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Taking Off The Mask

Taking Off The Mask

By Ashanti Branch


Taking Off The Mask is an experience of getting real. Providing young men and men a space to have real conversations about life, challenges, joys, heartbreak, dreams, failures, and whatever is ready to be revealed.
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E32. Updates and Good News - with Ashanti Branch and Sam R.

Taking Off The MaskApr 07, 2021

00:00
26:56
186. LIVE from SXSW! - Education Monthly #2: What’s up with young men?! / The cultural disconnect between adults and youth at schools

186. LIVE from SXSW! - Education Monthly #2: What’s up with young men?! / The cultural disconnect between adults and youth at schools

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




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Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org

Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com 

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Connect with Ashanti Branch:

Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks

Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks

Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch

Website: branchspeaks.com

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support 

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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

Mar 26, 202459:26
185. Talking to your Nervous System - with Matthew Sloane, Author & Men’s Group Facilitator

185. Talking to your Nervous System - with Matthew Sloane, Author & Men’s Group Facilitator

Join Ashanti and Matthew in a candid conversation about self-awareness, emotional/nervous system regulation, fatherhood, and the complexities of personal growth. Matthew has been a father since 2016 and a husband since 2013. He authors short, illustrated men's fiction for book clubs, men's groups, dad groups, and male studies courses. He Kickstarted his first book in 2011, called “Tulie’s Garden”, about his inner journey from boyhood to manhood—acknowledged by co-founder Bill Kauth of the Mankind Project as "soul poetry of worthy masculinity." His second book in progress, “Alexandra & the Moon”, is a story for mindful fathers raising spirited daughters.

(0:00) Introduction and overview of the episode's themes.

(05:29) Reminiscing about their early days together.

(13:30) The front of Matthew’s mask

(14:39) The front of Ashanti’s mask

(18:11) The back of Matthew’s mask

(18:20) Reflections on the role of fatherhood in personal growth and storytelling.

(24:00) The back of Ashanti’s mask

(32:00) Exploring the concept of nervous system regulation for emotional well-being.

(45:16) Closing remarks, acknowledgments, and information on how to contact Matthew.

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Connect with Matthew Sloane:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/matthew_sloane_author

Substack: https://matthewsloane.substack.com/

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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

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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

Mar 19, 202449:22
184. Performative Vulnerability - with Solomon Adams, Musician, Writer, & Educator

184. Performative Vulnerability - with Solomon Adams, Musician, Writer, & Educator

Embark on a journey into the depths of vulnerability as Solomon Adams, a deeply talented musician, writer, and educator, unearths the intricate layers of his emotional landscape in this episode. From the front-facing optimism that radiates through his creative work to the complexities that lie beneath, Solomon delves into the power of emotions often concealed. Join us as he shares the real vulnerability that goes beyond the performative, offering an intimate exploration of the struggles, triumphs, and nuances that shape his authentic self.

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(0:00) Introduction

(9:00) Solomon's introduction and background

(11:00) The front of Solomon's mask: Positivity, Creativity, Optimism

(14:00) How Solomon stays optimistic

(18:40) The front of Ashanti’s mask: Excited, Passionate, Caring

(21:30) The power of somatics

(23:27) The back of Solomon's mask: anger, rage, irritability, and real vulnerability

(30:30) Navigating through real vulnerability versus performative vulnerability

(33:07) The back of Ashanti’s mask: My work is my value, proud not to be prideful

(37:42) Closing Reflections

(40:00) Solomon's Instagram and upcoming projects

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Connect with Solomon Adams:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stillsolomonssoul

Organization: https://www.instagram.com/mov3mentmakers

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Mar 12, 202443:10
183. Does it hurt more to leave somebody or to be left? - TOTM Face to Face #21 - with Wenceslao and Ryan Louie

183. Does it hurt more to leave somebody or to be left? - TOTM Face to Face #21 - with Wenceslao and Ryan Louie

Join Wenceslao, the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host, in an insightful conversation with filmmaker and educator Ryan Louie. Together, they explore the profound lessons learned from love, relationships, and the transformative impact of the Ever Forward Club. The discussion touches on fearlessness, self-knowledge, and the pursuit of authenticity, offering a unique perspective on personal growth and filmmaking.


(0:00)  Introduction

(5:30) Wenceslao’s front - funny, engaging, responsible. And his back - shy, soft.

(8:50) Ryan’s front - easy-going, agreeable, fun-loving. And his back - desire to impress, opinionated, friendship.

(10:30) Reflecting on Love, Relationships, and Big Brothers/Sisters

(13:05) Ryan and Wenceslao play Ever Forward’s Adventure Card Game.

(25:13) Contemplating Relationships and Divorce

(27:20) Ryan's Filmmaking Journey

(31:40) Personal Growth Through Filmmaking

(39:30) Aspirations for the Future and College Plans

(40:00) Lessons Learned from Podcasting

(43:35) A Poetic Conclusion - on The Soul's Hidden Path

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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

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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

Mar 06, 202451:45
182. EDUCATION MONTHLY! - Productive struggle, trying out new lesson plans, high school vs. middle school, and staying curious

182. EDUCATION MONTHLY! - Productive struggle, trying out new lesson plans, high school vs. middle school, and staying curious

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.

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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

Feb 28, 202443:07
181. Minding the Gap (Boldness vs. Fear) - with Kevin Cho Tipton, Healthcare Reform Advocate & Military Medical Officer

181. Minding the Gap (Boldness vs. Fear) - with Kevin Cho Tipton, Healthcare Reform Advocate & Military Medical Officer

“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.

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Connect with Kevin Cho Tipton:
www.HealthcareAgainstHate.com

Social Media: https://www.instagram.com/KevinChoFL

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Feb 21, 202446:25
180. Ruben Rojas, Artist - on Love and Valentine’s Day

180. Ruben Rojas, Artist - on Love and Valentine’s Day

“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.

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(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.

