Join us as The History Wizard takes us through a thought-provoking analysis of how fascist governments test the limits of control and manipulation. This episode uncovers the strategies employed by authoritarian regimes to divide and conquer, drawing parallels with historical events. The conversation challenges listeners to recognize these patterns and consider the implications for modern society, urging a proactive stance in safeguarding democracy.

In this thought-provoking episode, The History Wizard opens with a bold assertion: "Everything fascist governments do is a test." This sets the tone for a deep dive into the tactics used by authoritarian regimes to gauge and expand their control over populations. The conversation begins by examining historical examples of how fascist governments have systematically tested the limits of public tolerance, often starting with small, seemingly innocuous measures that gradually escalate into more overt forms of oppression.

Midway through the discussion, the focus shifts to the role of propaganda and social division as tools of control. The History Wizard and Walter explore how governments exploit existing societal fractures, such as class and racial tensions, to distract and divide the populace. This segment highlights the insidious nature of these tactics, drawing parallels with contemporary political strategies that aim to pit different groups against each other, thereby weakening collective resistance.

Towards the end of the segment, the conversation turns to the importance of solidarity and vigilance in the face of these challenges. The History Wizard emphasizes that recognizing these patterns is the first step towards resisting them, urging listeners to support one another and remain informed about the broader socio-political landscape. This episode serves as both a warning and a call to action, encouraging listeners to be proactive in safeguarding democracy and human rights.

Through these examples, the episode provides a comprehensive analysis of the strategies employed by fascist regimes, offering valuable insights into how these lessons can be applied to contemporary issues.

In this insightful episode, Waller embarks on a journey through history to uncover the mechanisms by which governments have historically eroded individual rights. The conversation begins with an exploration of the tension in the air, as Waller describes the current socio-political climate as a turning point reminiscent of past eras where rights were gradually stripped away. This sets the stage for a deeper dive into the historical playbook of imperial powers, where missionaries, merchants, and the military were used to expand influence and control, often at the expense of local populations.

Midway through the discussion, Waller and The History Wizard delve into the educational gaps that leave many unaware of the true nature of power dynamics. They highlight how historical narratives often omit the darker aspects of empire-building, such as the economic motivations behind colonialism and the role of corporate interests in shaping foreign policy. This segment underscores the importance of education in empowering individuals to recognize and resist the subtle encroachments on their rights.

Towards the end of the segment, Waller emphasizes the collective loss experienced when any minority group's rights are compromised. He argues that such actions set a dangerous precedent, potentially leading to broader societal repercussions. This episode serves as a call to action, urging listeners to remain vigilant and proactive in defending their freedoms against the gradual erosion of rights.

Through these examples, the episode paints a vivid picture of the stakes involved in the ongoing struggle for rights and equality, drawing on historical lessons to inform contemporary challenges.

Part 2 — Building Relationships, Coaching, and Cultural Perspectives

In part two, Alex opens up about life after training — the challenges and joys of building relationships in a new culture, his experience coaching, and how those experiences shaped his view on service, identity, and privilege.
We dive into:

• The importance of trust and collaboration in Colombian communities

• Coaching as a tool for connection and leadership

• What cultural humility really means in practice

• Reflections on coming home and carrying the experience forward

🌎 This is a conversation about growth, gratitude, and learning to see the world — and yourself — through a new lens.🎓 This episode is brought to you by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA)

At WBA, we believe language learning should be immersive, purposeful, and connected to the real world — just like the lessons Alex shares in this episode.
Our job-focused bilingual programs help students develop English and Spanish skills they can use in travel, study, and global careers.
Start your journey today — because learning a language is more than grammar; it’s about connecting to new cultures and possibilities.

Join now at https://waltersbilingualacademy.my.canva.site/ and start learning beyond borders.

Peace Corps Stories with Alex — Living, Learning, and the Pursuit of Positive Diplomacy in Colombia.

Recently, I sat down with Alex — a fellow Returned Peace Corps Volunteer (RPCV) — to talk about the ups, downs, and unforgettable lessons from serving in Colombia.
Together, we explore how teaching, coaching, and cultural exchange shaped our perspectives on service, education, and personal growth.

In this episode, Alex shares his journey from deciding to join the Peace Corps to navigating the realities of training and cultural adjustment in Colombia.
We talk about:

• Why people choose the Peace Corps

• The realities of cultural immersion and language learning

• Adjusting expectations during training and early service

• Lessons on patience, adaptability, and community living

🎧 Tune in for a grounded, honest look at what it’s really like to leave everything behind to serve abroad.

Part 1 — Joining the Peace Corps: Training, Challenges & First Impressions

🎓 This episode is brought to you by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA)

At WBA, we believe language learning should be immersive, purposeful, and connected to the real world — just like the lessons Alex shares in this episode.
Our job-focused bilingual programs help students develop English and Spanish skills they can use in travel, study, and global careers.
Start your journey today — because learning a language is more than grammar; it’s about connecting to new cultures and possibilities.

👉 Join now at waltersbilingualacademy.com and start learning beyond borders.

⚖️ Part 2: Leadership, Change & Identity in Law

In Part 2, Aasim opens up about leadership, identity, and how the legal landscape has evolved in recent years. We discuss:

• 💼 Running a law firm (Pt. 2) — leadership, growth, and lessons learned

• 🏛️ How the practice of law has changed since the Trump era

• ✊ Being a person of color in the courtroom

• 🧠 The “I NO BLACK” phenomenon and the unspoken caste system of blackness

  
  

🎧 Tune in to Part 2 for a powerful discussion on race, professionalism, and what it means to stay authentic in spaces not built for you.

