Outside The Mainstream

Life is all about making your own sovereign choices. What works best for you is what matters—not what society says. In this episode, I’m joined by Wouter Shahlenis—a men’s coach, wealth expert, and member of the Wealth Unlimited Club. Wouter shares his own journey from feeling like a “black sheep” in traditional systems to embracing personal growth, redefining masculinity, and creating a life of purpose. He encourages all of us to explore ourselves and start being at peace with who we are. 

00:00 Welcome

01:00 Introducing Wouter Shahlenis

04:19 Challenges of Modern Masculinity

05:13 The Role of Men in Family Dynamics

06:26 Breaking Societal Norms

15:24 The Importance of Emotional Expression

25:06 Future of Masculinity

28:24 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Connect with Eddie:

US: [email protected]

AU: [email protected]

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/

Linkedin: https://inventorium.com.au/

Connect with Wouter: 

Web: https://wealthfromwithin.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/woutershahlenis/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/wouter.shahlenis/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/woutershahlenis/?hl=en 

AI isn’t a replacement for educators; it’s a tool to amplify the work they do. In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I chat with Dr. Geri Gillespy, an experienced educator, innovator, and co-founder of Guardrailz, a COPPA-certified AI platform for education. Dr. Gillespy shares her inspiring journey, from overcoming learning challenges as a student to becoming a leader in educational technology and innovation. We explore how AI can be used to enhance teaching and learning, address concerns about academic integrity, and prepare students for a workforce that increasingly demands AI literacy.

00:00 Introduction 

01:07 Meet Dr. Geri Gillespy

01:43 Geri’s Journey in Education

04:59 The Birth of Guardrails

08:10 Addressing AI Concerns in Education

13:04 Formative vs. Summative Assessment

21:05 The Role of Teachers in AI Integration

27:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Connect with Eddie: 

US: [email protected]

AU: [email protected] 

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/  

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass?originalSubdomain=au  

Connect with Geri:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerigillespy 

Guardrailz: https://www.guardrailz.ai/ 

Dieumerci Christel (or DM), has a vision for reshaping education that isn’t just about technology; it’s about cultivating human potential and creating systems that work with students to create engaging educational experiences. DM is the founder of Enlight App, a platform designed to help students feel seen, heard, and valued by nurturing their dreams and passions—things often overlooked in traditional education. Much of his passion is drawn from his own experiences moving to America and entering its education system after spending his early life growing up in a Tanzanian refugee camp. In his own words, “When I came here, I saw bored kids—but they were full of potential. What is the thing they can’t wait to do when they get home? How do we bring that into the classroom?”

00:00 Introduction 

01:27 Dieumerci’s Inspiring Journey

05:25 Challenges and Insights in Education

09:55 The Enlight App: Features and Impact

20:10 Measuring Success and Student Engagement

25:38 Reflections on Belonging and Potential

34:22 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Follow Eddie and DM:

Connect with Eddie: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass/?originalSubdomain=au

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/

Connect with DM: 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dieumerci-christel/

Website: https://www.enlightapp.co/ 

Email: [email protected] 

Dr. Charles Prince has spent a great deal of time considering the potential for radically new models of higher education. With a career that has included exposure to international education, higher ed policy, and advocacy for Black voices, Charles brings a unique perspective to the table, and has seen firsthand how today’s students have different priorities and learning paths than those of years past. In his current role as Chief of Staff at Dillard University Charles advocates for more flexible, personalized education models that meet students where they are. His passion for innovation, global collaboration, and student-centered models in higher education is inspiring. This episode is packed with thought-provoking insights, and I couldn’t be more excited to share this conversation with you.

00:17 Welcome to Outside the Mainstream

01:03 Guest Introduction: Dr. Charles Prince

04:41 Innovations and Challenges in Higher Education

07:54 The Future of Higher Education

11:45 The Role of Technology and Flexibility

24:13 Advocating for Black Voices

29:11 Final Thoughts and Advice

Follow Eddie and Charles:

Connect with Eddie: 

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ 

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass?originalSubdomain=au 

Connect with Charles:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcharlesprince/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drcharlesleads/ 

Svetlana Tikhonov is the founder of Quadrat Academy, a unique educational model designed to break free from the traditional school system. With a rich background in international business, consulting, and education, Svetlana has worked across 30 countries, blending her entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for teaching.

From her unexpected immigration journey as a teenager to her groundbreaking work in educational innovation, Svetlana’s mission is clear: to prepare the next generation of creative thinkers, problem solvers, and entrepreneurs.

00:48 Meet Svetlana Tikhanov

03:08 Career Transition and Consulting Experience

05:40 Founding Quadrat Academy

07:20 Innovative Education Models and Practices

16:15 Managing a Modern School Environment

20:14 Funding and Future Vision

23:52 Embracing Change and Technology

30:25 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Follow Eddie and Svetlana:

Connect with Eddie: 

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/  

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass?originalSubdomain=au 

Connect with Svetlana:

Quadrat Academy: https://www.quadratacademy.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/svetlanatikhonov/ 

Dr. Izdihar Jamil believes it takes “balls of steel” to wear a hijab in America. In this inspiring episode, I sit down with Izdihar—a computer scientist turned entrepreneur, author, and advocate—who has faced immense challenges with grace and determination.

