Shows
The Invisible MenJorge Elorza: A Democrat’s Case for School ChoiceIn this episode of The Invisible Men, Ian and Nique speak with Jorge Elorza, former mayor of Providence and CEO of Democrats for Education Reform. Jorge shares his evolution from traditional Democrat to school choice advocate, explains the promise of a new federal education tax credit, and unpacks why many in his party resist reform. He calls for a cultural shift in Democratic politics—toward empowerment, agency, and opportunity for all kids.
2025-09-0257 min
Ed on the EdgeEp. 54 · Ian Rowe | Founder of Vertex Partnership Academieswww.dashmedia.coEntrepreneurs. Educators. Investors. Policymakers. Hosted by GSV Founder & CEO Michael Moe, Ed on the Edge covers the "who" and the "how" of driving change in the global education landscape.Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is also the cofounder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a network of virtues-based International Baccalaureate high schools inaugurated in the Bronx in 2022; the chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and the cofounder...
2025-08-2755 minThe Invisible MenDerrell Bradford: How a Tax Credit Could Transform School AccessIn this episode of The Invisible Men, Ian and Nique speak with Derrell Bradford, President of 50CAN, about a game-changing federal tax credit bill that could reshape American education. They discuss how the program would allow families—especially low-income ones—to use privately funded scholarships for things like private school tuition, SAT prep, or tutoring. Bradford explores the political divide, pushback from teachers unions, and why some governors may opt out, even if it means losing out on resources. He emphasizes that this isn't a future idea—it’s already underway, with families across party lines taking part. The episode...
2025-08-261h 02
Economics, AppliedEngaged Fathers, Flourishing Children | Steven Davis, Brad Wilcox, Ian Rowe | Hoover InstitutionEngaged fathers help children build happy, prosperous lives, as Steven Davis discusses with sociologist Brad Wilcox and educational entrepreneur Ian Rowe. Brad and Ian also share their ideas on how to strengthen fatherhood and help children choose better life paths.
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Good Fathers, Flourishing Kids: The Importance of Fatherhood in Virginia by Brad Wilcox, Nicholas Zill, Richard Reeves, Ian Rowe, Gerard Robinson and Linda Malone-Colon, 2025.
Get Married: Why Americans Should Defy the Elites, Forge Strong Families and Save Civilization by Brad Wilcox, 2024.
Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Ov...
2025-08-2053 minThe Invisible MenGianno Caldwell: From Grief to Grit—A Fight for Safer StreetsIn this episode of The Invisible Men, Ian and Nique speak with political analyst and advocate Gianno Caldwell about the personal and political dimensions of urban violence, broken families, and misguided public policy. Caldwell shares the tragic story of his younger brother’s murder in Chicago and reflects on growing up amid poverty, fatherlessness, and crime—conditions he argues are worsened by progressive policies masked as social justice. The conversation explores the impact of soft-on-crime legislation, declining faith, and disempowering education systems, while emphasizing the need for strong mentorship, spiritual grounding, and community action. Caldwell also introduces his work throu...
2025-08-1431 min
The NarrativeThree Steps to a Successful Life with Ian RoweBefore the chaos of culture took over, we used to teach the Success Sequence—and it worked. Now, the Sequence, a proven formula to help young adults avoid poverty and achieve the American Dream, is being withheld from students and pulled from classrooms. Ian Rowe joins CCV Policy Director David Mahan and Communications Director Mike Andrews on this week's episode of The Narrative to talk about the positive impact teaching the Success Sequence to children has on their wellbeing, and ultimately on the trajectory of their lives. Before the guys sit down with Ian, Mike and...
2025-05-0941 minThe Invisible MenAndre Fowlkes: From Credentials to Community—A Holistic Approach to TalentIn this episode of the Invisible Men, Ian speaks with Andre Fowlkes, co-founder and president of Start Co., about what it really takes for young people—especially in underserved communities—to succeed. Andre introduces the concept of the “social envelope,” a holistic framework that includes not just skills and credentials, but also social capital, support systems, and exposure to opportunity-rich environments. He emphasizes that learning should be continuous, not a one-time event, and explores how peer learning, mentorship, innovation, and entrepreneurship can empower youth to solve problems and navigate systems that often work against them. Andre highlights the valu...
2025-05-0138 minThe Invisible MenThomas Chatterton Williams: Rejecting the Black-White BinaryIn this episode of the Invisible Men, Ian and Nique engage in a conversation with author Thomas Chatterton Williams about race, identity, and the complexities of navigating a mixed-race background. Williams shares his personal experiences growing up with a black father and a white mother, exploring how these dynamics shaped his understanding of race and class. The discussion delves into the psychological impacts of racism, the challenges of racial authenticity, and the importance of unlearning societal stereotypes. Williams emphasizes the need to reject the black-white binary and highlights misconceptions that exist between races, advocating for a more nuanced understanding o...
2025-04-2452 minThe Invisible MenIan and Nique: College, Merit, and the Road Less TraveledIn this episode, Ian and Nique discuss the evolving landscape of higher education, discussing the shifting dynamics of college admissions, meritocracy, and the challenges students face today. They reflect on the complex and often frustrating process of applying to colleges, particularly the pressures placed on students by restrictive admissions policies. The conversation then shifts to a broader critique of college culture, questioning the necessity of a traditional college degree, and exploring alternative paths to success. With a focus on new educational models like the University of Austin, they examine how merit, critical thinking, and the ability to handle divergent...
2025-04-1630 minThe Invisible MenDumisani Washington: Black Excellence and Solidarity with Israel | THE INVISIBLE MENIan and Nique are joined by Dumisani Washington to discuss the historical and ongoing challenges of racial integration, education, and black self-determination. Dumisani shares insights from his upbringing, emphasizing black excellence and the effects of integration on black institutions, and reflects on how his name change and spiritual journey led to the creation of the Institute for Black Solidarity with Israel. The conversation highlights the importance of understanding black history, the strength of family, and the need for continued solidarity between black and Jewish communities, exploring the intersections of identity, faith, history, and resilience.
2025-04-0851 minThe Invisible MenIan Rowe and Nique Fajors: Moynihan at 60In this conversation, Ian and Nique delve into the historical context and contemporary implications of the Moynihan Report, discussing the decline of family structure in the black community and its impact on community cohesion, life outcomes, and neighborhood life. They explore the media's role in sensationalizing the report, personal narratives surrounding family dynamics, and the importance of education and empowerment in addressing these challenges. The discussion emphasizes the need for honest conversations about family structure and the potential pathways to success for young people.
