Just a day ago, Google revealed a quantum computing chip capable of solving complex problems in just five minutes—challenges that the fastest supercomputers in the world would likely spend ten septillion years solving. Quantum computing has long hovered on the fringes of public consciousness, yet it’s poised to revolutionize industries on a scale far exceeding that of AI. Recent advancements in quantum chip development, coupled with the ongoing surge in global cybercrime—projected to cost nearly $11 trillion annually—underscore the urgent need for robust technological breakthroughs. As quantum computing races toward practical application, many are asking: What makes quantum computing the cornerstone of the next technological era?

Welcome to DisruptED. In this episode, host Ron J. Stefanski dives deep into this transformative topic with Sean Brehm, Chairman and Independent Director of the Spectral Capital Corporation. Together, they explore the revolutionary potential of quantum computing and its implications for data, cybersecurity, and global economic dominance.

Key Takeaways:

The Quantum Advantage: Sean explains how quantum computing refines raw data into actionable insights far beyond the capacity of traditional AI, positioning it as the foundation of next-generation technology.

Cybersecurity Revolution: It also offers unprecedented solutions to combat escalating cybercrime, with applications in quantum ledger databases enhancing transparency, immutability, and data privacy.

Global Talent Challenges: Developing the technology requires overcoming a critical bottleneck—limited global expertise and infrastructure.

Sean Brehm is a seasoned technology leader with over 25 years of experience, specializing in quantum computing, machine learning, and cybersecurity. He is the Chairman of Spectral Capital and the Co-Founder, Chairman, and CEO of CrowdPoint Technologies, where he pioneers the development of quantum and decentralized ledger technologies to enhance data privacy and redefine AI applications. A former U.S. Army officer and IBM executive, Sean combines his expertise in defense, intelligence, and business to drive transformative innovations across multiple sectors.

Corporate social responsibility (CSR) has undergone a dramatic shift in the last decade, driven by the need to address inequities in education, workforce development, and social impact giving. Companies that prioritize social responsibility can gain the trust and loyalty of their customers, establishing themselves as impactful contributors to society. As companies reimagine their approach to philanthropic programs, initiatives like AT&T Aspire and Year Up have transformed how organizations create opportunities for underserved communities while aligning with corporate goals. DisruptED explores the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts, the Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas.

How are leaders leveraging CSR to drive meaningful change in a disrupted world?

In the first episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron Stefanski sits down to explore the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts. The conversation also delves into the integration of upskilling initiatives and future of social impact giving. From his 22-year career at AT&T to his current role at United Way, Kelem shares key insights from the frontlines of corporate philanthropy.

Key Points from the Episode:

– The Evolution of CSR: Kelem discusses how CSR programs like AT&T Aspire transitioned from funding education to directly investing in workforce upskilling, emphasizing alignment with corporate goals.

– The Power of Upskilling: Programs such as Year Up demonstrate how providing technical and soft skills to underserved communities can disrupt traditional pathways into corporate roles.

– Rewiring Career Paths: Kelem shares his personal journey from corporate marketing to becoming a leader in CSR, illustrating the growing importance of purpose-driven work in today’s business landscape.

Kelem Butts is an accomplished Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) leader with over two decades of experience at AT&T, where he directed multi-million-dollar initiatives such as AT&T Aspire and Connected Learning to bridge the digital divide and support student success. Currently serving as Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, he leverages his expertise in grant management, sustainability operations, and strategic partnerships to position organizations as key ESG resources. His career highlights include spearheading large-scale philanthropic programs, fostering public-private collaborations, and driving impactful outcomes for both communities and corporations.

In an era where corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies are rapidly evolving, adapting to new challenges is paramount. As digital transformation accelerates societal shifts, organizations like United Way of Metropolitan Dallas are at the forefront of addressing critical issues, from education to economic mobility. This episode of DisruptED dives into the dynamic world of CSR with Kelem Butts, who transitioned from a 20-year career at AT&T to lead impactful initiatives at United Way.

What does it take to pivot CSR strategies in a rapidly disrupted world? And how can organizations balance resource reallocation while maintaining their mission?

In the second episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron J. Stefanski delves into the evolution of CSR with Kelem Butts, Vice President of CSR Strategy at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas. The conversation explores career rewirement, strategic pivots, and creating measurable impact. Together, they unpack the challenges and opportunities of aligning corporate and nonprofit goals to address pressing community needs.

