former professional football player and two-sport All-American. He hosts a top 100 iTunes ranked Apple podcast, The School of Greatness, which has over 250 million downloads and just reached their 1000th episode since it launched in 2013.  During their conversation, Ashanti and Lewis talked very little about all of his success as an athlete and podcaster but spoke about the masks that they wear and what gets in the way of being our full authentic selves. This conversation is about emotional well-being of men and how ignoring our emotions leads men to unhealthy outcomes and emotional overload.  (7:38) Together, they discuss how Lewis's childhood shaped his understanding of the pitfalls of masculinity;  (24:30) And how Ashanti's life and work is tied directly to Lewis's The Mask of Masculinity, as well as how the norms of masculinity can explain the country's violence and divisiveness.  (35:18) Then, Lewis and Ashanti participate in the #MillionMaskMovement by sharing their masks. --- 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 --- Send in a voice message: ⁠https://anchor.fm/branch-speaks/message⁠ --- Connect with Ashanti Branch: Instagram:    https://www.instagram.com/branchspeaks/ Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/ashantibranch Twitter:   https://twitter.com/BranchSpeaks LinkedIn:    www.linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch --- 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

“I knew that if I wanted to control the outcome before someone was about to make fun of me, or judge, or criticize; it was better for me to be the first one to make a joke about myself.” - Diego Estrada Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 143, with Diego Estrada. Enjoy! Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Diego Estrada. Born and raised in Monterrey, Nuevo León, Mėxico, Diego currently speaks at conferences and delivers workshops on authenticity. Diego lists his job title as an Alegrador de Vidas; the closest translation to English is a “Brightener of Lives”. He loves to connect with people and help them be themselves, and, in this conversation, he and Ashanti are allowed to do just so. (0:45) Ashanti's introduction. (2:45) Diego introduces himself and his work; and he explains why he's feeling impatient. Then, he and Ashanti find common ground around their work promoting emotional authenticity. (12:45) Ashanti and Diego make their masks together.  (16:10) Diego shares the front of his mask - courage, authentic, open. Then, he shares the back of his mask - doubt, constant comparison, physical stature. (18:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - caring, serious, dedicated.  (20:10) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - impatient, self-doubt, sadness. (21:45) Ashanti and Diego discuss self-compassion. (26:20) Ashanti breaks down an interaction he had with his godson in Mexico. (29:00) Diego explains the difference between “fitting in” and “belonging.” (36:30) Diego shares how you can get in touch with him and provides some final words for the audience. --- Connect with Diego Estrada: Instagram/Tik Tok: ⁠instagram.com/tuvidaesincreible⁠ Podcast: ⁠#TUVIDAESINCREÍBLE⁠ Books Mentioned by Diego: Self-Compassion by Kristin Neff Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett --- 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: ⁠anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support⁠ --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“It's hard to be the last strong pillar in a breaking-down house. It's really challenging. Sometimes you just have to understand that the house is breaking down. And it's always okay to rebuild.” - Theo Coker-Edwards Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 162, with Theo Coker-Edwards. Enjoy! Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Theo Coker-Edwards. Theo is a college athlete based in Albany, New York. And in Alameda, as a high schooler, he started and ran his own restorative justice program. IT NEEDS TO BE SAID, Theo is a college freshman who's mature beyond his years; he is WISE. Please enjoy his thoughts on “the self”, conflict resolution, humility, and his mother - of course. What's beautiful about Theo is that he understands both his vulnerabilities and his privileges. This came from a lot of self-reflection, and readings of spiritual texts like the Rastafari Bible. And as a result his honesty and self-awareness, his groundedness, is magnetic. (6:00) Theo introduces himself, his hometown, and his work in restorative justice. (8:30) Theo and Ashanti make their masks together. (12:20) Theo shares the front of his mask - funny, college athlete, charismatic. (13:40) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, hard-working, caring - and they discuss the “fronts” society expects is to put on. (19:10) Theo shares the back of his mask - mental health issues, insecurity, the desire to be wanted/needed - and how he never sees himself as enough. (22:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - sadness, fear, worry - and the helplessness he feels when caring for his brother. (27:00) Theo explains how some religious texts have helped him adjust his perspective and approach life with humility. Then, he shares some beautiful thoughts about his mother. (36:00) Ashanti and Theo discuss conflict resolution, and picking your battles when you have a different perspective from someone. (39:00) Theo holds a lot of wisdom and roundedness at a young age. He looks back on his childhood and the formation of his personality/EQ. (42:00) Theo and Ashanti continue to discuss human behavior, triggers, and how we are all capable of different levels of good and bad - based on circumstances. (49:20) Theo shares a final message for young people. --- Connect with Theo Coker-Edwards: Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/theo__coker⁠ Twitter: ⁠twitter.com/TheoCoker4⁠ --- 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

