Rod Gilbert on the Antifragile Mindset: Preparing Students to Fail, Recover, and Flourish

In this episode, Stephen Carter sits down with Rod Gilbert, Head of School at Santa Fe Christian Schools in Solana Beach, California—a K–12 school just over a mile from the Pacific Ocean that’s redefining what innovation in Christian education looks like. Together, they explore how schools can move beyond comfort and control to create environments where students develop true resilience, moral agency, and an entrepreneurial mindset.Rod shares his conviction that education must invite students to try, fail, recover, and grow stronger through real-world challenges. From launching a student-run coffee shop to forming an AI task force, his leadership is rooted in courage and vision—showing that the future of Christian education isn’t about avoiding risk, but transforming it.Stephen also reflects on his visit to Santa Fe Christian, where he was inspired by Rod’s blend of spiritual depth and forward-thinking leadership. This conversation is a powerful reminder that schools can be both deeply faithful and boldly innovative.