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Connect with Ruben Rojas:

Website: http://rubenrojas.com

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rubenrojas/ 

Social, Podcast, and More!: https://linktr.ee/rubenrojas

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Feb 14, 202441:45
179. The American Dream: TOTM Face to Face #20 - with Wenceslao and Eloy Castro

179. The American Dream: TOTM Face to Face #20 - with Wenceslao and Eloy Castro

"Everyone’s dream is having the “American Dream” right? Own property, own big cars, have a big family. But for me, that dream is fading away a bit. Hopefully, I’ll get part of that dream… having a good, relaxing life."

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Eloy Castro. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Eloy is a personal stylist and interior designer, who also supports the Ever Forward Club’s training programs. ➡️➡️➡️ Because they are both involved in the Ever Forward Club, Eloy and Wenceslao have developed a level of trust and friendship. As someone older than Wenceslao, Eloy has also become a mentor. As you listen, consider this - have you ever had a conversation like this with someone younger/older than you? Who was that person? And how much did you appreciate them?


(0:00) Welcome!

(4:20) Eloy introduces himself.

(6:40) Wenceslao and Eloy make masks.

(7:30) The front of Eloy’s mask - confident, put together, trustworthy, loyal, kind, supportive.

(8:05) The front of Wenceslao’s mask - growing, learning, adapting.

(9:10) The back of Eloy’s mask - anxious, nervous, stressed, insecure, unsure, struggle alone.

(10:10) The back of Wenceslao’s mask - scared, vivid, not satisfied with myself.

(11:55) Some rapid fire questions from The Adventure card game.

(20:10) Poetry reading from Wenceslao.

(22:50) Wenceslao interviews Eloy about the Ever Forward Club.

(26:55) Poetry reading from Wenceslao.

(32:15) Final thoughts from Eloy and Wenceslao.

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

Feb 07, 202436:14
178. All the World’s a Stage - with Dr. Ray Swann, Teacher, Author, Host, Actor

178. All the World’s a Stage - with Dr. Ray Swann, Teacher, Author, Host, Actor

“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.

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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

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Jan 31, 202456:41
177. Trevor Taylor - on Career Changes, Zip Codes, Re-Potting Plants, & Life’s Purpose

177. Trevor Taylor - on Career Changes, Zip Codes, Re-Potting Plants, & Life’s Purpose

“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…

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(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.

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Jan 24, 202453:60
176. The Calm App, but for DUDES - with Jason Kyle Budahazy, Founding Creative at Mental

176. The Calm App, but for DUDES - with Jason Kyle Budahazy, Founding Creative at Mental

“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.

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(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.

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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

Jan 17, 202401:03:21
175. The Most Popular Girl in School (solo episode with Ashanti Branch)
Jan 10, 202430:51
174. Lewis Howes and the Mask of Masculinity (RE-Release)

174. Lewis Howes and the Mask of Masculinity (RE-Release)

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.

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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

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Send in a voice message:

⁠https://anchor.fm/branch-speaks/message⁠

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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/

Jan 03, 202457:48
173. The Difference Between Self-Love and Self-Compassion - with Diego Estrada, Alegrador de Vidas / Brightener of Lives - Monterrey, Mėxico (RE-Release)

173. The Difference Between Self-Love and Self-Compassion - with Diego Estrada, Alegrador de Vidas / Brightener of Lives - Monterrey, Mėxico (RE-Release)

“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.

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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

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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

Jan 02, 202441:51
172. Redemption Song - with Theo Coker-Edwards, College Athlete, Restorative Justice Advocate (RE-Release)

172. Redemption Song - with Theo Coker-Edwards, College Athlete, Restorative Justice Advocate (RE-Release)

“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.

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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

Dec 20, 202353:10
171. The Magic Sentence (that changed my life)

171. The Magic Sentence (that changed my life)

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.

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(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

Dec 13, 202338:53
170. Hours to Kill vs. Hours to Live: TOTM Face to Face #19 - with Wenceslao and Lincoln

170. Hours to Kill vs. Hours to Live: TOTM Face to Face #19 - with Wenceslao and Lincoln

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Lincoln. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Lincoln is a fellow student of Wenceslao’s at City Arts and Leadership Academy ➡️➡️➡️ As they share their masks, play our Adventure Card Game, and discuss all things poetry, friendship, and trust, it’s inspiring to imagine the future these two youth have in store for themselves…

(5:15) Lincoln introduces himself.

(6:15) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - set my path, passionate, outgoing.

(6:50) Lincoln shares the front of his mask - hilarious, enjoyment, leader.

(7:15) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - lack of communication, hesitant, stressed.

(7:45) Lincoln shares the back of his mask - socialization, short-tempered, bright.

(8:45) Wenceslao and Lincoln play the Ever Forward Club: The Adventure card game. Question 1. Tell us about a time when you realized you were becoming an adult.

(9:45 Question 2. Describe a time when you felt like you were in a difficult situation with a friend.

(10:25) Question 3. Tell us about a time when someone betrayed your trust.

(11:25) Question 4. What is the most important thing in making a relationship work?

(12:00) Question 5. Name something you can do to improve your life. What’s stopping you?

(13:05) Question 6. What is a lie that you tell yourself about yourself that you need to stop telling?

(13:45) Then, Wenceslao talks to Lincoln about his involvement in the Ever Forward Club.

(15:45) Wenceslao reads a passage from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran. Then, Lincoln shares more about how the Ever Forward Club has helped him.

(27:00) Wenceslao and Lincoln wrap up the conversation.

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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

Dec 06, 202327:58
169. Psychology and the Gender Evolution - with Dr. Matt Englar-Carlson, Professor, Scholar, Speaker

169. Psychology and the Gender Evolution - with Dr. Matt Englar-Carlson, Professor, Scholar, Speaker

“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 :)

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(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.

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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 

Nov 29, 202352:24
168. Connection over Perfection - with Pellegrino Riccardi, Award-winning Keynote Speaker, Author, & Communication Skills Trainer - Norway (RE-Release)

168. Connection over Perfection - with Pellegrino Riccardi, Award-winning Keynote Speaker, Author, & Communication Skills Trainer - Norway (RE-Release)

“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!

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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.

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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 

Nov 22, 202350:25
167. A Modern-Day Brown v. Board - with Jamarria Hall, Youth Rights Activist & Social Entrepreneur

167. A Modern-Day Brown v. Board - with Jamarria Hall, Youth Rights Activist & Social Entrepreneur

“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.

