Shows
The We Are All Awesome Show32. Why Risk, Failure, and 1% Growth Matter More Than EverIn this powerful debrief episode, Carter and Randy reflect on their recent conversation with Coach Jordan Holbert, highlighting themes of mindset, discipline, and the role of experience in building confidence and identity. They explore how small, consistent habits and the courage to fail shape not only student-athletes but anyone pursuing purpose.
From the weight of social media to the increasing pressure on K–12 students, this episode dives deep into how today’s youth can better discover their strengths, take ownership of their path, and redefine what success really looks like. Whether you're a parent, coach, educator, or lead...2025-07-2823 minThe We Are All Awesome Show31. From Hope to Habit: Coaching 1,000 Youth with Purpose - Jordan Holbert's PlaybookIn this powerful episode of the We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with coach, speaker, and youth mentor Jordan, whose journey from injury to inspiration proves that awesomeness lies in authenticity and resilience. From building mental muscle to empowering youth through flag football and digital literacy, Jordan shares how he helps students unlock their full potential, on and off the field. His stories of being mentored by coaches, guided by grandmothers, and now coaching the next generation are nothing short of transformational.
Jordan unpacks the value of writing down goals, setting tech...2025-07-2347 minThe We Are All Awesome Show30. Your Success Is Not My Demise: Building Confidence, Community & Culture with Collin BinkoIn this powerful episode of We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with award-winning educator and music director Collin Binko, who shares how he's using the universal language of music to create culture, build confidence, and ignite student potential. From turning nervous students into confident soloists to empowering kids through intentional practice and high-performance routines, Collin reveals his methods for building safe spaces where students can thrive both on and off the stage. And yes, he’s the teacher who makes you do jumping jacks before your solo!
Collin dives into the mindset be...2025-07-0846 minThe We Are All Awesome Show29. From Vapes to Valves: Danny Aguilar's Journey to PurposeOn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we dive deep into the raw, real, and inspiring story of Danny Aguilar, a young man who didn’t just talk, he owned his story. From early sparks of curiosity in auto mechanics to getting lost in challenges like vaping, Danny opens up about the moments that almost derailed him, and the mentors, moments, and mindset that brought him back. Now thriving in trade school and building a future he’s proud of, Danny shows us that passion and purpose can sometimes take the scenic route, and t...2025-07-0324 minThe We Are All Awesome Show28. Lena Podeska: The Grind Behind the GloryIn this inspiring episode of We Are All Awesome powered by WiddyUP, we catch up with Nordic skier Lena Podeska just days after her stunning qualification for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Hosts Carter and Randy dive deep into the journey behind the achievement, exploring the grit, mental discipline, and powerful support network that helped Lena reach elite status. More than a story of athletic excellence, this episode is a masterclass in self-motivation, sacrifice, and the mindset it takes to pursue greatness without losing yourself along the way.
From 4:30 AM training sessions to affirmations and mental reps, Lena’s st...2025-07-0120 minThe We Are All Awesome Show27. From Vapes to Valves: Danny’s Drive Toward PurposeIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Danny returns to share how leaving vaping behind led him to discover his true passion in the trades. Now 10 months into an auto and diesel program at UTI in Phoenix, Danny opens up about living independently, staying mentally strong through positive routines, and aiming for a coveted spot in the Mercedes-Benz training program. His story is an honest reflection of what it takes to stay focused, trust your pace, and turn tough decisions into a powerful future.
Danny also dives into how social media...2025-06-2638 minThe We Are All Awesome Show26. Do It Scared: Building Courage, Curiosity & Confidence in a Tech-Driven WorldIn this energizing episode of We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we’re joined by Chris, an insightful educator and leader on the cutting edge of AI and learning, who reminds us that personal growth often starts where comfort ends. From parenting lessons to classroom takeaways, Chris shares how “doing it scared” becomes a mindset that builds resilience, encourages risk-taking, and fuels authentic learning in a fast-changing world.
Together with hosts Will and Randy, the conversation digs into the intersection of nature vs. nurture, the art of teaching agency, and how tech like AI can deepen...2025-06-2447 minThe We Are All Awesome Show25. From Passion to Podium: Lena’s Journey & the Power of Just Trying EverythingSummary:
On this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with rising ski star Lena Paduska to talk about her incredible journey from small-town roots to the national ski stage, and now, to the collegiate circuit. Lena opens up about the pressures and possibilities of the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) landscape, her mental preparation, and how being fearless in trying new things paved her way to success.
