David Fugate, entrepreneur and CEO of Akamai Construction in Hawaii and X-Golf in New York City, joins middle schooler Nicholas to talk about leadership, teamwork, and taking chances. He shares how he’s always envisioned being a leader, why building the right team is so important, and how moving around and taking risks has been one of the best gifts he’s given himself. Nicholas learns from David why keeping your word and following through on your promises matters just as much as taking bold steps.

Eliot Salome Diaz, graffiti and mural artist, joins middle schooler Dayvion to talk about life as a creative. Eliot shares how he navigates his interests in both art and business, what his work teaches about creating from the heart and with passion, and his love of hip hop. Dayvion learns from Eliot how making art from a generous, expansive place can open unexpected doors of opportunity.

Linda Anstendig, former English professor at Pace University, joins middle schooler Torlisa to talk about the joys of learning and teaching. Torlisa comes into the conversation admitting that English has always been her least favorite subject, but Linda shows her how reaching out to a teacher for guidance can really change the way you learn. Linda also shares why pursuing an English major is a worthy choice, how she learned to become more assertive, and she tells the story of a powerful student experience that stuck with her.