She opens up about her experiences with Islamophobia, the obstacles she faced after moving to America, and the transformative moment that inspired her to fully embrace her identity and voice. Izdihar shares her journey of building a thriving business, empowering others through her books, and using education as a tool for resilience and growth.

We also explore her reflections on faith, overcoming racism, and finding strength in adversity, all while spreading kindness and connection. This is a conversation filled with powerful lessons, uplifting stories, and practical advice for anyone seeking empowerment in the face of challenges.

01:08 Meet Dr. Izdehir Jamil: 

05:07 Finding Strength and Purpose

05:59 Impact of Education and Family Legacy

18:45 Building a Business and Empowering the Next Generation

20:16 The Power of Books and Legacy Building

Follow Eddie Blass and Dr. Izdihar Jamil:

Connect with Eddie:

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass

Connect with Izdihar:

Website: https://www.izdiharjamil.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iamdrizdiharjamil/ 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamdrizdiharjamil/ 

The Girl Who Loves Ponies: https://www.amazon.com/Girl-Who-Loves-Ponies/dp/B08P1FCBTJ

Trapped in a Snowglobe: https://www.amazon.com/Trapped-Snow-Globe-Abrar-Naeim/dp/B0B1C3G28F 

In this episode, we explore what it takes to create inclusive, student-centered schools that foster success for every learner. Jon Robertson, an experienced teacher and principal, shares his journey in school leadership, highlighting how trust, effective support systems, and adaptive leadership can drive meaningful change. He provides actionable insights from his career on how to address systemic challenges, nurture thriving educational environments, and empower both students and educators. Join us for an inspiring conversation on shaping resilient, equitable schools through mentorship, continuous learning, and leadership that puts students first.

01:29 Jon's Early Reflections and Motivations

09:05 Leadership and Team Building

17:49 Challenges in Public Education Systems

18:53 The Importance of High School

23:11 Developing Leadership Skills

29:46 Final Thoughts on Education

32:38 Conclusion and Contact Information

Follow Eddie and Jon:

Connect with Eddie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass

Discover the Inventorium: https://inventorium.com.au/ 

Connect with Jon 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-s-robertson-60a685a/ 

In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sit down with Dr. DeAndrea Fleming, an incredible educator and leader who’s committed to transforming education in low socioeconomic communities. Dr. Fleming shares her journey of working with over 52,000 students and how she ultimately changed the trajectory of an underperforming school district in Texas.

With experience as a teacher, administrator, and school board trustee, Dr. Fleming highlights the critical role of changing adult behavior to improve student outcomes and the need for innovative, child-centered learning approaches. She also opens up about her personal battle with cancer and how it reshaped her perspective on life and education.

Through her coaching and advocacy, Dr. Fleming promotes a holistic approach to education—one that fosters both academic success and emotional growth. She encourages educators to step away from outdated methods that don’t work and to invest fully in their students’ futures.

01:49 DeAndrea's Journey in Education

03:17 Overcoming Personal Challenges

06:16 Innovative Teaching Methods

09:21 Impact and Recognition

16:15 Governance and Student Outcomes

21:49 Personal Growth and Coaching

27:05 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Follow Eddie Blass and Dr. DeAndrea Fleming:

Connect with Eddie:

Website: https://inventorium.com.au/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass

Connect with Dr. Fleming:

Website: https://www.markofresilience.com/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deandrea-fleming 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drdeandreafleming/ 

How does a 10-year-old with an entrepreneurial spirit evolve into the co-founder of a leading global scaling institute? In this episode, Daniel Marcos shares his journey from his first business venture to building a fintech empire and creating the Growth Institute. Learn how continuous learning, accountability, and leadership methodologies are key to scaling any business successfully. Tune in for practical tips on leading through growth, hiring the right team, and maintaining a work-life balance as an entrepreneur.

00:55 Daniel Marcos: A Journey from Childhood to CEO

03:56 The Birth of a Fintech Giant in Latin America

06:26 The Importance of Continuous Learning and Adaptability

10:37 Balancing Work, Life, and Entrepreneurship

14:40 Core Values and Accountability in Business

21:29 Final Thoughts and Staying True to Your Values

Follow Eddie and Daniel:

Connect with Eddie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass

Discover the Inventorium: https://inventorium.com.au/

Connect with Daniel:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielmarcos/

In this episode of 'Outside the Mainstream,' I sit down with the inspiring Dr. Raeshan Davis to delve into her unique journey from the Bahamas to becoming a prominent figure in the U.S. educational landscape. We explore her early educational experiences, the significance of dreaming big, and the multifaceted challenges black women face in academia. Dr. Davis shares her insights on navigating STEM fields, the critical role of mentorship, and her dedication to holistic student development. This discussion illuminates new perspectives on redefining educational pathways and underscores the empowering impact of representation and support.

01:00 Meet Raeshan Davis

01:32 Early Education and High School Experience

03:25 College Life and Discovering Forensic Science

03:54 Transition to the U.S. and Higher Education

04:26 Navigating Graduate School and Career Choices

06:04 Pursuing a PhD and Finding Fulfillment

15:42 The Importance of Representation and Mentorship

19:14 Balancing Personal and Professional Life

23:19 The Power of Dreaming and Support Systems

26:11 Final Thoughts and Advice for Young People

27:13 Conclusion and Contact Information

Connect with Eddie:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass

Discover the Inventorium: https://inventorium.com.au/

Connect with Raeshan:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/raeshandavis