In this solo episode, Ashanti Branch tells the story of the teacher who CHANGED HIS LIFE, Ms. BP. It's the story of a magic sentence that unlocked everything for him and changed his trajectory. Then, he looks at how the podcast, the Ever Forward Club, and schools in general are approaching the end of the year. ---  (0:00) Ashanti provides some updates on the podcast going into 2024. (5:20) Ashanti tells the story of Ms. BP, the teacher who changed his life with a magic sentence. (14:50) Then, Ashanti reflects on his father, and how he found the motivation to make his father proud from up above. (16:10) Professional development in schools tends to be horrible. Ashanti compares it to professional development in corporate America. (19:50) Students might be failing courses going into the end of the semester. How about you make sure you don't fail in your relationship with them? (33:40) 2024 is coming! Listen to some final reflections and updates on the Ever Forward club as it approaches its 20th anniversary. 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

“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

“I've always been funny. As a kid I was funny. Always funny. But then ask me why I was funny, and the story's not funny.” - Pellegrino Riccardi Happy Holidays! Today is a re-release of episode 133, with Pellegrino Riccardi. Enjoy! --- Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Pellegrino Riccardi. Raised in the UK in an archetypal Italian family, as a young adult Pellegrino balanced a career in education and music. He moved to Norway in the 1990s and, long story short, now works as a keynote speaker, with audiences varying from kindergarten school employees to the largest multinational corporations. Pellegrino delivers talks on human interaction and how to create a loving workplace, and he describes himself as “58 years old but feeling 35.” We're excited for you to learn more about Pellegrino's masks, his thoughts on perfectionism, and his analysis of humanity's fear of rejection… (2:10) Ashanti's introduction. (7:05) Pellegrino introduces himself, his journey in music and education, and his current work as a keynote speaker centered on emotion and feelings. Then, they discuss why they both do the work they do and the standard greetings that each language has to keep the status quo. (23:20) Pellegrino shares the front of his mask - funny, independent, hard-working - and his “classic immigrant story.” (26:50) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, hard-working. Then, he and Pellegrino find commonality in the roles they had to play at home when they were children. (32:30) Pellegrino shares the back of his mask - sad, lonely, in pain. (34:00) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of failure, perfectionist, self-doubt. Then, he and Pellegrino discuss the pitfalls of chasing perfection. (40:50) Ashanti and Pellegrino analyze the psychology of and the fear of rejection. (46:50) Pellegrino shares some final words with the audience and shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Pellegrino Riccardi: Website: ⁠pellegrino-riccardi.com⁠ Instagram: ⁠instagram.com/pellegrino_riccardi⁠ LinkedIn: ⁠linkedin.com/in/pellegrino-riccardi-24425a9⁠His Book, “Drowning Quietly”: ⁠amazon.com/Drowning-Quietly-Memoir-Mans-Shortcomings/dp/1632995069⁠ --- 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: ⁠anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support⁠  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“Most youth say THE government. They don't say OUR government. Or they say THE schools. They don't say OUR school. Or they say THE house. They don't feel connection. A lot of the autonomy from young people is being taken. The access is being suppressed. A lot of times youth are doing it without help and despite the system and despite the programs that be, because they had to do it on their own.” - Jamarria Hall Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Jamarria Hall. Jamarria is a Social Entrepreneur, Philanthropist, advocate, and activist for equitable education. He lead Detroit students in 2016, in a class action lawsuit against the state seeking a constitutional right to literacy, irrespective of zip code and based on the 14th Amendment. The lawsuit was a success. So what was it that prepared Jamarria to stand up for such a cause at such a young age? We'll have to take off the mask to find out… (1:00) Ashanti's introduction. (4:00) Jamarria introduces himself, his case against the state of Michigan, and his role as a youth advocate. (7:45) Jamarria shares the front of his mask - happy, smart, unbothered. (12:15) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, passionate, caring - then, he and Jamarria reflect on their relationship with rest and self-care. (20:25) Jamarria shares the back of his mask - lost, anxiety, worry. (24:20) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - my brother, fear, self-doubt, worry. (30:25) Jamarria describes what he is seeing with young people, the mindsets they have been adopting, and their relationships with elders. (34:15) Jamarria looks back on his upbringing and relationship with basketball, and how it helped him step into leadership roles and create change. (40:00) Jamarria shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Jamarria Hall: Instagram: instagram.com/jamarriahall Website: detroit-accesstoliteracy.org Facebook: facebook.com/RighttoLiteracy --- 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

