Curiosity isn’t just cute—it’s a spark. When nurtured with the right tools and
mindset, it becomes the foundation of innovation.
In this episode of Raising Innovators, Edward P. Clapp, Ed.D. shares how
maker-centered learning transforms young children into confident creators.
At the heart of this approach is a bold idea: Children shouldn’t just learn about
the world—they should shape it.

The agency extends beyond the classroom. Edward emphasizes the power of
community, empowering teachers through collaboration and equipping
parents to bring this thinking home.

Dr. Edward Clapp: Founder and CEO of the Next World Learning Lab

Edward is a Principal Investigator at Project Zero (a research center at the
Harvard Graduate School of Education) and the Founder & CEO of the Next
World Learning Lab, a global learning and development organization
dedicated to lifelong learning, worldmaking, and innovation. His work
explores creativity, design, maker-centered learning, and new approaches to
education and equity. Some of Edward’s recent books include The
Participatory Creativity Guide for Educators; The Maker-Centered Learning
Playbook for Early Childhood Education; Envisioning Innovation in
Education—Hong Kong; Participatory Creativity; and Maker-Centered
Learning.

Website: https://pz.harvard.edu/who-we-are/people/edward-clapp

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Every big dream starts with a spark of curiosity. Our job as parents isn’t to
create the spark, it’s to fan the flame.

In this episode, John de Armas, CEO of ProfitLand Partners, joins the
conversation to share real-life stories and powerful strategies for helping
children develop entrepreneurial thinking.

John brings wisdom and warmth to the idea that entrepreneurship isn’t just a
skill—it’s a mindset. He shares how parents can nurture this mindset through
everyday moments like budgeting a dollar, growing a garden, or selling
homemade spaghetti sauce.

Financial literacy, creativity, and resilience are built when we encourage our
kids to ask questions, make decisions, and take risks in a safe and supportive
environment.

Tune in and explore how simple actions today can shape the next generation
of changemakers.

John de Armas is the CEO of ProfitLand, a business growth advisory firm, and
a seasoned C-level executive known for scaling profitable ventures across the
globe. With leadership roles at companies like DIRECTV, Sumitomo
Corporation, and Home Shopping Network, he’s a proven disruptor in media,
eCommerce, and consumer-driven industries. John has a track record of
driving innovation, building brands, and breaking into new markets
throughout the U.S., Latin America, Europe, and Asia. As an executive coach
and entrepreneur, he’s passionate about passing on the mindset and
strategies that build future leaders.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johndearmas/

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/            Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Every tantrum, power struggle, or meltdown can feel overwhelming. For
parents of young children, the instinct to quickly “fix” behavior is strong.
In this episode, childhood education and developmental psychology leader Dr.
Becky Bailey takes us on an unforgettable journey into the heart of Conscious
Discipline. She shares how personal experiences sparked the revolutionary
principles behind a movement now transforming classrooms and homes in 77
countries.
You’ll learn how Conscious Discipline transforms traditional ideas of
punishment and control, replacing them with self-regulation, connection, and
intentional guidance.
Whether it’s the toddler refusing to get dressed or the child melting down at
drop-off, every moment is a chance to model emotional regulation.
Tune in and discover how the principles of Conscious Discipline can change
the way you parent—and the way your child grows.

Dr. Becky Bailey is a renowned expert in childhood education and
developmental psychology, best known for creating the groundbreaking
Conscious Discipline methodology. With over 3 million caregivers trained and
an estimated 20 million children impacted, her work continues to transform
how adults connect with and guide children. Dr. Bailey empowers parents and
educators with proven tools to build emotional resilience, foster empathy, and
create thriving relationships. Her insights offer real-world strategies for
handling everyday challenges with compassion and confidence.

Website: https://consciousdiscipline.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becky-bailey-conscious-discipline/

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.
Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_fores

Every year, kids work hard to build skills, confidence, and independence—but
when summer arrives, routines disappear, and learning can slip away.

In this episode, Instructional Coach Sammy Canabal at Young Innovators
Academy shares powerful, practical ways to keep your child engaged over the
summer while still having fun. She offers smart strategies that help young
children retain knowledge and develop social confidence. She also dives into
the importance of structured routines and fostering curiosity through play.
From easy daily routines to interactive learning activities, we explore how
parents can seamlessly weave education into everyday moments.
You don’t have to choose between summer fun and school readiness. Tune in
now for expert-backed insights on making summer an exciting time of
exploration and discovery.