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Connect with Jamarria Hall:

Instagram: instagram.com/jamarriahall

Website: detroit-accesstoliteracy.org

Facebook: facebook.com/RighttoLiteracy

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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

Nov 15, 202342:22
166. Healthy Student-Teacher Relationships: TOTM Face to Face #18 - with Wenceslao and Mr. Craig Galvin

166. Healthy Student-Teacher Relationships: TOTM Face to Face #18 - with Wenceslao and Mr. Craig Galvin

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Mr. Craig Galvin. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Craig Galvin is an Algebra teacher at Wenceslao’s high school ➡️➡️➡️ Let’s just say this is a conversation between a teacher and a student that most people never get to experience. It’s so great seeing a student and a teacher connect on this level. As you listen, consider this - have you ever had a conversation like this with one of your teachers? Who was that teacher? And how much did you appreciate them?

(4:20) Craig, Wenceslao’s math teacher, introduces himself. Then, he and Wenceslao make their masks together.

(5:40) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - funny, calm, quiet, a learner.

(6:15) Craig shares the front of his mask - confidence, organized, prepared, passionate, dog dad.

(8:00) Craig shares the back of his mask - split home, weakness, messiness, mental health.

(10:40) Wenceslao shares the back of his mask - stress, being with people calms me down, taking things seriously.

(12:20) Wenceslao and Craig play the Ever Forward Club: The Adventure card game.

(12:50) Question 1. When did not speak up, but you know you really should have?

(14:30) Question 2. What are you most afraid of?

(17:00) Question 3. Share with everyone a lesson that you are still learning.

(19:00) Question 4. Name a characteristic about yourself that you don’t talk about much.

(20:50) Question 5. If money was no issue, what is something you would start? 

(22:55) Question 6. What experience in your life has taught you the most?

(25:50) Wenceslao reads a passage about friendship, from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.

(31:05) Wenceslao shares why he sees Craig as more than a teacher - as a friend. Then, Craig compares his first year as a teacher to his second year.

(36:20) Craig shares how he applies the mask activity and the Ever Forward Club to his classroom and his teaching style.

(47:10) Wenceslao closes things out by reading one more poem from Kahlil Gibran, about pain.

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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

Nov 08, 202351:11
165. A Second Chance at Life - with Nick Bracks, Actor & Entrepreneur

165. A Second Chance at Life - with Nick Bracks, Actor & Entrepreneur

“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.

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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 

Oct 31, 202350:23
164. How Two Foster Kids Beat The Odds - with Justin Black, Bestselling Author: Redefining Normal

164. How Two Foster Kids Beat The Odds - with Justin Black, Bestselling Author: Redefining Normal

“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.

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Connect with Justin Black:

Website: re-definingnormal.com

Facebook: facebook.com/redefiningnormalmovement

Instagram: instagram.com/theblacksredefinenormal

TikTok: tiktok.com/@theblacksredefinenormal

Oct 24, 202344:21
163. Looney Tunes - with Jeremy Grater & Zach Tucker, Hosts of The Fit Mess Podcast

163. Looney Tunes - with Jeremy Grater & Zach Tucker, Hosts of The Fit Mess Podcast

“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.

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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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/branch-speaks/support

Oct 17, 202349:22
162. Redemption Song - with Theo Coker-Edwards, College Athlete, Restorative Justice Advocate

162. Redemption Song - with Theo Coker-Edwards, College Athlete, Restorative Justice Advocate

“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

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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

Oct 10, 202353:10
161. If you had 30 days to live… TOTM Face to Face #17 - with Wenceslao and Bilal

161. If you had 30 days to live… TOTM Face to Face #17 - with Wenceslao and Bilal

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Bilal. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Bilal is a high school sophomore and has been a member of the Ever Forward Club for 3 years. As they share their masks; play our Adventure Card Game; and discuss life in high school, how they want to make the most of their lives, and some of their fondest Ever Forward Club memories, Bilal and Wenceslao find their bond growing even stronger...

(1:00) Ashanti's introduction.

(5:00) Wenceslao and Bilal introduce themselves.

(6:00) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - athletic, passionate, quiet. Then Bilal shares his - happy, energy, fun, image.

(7:00) Wenceslao shares the back of his mask - guilt, shy, scarred. Then Bilal shares his - anger, tired, sad, guilt, hard work.

(9:30) Wenceslao and Bilal play the Ever Forward Club: Adventure card game. Question 1. What stands between you and what you want?

(10:30) Question 2. Share a project that you’ve recently ended.

(11:00) Question 3. Describe a time when you’ve been in a difficult situation with your friend.

(12:30) Question 4. If you knew you’d die in 30 days, what would you do for those days?

(15:20) Question 5. Name something you can do to improve your life. What’s stopping you?

(16:50) Question 6. Name a relationship that has recently ended.

(18:00) Wenceslao interviews Bilal and reads some poetry, and they share some memories from the Ever Forward Club.

(32:20) Wenceslao and Bilal wrap up and look to the future.

---

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

Oct 03, 202334:30
160. Internal Family Systems - with Jamin Heppell, Leadership Coach, World Traveler, & Guinness World Record Participant

160. Internal Family Systems - with Jamin Heppell, Leadership Coach, World Traveler, & Guinness World Record Participant

“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 


Sep 26, 202301:19:15
159. Gael Aitor - on Teenager Therapy and the Inner-Child

159. Gael Aitor - on Teenager Therapy and the Inner-Child

“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.

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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

Sep 19, 202349:48
158. Yoga, and Finding Your Essence - with Rondy Isaac, Yoga Instructor, Life Coach

158. Yoga, and Finding Your Essence - with Rondy Isaac, Yoga Instructor, Life Coach

“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.