2025-04-0130 minThe Invisible MenClifton Duncan’s One Man ShowIn this episode of the Invisible Men, Ian engages in a deep conversation with Clifton Duncan, a classically trained actor and playwright. They explore Clifton’s unique upbringing across different cultures, his journey of racial awareness, and the complexities of navigating identity within the acting community. Clifton shares his experiences in theater, the impact of racial dynamics, and a pivotal moment that shifted his perspective on race. The discussion culminates in a reflection on liberation from societal constraints and the importance of seeing oneself beyond racial identity.Duncan discusses the profound influence of Thomas Sowell on his lif...
2025-03-2558 minThe Invisible MenIan Rowe and Nique Fajors: DEI’s Out. MEI’s In?In this episode, Nique and Ian discuss Harvard economist Roland Fryer’s proposal to transition from Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) to Merit, Excellence, and Intelligence (MEI) in corporate and educational contexts. They explore the implications of this shift, the challenges posed by current educational disparities, and the importance of merit in creating opportunities. The conversation highlights the performative nature of DEI initiatives and the need for a more honest dialogue about the root causes of inequality. Ultimately, they advocate for a focus on merit as a means to achieve true diversity and excellence in society.
2025-03-1831 min
Bromley BuzzEpisode 223: Ian Rowe, CEO of Bromley Youth Music TrustDarren Weale talks with Ian Rowe, CEO and Head Of Service at Bromley Youth Music Trust.
Ian talks about the Trust, its work with numerous schools including Langley Park School for Boys, Highfield Junior School, and with partners such as Monkey Music. The Trust supports age groups from pre-school to Year 13 and adults. Ian mentions collaborations such as the Churchill Theatre, and looks forward to the Bromley Schools Prom at Croydon's Fairfield Halls from 24-26th March.
Ian talks about how the Trust can be sponsored and supported and about the importance of the Young Musicians Bursary, which helps provide fre...
2025-03-1817 minThe Invisible MenDevon Westhill: Equality Doesn’t Equal Equity | THE INVISIBLE MENIn this episode of the Invisible Men, Ian and Nique engage with Devon Westhill, president of the Center for Equal Opportunity, discussing his personal journey growing up as a mixed-race child in the South, the dynamics of race and education, the role of single mothers, and the importance of social safety nets. The conversation also delves into the distinction between equal opportunity and equity in today's society, emphasizing the need for character-based judgment over race-based outcomes.Devon discusses the complexities of racial representation in corporate America, the shifting dynamics of equity and inclusion, and the potential impact...
2025-03-1156 minThe Invisible MenDarius Jones: Race and EmpowermentIn this episode of the Invisible Men, Ian Rowe and Nique Fajors engage in a deep conversation with Darius Jones, founder of the National Black Empowerment Council. Darius shares his upbringing in a family of educators involved in the civil rights movement, which shaped his understanding of race and empowerment. He discusses the importance of political engagement and the need for effective black leadership, emphasizing that not all leaders who share racial identity will prioritize the community's needs. The conversation also highlights the mission of the National Black Empowerment Council in fostering leadership and creating positive change at the...
2025-03-0549 minThe Invisible MenRevitalizing North TulsaPhilip Abode, the lead pastor of Crossover Bible Church and executive director of Crossover Preparatory Academy, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his life journey, the role that faith played in his upbringing, and his work to promote North Tulsa’s flourishing. The conversation highlights the comprehensive community development initiatives he and his colleagues have implemented, including youth sports programs, educational institutions, and healthcare services, all aimed at restoring and empowering their community. He also highlights the need for empowerment through education and development, sharing insights on the rituals and culture established at Crossover.
2025-02-2647 min
The History Of European TheatreWoke Shakespeare: A Conversation with Ian McCormickIn the fifth part of this short series of guest episodes before we get back to continuing the journey through the Shakespeare and Jonson cannon I had the chance to speak with Dr Ian McCormick about the collection of essays he edited, which pulls together recent Shakespeare criticism in the framework of woke and anti-woke culture and the culture wars of recent years. It is a wide ranging and thought provoking collection. Ian McCormick, was a Professor in the Department of English for the School of Cultural Studies at the University of Northampton, where he taught Sha...
2025-02-2438 minThe Invisible MenFrom DEI Chief to DEI CriticErec Smith, a research fellow at the Cato Institute, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his life journey, “wokeism,” and the effects and future of DEI initiatives. Erec shares his experiences as a chief diversity officer and critiques the current state of DEI, arguing that it has strayed from its original purpose. The conversation delves into the challenges and opportunities facing DEI in the future, as well as the complex relationship between freedom and racism in the black community. He also discusses his resignation from academia due to the challenges posed by the prevailing woke culture. He emph...
2025-02-1847 minThe Invisible MenMichael Bowen: Championing Intellectual Diversity Within the Black CommunityMichael Bowen, a founding member of Free Black Thought, joins Ian and Nique to discuss themes ranging from race, identity, and the important intellectual diversity within the black community. The conversation delves into Michael's early awareness of race, the cultural significance of jazz and the Black Arts Movement, his experiences in college and fraternity life, the role of black engineers, educational disparities, and the founding of Free Black Thought, which challenges prevailing narratives about race and achievement.
2025-02-1156 minThe Invisible MenSarah and Bruce Bond: Father-Daughter Success StorySarah Bond, the president of Xbox, and Bruce Bond, her father, join Ian and Nique to discuss their relationship, lessons learned from their lives and careers, and their experience of race in America.
2025-02-041h 14The Invisible MenBob Woodson: Civil Rights IconBob Woodson, founder of the Woodson Center, joins Ian and Nique to discuss his career, the future and history of the civil rights movement, and how to promote equal opportunity for all Americans.Subscribe for more episodes of The Invisible Men.
2025-01-2945 min
Free Black Thought PodcastEp. 89 - Family Structure Over Everything (Ian Rowe)Ian Rowe shares his journey from his upbringing in Jamaica to becoming a leader in education with host Connie Morgan. He discusses the importance of family structure, the impact of education on identity, and his commitment to improving educational opportunities for all children, particularly in underserved communities. Ian also introduces the 'success sequence' as a framework for young people to avoid poverty and achieve a fulfilling life. Show notes:Ian on XIan’s book: Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Po...
