Champions of Change

In this powerful episode of Champions of Change, we sit down with Dr. Paris Echoles — transformational educator, community leader, and founder of Born Gift3d, LLC. With nearly two decades of experience across education, leadership, and community engagement, Dr. Echoles has dedicated his life to reimagining what’s possible for Black youth, educators, and the systems that shape them. Raised in the face of adversity and guided by revolutionary love, he brings a unique blend of academic insight and lived experience to every space he enters.Dr. Echoles unpacks the mission behind Born Gift3d, the importance of healing, identity, and purpose, and what it truly means to disrupt, uplift, and liberate. From lessons learned in classrooms and boardrooms to strategies for staying authentic in resistant systems, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone committed to transformative education and community empowerment.Tune in and be inspired to lead with cultural truth, stand firm in your purpose, and create liberated spaces where our communities can thrive.

"Leading with Vision: Principal Quahim Muhammad’s Blueprint for Equity and Excellence"In this inspiring episode of Champions of Change, we sit down with Principal Quahim Muhammad (also known as Terrence Williams) of Benjamin Franklin Middle School — a passionate educator with over 25 years of experience across K-12. From the classroom to the principal’s office, and from Harvard to global learning spaces, Principal Muhammad shares how he’s transforming education through bold leadership, innovative programs, and a deep-rooted commitment to equity and inclusion.Learn how he’s building systems that empower students, support staff, and engage the entire school community.Whether he's implementing partnerships with prestigious institutions or mentoring young leaders, Principal Muhammad is living proof that great schools begin with great leadership.Tune in as we talk about visibility in leadership, the power of purpose, and how Black male educators like Quahim are shaping the future — one student at a time.

"From the Battlefield to the Classroom: Dr. Malik Douglas on Leading with Vision, Discipline, and Heart"In this powerful episode of Champions of Change, we sit down with Dr. Malik Douglas—an extraordinary educational leader and senior military officer whose leadership is transforming lives on and off campus. As Principal of Cedar Grove High School and former leader of Eagle’s Landing Middle School, Dr. Douglas shares how his military background shaped his data-driven, student-centered approach to school leadership.From post-pandemic academic turnarounds to fostering cultures of equity and excellence, he unpacks the strategies behind his schools’ success—and why representation and resilience matter more than ever.Tune in to hear how Dr. Douglas is bridging the gap between discipline and compassion, leading with purpose, and empowering the next generation of scholars and leaders.  Listen now to be inspired by a true champion of change.

 Literacy as Liberation: Jonathan Pulliam on Empowering Students and Educators In this inspiring episode of Champions of Change,  we sit down with Jonathan Pulliam, a passionate school leader dedicated to educational equity and literacy achievement. As the Elementary Assistant Principal at KIPP Nashville Public Schools, Jonathan shares his journey from classroom teacher to instructional leader, discussing the transformative power of literacy in shaping student success. We explore his commitment to culturally responsive teaching, the role of data-driven instruction in closing achievement gaps, and how he supports early-career teachers in building confidence and capacity.Jonathan also dives into his Ph.D. research on literacy as a liberatory practice for Black boys and the experiences of Black male literacy educators.Tune in for an enlightening conversation on the power of literacy, mentorship, and fostering a culture of excellence in schools.

In this powerful episode of Champions of Change: Black Male Educators Making a Positive Impact in Schools, we sit down with Dr. Donovan Smalls II—educator, best-selling author, educational consultant, and school leadership coach. As the Founder and CEO of SMALLS LEADERSHIP CONSULTING LLC, Dr. Smalls shares his insights on how aspiring school leaders can land their first leadership role, navigate complex school dynamics, enhance communication skills, and drive instructional excellence.  Tune in as we discuss the importance of Black male educators in leadership, overcoming challenges in school administration, and the keys to fostering a culture of success in schools. If you're an educator looking to step into leadership or enhance your impact, this episode is for you!

MC Professor: Using Hip-Hop, Heart, and Healing to Empower Students In this inspiring episode of Champions of Change: Black Male Educators Making a Positive Impact in Schools, we sit down with Clinton Dickens, a seasoned educator, Instructional Technology Coach, motivational speaker, and founder of CenterPeace Coaching and Life Solutions.Known as the "MC Professor," Clinton uses hip-hop to engage students, bridges the gap between home and school, and champions social-emotional learning in education. We explore his #restorethevillage mindset, his journey through grief that led to co-authoring Get Up While It Still Hurts, and his mission to help students find their purpose.Tune in to hear his powerful insights on education, mental wellness, and how we can all play a role in creating a thriving, supportive community for future generations.

"Teaching for Change: Dr. Terrance Lewis on Black Male Educators, Social Studies, and Activism"In this compelling episode of Champion of Change: Black Male Educators Making a Positive Impact in Schools, we sit down with Dr. Terrance Lewis, an assistant professor of social studies education at The University of Alabama. With a deep passion for culturally responsive teaching, Dr. Lewis explores how Black male educators in the American Dirty South use their pedagogy as a form of activism to inspire students and spark social change.We discuss the power of social studies education in shaping young minds, the challenges Black male teachers face in today’s classrooms, and the importance of representation and mentorship. Dr. Lewis also shares insights from his research, his experiences as a former Georgia public school teacher, and his role in athletics as a coach and mentor.  Tune in for an insightful conversation on education, equity, and the impact of Black male educators in transforming schools and communities!

Shaping the Future: Dr. Darryl Williams on Education, Equity, and Leadership"In this powerful episode of Champion of Change: Black Male Educators Making Positive Change, we sit down with Dr. Darryl Williams, a veteran education leader with over 25 years of experience in school leadership and 37 years in education. From his early days as a teacher at his alma mater to serving as Superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, Dr. Williams has been a steadfast advocate for equity, leadership development, and student success.  We dive into his journey, the challenges of leading through a pandemic and cyberattack, and his vision for preparing the next generation of educators at Morgan State University.Tune in as we discuss the importance of Black male representation in education, the role of data-driven decision-making, and what it takes to create lasting change in schools and communities.  Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with one of education’s most influential leaders!

"Cultivating Bilingual Leaders: The Impact of Black Male Educators with Dr. Bertrand Tchoumi"In this enlightening episode of Champions of Change, we sit down with Dr. Bertrand Tchoumi, an influential Black male educator shaping the future of bilingual education. As the Principal of the French American Charter School in New York and co-founder of the Bilingual Global Citizens Public Charter School, Dr. Tchoumi is dedicated to cultivating global leaders through dual-language immersion.We explore his inspiring journey from Cameroonian journalist to educational entrepreneur, his commitment to diversity, equity, and justice, and the crucial role of Black male educators in empowering the next generation. Dr. Tchoumi also shares insights from his academic journey, his passion for Afrocentric intellectualism, and his vision for inclusive educational environments.Tune in to discover how Dr. Tchoumi is breaking barriers, celebrating cultural identity, and redefining leadership in education. This episode is a powerful testament to the impact of representation and innovation in the classroom.