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

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

“I had a car crash where I was lucky to survive. My best friend was in the car, and we were very fortunate we didn't die. It was a period where I was very off the rails and I was using alcohol to cope - a drunk driving incident where the whole car was crushed in half. It became the biggest news story in the country.” - Nick Bracks Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Nick Bracks. Growing up in one of the most famous political families in Australia, Nick was exposed to life in the public eye since he was 12 years old. Struggling to cope with depression and anxiety through substance abuse, Nick first gained notoriety in his early 20s through a publicly documented car crash that nearly killed himself and his best friend. The drunk driving incident became a catalyst for Nick to turn his life around, exposing his mental health issues and allowing him to get the help he desperately needed. Since then, Nick has developed a successful public speaking career dedicated to de-stigmatizing mental illness through storytelling. (0:55) Ashanti's introduction. (8:50) Nick introduces himself, his childhood in the media, and how struggling in the public eye prepared him for the mental health work he does now. (10:50) Nick and Ashanti make their masks together. (14:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, passionate. (17:35) Nick shares the front of his mask - vulnerability, empathy, passion. (19:50) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of…, self-doubt, what's next - success or failure. (22:40) Nick shares the back of his mask - failures, don't always speak my mind/people pleasing, not enough, money - and he and Ashanti discuss how they both tend to people please more than they'd like. (29:55) Nick looks back on his life and childhood in the spotlight, how it conditioned his behavior, and how he eventually reclaimed control of his narrative. (37:10) Nick tells Ashanti about a life-saving speech he delivered. (43:50) Nick shares a final message with the audience and how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Nick Bracks: Website: nickbracks.com Nick's Newest Venture: moveyourmind.io Instagram: instagram.com/nickbracks --- 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

“When I noticed that an educator had expectations for me or wanted me to succeed, or believed that I could succeed, I actually worked harder in those classes. For the educators and teachers who said, ‘I really care about you, I see your potential,' those are the classes I actually worked hard in because I wanted to do it not just for me but for the educators themselves and those who believed in me.” - Justin Black Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Justin Black. Justin and his wife, Alexis, published an award-winning, bestselling book, Redefining Normal: How Two Foster Kids Beat The Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness and Love. The book has impacted over 15,000 individuals and families, and, with Redefining Normal, they hope to continue the conversation on healthy relationships, mental health, and community growth and healing through speaking engagements, trainings, and book clubs. (4:30) Justin introduces himself and his book, Redefining Normal, and how it helps youth find an identity beyond their trauma. (11:55) Ashanti and Justin make their masks together. (16:10) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, caring. (18:30) Justin shares the back of his mask - fatherhood/family man, service, caring. (24:25) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, doubt, fear of failure - and he shares some worries he has about his brother and his brother's health issues. (29:00) Justin shares the back of his mask - let down, insecurity, doubt. (34:10) Justin shares what he tells teachers about “warning signs” in students, and he talks about some of the general advice he gives to teachers. (41:00) Justin shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Justin Black: Website: re-definingnormal.com Facebook: facebook.com/redefiningnormalmovement Instagram: instagram.com/theblacksredefinenormal TikTok: tiktok.com/@theblacksredefinenormal --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“I'm really really anxious, like, off the charts anxious. In my head, it's the Tasmanian Devil. It is spinning and spinning. If you've ever seen the cartoon, whenever he stops to say something it's unintelligible. It's just, ‘blah blah blah blah.' And then he spins off. And that's what it feels like in my head. But people don't see that. They see this calm, confident, semi-put-together person on the outside.” - Zach Tucker Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Jeremy Grater and Zach Tucker. Jeremy and Zach host the podcast The Fit Mess. The Fit Mess is in direct alignment with how Jeremy and Zach identify, as two vulnerable guys who have made extraordinary efforts to improve their own lives and want to help others clear a path to better wellness. Jeremy and Zach believe that fitness is not just about outer appearances or physiological health, it's about the mind and achieving inner peace. Though their journey to inner peace is ongoing, never complete, you can hear the strides they have made in their journey, as they communicate with Ashanti with joy, authenticity, and electric chemistry… (1:20) Ashanti's introduction. (6:30) Jeremy and Zach introduce themselves, their journey in fitness, and how they found healing in vulnerable conversations. (14:30) Zach shares the front of his mask - funny, calm, confident - and why he identifies with the Tasmanian Devil. (17:50) Jeremy shares the front of his mask - friendly, helpful, people pleaser. (19:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, caring, passionate - and why he's worried about his city, Oakland. (26:15) Zach shares the back of his mask - sensitive, introvert, anxious. (31:50) Jeremy shares the back of his mask - terrified, insecure, selfish, alone - and how comparison is the thief of joy. (37:15) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - self-doubt, fear, family mental health. (40:30) Zach shares the science behind the benefits of venting. (43:10) Zach and Jeremy give their final messages to the audience and share how you can get in touch. --- Connect with Jeremy and Zach: Twitter: twitter.com/FitMessGuys Instagram: instagram.com/fitmessguys Facebook: facebook.com/fitmessguys YouTube: youtube.com/@fitmessguys TikTok: tiktok.com/@fitmessguys Website: thefitmess.com --- 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

