𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
In this heartfelt solo episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf reflects on why rural education is worth fighting for. Drawing from decades of experience as a teacher, principal, and superintendent, she shares personal stories, leadership lessons, and the unique strengths that make rural communities resilient. Dr. Sadorf highlights the “rural advantage” — the sense of belonging, ingenuity, and heart that sustain schools and communities despite limited resources. This episode is a reminder that rural education is not just work — it’s legacy.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬:
00:00 Introduction and Purpose of the Episode
01:16 The Challenges and Rewards of Rural Education
02:02 Defining Rural Identity and Community
03:36 The Many Hats of Rural Leaders
05:10 Personal Stories and Connections
07:03 The Essence of Rural Leadership
11:57 Innovations and Adaptations in Rural Schools
14:34 Reflecting on the Importance of Rural Education
15:19 Conclusion and Call to Action
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Dr. Sadorf closes with a message of gratitude for everyone committed to rural education. She reminds us that rural work isn’t small—it’s foundational, shaping the future of communities and generations of students. By showing up with heart and resilience, rural educators and leaders create legacies of connection, innovation, and belonging. The rural advantage lies in leading together—and when we do, we thrive together.

𝐄𝐩𝐢𝐬𝐨𝐝𝐞 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
In this episode, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Kirby Rabalais, founder of Got4titude, a coaching and community program designed to support fathers raising children with special needs. While moms are often the focus of support systems, dads frequently walk this journey in silence. Kirby shares his personal story of his son’s rare genetic diagnosis, the struggles and resilience his family has built along the way, and how he turned pain into purpose by creating a lifeline for other fathers.
This heartfelt conversation explores themes of masculinity, resilience, self-care, and redefining fatherhood in the face of challenges. Whether you’re a parent, an educator, or part of a rural community, Kirby’s story offers inspiration and practical wisdom for building strength through connection.
𝐓𝐢𝐦𝐞 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐬:
00:00 Introduction to The Rural Scoop
01:04 Meet Kirby Rabalais: Founder of Got4titude
02:11 Kirby's Personal Journey and the Birth of Got4titude
05:22 The Diagnosis and Its Impact
09:25 Redefining Fatherhood and Masculinity
17:27 Strategies for Support and Resilience
22:50 Building a Community for Fathers
25:44 Introduction to the Four Pillars
26:04 Challenges and Commonalities Among Fathers
27:19 Learning and Inspiration from Other Fathers
28:24 Advocating for Yourself and Your Child
32:59 Advice for New Fathers
35:55 Self-Care and Balancing Responsibilities
39:05 Future Vision and Measuring Success
42:49 Resources and Community Support
45:19 Final Thoughts and Reflections
𝐀𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐆𝐨𝐭𝟒𝐭𝐢𝐭𝐮𝐝𝐞:
Got4titude was born out of lived experience. After receiving his son’s rare genetic diagnosis, founder Kirby Rabalais was thrown into the emotional and logistical storm that so many parents of children with disabilities know too well. In the middle of shock, isolation, and endless questions, he realized one truth: there were almost no resources built specifically for fathers.
Instead of staying silent, Kirby decided to build what he wished he had—a place for dads to find clarity, connection, and strength. That’s how Got4titude came to life: a mission-driven community that helps fathers navigate the unpredictable road of raising children with disabilities. Through raw conversations, coaching, and practical tools, Got4titude is redefining what support looks like for dads who often feel overlooked.
𝑲𝒊𝒓𝒃𝒚’𝒔 𝒎𝒆𝒔𝒔𝒂𝒈𝒆 𝒊𝒔 𝒔𝒊𝒎𝒑𝒍𝒆: 𝒏𝒐 𝒇𝒂𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒔𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝒉𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒘𝒂𝒍𝒌 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒔 𝒓𝒐𝒂𝒅 𝒂𝒍𝒐𝒏𝒆.
- Learn more: www.got4titude.com
- Join the Inner Circle: https://www.got4titude.com/inner-circle
- Download the Fathers' Survival Toolkit (no cost): https://www.got4titude.com/store/p/fatherssurvivalkit-5dfzp-yhrcj
𝐂𝐥𝐨𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐒𝐮𝐦𝐦𝐚𝐫𝐲:
Kirby Rabalais’s journey reminds us that resilience is built not in isolation, but in connection. Through Got4titude, he’s creating a safe space where fathers of children with special needs can find courage, redefine masculinity, and learn to celebrate inchstones. His story is one of hope, healing, and advocacy—and it challenges us all to build stronger communities where no parent has to walk this path alone.

Episode Summary:
In this episode of The Rural Scoop, Dr. Melissa Sadorf sits down with Andy Mink, Director of the Smithsonian Rural Initiative, to explore how the Smithsonian is extending its reach into rural communities across the United States. From traveling exhibits like Museum on Main Street to innovative partnerships with schools, libraries, and local organizations, Andy shares how the Smithsonian is reimagining itself as a true public service institution.
Together, they discuss rural priorities identified through nationwide research, how communities can access Smithsonian resources, and the importance of place-based learning and storytelling. This conversation highlights the resilience, creativity, and deep connections that define rural life—and how cultural institutions can amplify those strengths on a national stage.
Time Stamps:
00:00 Introduction to the Smithsonian Rural Initiative
01:35 Meet Andy Mink: Director of the Smithsonian Rural Initiative
01:42 Andy Mink's Rural Background and Vision
02:58 Reimagining the Smithsonian's Role in Rural America
03:45 Defining Rurality and Its Importance
05:25 The Smithsonian's Approach to Rural Partnerships
08:18 Key Priorities for Rural America
13:42 Community Engagement and Success Stories
22:59 How to Get Involved with the Smithsonian Rural Initiative
28:24 Challenges and Opportunities in Rural Education
40:08 Future Directions and Final Thoughts
41:52 Lighthearted Q&A with Andy Mink
48:12 Conclusion and Call to Action
Closing Summary:
This episode shows how the Smithsonian is breaking down barriers and bringing world-class cultural and educational resources directly to rural America. Andy Mink reminds us that rural communities are not defined by their challenges, but by their assets, stories, and deep connections to place. By elevating rural voices on a national stage, the Smithsonian Rural Initiative helps communities preserve their past, prepare for the future, and showcase the true rural advantage.