Key Takeaways from the Episode:

- Strategic Pivoting in CSR: Insights into how AT&T shifted focus from upskilling to addressing the digital divide during COVID-19 and how this transformation inspired Kelem's career shift.

- Measurable Impact in Education and Income Mobility: United Way’s data-driven approach to tackling issues like third-grade literacy rates and increasing living wages in Dallas.

- Adapting to Disruption: The evolution of career navigation programs to meet workforce demands in a tech-driven, globally interdependent economy.

Kelem Butts is a thought leader in CSR with over two decades of experience. He previously spearheaded transformative initiatives at AT&T and now drives strategic efforts at United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, focusing on education, income, and health. A passionate advocate for social impact, Kelem combines his corporate expertise with a nonprofit lens to deliver lasting change.

Cheerleading has leapt from the sidelines to center stage, thanks to its transformation into a global athletic powerhouse. With its recent recognition as an Olympic sport, the evolution of cheerleading from school spirit activities to a multi-billion-dollar industry is monumental. Central to this transformation is Jeff Webb, whose groundbreaking vision reshaped the sport and built a business empire. How did a college cheerleader with a dream turn Varsity Spirit into a $2.5 billion enterprise?

Welcome to DisruptED. In this episode, host Ron J. Stefanski and guest host Ashley Williams sit down with Jeff Webb, the founder of Varsity Spirit and president of the International Cheer Union, to explore his journey from a law-school-bound student to a pioneer in the evolution of cheerleading. Webb shares how he turned challenges into opportunities, from organizing innovative cheer camps to creating a globally recognized brand.

The main points of discussion:

- From Law School to Cheer Camps: How Webb’s decision to defer law school launched his career in cheerleading, laying the foundation for Varsity Spirit.

- Building a Vision: The creation of a modernized, athletic, and entertainment-driven approach to cheerleading that redefined the sport.

- Navigating Obstacles and Scaling Innovation: How Webb tackled financial challenges, developed new products like performance uniforms, and expanded into a multi-faceted business empire.

Jeff Webb is a master entrepreneur and a visionary in the world of sports branding. He founded Varsity Spirit, the driving force behind the evolution of cheerleading, which sold for $2.5 billion in 2018. Webb also serves as president of the International Cheer Union, where he played a key role in cheerleading’s Olympic recognition. With over 40 years of experience, Webb is a sought-after business and politics commentator.

Cheerleading has evolved into a sophisticated, global sport, recognized for its athleticism, artistry, and ability to inspire confidence among youth. In 2021, cheerleading was recognized as an official Olympic sport, underscoring its significance on the international stage. This transformation reflects the efforts of innovators like Jeff Webb, whose leadership and vision turned cheerleading into a billion-dollar industry.

What does it take to transform a grassroots sport into an internationally recognized discipline, and what challenges accompany such a monumental shift?

In the second episode of this two-part series on DisruptED, hosts Ron J. Stefanski and Ashley Williams sit down with Jeff Webb, the founder of Varsity Spirit and president of the International Cheer Union. Webb delves into the pivotal decisions that led to cheerleading’s global growth, its Olympic inclusion, and the entrepreneurial ingenuity that built the industry around it.

The main points of conversation:

- The Power of Television: How cheerleading competitions were adapted for television audiences, beginning a new era of visibility and growth.

- Cross-Marketing Innovations: The integration of camps, uniforms, and competitions into a cohesive business model that fueled the sport's expansion.

- Internationalization and Olympic Recognition: Strategies for globalizing cheerleading and navigating the complex processes for International Olympic Committee recognition.

Jeff Webb is a transformative figure in the cheerleading industry and a master entrepreneur. As the founder of Varsity Spirit, he revolutionized the sport through camps, competitions, and uniforms. The company sold for $2.5 billion in 2018. Currently, Webb serves as the president of the International Cheer Union, where he has successfully led efforts towards getting cheerleading recognized as an official Olympic sport.

The rapid evolution of online education has ushered in new challenges and opportunities for engaging learners and improving outcomes. With millions of students relying on virtual platforms, educators and ed-tech innovators face the critical task of creating dynamic, relevant, and impactful learning experiences. The stakes are high, as effective education not only shapes career trajectories but also addresses issues of accessibility and equity in underserved communities. How can we make online education more engaging, learner-centric, and aligned with real-world skills?

