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Dr. Tricia Bertram Gallant redefines academic integrity as more than just avoiding cheating—it's cultivating the courage to uphold universal values like honesty, fairness, and respect, even when it's difficult. Her work as Director of the University of California, San Diego Academic Integrity Office and the Triton Testing Center puts her impressive academic scholarship to practical and impactful use.  

Check out Dr. Bertram Gallant's latest book (co-authored with David Rettinger) The Opposite of Cheating: Teaching Integrity in the Age of AI

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Filex Sanchez, founder of Union Law Group, shares his journey from growing up in San Ysidro, CA on the Mexico-US border to becoming a specialized immigration attorney after witnessing how profoundly his work could change lives. Raised by immigrant parents who operated an immigration consultancy for decades, Filex developed a deep understanding of his bicultural identity and an abiding respect for hard work and dedication. Filex maintains an ethical legal practice by only taking cases he believes can succeed and offering refunds for clients whose cases do not prevail. 

Call Union Law Group: 

US: 619-662-2170

Mexico: 664-622-5442

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In this episode, we hear from Jim McCloskey about the journey that took him from the corporate world to his current work with those who have been wrongly convicted of crimes. McCloskey founded Centurion Ministries, an organization that has "completed 70 releases of men and women who were serving life or death sentences for crimes they did not commit." McCloskey is the author of When Truth is All You Have, and co-wrote Framed: Astonishing True Stories of Wrongful Convictions with John Grisham. 

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Join Dr. Sciarretta for a conversation with Garr Reynolds, the author of  Presentation Zen: Simple Ideas on Presentation Design and Delivery, for a compelling discussion about the fusion of Zen aesthetics with modern communication. Garr shares how his journey from Oregon to Japan has shaped his philosophy, emphasizing the power of simplicity and focus. Garr's insights extend beyond visuals, touching on the growing role of AI in both storytelling and education, while reminding us of the unyielding value of authenticity and creativity.

Garr's YouTube channel

Garr's website

Keynote by Jensen Huang

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CONTENT WARNING: This episode contains discussions of domestic abuse and may therefore be upsetting to some listeners.


What does it take to rise from a life filled with hardships to one of success and inspiration? On this episode of the Hangout Podcast, we are joined by Erica Alfaro.  Erica opens up about her childhood spent between Tijuana and San Diego, grappling with language barriers and the challenges of teen motherhood, before finding the courage to change her life's trajectory inspired by her parents’ unwavering support.

In this heartfelt episode, Erica shares her transformative journey from fearing public speaking to commanding international stages with authenticity and passion. Her encounter with Toastmasters becomes a pivotal chapter, illustrating how embracing one's true self can lead to unexpected opportunities and profound personal growth. As we reflect on the themes of resilience and perseverance, Erica’s story serves as a powerful reminder that adversity can indeed be a stepping stone to greatness.

Check out Erica’s book Harvesting Dreams: https://a.co/d/hQoPziQ

To learn more about Erica and to book a speaking engagement visit her website: https://www.google.com/url?q=http://www.ericaalfaro.com/&sa=U&ved=2ahUKEwj40IDK4OmJAxW_FDQIHR-sFxEQFnoECB8QAQ&usg=AOvVaw3T-7eucYKBbAeC_Czn9we2

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What if one moment could change your entire career path? Dr. Kwane Stewart, founder of Project Street Vet, shares how a chance encounter outside a 7-Eleven transformed his life and his career as a veterinarian. Dr. Stewart found new purpose in providing medical care to the pets of unhoused individuals. Listen to learn more about Dr. Stewart's inspirational journey!

Donate here! 

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Juan Pablo Romero Fuentes is the founder of Los Patojos, an educational organization in Guatemala. He is also a teacher and organizer within the organization. Juan Pablo was honored as a top 10 CNN Hero in 2014. Juan Pablo and Dr. Sciarretta discuss a wide range of topics including pedagogical approaches, reflections on traveling across the world visiting schools, the role of his family and parents, the love he has for his homeland in Guatemala, and much more. 
Content Warning: This episode contains some adult language and adult themes.

This is a re-release of one of our most popular episodes.

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Hedy Chang is the Founder and Executive Director of Attendance Works. A 1986 Thomas J. Watson Fellow, Hedy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion about the intricate tapestry of factors that influence why students may not make it to class. Her Chinese American background and family legacy of activism provide a rich context as we discuss her dedication to unraveling the complexities of chronic absenteeism—an issue that's foundational to achieving justice in our education system.

This is a re-release of a popular episode, one that is particularly timely as millions of children in the U.S. are back in school for the Fall semester. 

Learn more about Hedy Chang and Attendance Works.

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Join us for an illuminating conversation with my brother, Peter Sciarretta, who shares his transformative journey from a 30-year teaching career to the world of life coaching. You'll uncover the nuances of life coaching, how it stands apart from traditional guidance like parental advice or mentorship, and the structured paths to becoming a certified coach.

To learn more, visit Peter's website or his Instagram page @Peter_thecoach. To get in touch with Peter, email him at [email protected]. 

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Back by poplar demand for your late summer 2024 listening pleasure! Tommy Gomes is a fourth-generation San Diegan, retired commercial fisherman, business owner, and star of The Fish Monger, the #1 show on the Outdoor Channel. Dr. Sciarretta and Tommy talk about fishing, climate change, reflections on growing up today compared to 50 years ago, life lessons, education, and much more.
Read more about Tommy and The Fish Monder in this San Diego Magazine article: https://bit.ly/41h3r8z
Watch The Fish Monger: https://www.outdoorchannel.com/show/fishmonger/388571 

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If you enjoyed this episode please give us a five-star rating and consider donating. Your generosity helps our shoe-string budget and allows us to continue producing high-quality content. Click here to donate.