2025-01-221h 12
The DissidentsS4 E27 | George Washington, the New Single Drop Rule and Reclaiming Agency with Ian RoweIn this week’s Dissidents Podcast, Jennifer Richmond and Winkfield Twyman, Jr. speak with Ian Rowe. Ian recently wrote a review of their book (Letters in Black and White: A New Correspondence on Race in America), which he entitled Three Cheers for Colorblindness.
Wink and Jen, much like they start their book, start the conversation with Ian by getting his “origin story,” i.e. what makes you tick?? The author of Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power, shares...
2024-09-271h 01
KindlED | The Prenda PodcastSeason 1 Top 10 | #10 The Power of Agency. A Conversation with Ian RoweWe're starting off the summer break with #10 of our Top 10 Season 1 episodes. Ever wondered how personal agency can transform lives? In Episode 11 of The KindlED Podcast, Kaity and Adriane welcome author and educational expert Ian Rowe. Ian, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, and CEO of Public Prep, shares his inspiring story of personal 'coming of agency.' ABOUT THE GUEST:Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is...
2024-06-1846 min
Tough Talk with Jody RoweThe Hon Ian MacFarlane talks Energy, Coal, Agriculture and PoliticsIt was a pleasure to interview Hon Ian MacFarlane on Tough Talk with Jody Rowe. Whilst the podcast is centered around Energy transition it was also an opportunity to talk frankly about politics, board roles and many other subjects. The experience Ian has is enormous and he is passionate about successes such as the Toowoomba Second range crossing and the development of the Coal, Gas and Agriculture industry in SE Queensland.
Ian has held the position of Chief Executive of the Queensland Resources Council since October 2016. He is also a non-executive director of Woodside Petroleum, a board member of...
2023-12-0657 min
The Empower PodcastIan Rowe Interview: An Approach to Empower all Americans to Pursue Their DreamsWe are back with another powerful episode of the Empower Podcast, featuring a riveting conversation with Ian Rowe, the dynamic author, scholar, and founder of a thriving charter school network. Rowe's inspiring book, 'Agency,' serves as the foundation of our conversation, as we delve into the concept of personal agency and its importance in achieving the American dream. Despite the challenges of overcoming narratives of victimhood, Rowe stands firm in his belief that individuals hold the power to shape their own destinies. Our dialogue with Rowe takes us into uncharted territories, challenging conventional narratives around race...
2023-11-2946 min
Defending IdeasAgency over equity: Ian Rowe on a better vision for upward mobilityMany public policy debates in recent years have focused on the concept of equity, and what impact race and ethnicity have on opportunity for the next generation. This week's podcast guest believes we need to replace equity with agency, as a more compelling – and more effective – vision to help young people of all races lead successful and fulfilling lives. Ian Rowe is the cofounder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools inaugurated in the Bronx in 2022. He is also a senior fellow at AEI, and the author of Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R...
2023-11-2850 minTough Talk with Jody RowePart 2: Ian Coxon talks Powering Africa with GlobaleqPart 2 - Ian continues with a great conversation about Powering Africa with Globeleq.
Ian Coxon and I worked together at QGC, and we have stayed in contact for a number of years. If there was going to be a challenging market it would be Africa, many countries within this massive continent, varying political climates, not a great connectivity to trade energy and it so it goes on however it is emerging rapidly and Globeleq is one to learn from and how they are very successful in their growth of powering Africa.
Ian Coxon is the...
2023-11-2732 minTough Talk with Jody RoweIan Coxon: Part 1. Powering Africa's growth with GlobeleqWhen I reflect on Energy transition, I draw on my network for interesting people and new ways of working. Rowe Advisory has known Globeleq for a number of years now and have admired their approach to a complex market such as Africa.
Ian Coxon and I worked together at QGC, and we have stayed in contact for a number of years. If there was going to be a challenging market it would be Africa, many countries within this massive continent, varying political climates, not a great connectivity to trade energy and it so it goes on however...
2023-11-0729 min
GoodFellows: Conversations from the Hoover InstitutionA Bronx Tale: Ian Rowe on the Fight for Charter Schools | GoodFellows: John H. Cochrane, Niall Ferguson, Bill Whalen, and Ian Rowe | Hoover InstitutionIan Rowe, an American Enterprise Institute senior fellow and cofounder of the Bronx-based Vertex Partnership Academies, joins Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson and John Cochrane to discuss the future of public education and charter schools’ role in the quest for better outcomes.
What lessons does a virtues-based public charter high school in New York City offer to the ideal of education as a path to life success? Ian Rowe, an American Enterprise Institute senior fellow and cofounder of the Bronx-based Vertex Partnership Academies, joins Hoover senior fellows Niall Ferguson and John Cochrane to discuss the future of pu...
2023-11-011h 02
The Buck Sexton ShowThe Tudor Dixon Podcast: Navigating High School in the Age of Social Media with Ian RoweIn this episode, Tudor interviews Ian Rowe, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and founder of Vertex Partnership Academies. They discuss the impact of social media on students, the importance of parental involvement, and the strategies implemented in Rowe's charter school to combat these issues. Rowe emphasizes the importance of virtues like courage, justice, temperance, and wisdom in education, and the role of religion, family, and entrepreneurship in breaking the cycle of disadvantage. He also rejects the idea of victimhood, advocating for personal agency and determination in students. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay...
2023-10-2333 minThe Tudor Dixon PodcastThe Tudor Dixon Podcast: Navigating High School in the Age of Social Media with Ian RoweIn this episode, Tudor interviews Ian Rowe, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and founder of Vertex Partnership Academies. They discuss the impact of social media on students, the importance of parental involvement, and the strategies implemented in Rowe's charter school to combat these issues. Rowe emphasizes the importance of virtues like courage, justice, temperance, and wisdom in education, and the role of religion, family, and entrepreneurship in breaking the cycle of disadvantage. He also rejects the idea of victimhood, advocating for personal agency and determination in students. The Tudor Dixon Podcast is part of the Clay...