Whether you're a student-athlete, parent, or fan of stories fueled by grit and growth, Lena's mindset is one to remember...2025-06-2033 minThe We Are All Awesome Show24. Bridge Year, Not Gap Year: Finding Your Path Before CollegeIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we explore how teens can embrace nontraditional paths, like the increasingly popular "bridge year," to discover purpose, sharpen focus, and build momentum before college. Our hosts share powerful personal stories, like Liam’s transformative year off and a student who leveraged the California Proficiency Program, to illustrate how stepping off the beaten path can actually accelerate success. Whether it’s community college, trades, or Ivy League dreams, the message is clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all.
We also dive into the importance of identif...2025-06-1228 minThe We Are All Awesome Show23. The Real Edge: Why Networking Beats a Perfect ResumeIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we dive deep into the underestimated yet powerful force of networking. Hosts Randy and Carter explore how authentic conversations,like one student's chance encounter at Trader Joe's,can open real-world doors to internships, careers, and lifelong connections. From personal stories to hiring insights, the conversation highlights that connection isn't just for the privileged; it's a skill anyone can develop.
We also explore the importance of informed decision making when it comes to college and career paths. Whether it's evaluating the value of a...2025-06-0440 minThe We Are All Awesome Show22. Finding the Best Job on the Planet: Bernie’s Journey from Quito to the GalapagosWhat if your dream job wasn’t just a job, but a purpose? In this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we dive deep with Bernardo Jacome, a young eco-entrepreneur navigating life between the highlands of Quito and the crystal waters of the Galapagos. From building his own business to redefining success on his own terms, Bernardo shares the raw, unfiltered truth of what it takes to chase passion over perfection.
Join hosts Carter and Randy as they explore the value of showing up, the myth of balance, and how embracing hard wo...2025-05-2954 minThe We Are All Awesome Show21. AI, College, and the Great Divide: Rethinking Education in a Digital AgeIs AI the great equalizer—or the next big divider—in education? In this thought-provoking episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter and Chris unpack the fast-evolving role of artificial intelligence in shaping the classroom and redefining college readiness. From generative AI in lesson planning to students leveraging ChatGPT, the discussion explores how access (or lack thereof) to these tools is deepening the digital divide and forcing educators and families to reconsider what success looks like.
The hosts tackle bold questions: Is traditional college becoming obsolete? Should we prioritize real-world learning, soft skil...2025-05-2722 minThe We Are All Awesome Show20. AI, Apprenticeships & Access: The Future of LearningIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, Randy and Carter sit down with Chris Agnew, Director of Generative AI for Education at Stanford's Education Hub. Chris shares his 25-year journey from outdoor classrooms to tech-enabled learning environments, shedding light on how generative AI can unlock powerful, equitable, and immersive education experiences once reserved for the elite. His work bridges groundbreaking research with real-world practice to help school system leaders implement AI policies that support students and educators alike.
Chris also dives deep into the evolving role of credentials in today’s wo...2025-05-2154 minThe We Are All Awesome Show19. Keep Going: The Viral Teacher Changing How We Connect, Teach & InspireIn this special Cinco de Mayo episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, the hosts reflect on the inspiring work of Mr. Dallas a teacher who's gained online attention and national visibility. They explore how his viral presence, including an appearance on The Jennifer Hudson Show, is changing the conversation around education. The episode dives into how Mr. Dallas builds meaningful relationships with students, showing that care and connection can be powerful tools in both academic success and emotional development.
The conversation also dives into how students—no matter their age—can t...2025-05-1614 minThe We Are All Awesome Show18. From Burnout to Breakthrough: How One Teacher Sparked Global InspirationIn this inspiring episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, marketing educator Berhanu Dallas shares how he went from dreading the classroom to becoming a beacon of change, not only for his students in Atlanta but for a global audience. Through vulnerability, human connection, and the power of social media, Dallas transformed his approach to teaching, building trust, confidence, and community in and out of the classroom.
He opens up about pivotal moments that reshaped his career, including a life-changing encounter with a fellow educator and a reality check during a parent-teacher conference...2025-05-1244 minThe We Are All Awesome Show17. College Planning Made Simple: 3 Keys to the Perfect FitIn this insightful episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we dive into the crucial yet often overlooked early stages of college planning. From 6th grade interest tracking to sophomore-year strategy, our host shares a clear, step-by-step framework to help families align a student's passions, values, and skills with the right academic and social college environment. Learn how personality assessments, social media roommate hunts, and realistic expectations around housing and campus life can significantly shape a student's college journey.
Whether your child is in middle school or already narrowing down schools in junior...2025-05-1224 minThe We Are All Awesome ShowLeadership, Equity & Lifelong Learning with Jamie CabotIn this inspiring episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with Jaime Cabot a former educator turned edtech sales leader who breaks down the importance of equity in education, the true impact of school vouchers, and why AI still can't replicate the soul of a musician. From the classroom to the boardroom, she shares how leading with what’s best for kids — or customers — is the secret to sustainable success. Her perspective on mentorship, curiosity, and leadership provides a grounded yet energizing look at what it really means to grow with purpose.
