In Part 1 of this two-part conversation, I sit down with Dr. Feerrar, my 8th-grade teacher, longtime mentor, and dear friend — a legendary educator whom anyone who had the opportunity to learn from was lucky to have. We explore how his early experiences at home and in school shaped his eventual approach to teaching, walking us through 1st grade to PhD with memorable stories.

Along the way, we uncover his love of history and genealogical detective work, hear the unbelievable story of how he ended up teaching 8th grade at Bryn Athyn Church School, and the car trouble that pushed him to meet his wife Joy — a little nudge from the divine out of his comfort zone that changed the course of his story.

And yes — as part of my permission to record with Dr. Feerrar, I was assigned my first homework assignment since 8th grade… will I earn a “PhD” by the end of Part 2? Tune in to find out in Part 2!

Check Out:

Dr. Feerrar’s Dissertation: The Impact of the Recent Financial Market Downturn on Private Liberal Arts Colleges

Lester & Grace Asplund family history

Elevate the Experience

Help bring better audio, video, and filmed episodes to life: VenmoI tithe 10% of all contributions—half to the All Secure Foundation (supporting soldiers’ transition home) and half to the Academy of the New Church High School.

Stay Connected

Instagram: @ethan.c.lewin

Contact: ethanchaselewin.com/contact

A Note from Me

I’m inspired by the stories people carry, the power of honest feedback, and the magic that happens when creative minds connect. If you’re a brand interested in partnering, let’s talk: LinkedIn.

Thanks for being part of this journey—PEACE!

Intro/Outro Music

Instagram: @julien_buss