2023-10-2333 min
John Wood Jr. ShowEducation, Affirmative Action and Black America with Ian Rowe and Tavis Smiley | Ep 13Here is a riveting and insightful dialogue that I moderated during the Braver Angels Convention at Gettysburg College. In this episode, I engage in conversation with two accomplished figures from different ends of the political spectrum: Tavis Smiley, a distinguished African American journalist, and Ian Rowe, a conservative leader in the School Choice Movement. We delve into topics such as affirmative action post-Supreme Court ruling, education disparities in Black America, and reflections on the enduring legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. This podcast captures a remarkable instance of individuals bridging divides, fostering understanding, and exploring solutions, all within the...
2023-09-011h 28KindlED | The Prenda PodcastEpisode 11: The Power of Agency. A Conversation with Ian Rowe.In Episode 11 of The KindlED Podcast, hosts Kaity and Adriane welcome author and educational expert Ian Rowe. Ian, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, and CEO of Public Prep, shares his inspiring story of personal 'coming of agency.' ABOUT THE GUEST:Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is also the cofounder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools opening in the...
2023-08-0144 min
Surfing the MASH TsunamiS4-E27.1 - Unpacking the Program with Ian Rowe and Jörn SchattenbergSurfing NASH extends its preview coverage of the upcoming EASL Congress with a three-part episode. First up, Ian Rowe and Jörn Schattenberg speak to Roger Green about anticipations around the 2023 program and which abstracts are eye-catching and why. This conversation comes from that session and begins with Ian’s selection of a highly-anticipated abstract which will detail data from the MAESTRO-NASH clinical trial of resmetirom for the treatment of NASH and liver fibrosis. Specifically, Ian looks to learn more about the potential prevention of progression of fibrosis. Jörn adds the note that this abstract will be the firs...
2023-06-1713 min
Cylinder RadioStop Telling Our Children They Are Victims with Ian RoweIn Episode 127 of Cylinder Radio, Will speaks with powerhouse Ian Rowe about challenging the current victim mentality in American mainstream culture. Ian Rowe is the founder of Vertex Partnership Academies and a Senior Fellow at the American Enterprise Institute. In addition to serving ten years as CEO of Public Prep, he held leadership positions at Teach for America, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the White House, and MTV, where he earned two Public Service Emmys. Most recently, Ian has published his book called "Agency: The four point plan (F.R.E.E.) for all children...
2023-02-171h 00Surfing the MASH TsunamiS3-E63.3 - Year-End Interview with Ian RoweIn the Season 3 NAFLD Year-in-Review conversations series, Surfers Jörn Schattenberg, Louise Campbell and Roger Green embark on a string of interviews with a handful of Key Opinion Leaders who made headlines and advances in Fatty Liver disease in 2022. In this final segment, Ian Rowe joins Jörn and Roger to share his takeaways. Ian begins this conversation by discussing his impressions on Madrigal’s announcement of positive topline results from the Phase 3 MAESTRO-NASH trial of resmetirom. He describes the event as a milestone in the development of NASH therapies that illuminates the need to prepare for how to...
2023-01-0131 min
Kids First Podcast - A Charter School Podcast with Chris NeeleyAgency & High Expectations with Ian RoweIan Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is also the co-founder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools opening in the Bronx in 2022; the chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and the cofounder of the National Summer School Initiative. He concurrently serves as a senior visiting fellow at the Woodson Center and a writer for the 1776 Unites Campaign.
Mr. Rowe has been widely published in the popular press...
2022-12-0139 min
The Glenn ShowJohn McWhorter & Ian Rowe – F.R.E.E. AgencyThis week, John McWhorter and I welcome special guest Ian Rowe to TGS. Ian is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, the founder and CEO of Vertex Enterprise Academies, and author of the new book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power. Ian is doing outstanding work establishing charter schools throughout New York City, so John and I invited him on to discuss his efforts, among other topics. We begin by discussing how the Rodney King beating and the...
2022-09-231h 09
Givers, Doers, & Thinkers—A Podcast on Philanthropy and Civil SocietyIan Rowe & leading a meaningful lifeThis week on Givers, Doers, & Thinkers, Jeremy chats with the Ian Rowe about why we need to replace our obsession with equity with the empowering concept of agency. Ian V. Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. He is co-founder & CEO of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based, International Baccalaureate public charter high schools opening in the Bronx in 2022. He is widely published and quoted in the popular press, including The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, C-SPAN, the New York P...
2022-09-211h 05
The Future of EducationAgency and Empowering Individuals: A Conversation with Ian Rowe and Scott Barry KaufmanI had the opportunity at a recent event to host a conversation on stage with Ian Rowe and Scott Barry Kaufman. Ian is author of the new book, Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power, a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, and CEO of Vertex Partnership Academies, a network of charter high schools. Scott is a humanistic psychologist, the host of the Psychology Podcast, and the author of 10 books, including Choose Growth, which debuts in September, and Transcend: The New Science...
2022-08-2630 min
Conversations With ColemanBeyond The Lines of Color and Race with Ian Rowe (S3 Ep.26)My guest today is Ian Rowe. Ian is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and the founder of Vertex Partnership Academies. He's also an educator who ran a charter school called Public Prep in the South Bronx for many years. In this episode, we discuss his new book "Agency". We talk about the obstacles facing low-income Black and Hispanic kids at the schools Ian teaches in. We discuss the problems with the narratives handed to these kids by both the left and the right which Ian calls the "blame the system" mindset and the "blame t...
2022-08-121h 21Conversations With ColemanBeyond The Lines of Color and Race with Ian Rowe (S3 Ep.26)My guest today is Ian Rowe. Ian is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and the founder of Vertex Partnership Academies. He's also an educator who ran a charter school called Public Prep in the South Bronx for many years. In this episode, we discuss his new book "Agency". We talk about the obstacles facing low-income Black and Hispanic kids at the schools Ian teaches in. We discuss the problems with the narratives handed to these kids by both the left and the right which Ian calls the "blame the system" mindset and the "blame t...
2022-08-121h 21
InfluenceWatch PodcastEpisode 229: Agency with Ian RoweWe’ve heard a great deal lately about education in America, from discussions about school choice post-COVID restrictions to whether or not curriculum is being developed that helps children learn to succeed at something more than simply activism. Our guest today has a keen interest in all these issues and has written a book called, “Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for All Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power” (Templeton Press, 2022). The book lays out strategies to help children learn more about what they accomplish rather than what holds them back. Please...
