When Ashanti Branch started the Ever Forward Club, he was a high school math teacher trying to figure out why the young men in his classes weren’t succeeding. He found they were craving what he desired as a kid too -- a safe place to be themselves, to show emotion, to get support without fear of judgment. When Ashanti gave them that, their success surprised everyone. It’s now his life’s work to support other educators to create spaces where boys can be vulnerable, share their feelings, and feel supported by other boys.

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This episode was reported by Katrina Schwartz. MindShift is made by Ki Sung, Katrina Schwartz, Jessica Placzek, and Seth Samuel. Additional support from Erika Aguilar, Kyana Moghadam, Amielle Major, Ethan Lindsey, and Vinnee Tong.