Episode 15 : Justus Armstead

Welcome to The Teachback. Today is Episode 15 and I’ll be sitting down to reconnect with a former student of mine named Justus Armstead. Like many of the guests I’ve had on this show, Justus has grown and transformed in really beautiful ways since I knew him as an 8th Grader. There are many reasons why I admire Justus, but the wisdom you’re going to hear today is beyond powerful. So sit back and enjoy this conversation about fear, spirituality, pain, growth, the beauty and impact of music and so many other really profound elements of this wild and unpredictable thing called life.

Before we go hang with Justus, I want to take a quick moment to dedicate this episode to two really important people: Tim Delehaunty and Soraya Molina.

Mr. Delehaunty was an educator who knew Justus well and who believed in him and saw the potential for who he one day would become. While the world lost Tim in 2018, I know he would have loved listening to this conversation. And Soraya is Justus’ mom and one of the best partners I’ve had. One of the most impactful parts of teaching is connecting with parents on behalf of their amazing kids and collaborating to bring out their best and see them succeed. Thank you, Soraya, for all you taught me all those years ago. I’ve heard you don’t really know how you did as a parent until your child is 25…given who Justus is at 21, I imagine you feel really proud. 

 

As Justus mentions in this episode. the social landscape of today places immeasurable pressures on young people, regardless of gender identity. With that in mind, today’s episode of the Teachback has been brought to you by the reminder that you are enough. Just as you are, no matter the struggles of today, you matter very much and the more you can reflect inward and prioritize your own needs and self care, the more completely you can engage with the world around you. And, because Justus specifically mentioned manhood, I want to recommend a podcast I really enjoy called The Man Enough Podcast. Check it out and give it a listen this week. Thanks again, Justus, for reminding ME that I am enough without comparison to anyone else.

 

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Thanks again for tuning in. Here’s to connecting, reflecting, and staying hungry to learn.