2022-07-2926 min
Conscious Design Podcast™The Future of Tech with Karsten Rowe of AxonWelcome to another episode of the Conscious Design Podcast today Ian welcomes Karsten Rowe as his guest. Karsten talks a bit about himself and the company he currently works for as a short intro to the entire interview. Karsten then talks a bit more about where he thinks the industry is heading and what new advancements can we expect from the technology realm. Karsten and Ian then discuss the availability and usage of large quantities of data and how it might be used in the future or is being used today. The discussion then shifts on how this data...
2022-07-2034 min
The Report Card with Nat MalkusIan Rowe on AgencyOn this episode of The Report Card, Nat interviews Ian Rowe, senior fellow at AEI, cofounder of Vertex Partnership Academies, and the author of Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover Their Pathway to Power. Nat and Ian discuss what the "blame the victim" and the "blame the system" narratives get wrong, Teach for America, the importance of mediating institutions in developing agency within the individual, the state of music videos, why young people want to be taught the success sequence, charter schools, Ian's parents' education in...
2022-06-1557 min
High NoonIan Rowe – On Agency and Finding a Middle Ground Between Atomization and Blaming the SystemThis week on High Noon with Inez Stepman, the indefatigable Ian Rowe joins the pod. Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute and a visiting fellow with the Woodson Center as part of their 1776 Unites project. He is the author of the new book Agency: The Four Point Plan (F.R.E.E.) for ALL Children to Overcome the Victimhood Narrative and Discover their Pathway to Power, and runs a new set of charter schools in the Bronx based on the four cardinal virtues.Ian and Inez discussed how perception and ideology can aff...
2022-06-1553 min
FAIR PerspectivesThere Are No Victims with Ian RoweIn this episode we speak with Ian Rowe. We discuss his origin story, The Success Sequence, being racialized in America, the phenomenon of acting white, and the difference between equity and equal opportunity. We also learn about his new charter school network, discuss how to help disadvantaged kids, and touch on the relationship between meta narratives and individual agency.Ian is an author and educator, as well as co-founder and CEO of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools opening in the Bronx in August of 2022. Mr. Rowe is also a resident...
2022-06-141h 06
Banter: An AEI PodcastIan Rowe on Black ConservatismIan Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. In his new book “Agency” (Templeton Press, May 2022), Ian Rowe seeks to inspire young people of all races to build strong families and become masters of their own destiny.Ian joins Phoebe and Robert for a special Banter episode at the Old Parkland Conference in Dallas. He discusses the historic roots of the conference, his F.R.E.E. framework, and Black conservatism in America.You can learn more about the Old Parkla...
2022-05-1932 min
The Ayaan Hirsi Ali PodcastIan Rowe on the Power of AgencyAyaan speaks with Ian Rowe about the power of personal agency and how to build it. Ian introduces a new framework to help develop agency in individuals: the FREE framework (family, religion, education, and entrepreneurship). His new book, Agency, is out today. Ian Rowe is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation... Source
2022-05-1655 min
Acton LineIan Rowe on “Agency”: Empowering all children to achieve successThis is a special edition of Acton Line, featuring Ian Rowe, senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, speaking on his new book, “Agency.“ On Wednesday, March 16, Rowe visited the Acton Institute for a discussion in front of a live audience with Eric Kohn, Acton’s director of marketing and communications. Rowe spoke on how we can inspire young people as they make the passage into adulthood. All children should be taught that a path to a successful life exists and that they have the power to follow it. Subscribe to our podc...
2022-03-2350 minThe Invisible MenIrvin Scott on the importance of faith and fatherhoodThis week, Ian and Nique are joined by Dr. Irvin Scott – director of the Leadership Institute for Faith and Education at Harvard University and former deputy director for K-12 education at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, with over twenty years of experience working as a teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and chief academic officer. Dr. Scott describes the core elements of what it means to raise three African-American boys: Bibles, books, and balls – all of which transcend race and help affirm one’s place in the world.Dr. Scott believes fatherhood is critical to human flourishing and explai...
2022-01-2741 minThe Invisible MenShelby Steele on the powerful influence of white guiltIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Shelby Steele – author, columnist, documentary maker, and Senior Fellow at Stanford University’s Hoover Institution. Shelby shares how growing up in the milieu of the civil rights movement caused him to be intellectually engrossed in debates about race and America from an early age. His father, despite lacking even a high education himself, pushed Shelby to believe that black people could overcome barriers and achieve great things in life with the right opportunities and the proper attitude. Later, Shelby describes how white guilt – the idea that white people today...
2022-01-251h 13
The Grief CodeShaking Things Up To Build Meaningful Connections with Blythe RoweIn this episode, Ian chats with the founder and director of training company Human Incite, Blythe Rowe. Blythe's a compassionate woman whose goal is to create a connection where relationships are meaningful, and workplaces are safe spaces where you can belong yourself to.Don’t miss:• How Blythe learned and inspired others to thrive in an environment which drives • Making sure to incorporate important elements into your life to continue moving forward• Being more playful with life instead of being serious all the time• Continuously taking opportunities and looking at your gr...
2022-01-121h 02Surfing the MASH TsunamiS2-E47.1 - Most important Story of Summer? Ian Rowe says, "FDA ELF Approval."Newly-appointed Professor Ian Rowe joins Louise Campbell and Roger Green to discuss the important Fatty Liver stories of the last few months. He focuses on the recent FDA approval of the ELF test for prognosis of cirrhosis.To Professor Rowe, the ELF approval was the most important story of summer because it promises a brighter future for non-invasive tests and, eventually, decreased reliance on biopsy. Dr. Rowe points out that transitioning from the ordinal results that biopsy generates (fibrosis score level) provide limited, unrealistic guidance in determining the probability of a downstream negative event (transplant...
2021-09-2522 minThe Invisible MenIan and Nique on the Olympics and the importance of high expectationsIn this special episode, Ian and Nique engage in a one-on-one conversation about key takeaways from the Tokyo Olympics. They also share their reaction to a recent bill signed by Oregon Governor Kate Brown that eliminates the need for students to test proficient in reading, writing, and math in order to graduate high school. Their discussion centers around “Darryl’s” likely reaction to both events. Watch the full episode to hear how Ian and Nique would explain these events to “Darryl.”
