The Cliffz Notez Podcast

In this episode of the Cliffz Notez podcast, listen to the conversation between Cliff Lewis, a former NFL linebacker and school board member, and Kevin George, the superintendent at University High (U-High), a high school in Baton Rouge. They discuss the impact of technology on education, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. They also discuss the importance of early education and innovative programs at the laboratory school, such as teaching cybersecurity to students. Parental and community involvement are crucial components of a successful education system. George emphasizes the need for teachers to have the necessary pedagogy to use technology in the classroom effectively. Overall, the conversation focuses on the current challenges and promising trends in education.

This episode of the Cliffs Notez podcast is a conversation between Dr. Tarver, a former president of Southern University, and Mr. Glenn, a high school teacher. They discuss African-American history, the importance of education, the challenges facing Louisiana and the country, and the significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). They emphasize the need for increased resources and support for education and the role of teachers in shaping society. They also mention the positive impact of HBCUs in providing education and fostering diversity.

MayorIn this episode of the Cliffz Notez Podcast, listen to the conversation between Cliff Lewis, a former NFL player and school board member, and Marvin Broom, a Vietnam-era veteran. Marvin Broom shares about his experience in the military during the Vietnam era and how he focused on learning German as a skill for his future. He also talks about his time as an educator, teaching English in Germany and later in Texas. The conversation touches on the changes in higher education and the importance of critical thinking skills for students. They also discuss Marvin Broom's role as the spouse of East Baton Rouge Parish mayor Sharon Weston Broome and his involvement in supporting veterans and addressing homelessness. The conversation concludes with Cliff Lewis asking Marvin Broom for his advice to young people, emphasizing the importance of being open to learning and turning information into personal knowledge through critical thinking.

Cliff Lewis, host of the Cliffz Notez Podcast has a conversation with Adonica Duggan CEO of Baton Rouge Alliance for Students about education, specifically focusing on the importance of providing quality education for all children in the community. The speaker emphasizes the need to focus on fundamental skills such as reading and math, and highlights the challenges faced by working parents who entrust their children's education to the school system. The conversation also touches on the need for equity in education and discussions around improving legacy high schools. The conversation concludes with the idea that education is a marathon, not a sprint, and that it requires continuous effort and collaboration to ensure success for all students.

Another Cliffz Notes podcast episode featuring an interview with Miss Dana Smith, the founder of the Reimagine Wellness Center, a minority-owned and women-led innovation hub in Baton Rouge. The center aims to support women and girl entrepreneurs and revitalize the underutilized business zone in the area. They have partnered with various organizations, including the Small Business Administration and Southern University, to provide resources and training for small businesses. They are also planning to establish a legal hub to offer pro bono legal services to businesses. The interview also discusses the importance of education and the center's plans to provide educational opportunities for children, such as STEM, STEAM, and music programs. The center is certified by the American Red Cross and American Heart Association and offers free CPR training. The ultimate goal of the Reimagine Wellness Center is to serve as a resource for the community and support its various needs, including small businesses, education, and social programs.

In this video, former NFL player Cliff Lewis interviews Raymond Anthony Jetson, a former Grambling football player and current advocate for social impact and community development. Jetson discusses his experiences with legendary football coach Eddie Robinson, who significantly affected his life. He shares a story about Robinson's attention to academics and his emphasis on the character and success of every player, not just the star athletes. Jetson also talks about his career in politics, representing Louisiana in the legislature, and the influence of Robinson and his father on his political journey. 

Jetson then explains his work with Metromorphosis, a nonprofit organization focused on transforming inner-city neighborhoods. He discusses their asset-based approach and the importance of collective action in addressing the challenges and opportunities in these communities. Specifically, he highlights their efforts in empowering small minority and women-owned businesses, connecting them with contracts, and providing access to capital. 

Jetson also introduces the concept of "aging while black" and the unique challenges that African Americans face concerning aging, including disparities in retirement income, access to services, and life expectancy. He discusses the need to recalibrate the infrastructure that supports black life, embrace technology to improve black elders' lives, and harness older people's wisdom to build solid institutions and communities. Jetson emphasizes the importance of access and addresses the work Metromorphosis is doing in creating access to business contracts and creating a pipeline of leaders for inner-city neighborhoods. He mentions their ongoing project in the Eddie Robinson historic district, which aims to revitalize the community while preserving its culture and preventing mass displacement. 

