“When I noticed that an educator had expectations for me or wanted me to succeed, or believed that I could succeed, I actually worked harder in those classes. For the educators and teachers who said, ‘I really care about you, I see your potential,’ those are the classes I actually worked hard in because I wanted to do it not just for me but for the educators themselves and those who believed in me.” - Justin Black

Ever Forward Club’s Ashanti Branch is joined by Justin Black. Justin and his wife, Alexis, published an award-winning, bestselling book, Redefining Normal: How Two Foster Kids Beat The Odds and Discovered Healing, Happiness and Love. The book has impacted over 15,000 individuals and families, and, with Redefining Normal, they hope to continue the conversation on healthy relationships, mental health, and community growth and healing through speaking engagements, trainings, and book clubs.

(4:30) Justin introduces himself and his book, Redefining Normal, and how it helps youth find an identity beyond their trauma.

(11:55) Ashanti and Justin make their masks together.

(16:10) Ashanti shares the front of his mask - funny, serious, caring.

(18:30) Justin shares the back of his mask - fatherhood/family man, service, caring.

(24:25) Ashanti shares the back of his mask - worry, doubt, fear of failure - and he shares some worries he has about his brother and his brother’s health issues.

(29:00) Justin shares the back of his mask - let down, insecurity, doubt.

(34:10) Justin shares what he tells teachers about “warning signs” in students, and he talks about some of the general advice he gives to teachers.

(41:00) Justin shares how you can get in touch with him.

---

Connect with Justin Black:

Website: re-definingnormal.com

Facebook: facebook.com/redefiningnormalmovement

Instagram: instagram.com/theblacksredefinenormal

TikTok: tiktok.com/@theblacksredefinenormal