Next Man Up: An MCEL Podcast
Next Man Up: An MCEL Podcast
Podcast Description
Next Man Up amplifies the voices and experiences of men of color in educational leadership. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, the podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments that shape leaders breaking barriers and driving systemic change in education. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Next Man Up inspires listeners to embrace their unique power, build community, and foster mentorship. Whether you’re a current leader, aspiring changemaker, or ally, this podcast will empower you to step up and make an impact. The next man up could be you!
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast highlights themes such as mentorship, leadership challenges, systemic barriers, and the importance of community. Specific episodes delve into topics like the transformative power of diverse leadership, the effects of mentorship in personal growth, and the key traits necessary for resilience among men of color in education. For instance, one episode discusses the significance of honest feedback in leadership effectiveness, while another focuses on the role of allyship in breaking barriers.
Next Man Up amplifies the voices and experiences of men of color in educational leadership. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, the podcast explores the triumphs, challenges, and pivotal moments that shape leaders breaking barriers and driving systemic change in education. Through candid conversations and expert insights, Next Man Up inspires listeners to embrace their unique power, build community, and foster mentorship. Whether you’re a current leader, aspiring changemaker, or ally, this podcast will empower you to step up and make an impact. The next man up could be you!
About this Episode
In this episode of Next Man Up, host Kareem Thomas discusses the importance of social-emotional learning (SEL) in education with guests Errin Smith, Dr. Arman Lakes, and Dr. Chuck Curtis. They focus on SEL’s impact on young men of color, emphasizing how emotional well-being affects academic success. The conversation covers student support roles, common misconceptions about SEL, the challenges faced by care teams, and the need for self-care. The guests share personal insights and advice for aspiring educators, stressing the value of community commitment and understanding the complexities of their work.
About Errin Smith
Errin Smith is an educator and leader dedicated to empowering young Black men. A Hampton University graduate with a Master’s in Teacher Leadership, he began his teaching career in 2009. Errin became a founding staff member at Ron Brown College Preparatory High School in 2016, where he serves as Special Education Coordinator and Coach. His work focuses on emotional healing, restorative practices, and guiding young men through challenges while promoting accountability and growth. Errin’s leadership prioritizes equity, empowerment, and the creation of pathways for students’ success both in and beyond the classroom.
About Dr. Arman Lakes
Dr. Arman Lakes is the Director of School Redesign and CTE Academies at Ron Brown College Preparatory High School. He leads initiatives to improve academic and operational success, including retention strategies and professional development. Before this role, Dr. Lakes served as a school counselor, focusing on college readiness and early interventions. He holds a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Howard University and is passionate about helping students unlock their unique potential for personal transformation.
About Dr. Charles Curtis
Dr. Charles Curtis is a psychologist and restorative practitioner focused on the well-being of Black boys and men. A Morehouse College graduate, he earned his Ph.D. in Clinical and School Psychology from the University of Virginia. Dr. Curtis works at Ron Brown College Preparatory High School and maintains a private practice that offers culturally grounded counseling. His approach integrates healing, ancestral wisdom, and accountability to help Black individuals thrive.
About the Podcast
Next Man Up amplifies the voices of men of color in education. Hosted by Kareem Thomas, it explores the challenges and triumphs of educational leaders who drive systemic change. The podcast empowers current and aspiring leaders to embrace their power and make an impact.
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