2021-08-1822 minThe Invisible MenJames Hill on building crypto business and driving community developmentIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by James Hill — software development architect, entrepreneur, U.S. Army veteran, and inventor of a new crypto technology called BracketChain. James and his wife started a company in 2014 called Alambda systems, a successful venture that currently has partnerships with Boeing, Microsoft, and Peraton. James runs a software-developing academy and focuses his efforts toward helping implement traditional approaches of investing, like short-selling, by using crypto technology. James shares how his upbringing in a majority white neighborhood inspired him to “bulldoze through” any misguided racial stereotypes and fueled his desire to succee...
2021-08-1134 minThe Invisible MenScott Hilton-Clarke on finding your inner music and purposeIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Scott Hilton-Clarke — the founder of Inspiration Laboratories, a firm devoted to inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs, and executives to step into their greatness and realize their visions for the future. Scott is a Founding Member of the Board of Governors for the University of Trinidad and Tobago and a graduate of Harvard Business School. He has spent over 25 years helping companies raise their levels of impact through cultivating leadership acumen and enhancing workplace synergy one department, one manager, one contributor at a time.Scott's passions go beyond the workplace. He im...
2021-08-0444 minSurfing the MASH TsunamiS2-E39.3 - 20K Celebration Interview With Jörn Schattenberg and Ian RoweThis week's celebration podcast featured interviews including seven of our favorite Surfers. In this week's conversations, we are publishing the interviews in full. Third up, Jörn Schattenberg and Ian RoweLouise Campbell and Roger Green interview two frequent podcast guests, Jörn Schattenberg and Ian Rowe. In addition to reminiscing about the podcast, Jörn discusses the energy he gets from discussions with colleagues (and from learning interesting things about their lives, like Mazen Noureddin's pro basketball career), while Ian discusses how a surprise in medical school led him to focus much of his res...
2021-08-0142 minThe Invisible MenBarry Johnson on what it means to be a “possibilitist”In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Barry Johnson — the chairman and founder of Bedowin360 Capital with over thirty years of experience spanning Wall Street, Media, and the Obama Administration. Barry shares how his experience of growing up in segregated Alabama during the 1960s “living a foot in two worlds” shaped his path toward becoming a “possibilitist”— someone who uses his or her appreciation for human difference to celebrate the prospect of future opportunities.Originally on track to become a professional violinist, Barry switched gears and attended Yale University after a friend explained that he could share...
2021-07-2151 minThe Invisible MenHarvard professor Roland Fryer on disrupting the false narrative around policingJoin Ian and Nique this week for the second half of their two-part discussion with Harvard professor, MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, and early-stage investor Roland Fryer. In this episode, Roland shares how, following the murder of Walter Scott, he was inspired to build the best dataset possible to assess how race shapes police interactions in America today. Roland assembled a team to partner with police departments across the U.S. and build a state-of-the-art dataset on policing. His findings shocked many. While large racial gaps persisted on lower-level uses of force during police interactions, even after accounting for potential...
2021-07-1533 minThe Invisible MenHarvard professor Roland Fryer on studying difficult questions with economicsThis week, Ian and Nique launch a two-part discussion with Harvard professor, MacArthur Genius Grant recipient, and early-stage investor Roland Fryer on Roland’s journey to academia (part 1) and why his principled approach to research has disrupted long-held assumptions within the social sciences about policing, mobility, and race (part 2). In this first part of the conversation, Roland shares how his exposure to economics in college sparked an academic passion in him that had lay dormant until that point. Roland became enthralled with economics because it empowered him to use the best research tools available to study the most important an...
2021-07-0828 minThe Invisible MenTheodore Johnson on restoring American patriotism, properly understoodIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Theodore (Ted) Johnson — director of the fellows program at the Brennan Center for Justice, White House Fellow, and author of “When the Stars Begin to Fall: Overcoming Racism and Renewing the Promise of America.” Ted’s upbringing mirrored the duality that animates the discussion in his new book: Ted was raised in a majority-White neighborhood but attended a majority-Black school, his father modeled a desire to “wrestle” with injustice in the world but his mother emphasized individual kindness and intellect, and his grandparents were sharecroppers in “Jim Crow” era South Carolina and yet t...
2021-06-2431 minThe Invisible MenBob Woodson on rescuing American history from “race hustlers”In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined for a second time by Bob Woodson — president of the Woodson Center and most recently, founder of 1776 Unites — to discuss his new, best-selling volume of essays “Red, White, and Black: Rescuing American History from Revisionists and Race Hustlers.” Bob shares how his involvement early in the civil rights movement caused him to realize that many of the policies the left has proposed in response to the civil rights movement actually harm low-income black Americans while benefitting elites. Today, Bob sees the same trend playing out before his eyes — with the message of what “race...
2021-06-1743 minThe Invisible MenWard Connerly on Malcolm X, equality vs. equity, and the Biden presidencyIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Ward Connerly — a former member of the Board of Regents at the University of California, owner of a family business, and a self-described “child of the color-blind God.” Ward began his work in the public square early as the student body president of California State University in Sacramento, where he fought against housing discrimination and contributed toward the passing of the Rumford Fair Housing Act. From there, a career of accomplishment in the private sector, and periodic work with former California Governor Pete Wilson, paved the way for Ward’s appointmen...
2021-06-1759 minThe Invisible MenAnthony Bradley on a data-centered view of black progress and human flourishingIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Anthony Bradley — a Research Fellow at the Acton Institute and professor of religious studies at the King’s College, where he directs the Center for the Study of Human Flourishing. Anthony discusses the importance of developing a data-centered outlook on black success in America. Anthony grew up in the well-off black suburbs of southwest Atlanta, where he was surrounded by countless examples of black men and women who had built meaningful careers by merging a deep desire for progress with a strong moral grounding. After hearing “The Firing Line” mentioned by Michael...
2021-06-0354 minThe Invisible MenJason Riley on the legacy of Thomas Sowell and its importance to our futureIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Jason Riley — a prolific columnist at the Wall Street Journal, Senior Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, and author of the forthcoming book “Maverick: A Biography of Thomas Sowell,” which is now available on Amazon. Jason discusses the work and legacy of Thomas Sowell, an economist and public intellectual whose research has unearthed the cultural and behavioral characteristics that can engender the uplift of a new generation of vulnerable Americans. It was encountering Sowell’s work in college that launched Jason on the path toward developing his current framework for understanding issues of...
