In this episode Chandra chats with educator and children's book author, Katie Meyer, about her journey into character development, writing and what she's learned about herself in the process.  She also earns 5 Cool Points and is officially "Certified Cool!"  

Katie Meyer has read a myriad of books, taught books in schools, and is now writing her own books! A lifelong book-lover, Katie has inspired countless student readers and writers in her roles as elementary teacher, reading specialist, and literacy coach. Her debut children’s book, Gust, shares the story of a little wind turbine with a big impact. Katie hopes that readers of Gust will find new stories and relatable characters in their everyday lives, see the world around them in a different way, and become responsible citizens of our beautiful world.   To buy Gust from Orange Hat Publishing: https://www.orangehatpublishing.com/product-page/gust-paperback  To follow Gust's and Katie's journey on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/katiemeyerwrites/  To check out Katie's author website: www.gustthebook.com

Phasha Spencer (she/her) is the Senior Specialist, Partnerships at EdReports.org. She is responsible for leading and supporting the expansion of state and district partners, education organizations and special projects. In this role, her work ensures the growth strategy, business development and codification of services for the Partnerships team. Phasha has a breadth of experience in a variety of roles in non-profit, the Higher Education landscape, educational consulting industry and diversity, belonging, equity and inclusion spaces. She is a Cleveland, Ohio native and has proudly resided in Chicago since 2008. Phasha holds a Bachelor’s degree in Communications from Norfolk State University, and a Master’s degree in Journalism from Roosevelt University. She is deeply devoted to community service in the areas of youth advocacy, women’s empowerment, mental health and disaster prevention. She is also a Voice Actor with narration and commercial experience. Phasha enjoys writing, reading, Summertime Chi and traveling.

In this episode, Chandra chats with Phasha about her commitment to community service, the importance of connection, and the challenge of feeling the fear and doing the hard things anyway.  Tune in on all platforms to listen to this episode or watch on our YouTube channel.  Learn more about Phasha at www.phashaspencer.com

In this episode of "Wouldn't It Be Cool If...?" Dr. Chandra Sledge Mathias, chats with her good friend, Dr. Donald Coleman, Atlanta-based educator, leadership facilitator, first generation college student advocate, and joyful Black man!  Donald talks about his journey into leadership, how he decided to show up in every space as his authentic self, and why he advocates for first generation college students. He even gives us his favorite travel habits, since he is also known as the "Tall, Black, Traveler".  Tune in and take in the golden nuggets that Dr. Coleman shares in this conversation. 

In this episode, Dr. Chandra Sledge Mathias chats with her good friend and colleague, Dr. Tim Grivois, Executive Director of TGS Educational Consulting. His firm helps schools, nonprofits, and government agencies transform the wicked systemic issues that vex all leaders of caring organizations into opportunities to demonstrate excellence in any environment. Tim talks about his leap into entrepreneurship, how he makes time for "all of the things," and the importance of TALKING TO PEOPLE! Learn more about Dr. Grivois and his firm: www.tgseducationalconsulting.org

In this episode, Chandra chats with Raleigh, NC based, award-winning photographer, Kathleen Nolis. Kathleen shares her unique entry into the world of photography, and how she is passionate about not only creating memorable experiences for her clients, but using her platform to open the door for uncomfortable, yet needed conversations. She hopes that her photographs can bring some light to a world that can often feel heavy and overwhelming. 

In this episode, Chandra chats with Dr. Demaura Russell, founder of H.O.P.E. Regional Medical Center and H.O.P.E. Regional Medical Clinic. She talks about her journey through medical school, the twists & turns along the way, and her triumph over adversity to creating a clinic that is serving a rural community in North Eastern North Carolina.  There are so many golden nuggets in this episode, so grab a pen and notebook, and tune in!

In this episode, Chandra chats with one of her besties, Valronica Scales, M.Ed, a Higher Education leader, cancer warrior and advocate who talks about her journey to the career of her dreams, pivoting for the sake of protecting her peace, and kicking cancer's raggedy behind back where it came from.  She also shares how she faces obstacles, the support that she gets from therapy, and what she keeps in her carry-on bag when she is globe-trotting!

In this episode, Chandra chats with Intuitive Career Coach, Emily Eliza Moyer.  After hearing from several "Wouldn't It Be Cool If...?" listeners who had career-related questions, and one listener who specifically asked for a podcast guest to speak to those needing career advice, Chandra reached out to Emily immediately. A former teacher and serial purpose-driven adventurer, Emily shares her career journey and how she has attained the career of her dreams, not once, but twice!  She talks about her work as a career coach, answers our guests questions, and even shares a bit about her travel experiences in the Cool Points segment. Check out this super real, super inspiring conversation and get the motivation you need to light the fire within.  Check out Emily on instagram at @emilyelizamoyer to find out how you can take advantage of her coaching services.  

In this episode of "Wouldn't It Be Cool If...?" Chandra chats with childhood friend, Stephanie Wheeler. Stephanie endured a spinal injury at a young age which changed her trajectory forever. She has gone on to become a three time Paralympic Gold Medalist (twice as a wheelchair basketball player and once as a coach). She is in the NC Sports Hall of Fame. She is a World Champion and collegiate champion in wheelchair basketball. She currently serves as Head Coach of the Women's Wheelchair Basketball Team at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign and is finishing up her doctoral studies.  Tune in and hear all about her incredible journey and how she's still winning at the game of life.

In this episode of Wouldn't It Be Cool If...? Chandra chats with the "oh so pretty" Chantrel Reynolds, creative, communicator, and connector. Chantrel is a mover and shaker in the music industry, working behind the scenes as part of the engine that makes some of your favorite artists pop.  She discusses her journey of going after the career she imagined, stepping into opportunities that stretch her creative muscles, and we learn whether she is team sweet grits or savory grits as this southern belle plays "Cool Points" with Chandra.