Sammy Canabal is a Teacher-Coach at Young Innovators Academy with
nearly two decades of experience in early learning. Passionate about
empowering educators, she mentors teachers in best practices to help them
thrive. As the Project Liaison for "Empowering Communities," she
collaborates with Harvard professors to drive impactful learning initiatives.
She is dedicated to combating summer learning loss by fostering engaging,
enriching experiences that keep young minds growing year-round. Her
expertise ensures that every child continues to learn, explore, and succeed
beyond the classroom.

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Summer is here, but learning doesn’t have to take a break!

In this episode, we’re uncovering the magic of summer camps with Erika
Seger, VP of Operations and Compliance at Young Innovators Academy. She
shares expert insights on how to choose the best programs to spark creativity,
build essential life skills, and boost social development.

With personalized, project-based summer experiences, Young Innovators
Academy puts kids in the driver’s seat—encouraging them to explore,
innovate, and bring their ideas to life.

Ready to turn summer into a season of growth and adventure? Hit play now
and make this one to remember!

Erika Seger is the VP of Operations at Young Innovators Academy and a
seasoned expert in summer camps and early childhood education. With over
20 years of experience, she has mastered the art of blending fun and learning
to create enriching experiences for children. As a multi-site operator and
mentor, Erika empowers educators to foster innovation, critical thinking, and
collaboration. Her passion lies in ensuring that the joy and growth of summer
camp extend far beyond the season.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erika-seger-4a7715142/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/young-innovators-academies-and-
childcare-network/


Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Evenings should be a time of peace, but for many parents, bedtime turns into a
nightly struggle.

In this episode, early childhood consultant Sarah Sprinkel joins the
conversation to explore the common reasons children resist sleeping alone.
Separation anxiety, fear of the dark, or even the arrival of a new sibling, are
many underlying factors at play. She shares practical strategies that parents
can implement, such as creating consistent bedtime routines and adjusting
sleep environments.

The importance of understanding sleep needs, limiting screen time before
bed, and using visual cues, help children build healthy nighttime habits. Every
child is different, and finding the right approach takes patience and
consistency.

Tune in now and discover how to make bedtime a smooth and stress-free
experience for the whole family!

Sarah Sprinkel has dedicated her career to nurturing creativity and
connection in children’s education. With over three decades at Orange County
Public Schools, she’s led initiatives ranging from partnerships with Walt
Disney World to Florida’s first elementary virtual school. Her 10 years as a
kindergarten teacher shaped her belief that organization and learning stem
from meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that it’s the supportive
presence of caregivers that leaves a lasting impact on young minds.

Book: Mimi And Me

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09LFD63T5/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=b73054c5-97a3-4837-a02f-1e0daf684a0e
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElectSprinkel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sprinkel-7880413/

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/

Tired of stepping on Legos or dealing with toys everywhere?

In this episode, we’re tackling the art of organization—and why it matters for
your little ones. Sarah Sprinkel, early childhood consultant, joins us to share
practical, game-changing tips—from using clear bins and adding labels (even
picture labels for non-readers) to making clean-up a fun, stress-free part of
daily life.

You can empower your kids to take ownership of their space and learn
responsibility and problem-solving.

Let’s create a system that works for your family and help them grow into
mindful and capable little organizers.

Sarah Sprinkel has dedicated her career to nurturing creativity and
connection in children’s education. With over three decades at Orange County
Public Schools, she’s led initiatives ranging from partnerships with Walt
Disney World to Florida’s first elementary virtual school. Her 10 years as a
kindergarten teacher shaped her belief that organization and learning stem
from meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that it’s the supportive
presence of caregivers that leaves a lasting impact on young minds.

Book: Mimi And Me
Amazon:

https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09LFD63T5/allbooks?ingress=0&
visitId=b73054c5-97a3-4837-a02f-1e0daf684a0e
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElectSprinkel/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sprinkel-7880413/

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Do you ever feel like the world is changing faster than you can keep up? More
importantly, how does that affect your kids’ future?