“It's hard to be the last strong pillar in a breaking-down house. It's really challenging. Sometimes you just have to understand that the house is breaking down. And it's always okay to rebuild.” - Theo Coker-Edwards Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Theo Coker-Edwards. Theo is a college athlete based in Albany, New York. And in Alameda, as a high schooler, he started and ran his own restorative justice program. IT NEEDS TO BE SAID, Theo is a college freshman who's mature beyond his years; he is WISE. Please enjoy his thoughts on “the self”, conflict resolution, humility, and his mother - of course. What's beautiful about Theo is that he understands both his vulnerabilities and his privileges. This came from a lot of self-reflection, and readings of spiritual texts like the Rastafari Bible. And as a result his honesty and self-awareness, his groundedness, is magnetic. (6:00) Theo introduces himself, his hometown, and his work in restorative justice. (8:30) Theo and Ashanti make their masks together. (12:20) Theo shares the front of his mask - funny, college athlete, charismatic. (13:40) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, hard-working, caring - and they discuss the “fronts” society expects is to put on. (19:10) Theo shares the back of his mask - mental health issues, insecurity, the desire to be wanted/needed - and how he never sees himself as enough. (22:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - sadness, fear, worry - and the helplessness he feels when caring for his brother. (27:00) Theo explains how some religious texts have helped him adjust his perspective and approach life with humility. Then, he shares some beautiful thoughts about his mother. (36:00) Ashanti and Theo discuss conflict resolution, and picking your battles when you have a different perspective from someone. (39:00) Theo holds a lot of wisdom and roundedness at a young age. He looks back on his childhood and the formation of his personality/EQ. (42:00) Theo and Ashanti continue to discuss human behavior, triggers, and how we are all capable of different levels of good and bad - based on circumstances. (49:20) Theo shares a final message for young people. --- Connect with Theo Coker-Edwards: Instagram: instagram.com/theo__coker Twitter: twitter.com/TheoCoker4 --- 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