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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

Sep 12, 202347:26
157. TOTM Face to Face #16: Advice from a College Student - with Wenceslao and Jordan Barragan

157. TOTM Face to Face #16: Advice from a College Student - with Wenceslao and Jordan Barragan

“Now that I’m much older I realize, I was never really lonely. There was always people around me in my life - my family, my friends - that I could have reached out to and built a relationship with.” Jordan Barragan

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Jordan Barragan. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Jordan  is currently a student at Cal State East Bay, and he also interned at the Ever Forward Club thi past summer. As they share their masks, play our Adventure Card Game, and discuss career paths, poetry, the future, and what it means to be truly authentic, Jordan is allowed to look back on his adolescence so that he and Wenceslao can both learn from the experience…

0:15 Ashanti’s introduction

6:00 Jordan introduces himself

7:30 Jordan shares the front of his mask - I’m always energetic, got a smile on my face, funny. Then, he shares the back of his mask - career path insecurities, fear of failure, desire for acceptance, am I making the right decisions?

10:00 Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - bravery, risk taker, compassionate. Then, he shares the back of his mask - shy around people, lost in what I love, memories absorb me.

12:30 Jordan and Wenceslao play the Everforward Club: The Adventure Card Game. Question 1. What can you start right now in your life to become a better person?

13:30 Question 2. What is something you want to do in your life but don’t talk about?

19:10 Question 3. Tell us a time when you realized you’re becoming an adult.

20:40 Question 4. How much much information do you need before you believe something someone says?

22:40 Question 5. Name something you can do to improve your life. What’s stopping you?

23:30 Question 6. Does the image you have of yourself match the image others have of you?

25:50 Jordan looks back on his high school years and gives Wenceslao some advice.

33:50 Jordan shares how his relationship with authenticity has changed over time.

40:50 Jordan and Wenceslao wrap up, and Jordan shares some final words of advice for Wenceslao.


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

Sep 05, 202346:06
156. SPECIAL EPISODE: The Contemplative Corazón, with Julie Calderon
Aug 29, 202354:16
155. What Makes a Great Coach? - with Kip Ioane, Founder, TeamsOfMen

155. What Makes a Great Coach? - with Kip Ioane, Founder, TeamsOfMen

“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.

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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

Aug 22, 202350:58
154.The Key to Public Speaking - with Gerry Sandusky, Speaker, Consultant, and Voice of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens

154.The Key to Public Speaking - with Gerry Sandusky, Speaker, Consultant, and Voice of the NFL’s Baltimore Ravens

“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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support

Aug 15, 202335:27
153. Where Schools Are, and Where Schools Need to Be - Three Year Anniversary Special

153. Where Schools Are, and Where Schools Need to Be - Three Year Anniversary Special

“I became trained to feel that I always need to be doing something. To get loved. To get respect. To be appreciated. When I look back, it wasn’t healthy. But it was the reality.” - Ashanti Branch

In this solo episode of Taking Off The Mask, Ashanti Branch looks at the past, present, and future - of schools, of himself, and of the Ever Forward Club as it approaches its 20th anniversary.

(0:00) Ashanti introduces the episode and the concept behind this podcast.

(5:15) Ashanti reflects on where the Ever Forward Club and this podcast “have been”.

(8:45) Ashanti breaks down where the Ever Forward Club and this podcast is “right now”, the upcoming Global Champions Program, and what he sees in the world of education currently.

(14:45) Ashanti tells a story from a memorable workshop.

(18:45) Ashanti shares where the Ever Forward Club is “going next” as it approaches its 20th anniversary.

(23:55) We share a clip from Ashanti’s appearance on Julie Calderon’s podcast - The Contemplative Corazón.


Listen to Julie Calderon’s Podcast, The Contemplative Corazón:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-contemplative-coraz%C3%B3n/id1615279864

---

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

Aug 08, 202330:03
152. How to Form Genuine Connections with Students - with Donovan Hall, Youth Empowerment Advocate, Educator, Coach

152. How to Form Genuine Connections with Students - with Donovan Hall, Youth Empowerment Advocate, Educator, Coach

“Sometimes I just want someone to sit with me and say, ‘I know you’re scared.’ And I never had that when I was a kid, and I don’t have it now.” - Donovan Hall

It’s our THREE-YEAR ANNIVERSARY episode and this conversation is a SPECIAL ONE! Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Donovan Hall. As a youth empowerment and development advocate, Donovan is currently speaking, coaching, creating content, and working on creating his first docuseries about youth in America. Donovan, with his teaching persona Donofriend, is a natural talent with kids and in the classroom. But what you’ll learn today is that this persona cannot persist without reconciling some things behind the mask…

 

(0:20) Ashanti’s introduction.

(6:30) Donovan introduces himself and how he dedicates himself to youth development and empowerment. Then, he and Ashanti dive right into learning, pedagogy, and emotional intelligence.

(17:20) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, dedicated - and he and Donovan reframe their relationship with dedication, grit, and choice.

(26:05) Donovan shares the front of his mask - Donofriend: caring, goofy, charismatic - and breaks down his approach to working in schools.

(33:40) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, pride, failure.

(41:20) Donovan shares the back of his mask - Donovan: fear, loneliness, self-doubt - and how Donofriend is “at stake” if he doesn’t take care of Donovan.

(54:00) Ashanti and Donovan discuss why it is hard to “Be Your Own Best Friend” even when they preach it to others.

(1:03:30) Ashanti and Donovan discuss growth mindset, before wrapping up the conversation.

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Connect with Donovon Hall:

Website: www.donovantaylorhall.com

Instagram, TikTok, Youtube: @donofriend

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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

Aug 01, 202301:17:29
151. Leading with Love, Building Trust - with Ken Mossman, Executive and Leadership Coach, Writer, Podcaster

151. Leading with Love, Building Trust - with Ken Mossman, Executive and Leadership Coach, Writer, Podcaster

“When I’m having a good time, I feel like my soul and my spirit are in the room. They’re both present and in the room. And if I’m not enjoying myself, then I feel like I’m disconnected from those bigger parts of myself.” - Ken Mossman

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Ken Mossman. An executive and leadership coach who’s specialized in working with men for two decades, Ken has an international clientele from a wide range of industries – from finance, academia, and tech, to entrepreneurship, medicine, and the arts. Ken imagines a world in which all people are valued and experience a sense of belonging and wholeness, and he’s found that helping leaders lead with presence and heart is the best way he can help realize what he imagines for the world. We’re excited for you to learn about Ken’s approach to the work, his creativity, and his internal struggle as he seeks to achieve his vision…

(0:20) Ashanti’s introduction.