In this episode, we explore why traditional education methods are falling
short and how parents can step up to bridge the gaps. From rethinking
outdated patterns to embracing conscious parenting, you’ll discover how
small changes at home can inspire significant growth in your little ones.
The future demands skills like critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability–
but it’s not just about your child, it’s about us as parents, too. How do our
habits and behaviors shape the next generation?

Tune in now to join a growing community of parents who are reshaping the
future—one child at a time. Your next breakthrough in parenting starts here!

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an
innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum
grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners
with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world.
Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children
tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership
and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing
atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/younginnovatorsacademy/?hl=en
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy/ 

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the
demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom
teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has
dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional
education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future,
emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her
work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with
emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: https://marnieforestieri.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/marnieforestieri/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-forestieri/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marnie_forestieri/

Hearing "No!" from your child can feel like an instant challenge.  

In this episode, Sarah Sprinkel and Marnie Forestieri discuss the psychology behind why young children say 'NO' and how parents can turn these moments into valuable learning experiences. 

They illustrate how using clear instructions instead of open-ended questions can reduce power struggles. Together, they'll explore the power of modeling empathy and establishing firm yet compassionate boundaries.

Saying no is a natural part of child development, but handling it with intention makes all the difference.

Watch the full episode to discover practical strategies that transform resistance into moments of connection!

When Your Child Says, NO!

Enjoy the podcast? Subscribe and leave a 5-star review!

____________________________________________________________________________

Sarah Sprinkel has dedicated her career to nurturing creativity and connection in children’s education. With over three decades at Orange County Public Schools, she’s led initiatives ranging from partnerships with Walt Disney World to Florida’s first elementary virtual school. Her 10 years as a kindergarten teacher shaped her belief that organization and learning stem from meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that it’s the supportive presence of caregivers that leaves a lasting impact on young minds.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElectSprinkel/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sprinkel-7880413/

____________________________________________________________________________

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy 

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering young minds. Marnie believes traditional education methods are insufficient for preparing children for the future, emphasizing the need for critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability. Her work focuses on guiding parents and educators to foster skills that align with emerging technologies and dynamic career landscapes.

Website: 

How can we, as parents, create an environment where books feel like magic and reading becomes a lifelong adventure??  

In this episode, early childhood consultant Sarah Sprinkel shares how reading begins far earlier than most people realize—even before birth! Talking, singing, and interacting with your child builds the foundation for literacy. She provides practical strategies such as storytelling, labeling objects in the home, and using repetitive songs.

Encouraging a love of reading is about fostering curiosity and helping your child develop essential communication skills that will serve them for life.

Create a home filled with words, stories, and a love for learning. 

Learn more in this week’s episode of Raising Innovators: ▶️ When To Start Teaching Your Child To Read.

Enjoy this episode? Don’t forget to leave a five-star review!

_______________________________________________________________________________

Sarah Sprinkel has dedicated her career to nurturing creativity and connection in children’s education. With over three decades at Orange County Public Schools, she’s led initiatives ranging from partnerships with Walt Disney World to Florida’s first elementary virtual school. Her 10 years as a kindergarten teacher shaped her belief that organization and learning stem from meaningful relationships. She emphasizes that it’s the supportive presence of caregivers that leaves a lasting impact on young minds.

Book: Mimi And Me

Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B09LFD63T5/allbooks?ingress=0&visitId=b73054c5-97a3-4837-a02f-1e0daf684a0e 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ElectSprinkel/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-sprinkel-7880413/

____________________________________________________________________________

Young Innovators Academy is redefining early education by fostering an innovative mindset in children from infancy to school age. With a curriculum grounded in the latest brain research, the academy equips young learners with critical skills, attitudes, and values to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Teachers create hands-on, joy-filled learning environments where children tackle real-world challenges through creativity and collaboration. Leadership and staff are dedicated to continuous improvement, ensuring a nurturing atmosphere that inspires a lifelong love of learning.

Website: https://www.younginnovatorsacademy.com/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/younginnovatorsacademy/  

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

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/YoungInnovatorsAcademy 

Marnie Zettler is a passionate advocate for reshaping education to meet the demands of tomorrow’s workforce. With experience spanning classroom teaching, childcare administration, and entrepreneurial ventures, she has dedicated her career to empowering yo