2021-06-0337 minThe Invisible MenFormer CIA analyst Yaya Fanusie on finding peace from within oneselfIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Yaya Fanusie — a former CIA agent and a national security expert in finance technology. Yaya discusses how his education, international travel, spiritual journey grew him from a teenager with a distrust of America and a race-centric view of the world to an advocate for the advancement of core American principles at the CIA and beyond. Yaya was raised in California, where he was deeply influenced by movements that taught him his “blackness” was the core part of his identity. Later, as he travelled to Zimbabwe and Ghana through his studies, Yaya met...
2021-06-0236 minThe Invisible MenJonathan Newton on finding drive and direction out of a Bronx upbringingIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Jonathan Newton — the pastor at Jordan River Ministries, an attorney for the federal government, and an adjunct professor at Howard University. Jonathan discusses his journey from the Bronx to Harvard Law School, and ultimately the Environmental Protection Agency, where he served as an attorney for nearly twenty years. An upbringing in the Bronx gave Jonathan the drive and desire to build a better life. However, it wasn’t until Jonathan completed Army training and reconnected with the church during a brief sabbatical from college that he found the direction to channe...
2021-06-0234 minThe Invisible MenWashington State Representative David Hackney on stewarding a great educationIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by David Hackney — a Washington State Representative, Harvard Law School and Harvard Kennedy School graduate, and former attorney for the Department of Justice. Two pivotal moments during David’s freshman year at Cornell changed his outlook on education inspired him to steward the opportunities in front of him. The first was advice from a recent graduate who had thrived socially on Cornell’s campus but was only able to find a job as an Assistant Manager at Burger King because he did not apply himself academically: don’t take a Cornell educatio...
2021-06-0237 minThe Invisible MenCharles Love on the importance of hands-on investing in communities at riskIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Charles Love — Assistant Executive Director of Seeking Educational Excellence and author of the forthcoming book, Race Crazy. Charles discusses how his upbringing and adult life in Gary, Indiana shaped his view of the greatest challenges facing black Americans. Charles did not pay much attention to politics as a young adult. But he became concerned during the Obama presidency as a rift grew between the real-life experiences of middle-class black Americans and the rhetoric of race-based victimhood that seemed to prevail. Today, Charles believes the greatest need in impoverished minority communities is not...
2021-04-2936 minThe Invisible MenDavid Mahan on building personal and cultural transformation through faithIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by David Mahan — Policy Director at the Center for Christian Virtue and founder of Frontline Youth Communications. David shares how “God’s people, God’s power, and God’s principles” helped him and his wife build a life of success and community impact after a difficult start as teenage parents living in poverty. As David and his wife connected with a strong church community, they found the moral compass and support network they needed to place their family on a path of restoration — a path that took David from cleaning people’s homes to testify...
2021-04-2239 minThe Invisible MenDelano Squires on the virtue of strong family life and responsible fatherhoodIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Delano Squires — an Author at the Federalist and a long-time public servant. Delano shares how his growing faith journey and upbringing in an interconnected family from the West Indies have been center points of his journey as a writer. A computer engineering major in college, Delano was inspired to begin his writing career as the tragic murder of MVF NFL quarterback Steve McNair prompted him to reflect on how deeply the decisions of fathers affect their families. Since then, Delano has become increasingly convinced that human flourishing in America hinges on t...
2021-04-1552 minThe Invisible MenJames Stovall’s “open door” mindset helped engineer successful start-up exitIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by James Stovall, the co-founder and former CEO of Little Bird HR. James founded Little Bird in 2016 to provide software, employee benefits, and HR support to New York City charter schools. After five years of empowering charter schools in the city, Little Bird was bought in 2020 by one of the largest firms in the industry. Essential to James Stovall’s decision to found Little Bird: a desire to leverage his experience working in the charter school sector to pursue his long-term dream of building a company that could address root problems he...
2021-04-0933 minThe Invisible MenMyron White on investing in the success of real-life “Darryl’s”In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Myron White — an original member of the cast for “The Invisible Men” who has built a distinguished career in finance, entrepreneurship, and corporate leadership while serving in the Army Reserves for more than two and a half decades. Myron shares how one third-grade teacher at his Catholic school in New Orleans played an especially important role in his early development — imparting in him a sense of confidence even as he wrestled with the challenge of being the only African American child in his class. This self-confidence led Myron to chase after goal...
2021-04-0932 minThe Invisible MenEugene Robinson’s “New York hustle” paved a lifetime of strength over adversityIn this episode, Eugene S. Robinson joins Ian and Nique to discuss his multifaceted career as a journalist, author, musician, editor of OZY Media, and MMA Connoisseur. As a child, Eugene was driven by the New York “hustle” culture to pave a path to a better life for himself and his family. From Brooklyn to Stanford University, Eugene’s intellect and zeal propelled him into a plethora of exciting jobs and opportunities. Eugene shares pivotal moments — from starting a snow shoveling business as a young boy to discovering his knack for music and writing at Stanford — that laid the groundwork f...
2021-04-0942 minThe Invisible MenChris Campbell’s fortitude propelled him to unretire and win an Olympic medalIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Chris Campbell — world champion wrestler, Olympic bronze medalist, and a practicing attorney. Chris shares how a deeply-engrained sense of intestinal fortitude empowered him to push through academic and athletic barriers and carve a pathway to success in wrestling and law. For example, Chris was unable to compete in high-school wrestling his junior year after his mother declined to sign a permission slip, so he travelled 45 minutes every day to a local junior college to train with men. In his senior year of high school wrestling he won a state championship and...
2021-04-0930 minThe Invisible MenWorld champion wrestler Lee Kemp on the privilege of another battleIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by one of America’s greatest wrestlers — Lee Kemp — who reflects on a life of challenges and achievement both inside and outside wrestling. According to Lee, “I was given up for adoption at birth and was institutionalized until the age of five,” when he was adopted. Lee shares that his adopted father, who left the south for Cleveland in search of a better life, taught him the values of hard work and respect from an early age. Amid the racial unrest of the 1960s, Lee’s family moved from Cleveland to a rural Ohio f...
2021-04-0945 minThe Invisible MenJohn McWhorter on the enduring effects of rhetoric after the Rodney King assaultIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by John McWhorter — public intellectual, Professor of Linguistics at Columbia University, and author of two forthcoming books, 9 Nasty Words and The Elect. Much like Ian and Nique, John was a graduate student at Stanford University as news of the Rodney King assault swept the nation in the early 1990s. John shares how he grew to feel alone in this time — becoming deeply impacted by the disjunction between a culture that was telling him he should feel just as much of a victim as Rodney King and a personal life experience that spoke to...