(2:55) Ken introduces himself and looks back on the blessings he’s had while living a creative life and working many jobs to support it.

(9:45) Ken shares the front of his mask - fun, inspiring, big-hearted.

(14:55) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - creativity, serious, loving - and thinks about why it has taken so long to put “loving” on the front of his mask.

(25:10) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear, worry, self-doubt - and tells the story of an “Ask Me Anything” gone wrong.

(30:55) Ken shares the back of his mask - jealousy, entitlement, arrogance - and how he oscillates between the extremes of grandiosity and insignificance.

(39:50) Ken explains what he does in his men’s work and how he creates a sense of emotional safety.

(47:10) Ken shares some final thoughts for the audience and shares how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Ken Mossman:

Podcast: kenmossman.com/podcast

Website: kenmossman.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ken-mossman-3649b5

Facebook: facebook.com/ken.mossman.79

---

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

Jul 25, 202351:40
150. How to Un-learn Grind Culture - with Saed Hill, Psychologist, Speaker, Connector, Mentor

150. How to Un-learn Grind Culture - with Saed Hill, Psychologist, Speaker, Connector, Mentor

“We’re different adults, this is a different situation, and you don’t have to be that child anymore. You can be, for that child, what you needed when you were their age. And we can do that now. And we can do that differently. That’s how healing happens.” - Saed Hill

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Saed Hill. Saed is a Counseling Psychologist, and the Assistant Director of Prevention and Masculine Engagement at the Center for Awareness, Response, and Education (CARE) at Northwestern University. There, he develops and implements strategies to improve masculine engagement in the prevention of violence. Aside from what Saed sees while working with Northwestern students and with clients in all kinds of industries, Saed has done a lot of self-reflection about his own background. And today, he and Ashanti are granted the space to share - both where they have come from and where they are headed…

(0:25) Ashanti’s introduction.

(4:20) Saed introduces himself, his work as a counseling psychologist at Northwestern University, and his overall passion to help people feel free from the structures of conventional masculinity.

(7:50) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, caring, work-a-holic - and both men connect over insecurities about laziness and rest.

(13:05) Saed shares the front of his mask - funny, reflective, curious - and he looks back on his immigrant childhood.

(17:45) Ashanti and Saed discuss how they get past the pleasantries when asking, “How are you doing today?”

(19:45) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of losing mom, worry, desire for a legacy - and what he’s been thinking about when looking at his family tree. Then, Saed reflects on what it’s been like to not be a father while many of his friends are having children.

(29:55) Saed shares the back of his mask - lonely, numbing, not enough - and how he experiences vicarious trauma in his profession.

(35:00) Saed and Ashanti discuss burnout culture, and how the systems in place make it difficult for us to appreciate simply being human.

(43:35) Saed shares more about what he teaches and how he works with college students.

(51:05) Saed shares how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Saed Hill:

Website: dynamiccooperative.com/about

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/saed-d-hill-phd

Instagram: instagram.com/papercutrhymesphd


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

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support

Jul 18, 202353:32
149. How to Get Through Heartbreak - with Manj Bahra, Transformation & Relationship Coach

149. How to Get Through Heartbreak - with Manj Bahra, Transformation & Relationship Coach

“Everyone’s always thinking about what they don’t have. We can always be looking at each other thinking, ‘he’s got something I don’t have’ or ‘she has this.’ You take that focus away from what you do, and it’s that hedonic treadmill where it’s never enough.” - Manj Bahra

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Manj Bahra. Manj is a transformation and relationship coach, who’s found a specialization in being a “Heartbreak Coach.” But overall, it’s not about heartbreak; Manj has been helping clients achieve goals, overcome problems, and realize their own innate potential. Manj is an engaging speaker with spot-on analogies for every situation, and we’re excited for you to hear some of this magic as he takes off his mask :)

(0:25) Ashanti’s introduction

(2:20) Manj introduces himself and his transition from corporate life to being a “heartbreak” coach.

(9:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, dedicated, passionate - and how Ever Forward Club has come full circle after 19 years.

(14:55) Manj shares the front of his mask - ambitious, coach, transformation - and how he reconsidered “what he wanted to be remembered by.”

(20:15) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - middle age, work - and how moments from our childhood create narratives and automatic responses that remain within us for our lifetime.

(30:25) Manj shares the back of his mask - anxiety, fear of failure, body dysmorphia.

(39:10) Manj and Ashanti break down some insights Manj has had while coaching, and how he helps people adjust their focus, unlearn old stories, and get off the hedonic treadmill.

(45:20) Manj shares some final thoughts and how you can get in touch with him.

---

Connect with Manj Bahra:

Medium: medium.com/@manjbahra

Website: manjbahra.com

Instagram: instagram.com/manj.bahra

TikTok: tiktok.com/@manj.bahra

---

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

Jul 11, 202352:59
148. TOTM Face to Face #15: Advice from a High School Graduate - w/ Wenceslao & Mohandas

148. TOTM Face to Face #15: Advice from a High School Graduate - w/ Wenceslao & Mohandas

Say not, “I have found the truth,” but rather, “I have found a truth.”

Say not, “I have found the path of the soul.” Say rather, “I have met the soul walking upon my path.”

- The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Mohandas. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Mohandas is the Ever Forward Club’s prior Youth Host. As they share their masks, play our Adventure Card Game, and discuss high school, poetry, the future, adulthood, and what makes a balanced friendship, Mohandas is allowed to share some wisdom with Wenceslao as he follows a similar path…

(0:30) Ashanti’s introduction.

(4:05) Wenceslao and Mohandas reunite.

(5:25) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - empathy, joy, straight forward.

(6:25) Mohandas shares the front of his mask - hard-working, confident, kind.

(6:50) Wenceslao shares the back of his mask - regret, insecure, shame.