...2025-05-0124 minThe We Are All Awesome Show16. The Impact of Technology and Coaching: A Deep Dive with Eve JulianIn this powerful follow-up episode of the We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with Eve Julian, a passionate coach and expert in swimming technology, to discuss her journey in both coaching and her role at IST. From understanding the nuances of advanced timing equipment in swim meets to the impact of coaching young athletes, Eve shares her unique insights. She talks about the integration of high-precision timing systems, the importance of supporting coaches in their work, and how to make a meaningful impact both in and out of the pool. Whether you're a coach...2025-04-3033 minThe We Are All Awesome Show15. From Class to Clients: The Teen Building a Business Instead of DebtIn this powerful follow-up episode of the We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter and Randy unpack their eye-opening conversation with teen entrepreneur Walter Stradley — a high school junior balancing AP classes with 30+ hours a week running his own landscaping business. They dive deep into the real-world lessons Walter is mastering early: client communication, pricing strategy, time management, and the bold decision to prioritize business over a traditional college path.
From debating whether they'd let their own kids delay or skip college to breaking down what education should look like in 2025, Carter and Randy challenge th...2025-04-2529 minThe We Are All Awesome Show14. No Days Off: Meet The Teen Who Outworks AdultsIn this inspiring episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter and Randy sit down with Walter Stradley, a high school junior from Jackson, Wyoming, who’s not just managing grades and AP classes, but also running a thriving landscaping business. From balancing 30-hour work weeks with late-night study sessions to sharing insights on pricing, customer service, and confidence-building, Walter walks us through the hustle mindset that fuels his success. You’ll hear how he juggles school and entrepreneurship, why he’s considering online college over traditional routes, and what it takes to grow a small...2025-04-2336 minThe We Are All Awesome Show13. The Real ROI of Education: What Success Looks Like TodaySummary:
In this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter Higley and Randy Narciso dive deep into the evolving definition of success in the K–12 education system and beyond. They explore the powerful idea that college isn't the only path—and sometimes, it's not even the best one. From trade schools to entrepreneurship, they break down how families can support their kids in discovering their unique strengths and choosing the path that aligns with their passions, purpose, and real-world opportunities. Carter shares how he'd "jump for joy" if his daughter chose trad...2025-04-1823 minThe We Are All Awesome Show12. Discovering Your Path: Passion, Purpose, and GrowthIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter Higley and Randy Narciso dive deep into discovering your "why"—the driving force behind your passions and purpose. Carter reflects on the journey of his daughter, Selah, who has found her calling in marine biology, demonstrating how early identification of interests can shape one's academic and career path. They discuss the significance of focusing on values, skills, and passions rather than simply checking off boxes or chasing outcomes. Parents, educators, and coaches are encouraged to guide students to explore what excites them and align their go...2025-04-1434 minThe We Are All Awesome Show11. Revolutionizing Trade Schools & Entrepreneurship with Jacob DossIn this episode of THE WE ARE ALL AWESOME SHOW powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with Jacob Doss, a former Division 1 football player turned entrepreneur, who is on a mission to revolutionize trade education. Jacob takes us through his incredible journey—from leading on the field to leading in business—and how he’s building a powerhouse brand of trade schools that could become the Harvard of hands-on learning. He shares his vision for scaling trade schools nationwide, creating top-tier training programs, and forming game-changing partnerships with major employers to ensure students land high-paying jobs.
Beyond educat...2025-04-1052 minThe We Are All Awesome Show10. College Choices, Behavioral Science & Impactful Giving with Rohan AminIn this thought-provoking episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we’re joined by Rohan Amin, a high school senior who is navigating the complex and competitive college admissions process. With a keen interest in behavioral science, economics, and psychology, Rohan shares his journey of applying to prestigious universities like UPenn, Duke, and Vanderbilt, offering valuable insights into how he strategically chose his top picks based on personal values, academic interests, and career aspirations. We also dive deep into his vision for future studies in decision sciences and the path he hopes to follow in bu...2025-03-2650 minThe We Are All Awesome Show9. Chasing Adventures & Growth: A Journey to the Top with Liam SullivanIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, we sit down with Liam, a passionate adventurer whose love for skiing, climbing, and the great outdoors is shaping his future. He shares insights from his gap year, where he’s learned valuable lessons about maturity, overcoming failure, and finding success in pursuing your true passions. Liam’s journey to becoming a professional guide in mountaineering is an inspiring example of how embracing challenges and seeking mentorship can lead to personal growth and fulfillment.