2021-04-0936 minThe Invisible MenAndy McGadney on the transformative power of educationIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Andy McGadney — the newly announced President of Knox College and a long-time leader in higher education. Andy speaks of the critical role of education in the paving pathways to opportunity for black Americans today. As a child, Andy was raised in Connecticut but his family had deep roots in the south. Andy’s parents — both graduates of HBCUs — moved from Mobile, Alabama to Connecticut in search of better job opportunities than black college graduates could find in the south in the 1960s. It was witnessing the tremendous impact his mother, a first gr...
2021-04-0935 min
Where DOOH Meets AdTechEpisode 066 - Ian Dallimore, How will data privacy and consent impact OOH?Ian Dallimore is back!With the recent Apple #iOS14 updates, Google Chrome updates, and the rising concern around data consent (the next social revolution) - how will Out of Home advertising be impacted?Will Outdoor advertising and billboards thrive or dive?Join Ian Dallimore, Vice President of Digital Growth & GM of #Programmatic at Lamar Advertising Company, and myself as we break down:✅ How to position OOH amidst the changing climate✅ The importance of static #billboards in the overall mix✅ What conversations are being had at the national and local levels...
2021-04-0133 min
"Hammer Time" with Ralph SchoellhammerEducation, Class, Race, and Politics with Ian RoweIn today’s episode of the Global Wire Conversation, Ralph is talking to Ian Rowe of the American Enterprise Institute. Mr. Rowe is a resident fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, where he focuses on education and upward mobility, family formation, and adoption. Mr. Rowe is also the cofounder of Vertex Partnership Academies, a new network of character-based International Baccalaureate high schools opening in the Bronx in 2022; the chairman of the board of Spence-Chapin, a nonprofit adoption services organization; and the cofounder of the National Summer School Initiative. He concurrently serves as a senior visiting fellow at the Woodson Cent...
2021-03-0548 minThe Invisible MenBarry Williams, legendary corporate board exec, on excellence in life & businessIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Barry Lawson Williams to discuss the importance of building black representation on corporate boards across the United States. When it comes to corporate America, Barry’s life exemplifies the vision, character, and insight worthy of a career business executive who has served on 14 public company boards. A few years ago, Barry conducted a study with 50 top black executives in the United States and found five common themes with timely insights into how we can pave the way for a new generation of black corporate leaders. Consistent with his own experience, all of...
2021-03-0420 minThe Invisible MenCliff Barber on “spiritual poverty” and the power of faithIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Cliff Barber — Chief Strategy Officer of the Archdiocese of Chicago and a former investment fund manager. Combining knowledge from his impressive corporate background and extensive experience in ministry, Cliff discusses the centrality of faith in shaping his upbringing, and he shares his passion for addressing “spiritual poverty” in vulnerable communities. Cliff’s upbringing in a deeply faithful family and his experience in prison ministry cause him to reflect on how black Americans for generations have leaned on faith to knock through the barriers standing in front of them. Cliff believes this histo...
2021-03-0431 minThe Invisible MenVernon Lee on the importance of supporting black entrepreneurshipIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Vernon Lee to discuss the role of entrepreneurship as a catalyst for the uplift of black Americans. Vernon is a partner at the Marathon Fund, an organization dedicated to supporting a new generation of underrepresented entrepreneurs with high potential for growth. Vernon argues that we need stronger institutions to act as a “pipeline” for minority Americans, teaching them the skills they need to be successful in their ventures. Most importantly, Vernon contends that black entrepreneurs need more opportunities to fail. Black men and women are much less likely than their white p...
2021-02-2526 minThe Invisible MenRav Arora on thoughtful analysis in an era of identity politicsIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by someone who is actively modelling a path of excellence for young men in the 21st century. Rav Arora — a current student at University of the Fraser Valley and an up and coming writer whose work has been published in leading outlets such as City Journal and the New York Post — joins the show to discuss his intellectual development and path to prominence amid the current culture of identity politics. Rav shares how a high school teacher helped channel his passion for thinking about social problems by introducing him to the work of...
2021-02-2533 minThe Invisible MenTroy Stovall on reimagining pathways to powerWith the job market fundamentally changing, how can we build pathways for a new generation of black men and women to unleash their passion and build a successful career? In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Troy Stovall, the CEO of Maryland TEDCO — an organization founded by the state of Maryland in 1998 to fund early stage tech companies. They discuss the evolving skills marketplace and the role of four-year college degrees. Troy firmly believes that education is an essential component of empowerment, but he also argues that we have become too rigid in our thinking about education. Rat...
2021-02-2529 minThe Invisible MenGervase Warner on building a culture of forgivenessAre business leaders in today’s climate naturally drawn to a “cutthroat” approach to management and growth, or do the concerning behaviors often seen in large corporations stem from a misunderstanding about what is necessary to survive in the business world? In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Gervase Warner, the President and CEO of the Massy Group — one of the largest conglomerates in the Caribbean which now holds nearly 60 companies and employs more than 12,000 people. Gervase shares how he grew to understand that businesses do not need to embrace a “mean and nasty” approach to thrive — that a company...
2021-02-2531 minThe Invisible MenWilfred Reilly on challenging ideological uniformity in academiaMany scholars, public figures, and activists have noted the striking divide between the economic outcomes of black and white Americans. But what lies at the root of these differences is a difficult question. In this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Dr. Wilfred Reilly, an Associate Professor of Political Science at Kentucky State University, to discuss how ideological uniformity in academia has influenced the public debate on race in America. Reilly notes that two problematic narratives have dominated the debate over what accounts for racial differences in recent years—one attributing different outcomes to structural racism and the oth...
2021-02-2537 minThe Invisible MenHow the Piney Woods School is shaping a new era of Black excellenceIn this episode, Ian and Nique are joined by Will Crossley — a man who not only embodies black excellence himself but is helping children build pathways to excellence in their own lives. Will Crossley is president of The Piney Woods School, a historically African-American prep school in rural Mississippi and an institution that has been empowering black Americans to pursue their vision of excellence for generations. Ian and Nique dig into Piney Woods’ unique model of forming children’s character, grit, and self-efficacy in addition to providing an outstanding academic education. An alumnus of Piney Woods himself, Will talks about...
2021-02-1821 min