(7:35) Mohandas shares the back of his mask - ashamed, worried, existential crisis

(10:40) Mohandas and Wenceslao answer some questions from the Everforward Club: The Adventure card game. What’s a hidden talent that you would like to work on more?

(12:10) Describe a time when you felt like you were in a battle with a friend.

(13:50) Name a relationship that recently ended.

(19:05) Share a lesson that you’re still learning.

(21:30) Tell us about a time when someone betrayed your trust. 

(27:05) Wenceslao and Mohandas discuss The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran. Then, Mohandas looks back on his time hosting the podcast.

(31:10) Wenceslao, a high school freshman, gets some advice from Mohandas, who’s about to graduate from high school. Then, Mohandas looks ahead at his future.

(41:45) Wenceslao and Mohandas close things out by reading one more poem from The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran.

---

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

Jul 04, 202345:03
147. What Whiteness Takes Away from White People - with David Dean, Political Educator, Speaker, & Writer

147. What Whiteness Takes Away from White People - with David Dean, Political Educator, Speaker, & Writer

“Racism has been used as this tool for centuries to divide and conquer, and to separate ordinary people of different colors, and to keep them from working together to challenge the corporate domination of working people and the planet.” - David Dean

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by David Dean. David is a political educator, speaker, and writer dedicated to supporting white people to engage in multiracial social movements with emotional strength, political clarity, and fierce purpose. Whether it’s in the hallways of Oakland Public Schools or the neighborhoods of working-class Americans, Ashanti and David both agree in the power of universal belonging and the power of the phrase, “There is more to me than you can see just by looking at me.” Please enjoy their conversation, as they explore the breadth and depth of overcoming prejudice in order to achieve a higher purpose.

(0:30) Ashanti’s introduction

(3:30) David introduces himself, his work providing antiracism education to white people, and what Whiteness took away from white people. Then, he and Ashanti discuss the tricks of the adult bullies of the world.

(11:50) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, intense, caring, funny.

(17:20) David shares the front of his mask - confident, connected to purpose, generous + loving.

(21:55) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear, organizational drama, worry - and wonders whether he’s afraid to let people see him cry.

(29:00) David shares the back of his mask - fearful of being outcast, overwhelmed by and fearful of death and suffering, belief in universal belonging - and goes into the complications of working with white people on antiracism.

(41:20) Ashanti and David go deeper into antiracist education. 

(46:30) David breaks down the history of racial socialization.

(50:30) David shares how you can get in touch with him and shares some last words.

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Connect with David Dean:

Website: davidbfdean.com

Instagram: instagram.com/davidbfdean

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

Jun 27, 202354:57
146. Inspiration for Late Bloomers - with Tyrone J. Dangerfield, Filmmaker

146. Inspiration for Late Bloomers - with Tyrone J. Dangerfield, Filmmaker

“Keep on keepin’ on. Because, believe it or not there’s someone who’s looking at you in a way that you don’t even see yourself.” - Tyrone J. Dangerfield

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Tyrone J. Dangerfield. Tyrone is a Writer and Independent Filmmaker, born and raised in Oakland, CA. With deep generational family roots in the Bay Area, he loves researching his family history and is heavily influenced and fascinated by stories on both sides of the law. Currently working in and elevating his craft in Atlanta, Georgia, it was a teacher in 1993 who first recognized his talent as a writer and encouraged Tyrone by putting him into the Junior Publishers program. In this conversation, Tyrone and Ashanti look back on this moment, as well as many others, as they take off the mask…

(2:10) Tyrone introduces himself, his work as a filmmaker, and his Oakland roots.

(4:30) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, caring, hard-working, funny.

(7:00) Tyrone shares the front of his mask - focused, happy, fun. Then, he and Ashanti share some more thoughts about the Bay Area and gentrification.

(17:00) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear (free?), stress, worry, I’m awesome.

(22:30) Tyrone shares what it’s been like raising two sons, twenty-two years apart, and how he continues to evolve and learn from the youth.

(32:10) Tyrone looks back on his childhood and how he discovered writing and filmmaking.

(40:05) Tyrone shares a message he has for young people.

(43:50) Tyrone shares how you can get in touch with him.

---

Connect with Tyrone J. Dangerfield:

Instagram: instagram.com/tabdangersdad

Website: TheOaklandFilmCompany.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: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support 

Jun 20, 202346:45
145. Navigating Social Self-Doubt - with Drew Barvir, Mental Health Advocate, Investor, & Entrepreneur

145. Navigating Social Self-Doubt - with Drew Barvir, Mental Health Advocate, Investor, & Entrepreneur

“I’m generally more shy and reserved, and I think I’ve naturally gravitated towards more extroverted people because they take up space and it makes me feel more comfortable.” - Drew Barvir

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Drew Barvir. Drew currently is enrolled in Stanford’s MBA program. Growing up, members of Drew’s family had their battles with mental illness, and, partly because of these past experiences, he’s now building a startup in the adolescent mental health space: Sonar Mental Health. In their own way, Drew and Ashanti are both trying to be proactive about the mental health crises our youth face today - attempting to build connection and a sense of belonging early, before the feelings we may be bottling up explode into something else less desirable. Today, however, they are allowed to heal themselves and take a break from healing others…

(1:30) Drew introduces himself, his Canadian roots, his love of the outdoors, and his family history with mental health.

(4:00) Drew shares the front of his mask - outgoing and social, hardworking, optimistic, generous.

(5:00) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, caring, intelligent.

(8:55) Drew shares the back of his mask - introverted and shy, social self-doubt, family baggage, caring.

(11:25) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear, self-doubt, excited and worried.

(15:30) Drew tells the story of how he built a startup in the adolescent mental health space: Sonar Mental Health.

(19:40) Drew and Ashanti discuss how schools can be more proactive with how they treat mental health.

(24:10) Drew shares how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Drew Barvir:

Email: drew@getsonar.org

Website: sonarmentalhealth.com

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drewbarvir

Instagram: instagram.com/drewbarvir


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

Jun 13, 202328:08
E144. TOTM Face to Face #14: A Student Learns What His Teacher Hides - with Wenceslao & Mr. John Jimenez

E144. TOTM Face to Face #14: A Student Learns What His Teacher Hides - with Wenceslao & Mr. John Jimenez

“Your children are not your children.