“I was working so hard in service to my community; I hit burnout, had a massive breakdown. And I looked at myself in the mirror, and I was like, ‘Even though I'm aspiring so hard to be a positive role model and innovate and create change in my communities, I wouldn't want anyone to be like me right now.'” - Jamin Heppell Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Jamin Heppell. Jamin is a founding director and leadership coach of his company Mountains and Marathons; a transformational leadership development organization that delivers life-changing coaching programs for entrepreneurs, executives, and leaders. Jamin really turns this podcast ON ITS HEAD when he brings his experience with Internal Family Systems, better known as IFS or Parts Work, to the forefront. He introduces the concept, models it, and then guides Ashanti through this spiritual, metaphysical process… LIVE ON THE AIR. (2:00) Ashanti's introduction. (13:30) Jamin introduces himself, his background, and his work as a leadership coach. (16:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - passionate, dedicated, caring, hard-working - and how his intense level of care can be a burden. They address the question: Is it possible to care so much and not carry a burden? (28:05) Jamin shares the front of his mask - warmth, groundedness, inspiration. (31:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, self-doubt - and he reflects on dealing with some disruptive students at a recent workshop. (45:00) Jamin shares the back of his mask - inner-critic, little boy, shame, unworthiness - and explores the vulnerability of inviting others to things and receiving “no's” and no responses. (51:30) Jamin shares the process he undergoes in order to have conversations with himself - his many parts - and ultimately heal. This is called Internal Family Systems (IFS) or parts work. (57:30) Jamin guides Ashanti through the IFS process. (1:13:00) Jamin and Ashanti recap the IFS process and share closing remarks. (1:16:30) Jamin shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Jamin Heppell: Instagram: instagram.com/jaminheppell Business: instagram.com/mountainsandmarathons --- 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: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support  --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“There's times where it feels like I'm in my own bubble. And, as soon as I leave that bubble, I realize I'm still this very lost, immature kid in a lot of ways.” - Gael Aitor Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Gael Aitor. Gael is the creator and a host of the “Teenager Therapy” podcast - the largest teen mental health podcast, with over 1,000,000 followers. In this conversation, Gael and Ashanti discuss their inner-child and what it means to them, their masks, what it means to be your own best friend, and what's next for Gael. In this conversation, it's clear why Gael has such a beloved podcast; it's not just Gael's speaking ability, it's his ability to deeply listen to his counterpart and generate true chemistry and connection. (1:15) Ashanti's introduction and a big announcement about receiving the Surgeon General's medallion. (10:05) Gael introduces himself, his podcast, and his new venture, Astro Studios. (12:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, passionate, caring - and they both find solace in the fact that growth is not linear. (16:55) Gael shares the front of his mask - maturity, composure, confidence - and they both yearn for more moments in life to get back in touch with their inner-child. (29:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of failure, sadness, worry/self-doubt - and how he needs to make himself his best friend. (34:45) Gael shares the back of his mask - vulnerability, anger, love. (47:15) Gael and Ashanti wrap up their conversation, and Gael shares a message for today's teens. (49:45) Gael shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Gael Aitor:  Instagram: instagram.com/gaelaitor Podcast: instagram.com/teenagertherapy 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: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

“I often greet people with a smile, no matter how I'm feeling. I've always wanted folks to feel comfortable engaging with me. No matter how I feel I want them to feel comfortable, like I'm approachable.” - Rondy Isaac Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Rondy Isaac. Rondy is a father of two, the Wellness Program Director for Create The Space, and a Yoga Instructor, certified in Vinyasa yoga teacher training, power yoga teacher training, psychotherapeutic yoga teacher training, and trauma-based yoga training with the Art of Yoga Project. Rondy would consider the things listed here as “modifiers” - only temporary labels orbiting around his core, “signature” entity. What is that entity? As Rondy puts it, "I am a light that's trying to connect with you." (0:25) Ashanti's introduction (4:10) Rondy and Ashanti overcome some technology hurdles, then Rondy introduces himself, his core entity/“signature”, and his “modifiers”. (14:40) Rondy and Ashanti make their masks together. (16:10) Rondy shares the front of his mask - friendly, proud, healthy. (17:40) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious/hard-working, caring - then, he and Rondy discuss how they handle failure. (24:20) Rondy shares some thoughts on the book, “The Four Agreements.” And then they discuss why people deserve a grace period to get over mistakes. (29:35) Rondy shares the back of his mask - sadness, anger, frustration. (32:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - self-doubt, balancing blessings and burdens, fear - and they both reflect on how they can continue to shed their capitalistic mindsets. (40:20) Rondy comes up with a new tagline for Ashanti. Then he shares his final thoughts. (43:55) Rondy shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Rondy: Website: rondyoga.com Black to Yoga: blacktoyoga.com Create The Space: instagram.com/create_the_space --- 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: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

A brighter future requires empowering youth education. By providing young learners with the knowledge, skills, and resources they need, we equip them to tackle the challenges of an ever-evolving world. Ashanti Branch is a pioneering force in education reform and youth mental health. He is also a keynote speaker, a Fulbright Fellow, a 4x TEDx Speaker, and the creator of #MillionMaskMovement for anonymous self-reflection. Ashanti is the Founder and Executive Director of the Ever Forward Club (EFC), a non-profit organization committed to empowering marginalized students to graduate high school through emotional tools and mental health support. As EFC's Founder, Ashanti Branch tackles dropout rates, consulted by the US Surgeon General's office on youth mental health.  In the episode "Unmasking Potential: Empowering Through Education, Authenticity, and the #MillionMaskMovement", Ashanti imparts his journey of transforming education and sheds some light on the importance of emotional authenticity and mental health.   These are the other key