🎓 This episode is sponsored by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA) — where language learning meets real-life experience. El Propio Rocky is part of WBA’s mission to give students and listeners a platform to learn through authentic stories and global conversations.

At WBA, our job-focused, immersive curriculum helps learners build English and Spanish skills that open doors in business, law, and international work.

🚀 Enrollment is open now — don’t wait to start your journey. Visit waltersbilingualacademy.my.canva.site or follow us on Instagram @waltersbilingualacademy to book your first class today.

Recently, I sat down with Aasim, the owner of Cunningham Law LLP, to talk about the realities of practicing law — from courtroom strategy to cultural identity. In this two-part conversation, Aasim shares his experiences as an attorney, law firm owner, and person of color navigating the U.S. legal system. Together, we explore what it really takes to build a career in law while staying grounded in integrity, relationships, and purpose.

In Part 1, Aasim takes us behind the scenes of the courtroom and the business of law. We explore:

• 🏛️ Court etiquette and the strategic “court chess” behind federal cases

• 📚 Lessons from federal court stories that shaped his approach

• 🤝 The importance of relationships and networking as a lawyer

• 🎓 Real-world law school advice for aspiring attorneys

• 🌎 What it takes to transfer your license and practice law in a new state

• 💼 The beginnings of running a law firm (Pt. 1)

🎧 Listen to Part 1 for practical insights, personal stories, and advice for anyone interested in the legal world.

⚖️ Part 1: Inside the Courtroom & Building a Legal Career

This episode is sponsored by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA) — where language learning meets real-life experience. El Propio Rocky is part of WBA’s mission to give students and listeners a platform to learn through authentic stories and global conversations.

At WBA, our job-focused, immersive curriculum helps learners build English and Spanish skills that open doors in business, law, and international work.

🚀 Enrollment is open now — don’t wait to start your journey. Visit waltersbilingualacademy.my.canva.site or follow us on Instagram @waltersbilingualacademy to book your first class today.

🌍 Part 2: Stories from the Road

In Part 2, Jane opens up about unforgettable travel moments and lessons learned from around the world. We laugh, reflect, and even vent a little about life on the move:

• 🧳 Travel stories that changed her outlook

• 😤 Biggest pet peeves while traveling

• 💭 How travel transforms your perspective on culture, comfort, and connection

• 🏠 Why hostels are the perfect place to start your journey

🎧 Tune into Part 2 for global stories, personal insights, and practical advice for anyone dreaming of a life on the move.

🎓 This episode is sponsored by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA) — where we believe the best way to learn a language is to live it. Our immersive, job-focused curriculum helps you build the communication skills you actually need to thrive in work, travel, and life abroad. Learn English or Spanish with a Native Speaker!

El Propio Rocky Podcast is part of our mission to create a platform where students and listeners can learn through real stories, authentic conversations, and global perspectives.🚀 Enrollment is open now — don’t wait to start your journey! Visit waltersbilingualacademy.my.canva.site or follow us on Instagram @waltersbilingualacademy.

Description:Part 1: Nomad vs Normal Life

Recently, I sat down with Jane — a digital nomad who’s been living and working across the globe — to explore what it truly means to build a life beyond borders. In this two-part conversation, we dive into the beauty and bold choices behind the digital nomad lifestyle, and how Western work culture often pushes people to seek freedom in new places.

Jane shares her take on how digital nomad life compares to a more traditional path — what you gain, what you give up, and how your definition of “home” changes. We also talk about:

• 🌎 The reality behind Instagram-perfect travel

• ✈️ How to prepare for long-term travel

• 😮‍💨 Recognizing and recovering from burnout while abroad

🎧 Listen to Part 1 for an honest look at the emotional and practical sides of nomad living.

🎓 This episode is sponsored by Walter’s Bilingual Academy (WBA) — where we believe the best way to learn a language is to live it. Our immersive, job-focused curriculum helps you build the communication skills you actually need to thrive in work, travel, and life abroad. Learn English or Spanish with a Native Speaker!

El Propio Rocky Podcast is part of our mission to create a platform where students and listeners can learn through real stories, authentic conversations, and global perspectives.🚀 Enrollment is open now — don’t wait to start your journey! Visit waltersbilingualacademy.my.canva.site or follow us on Instagram @waltersbilingualacademy.

In this episode, we speak with David Smith, an educator and coach who has experienced all levels of education and was one of the pioneers of the Whitwell Middle School Holocaust Project—a project that gained international recognition and even reached the White House.

Part 2 is dedicated to the incredible story of the Whitwell Middle School Paperclip Project. We dive into how the project started, how it grew, and how a small community’s commitment turned it into a global movement—long before “going viral” was even a concept. Tune in to hear this inspiring journey!

In this episode, we speak with David Smith, an educator and coach who has experienced all levels of education and was one of the pioneers of the Whitwell Middle School Holocaust Project—a project that gained international recognition and even reached the White House.

In Part 1, we discuss what it takes to transform a struggling football program into a competitive one, the current challenges in education, and how federal funding impacts both public and private schools. Don’t miss this insightful conversation!