In this episode of DisruptED, host Ron J Stefanski is joined by Andrew Shean, Chief Learning Officer at Penn Foster, to explore the transformative potential of ed-tech and discuss strategies for optimizing the learner experience in online environments. Together, they dive into the challenges and breakthroughs shaping the future of education.

The main points of conversation:

- Transformational Learning Models: Shean highlights the innovative LADS framework (Learner-Centric, Authentic, Active, Differentiated, and Skill-Based) and its 30-40% improvement in student outcomes.

- Lessons from Experimentation: Insights into why some approaches, like cosmetic course redesigns, fail to improve engagement, while evidence-based, learner-focused methodologies succeed.

- Relevance and Authenticity: The importance of situating learning in real-world scenarios to foster relevance and engagement, particularly for career-focused learners.

Andrew Shean brings over two decades of expertise in ed-tech and learning sciences. As Chief Learning Officer at Penn Foster, he spearheads initiatives to make education accessible and impactful for underserved learners. Shean’s pioneering work includes developing scalable, evidence-based frameworks for online education and contributing to industry thought leadership.

Hip-hop celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2024. The genre has reshaped music, fashion, language, and more, yet no dedicated space has existed to chronicle and celebrate this powerful legacy. Rocky Bucano, a longtime music producer, record executive, and advocate for the genre, is changing this with the upcoming Hip Hop Museum. The museum set to open in 2025 promises to be a vibrant educational hub in New York, honoring hip-hop’s deep social and artistic roots.

But as hip-hop reaches this milestone, how can a museum capture and convey the full scope of a genre that has faced both celebration and critique?

On this second episode of a two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron Stefanski sits down with Bucano, co-founder of Strong City Records. They dive into the challenges and vision behind this long-anticipated cultural landmark. Together, they explore why this museum is critical, not only as a celebration but as an educational tool for future generations.

In this episode:

• A 14-Year Journey: Bucano discusses the journey to establish the museum, a project 14 years in the making, and his dedication to documenting hip-hop's influential story.

• Hip-Hop as a Cultural Bridge: He explains hip-hop's power in bridging social divides and how the museum will address complex issues such as economic and racial struggles that have shaped the genre.

• Education at the Core: The role of education is emphasized, with plans for programs and discussions addressing financial literacy, social challenges, and other key themes within hip-hop culture.

Rocky Bucano, founder of the Hip Hop Museum, has spent over three decades in the music industry as a producer and record label executive. His expertise and passion for hip-hop have made him a leading voice in the genre's cultural preservation. Through his commitment, the museum will open as one of the foremost institutions dedicated to hip-hop's legacy and educational outreach.

As hip-hop turns 50, its influence on music, culture, and education continues to grow exponentially. In a world shaped by AI, digital interconnectivity, and rapid cultural shifts, the role of arts and culture in education is more important than ever. Hip-hop is at the front of this evolution with its roots in urban storytelling and entrepreneurship. Now, a new chapter in its history is being written with the upcoming opening of The Hip Hop Museum, spearheaded by Rocky Bucano, one of the genre's pioneers.

How will this museum preserve and celebrate hip-hop’s lasting impact?

On this first episode of a two-part series on DisruptED, host Ron Stefanski sits down with Rocky Bucano, Founder and CEO of The Hip Hop Museum. They discuss Bucano’s beginnings in the Bronx, his groundbreaking role in the music industry, and his mission to preserve hip-hop’s legacy for future generations.

• Bucano’s journey: From a Bronx teenager fascinated by DJing to co-founding the influential Strong City Records, shaping the careers of future stars.

• Hip-hop’s adaptability: The genre’s unique ability to blend elements from jazz, rock, and R&B has helped it endure and evolve as a major cultural force.

• The Hip Hop Museum: Set to open in 2025, the museum will document and celebrate hip-hop’s history, culture, and global impact, ensuring its preservation for future generations

Rocky Bucano is a Bronx native, legendary music executive, and hip-hop pioneer. He co-founded Strong City Records in the 1980s, where he helped launch the careers of several influential artists. Bucano has worked with cultural icons like DJ Jazzy Jay, Grandmaster Flash, and Kool Herc. His latest project is The Hip Hop Museum, set to open in 2025.

Dr. Mark Klein, author and physician, discusses how adopting an aerial view can bring clarity to life’s disruptions part four.

Dr. Mark Klein, author and physician, discusses how adopting an aerial view can bring clarity to life’s disruptions in part three.