Formative

Brian Boutte, Director of Government Relations at Chick-fil-A, joins middle schooler Olivia to talk about the power of relationships, the importance of staying connected to family even during busy times, and how early life experiences shaped his voice and confidence.

Olivia learns from Brian why being patient, listening more, and putting others first can make a lasting impact, and how leading with kindness can enrich both your career and personal life.

Steve Stoute joins middle schooler Matthias to share how he got his start in the music industry, from working at the lowest level behind the scenes to managing major artists like Mary J. Blige and Nas. He reflects on the responsibility that comes with leadership, what he looks for in young creatives, and why long-term commitment matters more than instant success.

For our last episode of this season, Mary Choy, board-certified pharmacist and author, joins middle schooler Ashley to talk about the lessons she’s learned along her career journey. She shares how her mother planted the idea of becoming a pharmacist, how she pursued it with determination, and how her mistakes taught her valuable lessons. Mary also talks about blending science with creativity, her love of performance, and giving back to her Asian American community.

Dan DiClerico, Home Improvement & Outdoor Director at Good Housekeeping, joins middle schooler Angelica to talk about writing, leadership, and the power of learning how to fix things yourself. He shares why writing about what you know can make your work stronger, how to develop leadership skills, and how to take feedback in stride. Angelica learns from Dan how collaboration and staying open to guidance can help you grow both in work and in life.

Sahara Jones, Vice President of Affordable Compliance and Management at the Albanese Organization, joins middle schooler Noah to talk about the tough decisions she’s had to make over the years, why mistakes can be lessons in disguise, and how a moment from her teenage years helped shape her career path. She also shares her love of books and what she might be doing if she weren’t working in housing.

Blair Carl Smith, Senior Director of the Center for Financial Markets at the Milken Institute, joins middle schooler Kaitlyn to talk about career challenges, accomplishments, and what drives his work. Blair also talks about how he sets goals, works hard to make them happen, and proves anyone who doubted him wrong. Kaitlyn learns from Blair how perseverance, purpose, and believing in yourself can help you tackle any challenge.

David Fugate, entrepreneur and CEO of Akamai Construction in Hawaii and X-Golf in New York City, joins middle schooler Nicholas to talk about leadership, teamwork, and taking chances. He shares how he’s always envisioned being a leader, why building the right team is so important, and how moving around and taking risks has been one of the best gifts he’s given himself. Nicholas learns from David why keeping your word and following through on your promises matters just as much as taking bold steps.

Eliot Salome Diaz, graffiti and mural artist, joins middle schooler Dayvion to talk about life as a creative. Eliot shares how he navigates his interests in both art and business, what his work teaches about creating from the heart and with passion, and his love of hip hop. Dayvion learns from Eliot how making art from a generous, expansive place can open unexpected doors of opportunity.

Linda Anstendig, former English professor at Pace University, joins middle schooler Torlisa to talk about the joys of learning and teaching. Torlisa comes into the conversation admitting that English has always been her least favorite subject, but Linda shows her how reaching out to a teacher for guidance can really change the way you learn. Linda also shares why pursuing an English major is a worthy choice, how she learned to become more assertive, and she tells the story of a powerful student experience that stuck with her.

Robert Barletta, Executive Vice President at Marino Public Relations, joins middle schooler Dayvion to share what it’s like to work as a publicist. He tells stories from his early days in government and politics, explains how he helps clients handle emergency situations, and shows why entrepreneurs need a publicist to be the voice of their brand. Dayvion learns from Robert why even after years in the business, staying excited and passionate about your work can make all the difference.