The Edupurist Podcast
by Dr. Raymond Ankrum
Dr. Ray Ankrum's Edupurist podcast delves into educational outcomes for Black and brown children while championing positive aspects within public schools and Black culture. Through insightful interviews and Ray's analysis, the podcast tackles critical education issues that impact our youth. Ray's openness to critique and willingness to learn make this show a must-listen for education influencers. 🎙️
Episodes
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Beyond the Headlines: Unpacking Nikole Hannah-Jones and the Story America Tells Itself
In this episode, we take a deep dive into Nikole Hannah-Jones's influential New York Times Magazine article, exploring its central arguments, historical context, and the debates it continues to spark in education, politics, and public discourse. Together, we examine how narratives about race,...
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Pop Yo Shit Sis: E:3
I got to kick it with Dr. Shanae, who goes by the moniker Awkward_phd on socials, and we ran it. We talked about everything from Black male misalignment to what constitutes being from the wrong side of the tracks. In this super-powerful episode, she popped her sh*t.
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Pop Yo Shit Sis- E:2 Dr. C.T. Wilson
I put out a casting call for Black women to come and run it with me and discuss pervasive issues that have historically and currently impacted them. They did not disappoint.
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Pop Yo Shit Sis- E:1 Dominique
My sis Dominique answered the call, to come and pop her shit. We ran it about current issues occurring in society, and with her big personality, we were able to unpack some stuff.
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The Covington, La Series E:7 of 7 Beyond the Classroom: Financial Literacy, Church Impact, and a Change in Perspective
In the final segment, the hosts reflect on the enduring role of the church in the community—both its positive impact on academic achievement (honoring honor roll students) and its shortcomings in preparing youth for financial literacy. They share closing thoughts on how the Black community can...
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The Covington, La Series E:6 of 7 The High School Maze: Drug Money, Rental Properties, and the Education of the Streets
The hosts transition to their high school years, detailing the dramatic shift in their educational environment. They discuss the pervasive influence of the crack cocaine epidemic, exploring how illicit activities often provided a quicker path to financial knowledge and wealth (e.g., rental...
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The Covington, La Series E:5 of 7 The Land of Landor: Father Figures, Basketball Dreams, and 8th Grade Expulsion
The hosts delve into their 8th and 9th-grade years at William Pitcher Junior High, centering on the impactful, yet complex, figure of Mr. Lando —a basketball coach and male figure who played a different role for each host. They recall a specific 8th-grade teacher whose deeply uncaring or…
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The Covington, La Series E:4 of 7 The Fading of Black Administrators and a Teacher's 'Juneteenth of Paddling'
The hosts reflect on the historical presence of Black administrators and teachers in the system and how that began to fade. They share intense, personal anecdotes about corporal punishment (paddling) in schools, including the story of a teacher who they claim continued the practice—dubbing it the...
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The Covington, La Series E:3 of 7 Black Educators as Pillars: Navigating Competitive Academics and the 'Pipeline' Grouping System
A deep dive into the profound impact of specific Black educators in the hosts' junior high years, who served as respected community figures. The conversation explores academic competitiveness, the system's failure to diagnose learning disabilities like dyslexia , and a stark critique of the...
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The Covington, La Series E:2 of 7 The Oppressor's Classroom, Parental Influence, and the Lunch Line
KP, Re, and Ray discuss their educational experiences in St. Tammany Parish, questioning if the system was designed to set them up for success. They debate the impact of being educated by people who "didn't look like us" and the critical role of parental influence versus the school curriculum.…
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Covington, La Special Series: E:1 of 7 Prison to Pomp and Circumstance: Why are returning citizens more celebrated than college graduates?
Re, KP, and Ray set the stage for the conversation by discussing the release of rapper Max B. They explore the cultural dynamics in the Black community where individuals returning home after long prison sentences often receive more public celebration than college graduates. They debate the...
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E: 69: Reimagining Education with Dr. Tanisha Williams
Join us on the Edupurist podcast as we welcome Dr. Tanisha Williams, a passionate advocate for transformative change within our education system. In this insightful conversation, Dr. Williams shares her extensive background in education and challenges us to rethink the very purpose of learning....
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E: 68 It's Budget Season for Long Island Schools
As Long Island school districts gear up for budget votes and the inevitable wave of misinformation surrounding school choice, we're going on the offensive! This week, we're fiercely defending the incredible work happening in all our good schools – both traditional public and charter – right here…
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E: 67 The Unacceptable Cost of Tradition: Caleb Wilson and the Dangers of Hazing
This week, the EduPurist podcast delves into the heartbreaking story of Caleb Wilson, a bright 20-year-old mechanical engineering student at Southern University, whose life was tragically cut short during an off-campus hazing ritual. Caleb's death has ignited a powerful conversation about the...