They are the sons and daughters of Life’s longing for itself.

They come through you but not from you,

And though they are with you yet they belong not to you.”

- On Children by Kahlil Gibran

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Mr. John Jimenez. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. John is one of Wenceslao’s teachers at City Arts and Leadership Academy. As they share their masks, play our Adventure Card Game, and discuss parenting, poetry, skateboarding, rebelliousness, and living in an immigrant household, it’s inspiring to see a teacher-student relationship take on a new dynamic…

(0:20) During Ashanti’s introduction, we celebrate Mohandas’s high school graduation.

(2:10) John introduces himself.

(2:50) John and Wenceslao make their masks together.

(3:15) John shares the front of his mask - funny, loud, outgoing, proud father. And he shares the back of his mask - anxiety, stressed.

(4:45) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - learner, calm/quiet, fun, creative. Then he shares the back of his mask - shy, insecure, stressed.

(7:55) Wenceslao and John play the card game Everforward Club: The Adventure. Question 1: Name a relationship that needs to end.

(9:55) Question 2: How are you different when you are alone or with others?

(12:30) Question 3: Tell us about a time when you felt like you were good at something.

(14:40) Question 4: What is a hidden talent that you want to work on more?

(18:00) Question 5: Are you more afraid of success or failure?

(19:35) Question 6: What can you start in your life right now to become a better person?

(22:40) Wenceslao asks John some questions in order to gain some more perspective on social-emotional learning in the classroom. He also shares some poems with John. And, as a new parent, John shares some thoughts on parenting.

(45:35) John reflects on his immigrant upbringing and how he’ll apply the experience to raising his son. Then, he and Wenceslao discuss the relationship between passion and freedom.

(57:45) John and Wenceslao share some closing thoughts and reflections about the podcast.

---

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

Jun 06, 202301:07:42
E143. The Difference Between Self-Love and Self-Compassion - with Diego Estrada, Alegrador de Vidas / Brightener of Lives - Monterrey, Mėxico

E143. The Difference Between Self-Love and Self-Compassion - with Diego Estrada, Alegrador de Vidas / Brightener of Lives - Monterrey, Mėxico

“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

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.

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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

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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

May 30, 202341:51
E142. How Curiosity Can Bridge Relationships - with Christopher Veal, International Speaker & Author

E142. How Curiosity Can Bridge Relationships - with Christopher Veal, International Speaker & Author

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Christopher Veal. As a former Marine officer, combat veteran, and Black man, Christopher leverages all this and his 25 years of experience in executive development as a global influencer and speaker on evolving masculinity, and as the author of The Whole Man. A huge part of Christopher’s life has been holding difficult conversations. And in this episode, Ashanti and Christopher explore the territory of difficult conversations, the mindsets required when approaching them, and why we should never shy away from them in order to build a more understanding world.

(2:40) Christopher introduces himself, his family background, and his work as a champion of healthy masculinity and vulnerability.

(6:10) Ashanti and Christopher make their masks.

(9:05) Christopher shares the front of his mask - humor, confidence, curiosity.

(11:45) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - serious, passionate, storyteller, caring - and explains why he “over smiles.”

(16:35) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear of failure/success, brother and nephew, doubt.

(24:15) Christopher shares the back of his mask - fear, disappointment, hurt.

(28:45) Christopher shares some techniques he’s been using when having difficult and contentious conversations, and Ashanti looks at an interaction he recently had through the lens of these techniques.

(40:35) Christopher shares some insights on his book, The Whole Man.

(44:45) Christopher shares some final words and how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Christopher Veal:

Website: wholemanjourney.com

Podcast: vulnerable-man.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christopherveal

---

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 

May 23, 202349:09
141. The Critical First Step for Every Educator - with Jerome Hunter, Co-founder & Chief Academic Officer, Seattle School for Boys

141. The Critical First Step for Every Educator - with Jerome Hunter, Co-founder & Chief Academic Officer, Seattle School for Boys

“What keeps me hopeful is our students. Our students and our youth, they’re fearless; they’re committed; they’re open-minded. They have always been the anchor to the work that I do. When they realize that they’ve got adults that care for them and that believe in them, they give it right back. That’s something that I’m really grateful for.”

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Jerome Hunter. Jerome is the co-founder and Chief Academic Officer at Seattle School for Boys. A proponent of healthy masculinity and its importance in an equitable society, Jerome is passionate about supporting young people to dismantle systems of oppression in education and build equitable futures. This conversation is about how we achieve these goals; specifically, it’s about the things we may take for granted when trying to achieve them. A teacher may believe in this mission, but do they know themselves well enough to carry it out and lead a classroom effectively? That’s where the mask comes in…

(3:55) Jerome introduces himself and his work in schools and with boys.

(5:45) Jerome shares the front of his mask - driven, funny, kind.

(8:05) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - dedicated, serious, funny.

(12:25) Ashanti finds the through-line in all of the masks he’s made over the years. Then, he and Jerome discuss what behaviors they are seeing in young boys in 2023.

(23:50) Jerome shares the back of his mask - imposter syndrome, anxious, sad.

(31:45) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - sadness, worry, self-doubt - and he remembers his grandmother.

(37:05) Then, Jerome and Ashanti discuss how teachers, students, and administrators can bring their full selves to school and coexist in a supportive, loving manner.

(51:45) Jerome shares why he got into the field of education and how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Jerome Hunter:

Website: seattleschoolforboys.org

Website: jeromeleehunter.com

Instagram: instagram.com/seattleschoolforboys

Instagram: instagram.com/hunterj33


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 

May 16, 202356:44
140. It’s Scary to be Curious - with Jeremy Mohler, Therapist, Writer, & Meditation Teacher

140. It’s Scary to be Curious - with Jeremy Mohler, Therapist, Writer, & Meditation Teacher

“It’s just this cycle I’ve been on for so long. What would it be like to not distract yourself with the work thing, but also not go to the numbing out thing - and just be present in all the stuff? That’s the life I want. I want to feel more.”