Overall, Jetson's interview highlights his passion for community development, social impact, and equitable opportunities for all.

In this episode of Cliff'z Notez, host Cliff Lewis engages in a captivating conversation with Pastor Jon Bennet, a dynamic young pastor who is raising two young Black sons and a daughter. Together, they delve into the profound topic of the importance of education while living a Christ-centered life.

Pastor Jon shares his unique perspective on how education goes beyond mere knowledge acquisition, emphasizing its role in nurturing the mind, heart, and soul. He reveals how education can equip children to face life's challenges while remaining firmly anchored in their faith.

Cliff and Pastor Jon explore the intersections of faith and education, discussing how the principles of a Christ-centered life can be seamlessly integrated into the educational journey. They dive into the ways in which Pastor Jon and his family foster an environment that encourages curiosity, goal-setting, discipline, and time management, all while keeping faith at the forefront.

As they delve deeper, the conversation expands to address the complexities of racial and social justice. Pastor Jon sheds light on how education can be a powerful tool in breaking down barriers, dismantling systemic injustices, and empowering young minds to become advocates for equality and justice.

Listeners will gain invaluable insights and practical advice on how to raise children who not only excel academically but also embody a Christ-centered life. Pastor Jon's passion and dedication to both education and faith will inspire parents and individuals alike to view education as a lifelong journey of worship and a means to make a positive impact in their communities.

Join Cliff Lewis and Pastor Jon Bennet in this thought-provoking episode as they navigate the profound connection between education and faith, leaving listeners with a renewed perspective on the transformative power of knowledge and a Christ-centered life.

Carlos J. Sam possesses 30 years of multi-level service as an educator with a deep understanding of school system operations. His diverse experiences include classroom teacher, coach, Assistant Principal, Principal, Director of Magnet Schools, Associate Superintendent and Superintendent of Schools.  Diverse experiences over the years have cultivated his expertise in operational management. As a career educator his passion has always been to transform the lives of young people from all walks of life to prepare them for a lifetime beyond high school for college and career opportunities.  In 2013, Carlos was awarded the George Award for National MicroSociety Outstanding District Administrator. Previously, he was named Principal of the Year in the East Baton Rouge Parish School System and prior to that had been recognized as the Baton Rouge Jr. Chamber of Commerce Young Educator of the Year.  Over the years, Carlos has served on numerous community boards and has earned local, state and national recognition.  Trained as an educator and rising to serve as a superintendent, Carlos brings a wealth of knowledge, proven leadership, and his passion for student success to his role as Deputy State Director of Operations at Charter Schools USA – Louisiana.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Cliff Notez podcast, former NFL linebacker turned school board member in East Baton Rouge Parish, Cliff Lewis, engages in a captivating dialogue with Terrance Locket, the State Director of Democrats for Education Reform. 

Join Cliff and Terrance as they dive deep into the pressing issues surrounding education reform, equity, and the challenges faced by our education system. Drawing on his extensive experience and expertise, Terrance shares his insights and vision for transforming education to better serve all students.

Throughout the episode, Cliff and Terrance explore a range of topics, including the achievement gap, teacher quality, funding disparities, and the role of policy in shaping educational outcomes. They delve into the importance of community engagement, parental involvement, and the need for innovative approaches to meet the diverse needs of students in today's society.

Listeners will gain valuable perspectives from both Cliff and Terrance, as they discuss the intersection of education and social justice, advocating for change, and the power of education to uplift communities. They also explore the challenges faced by marginalized students and the vital role that educators and policymakers play in creating an inclusive and equitable learning environment.

Whether you're an educator, policy enthusiast, or simply interested in the future of education, this episode offers a compelling and enlightening conversation that will broaden your understanding and inspire you to take action.

Tune in to the Cliff Notez podcast as Cliff engages in a dynamic conversation with Terrance Locket, shedding light on the critical issues in education reform and exploring the transformative power of education in building a brighter future for all students.

Our live stream is so dope, we decided to turn it into a podcast.  In this episode, we talk politics, Jon Gray, Modesto Especial, HCZ, and a host of other things.  Prepare to be entertained.