Today is a special crossover episode, featuring The Contemplative Corazón podcast, with Julie Calderon! The episode you will hear today from The Contemplative Corazón, featuring Ashanti Branch, originally aired on June 11th, 2023 - episode 27: Holding Space for Healing. In it, they discuss Ashanti's career journey and eventual calling to be a teacher, the story of the Ever Forward Club, how to set high expectations for students, the time Ashanti was so burnt out he needed a ride to the hospital in an ambulance, how they practice self-care, and how wellness is going mainstream. --- Connect with Julie Calderon: Website: mujerevolving.com Podcast: podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/julie-calderon --- 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: anchor.fm/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

“I try to lie to myself that ‘I find stillness in activity.' But actually I think I'm terrified of stillness. I'm terrified of sitting with me.” - Kip Ioane Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Kip Ioane. Kip is a former NCAA Head Basketball Coach of 14 years, who spent the last 10 years of his career crafting a framework of coaching designed to empower coaches to enlighten their players to the power of reimagining manhood. In creating and executing the TeamsOfMen program over the last decade, Kip has been forced to self-reflect and unlearn my own toxic ideas around being a man, a father, a husband, and a coach… (0:25) Ashanti's introduction (5:00) Kip introduces himself, his family, his career in NCAA basketball, and his organization TeamsOfMen. (12:25) Kip shares the front of his superhero-inspired mask - innovative, intentional, family legacy. (16:05) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - dedicated, determined, purpose - and the numbing that goes on in our culture that appears in many different forms. (23:55) Kip shares the back of his mask - unworthy of belief, weak with self-doubt, the legacy ball dropper. All the way to 27:20 check for teasers. (28:35) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - self-doubt, world-doubt, I can't be lazy so I stay busy - and he and Kip further analyze grind culture. (35:30) Ashanti and Kip discuss “the mean friend” and “the mean voice inside your head.” (47:20) Kip shares some final words and how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Kip Ioane: Twitter: twitter.com/@teams_men; twitter.com/@kipioane Youtube: youtube.com/@teamsofmen TikTok: tiktok.com/@teamsofmen 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: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Street Soldiers Radio is joined by guests Ashanti Branch, Johnathan Pugh Jr. and Wenceslao Soto with a discussion about men, masculinity and the emotional masks. The Ever Forward Club was founded by Ashanti Branch in 2004 at San Lorenzo High School. While teaching mathematics, Branch observed the young men of color in his classes moving…

“I've always been, quietly, a fearful kid growing up. And there's always that fear in the background. It probably wasn't until I was in college - fear was the only form of motivation that I knew.” - Gerry Sandusky Ever Forward Club's Ashanti Branch is joined by Gerry Sandusky. Gerry is the voice of the NFL's Baltimore Ravens, and he's a broadcaster and communications coach. As Gerry puts it, “I show leaders how to become presenters people cancel plans to hear.” And, wouldn't you know it, Gerry believes that the key to being a great public speaker has something to do with taking off the mask… (0:25) Ashanti's introduction (4:25) Gerry introduces himself, his work with the Baltimore Ravens, and his consulting business. Then he and Ashanti discuss the writing process. (9:40) Gerry and Ashanti make their masks together. (10:45) Gerry shares the front of his mask - entertaining, insightful, guide. (11:45) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, dedicated, driven. (13:30) Gerry shares the back of his mask - afraid, failed potential, not enough. (17:50) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - self-critical, fear, family loss. (22:00) Gerry and Ashanti reflect on how much they have in common despite growing up on opposite sides of the country with different backgrounds. (30:00) Gerry and Ashanti discuss what young athletes may need to hear about character vs. talent. (34:00) Gerry shares how you can get in touch with him. --- Connect with Gerry Sandusky: Website: sanduskygroup.com Instagram: instagram.com/gsandusky LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/gerrysandusky 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: anchor.fm/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

Young boys need guidance. Activist, speaker and mentor Ashanti Branch talks about his journey from teacher to full time mentor, being vulnerable with your emotions, the challenges facing young men and the importance of leading by example. Through his work with his nationwide #MillionMaskMovement Ashanti is helping young boys, and particularly black young men remove their “masks” and reveal the emotions that reside inside.  New episodes every Monday