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Jeremy Mohler. As a therapist, writer, and meditation teacher, Jeremy offers therapy and life coaching to people struggling with anxiety, depression, and burnout; men navigating modern masculinity; and white people unpacking internalized white racial superiority. But this wasn’t always Jeremy, a former Fortune 500 marketing professional. Why the transformation? We’re excited for you to listen to this conversation and learn how Jeremy tries to lead life with curiosity.

(1:25) Ashanti’s introduction.

(3:25) Jeremy introduces himself, as well as his work as a therapist and men’s work leader.

(8:00) Ashanti and Jeremy discuss “the old recordings” that stay with us and affect how we behave as men. Then, they talk a little NFL football.

(20:10) Jeremy shares the front of his mask - stoic, nice, knowledgeable/sure.

(28:40) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - purpose-driven, dedicated, caring - and Jeremy shares how he values these qualities as well.

(36:50) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - grief, pain, not enough - and both men share how keeping themselves busy with work or other numbing agents distracts them from heartbreak.

(48:15) Jeremy shares the back of his mask - curious, joy, depressed.

(51:10) Jeremy shares how you can get in touch with him.

---

Connect with Jeremy Mohler:

Website: jeremymohler.blog

Substack: No Man Is an Island

Instagram: instagram.com/therapist.for.the.99.percent

Twitter: twitter.com/FutureDebris


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

May 09, 202354:40
E139. TOTM Face to Face #13: How a veteran teacher builds trust with students - with Wenceslao & Bryan Hill

E139. TOTM Face to Face #13: How a veteran teacher builds trust with students - with Wenceslao & Bryan Hill

“In the end, I want you to trust me. There are some students - they don’t always like me, but they know I got their back. And sometimes you can’t have both at the same time, and I think growing as a teacher is constant communication, constant trust - how do you move forward even when somebody’s gonna have a challenge?” - Bryan Hill, Spanish Teacher, City Arts and Leadership

This TOTM Face to Face conversation is between Wenceslao and Bryan Hill. Wenceslao is the Ever Forward Club’s Youth Host. You can get to know more about him in episode 123. Bryan, or Mr. Hill, teaches Spanish at City Arts and Leadership Academy; Wenceslao is one of his students. As they share their masks, play our Adventure Card Game, and discuss trust, insecurity, and career journeys, it’s inspiring to see a teacher-student relationship take on a new dynamic…

(1:50) Ashanti’s introduction.

(5:15) Bryan introduces himself, his family, and his Michigan roots.

(6:40) Wenceslao shares the front of his mask - engaging, fast learner, passionate.

(7:20) Bryan shares the front of his mask - positive, curious, caring, under control, bridge builder.

(8:30) Wenceslao shares the back of his mask - shy, not trusting, can’t decide.

(9:50) Bryan shares the back of his mask - fears, negative thoughts, insecurity.

(12:00) Wenceslao and Bryan play Ever Forward Club: The Adventure card game. Question 1: If money was no issue, what is something you would start?

(13:20) Question 2: Share a project that you’ve recently ended?

(14:45) Question 3: Name a relationship that recently ended.

(16:00) Question 4: If you were to die today, what would you most regret?

(17:05) Question 5: What is a hidden talent that you want to work on more?

(18:35) Question 6: Are you more afraid of success or failure?

(20:00) Bryan shares how he decided to become a teacher and some of the insecurities he worked through as a young teacher.

(28:00) Wenceslao and Bryan discuss what it takes to build trust between teacher and student.

(39:20) Bryan asks Wenceslao about how he’s grown with the Ever Forward Club and its social-emotional learning tools.

(43:30) Bryan shares some final thoughts with the listeners.

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

May 02, 202347:35
Bonus Episode: High Tech High: Unboxed, featuring Enrique "Chikle" Lugo

Bonus Episode: High Tech High: Unboxed, featuring Enrique "Chikle" Lugo

Please enjoy a special BONUS episode, which originally aired on the podcast High Tech High: Unboxed. In the episode, educator Enrique "Chikle" Lugo shares how he helps students of color navigate white spaces.

Learn more about High Tech High at www.hightechhigh.org.

Apr 28, 202338:47
E138. Chasing Feelings - with Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes, Entrepreneur, Performer, Nerd

E138. Chasing Feelings - with Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes, Entrepreneur, Performer, Nerd

“With How Men Cry, we’re not even really just talking about physical tears. It’s really about all the different ways that we can cry out, essentially from not processing pain or trauma or some of these things that we hide behind the mask.” - Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes. Dxtr’s motto is to "live life like an experiment, you cannot control what happens to you, but you can control the product you become". He explores experimental themes in his multi-sensory performances such as his signature black light live band performances. And his acapella spoken word and keynotes have brought crowds to tears while teaching inspirational deep life lessons. Dxtr most recently launched a movement called "How Men Cry" which is changing the narrative around men’s relationship to vulnerability and mental health. Dxtr has “the intention of making compassion contagious,” so we hope you catch the bug while listening to this episode :)

(2:00) Ashanti’s introduction

(6:35) Dxtr introduces himself and how he uses performance and facilitation in his men’s work.

(10:25) Dxtr shares the front of his mask - courage, smarts

(14:10) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, caring, smarts.

(22:40) Dxtr shares the back of his mask - fear, criticism, craving.

(29:30) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - fear, my brother & my nephew, proud of myself.

(33:30) Dxtr gives Ashanti the courage to share more about his brother and nephew.

(37:40) Dxtr shares some information on his movement, “How Men Cry”, and how you can get in touch with him.

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Connect with Jordan “Dxtr Spits” Holmes:

Website: instabio.cc/dxtrspits

Instagram: instagram.com/dxtr_spits

Create your own mask anonymously at millionmask.org

Email us questions and comments at totmpod100@gmail.com 

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Connect with Ashanti Branch:

Instagram: instagram.com/branchspeaks

Facebook: facebook.com/BranchSpeaks

Twitter: twitter.com/BranchSpeaks

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/ashantibranch

Website: branchspeaks.com

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Support the podcast and the work of the Ever Forward Club: anchor.fm/branch-speaks/support 

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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

Apr 25, 202346:06