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E: 66: Empowering Parents feat. Dr. Michael De Sousa
In this engaging podcast episode, I sit down with Dr. Michael De Sousa, an experienced educator and passionate advocate for empowering parents. Dr. De Sousa shares insights, strategies, and personal anecdotes about parenting, education, and parents’ critical role in their child’s learning journey.
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E: 65 Civil Discourse: Navigating Divides
This thought-provoking episode of The Edupurist Podcast delves into the heart of America’s divisions. Join us as we engage in a candid and lengthy conversation with a friend who staunchly supports former President Donald Trump. Our discussion covers several critical topics: Migrant Attack in…
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Let's Cook: (Bonus Episode)
In this episode, I talk about the importance of a balanced diet for kids based on a recent viral video of a kid throwing up from eating #Takis. I also talk about other issues pertinent to the development of historically marginalized communities.
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E:64: Letter Grades and Good Trouble feat. Memphis Lift
This Edupurist podcast episode features a group of passionate women from Memphis discussing the issues with traditional school grading systems. They highlight the disconnect between report card grades and a child's learning level, emphasizing the need for parents to be more informed. They also...
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E:63: The New Fafsa feat. Steve Colon
This Episode of the Edupurist podcast discusses the new FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) rollout. The host and guest talk about the simplification of the FAFSA form, the technical issues with its rollout, and its impact on students, specifically those from low-income backgrounds....
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E:62: Acceptance Into HU (The Mecca) feat. Jah'mere
In the video, Dr. Ray Ankrum interviews a high school senior named Jah’mere. Jah’mere shares his exciting news of being accepted into Howard University for the fall 2024 semester. He discusses his heritage as both African-American and Native American and talks about how his experience at…
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E:61: RCS/SUNY Suffolk Dual Enrollment
This episode of the Edupurist features a discussion with dual-enrolled high school/ college students from Riverhead Charter School/Suffolk Community College about their experiences with college classes. They talk about the differences between high school and college classes, noting that they are...
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E:60: Ray x Bibb Hubbard x RCS Seniors: Are Report Card Grades Important?
Please join this riveting conversation with Bibb Hubbard, founder and Executive Director of Learning Heroes, and some of our first RCS Senior class. The discussion highlights the importance of effective communication between parents, teachers, and students to ensure academic success. They discuss...
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E:59: Ray x RCS E-Sports Team
In this video, a group of high schoolers and their school superintendent discuss esports. They explain that esports is the competitive aspect of gaming, where players strive to become professionals in specific video games and compete against other teams. The students talk about their experience...
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E: 58: State of Black Learning 2023 The Prequel w/ K. Chase Patterson
In this episode of The Edupurist Podcast, host Ray Ankrum engages in a thought-provoking conversation with K. Chase Patterson, one of the founders of the State of Black Learning Initiative. Together, they delve into the current state of Black learning in 2023 and explore the challenges,...
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E:57: School Choice w/ Jeanne Allen
In this episode of Edupurist, Ray sits down with Jeanne Allen, founder, and CEO of the Center for Education Reform, to discuss her thoughts on the current state of education in the United States and her vision for the future. Jeanne has been a leading voice in the education reform movement for…
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E:56: Affirmative Action: Breaking Down Meritocracy feat. Steven Colon
In this thought-provoking episode of The Edupurist podcast, your host, Ray Ankrum, engages in a compelling conversation with Steven Colon, CEO of Bottom Line, on the controversial topic of affirmative action and its impact on college access for marginalized students. Affirmative action policies...
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E:55: A Conversation with Recy Benjamin Dunn
In this episode of The Edupurist podcast, join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Recy Benjamin Dunn, a prominent figure in the education landscape. Recy's story is about passion, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence in education. Ray sits down with Recy Benjamin Dunn, who shares…
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E:54: The Math Ain't Mathin w/ Dr. Kristopher Childs
Dr. Childs: Join us for an eye-opening conversation on the latest episode of The Edupurist podcast as we delve into the critical topic of empowering marginalized students in mathematics. In this episode, we are honored to have Dr. Kristopher J. Childs, a leading expert in mathematics education,...
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E:53: Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall Book Talk:
On this episode of The Edupurist podcast, join our host as they engage in a thought-provoking conversation with the renowned education leader, author, and advocate, Dr. Tanji Reed Marshall. Get ready to delve into the empowering world of education and instructional leadership as we explore the...
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E:52: Ray x Kevin George of U-High School Baton Rouge, La.
Ray interviews Kevin George, the director of LSU Laboratory School. They discuss various topics, including George's background and experience, students' success at the school, the importance of teacher advocacy and high expectations, the integration of arts into the curriculum, and plans for the...
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E:51: Charter Schools feat. Nina Reese
Ray interviews Nina Rees, the President and CEO of the National Alliance for Public Charter Schools, about the importance and future of charter schools. Nina shares her journey and passion for charter schools, emphasizing that most parents want access to better schools for their children and that...