Liam talks about the importance of role models in shaping his...2025-03-2423 minThe We Are All Awesome Show8. College Planning & K-12 Fundraising InsightsIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, hosts Carter Higley and Randy Narciso share expert tips on college planning and K-12 fundraising. Learn how to align your student’s interests, values, and skills with their dream school, plus strategies for securing scholarships and financial aid. They discuss the importance of planning early and how to make the college application process less stressful for families.
The episode also covers how to craft standout applications, understand financial aid offers, and raise funds for your child’s education. Whether your student is in middle school or preparing for...2025-03-1734 minThe We Are All Awesome Show7. Boosting Fundraising Success with WiddyUP!In this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter Higley and Randy Narciso explore key strategies for successful student fundraising. They share expert tips on engaging donors, from reaching out to family and friends to using digital tools like email, text, and social media to maximize donations. Carter and Randy also discuss the importance of early financial planning and how friendly competitions and fun incentives can drive student participation and make fundraising more enjoyable.
They dive into WiddyUP’s best practices for students, including how to effectively invite donors, the value of...2025-03-1317 minThe We Are All Awesome Show6. Leadership & Teamwork: Bart Woodley on Event ManagementIn this exciting episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we dive into the world of event management with Bart Woodley, who shares his experience overseeing the chaotic yet thrilling preparation for the World Championships. With over 350 color guard groups and numerous performances happening across multiple arenas, Bart discusses how his organization stays organized and communicates effectively to make it all happen. He highlights the crucial role of teamwork and in-person collaboration in ensuring every moving part comes together seamlessly during peak season.
Bart also reflects on his leadership journey, sharing valuable advice...2025-03-0926 minThe We Are All Awesome Show5. Behind the Music: TMEA & Fundraising InsightsIn this exciting episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter Higley and Randy Narciso dive into their unforgettable experience at the Texas Music Educators Association (TMEA) conference in San Antonio. With thousands of passionate educators, students, and music lovers gathered to celebrate fine arts, the duo shares the most memorable moments from the event. From spontaneous interviews with band, choir, and orchestra leaders about what makes their groups awesome to an inspiring chat with Jamie Cabot about the power of people in education and business.
But that’s not all! In th...2025-03-0619 minThe We Are All Awesome Show4. Unlocking Your Full Potential: How Small Shifts Lead to Big SuccessIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we explore how small mindset shifts can lead to massive personal and professional growth. Our guest shares powerful insights on overcoming self-doubt, embracing resilience, and taking actionable steps toward success. Whether you're an entrepreneur, creative, or simply looking for motivation, this conversation will leave you inspired to push beyond limitations and unlock your full potential.
Join us as we dive into practical strategies for cultivating confidence, breaking through barriers, and staying committed to your goals. Learn how to reframe challenges as opportunities and turn...2025-03-0435 minThe We Are All Awesome Show3. Raise More, Keep More: The Fundraising RevolutionIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we dive into a game-changing approach to fundraising that helps school groups raise more money while keeping a larger share of their funds. Our guest, Carter Higley, breaks down how WiddyUP is transforming K-12 fundraising with an easy, high-impact platform that uses video and social media to connect with donors. No upfront costs, no selling outdated products—just fast, fun, and highly profitable fundraising.
If you’ve ever struggled with traditional fundraising methods, this episode is a must-listen. We cover how WiddyUP’s innovative model...2025-02-2617 minThe We Are All Awesome Show2. How to Make Fundraising Fun, Fast & Effective with WiddyUP!In this episode of The We All Are Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, we dive into the game-changing world of fundraising with Carter Higley! Learn how WiddyUP’s innovative platform makes raising money simple, engaging, and stress-free for students, parents, and chairpeople alike. From personal pitch videos to group fundraising strategies, Carter shares expert tips on maximizing donations, running friendly competitions, and keeping participation levels high.
Discover how WiddyUP streamlines outreach with automated donor invitations, multi-language support, and easy social media sharing. Plus, find out why adding at least 15 donors to your list can significantly boost your fu...2025-02-2228 minThe We Are All Awesome Show1. Teaching, Coaching, and the Power of 'Why' with Tim SiroisIn this episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter Higley and Randy Narciso sit down with longtime educator and coach Tim Sirois to explore the intersection of passion, leadership, and lifelong learning. From his 33-year journey in public education to coaching high school swimmers, Tim shares how curiosity, culture, and communication have shaped his career. He reveals the pivotal moments that led him back to the classroom, the lessons he’s learned from coaching, and how asking "why" unlocks growth in students and athletes alike.
Tim also dives into the evolving la...2025-02-1939 min