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E:50: Raylo Solo (No Features)
Host Ray Ankrum discusses various topics. First, he talks about the impact of cell phones and social media on children, highlighting the negative aspects and the importance of monitoring what kids are exposed to. Ray also mentions the issue of students using cell phones for harmful activities,...
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E:49: Black Women in Leadership w/ Dr. Monique Darrisaw-Akil
The host, Ray Ankrum, Sr., interviews Dr. Monique, a school superintendent, about her trajectory and challenges in the superintendent's seat. Dr. Monique emphasizes the importance of understanding and respecting the community and the need to listen to teachers, parents, and students. She talks...
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E:48: My interview w/ Sonia Park Diverse Charter Schools Coalition
In this episode, we are thrilled to have Sonia Park, CEO of the Diverse Charter Schools Coalition, as our guest. The coalition is a national nonprofit organization that supports the development and growth of high-quality charter schools that serve diverse communities. During the podcast, we will...
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E:47: Charter Schools Writ Large
My guest today is Jill Shahen, co-founder of Empire Charter Consultants, a firm specializing in helping schools navigate the complex process of starting and running charter schools. Today, we will discuss some of the challenges and opportunities facing charter schools in New York, particularly...
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E:46: Non-Profit Work for Systemic Change
In this episode of the Edupurist Podcast, the host interviews Adonica Duggan, CEO of the Baton Rouge Alliance for Students. The conversation centers around the organization's efforts to advocate for educational equity and access for all students in the Baton Rouge area. Duggan discusses the...
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E:45: Report Cards vs. Grade Level Standards
In this episode, we speak with Bibb Hubbard, founder and president of Learning Heroes, about her new report on parents' perception of their children's academic progress. We delve into the findings, discuss the reasons behind the disconnect between parents' perceptions and reality, and explore how...
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E:44: Single Site Charter Schools w/ Naomi Shelton
We're discussing loan entities' challenges when navigating the charter school scene, particularly in single-site charter schools. Charter schools are publicly funded schools that operate independently of traditional public schools. They are granted greater autonomy in exchange for increased...
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E:43: School Board Justice w/ Cliff Lewis EBRS Trustee
Today's episode is all about how school boards operate. We'll be discussing the different methods that school boards engage with the community, and we'll also be giving some tips on how to make the most of your time as a school board member. For a school board to be effective, it must be engaged...
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E:42: Coding to Win w/ Coach Victor
In this podcast we explore how coding can help you win in your career. We look at how coding can help you communicate better, problem solve more effectively, and create better software. We also explore how coding can help you stand out in the job market and increase your chances of getting the…
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E:41: Teacher Pay and Side Hustles
In this episode, we talk about teacher pay and side hustles. Buckle up!
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E:40: Lunch & Learn w/ Victor "Coach" Hicks
In this episode, we do a deep dive into some career decisions made against coach that Black men face on a daily basis in K-12 spaces.
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E:39: HBCU's w/ Victor "Coach" Hicks
In this episode, we discuss the importance of HBCUs.
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E:38: The Police Brutality Episode (1989)
In this episode, I chop it up with Uncle Jeff about police brutality, and how the trauma that he faced in 1989 still resonates in many cases today. We also unpack how the system can be leveraged against you to get outcomes that hurt Black Men.
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E:37: Morning Message
Morning Message, I wanted to give you all some content on issues that are in the media. What better way to do so, than doing it w/ a Good Morning!
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E:36: New Year New Us
Doing a podcast solo takes a lot of work and energy. I'm here for the challenge. Pull up as I discuss a myriad of issues that impact our community.
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E:35: Interview w/ Dr. Brian Banks
In this episode, we talk about all things Detroit, and how to put Black and Brown kids in the best positions to win.
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E:34: Mes Nacional de la Herencia Hispana w/ Maritza Guridy
In this episode, we discuss National Hispanic Heritage Month. Maritza Guridy, a bi-lingual guru gives tips on how all educators should engage parents of Latino descent.
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E:33: Interview w/ Memphis Lift
In this episode we go on a journey deep down in Memphis, to capture the soul of the country as I interview Memphis Lift about parent engagement. This episode was what I needed to refill my cup for a purposeful school year.
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E:32: Special Episode on Black Mental Health
There's a stigma on mental health in minoritized communities, so we wanted to take some time to unpack. Shout out to Dr. Ono Evaraye for pulling up.
About this show
Dr. Ray Ankrum's Edupurist podcast delves into educational outcomes for Black and brown children while championing positive aspects within public schools and Black culture. Through insightful interviews and Ray's analysis, the podcast tackles critical education issues that impact our youth. Ray's openness to critique and willingness to learn make this show a must-listen for education influencers. 🎙️
Hosted by
Dr. Raymond Ankrum
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