Rooted2Thrive:Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity

Rochelle Peterson-Ansari-Perceptions Unlimited LLC

Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

  1. The Role of Effective Family Engagement in Student Academic Success - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 54

    4 FEB

    The Role of Effective Family Engagement in Student Academic Success - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 54

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity The Role of Effective Family Engagement in Student Academic SuccessSeason 6, Episode 54 Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariOverview: In this episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Quibila A. Divine to discuss why authentic family engagement is a cornerstone of student achievement. Divine shares her journey from North Philadelphia to becoming a leading education advocate, highlighting how the disconnect between schools and low-income communities often stems from a lack of relationship-building and cultural humility. The conversation moves beyond traditional "involvement" to explore co-creation, the importance of treating families as valued "customers" of the educational system, and the powerful impact of community-based support for kinship caregivers.Topics discussed:- The "Customer" Perspective in Education: Reframing students and families as school customers to foster professional accountability and respect.- Systemic Barriers and Training Gaps: Exploring why many educators lack the necessary training to effectively engage with diverse families and low-income communities.- Adult-to-Adult Communication: Addressing the unintended barrier created when educators view parents as former students rather than equal adult partners.- Community Advocacy and Space: The role of organizations like EARTHS in providing neutral, welcoming spaces for family workshops outside of intimidating school buildings.- Federal Policy and Title I Rights: Understanding the Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) as a tool for families to demand equitable funding and engagement.Guest:Quibila Divine Founder and CEO of The Educational Advocates Reaching Today's Hardworking Students, Inc. (EARTHS)Website: www.earthsinc.org RESOURCES: A Family Guide to Title I Https://ospi.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/2023-08/parents-whatistitlei.pdf US Department of Education Title I. Part A : https://www.ed.gov/grants-and-programs/formula-grants/school-improvement-grants/title-i-part-improving-basic-programs-operated-local-educational-agencies#eligibility Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/laws-preschool-grade-12-education/every-student-succeeds-act-essa Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    49 min
  2. Teaching and Working with Multilingual Learners and Their Families - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 53

    28 JAN

    Teaching and Working with Multilingual Learners and Their Families - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 53

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Teaching and Working with Multilingual Learners and Their Families Season 6, Episode 53 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Dr. Anna Arlotta-Guerrero to discuss the nuances of supporting multilingual learners in early childhood and elementary settings. Drawing from her 15 years of experience in bilingual classrooms and her tenure as a teacher educator, Dr. Arlotta-Guerrero emphasizes that language diversity is an asset to be celebrated rather than a deficit to be corrected. The conversation explores practical classroom strategies—such as the importance of "wait time" and the power of small-group workstations—while also highlighting the critical need for educators to build authentic, respectful partnerships with families by honoring their native languages. Topics discussed: - Stages of Language Acquisition: Understanding the transition from single-word communication to fluent expression, and recognizing that young children often understand more than they initially reveal. - The Importance of Wait Time: Why educators must provide multilingual learners with at least 10 seconds (or more) to translate, process, and formulate responses during classroom interactions.- Bilingual Education as a Bridge: How teaching a child to read and write in their native language first can actually strengthen their eventual proficiency in English. - Culturally Responsive Family Partnerships: Strategies for overcoming language barriers with parents, including using translation apps, learning basic phrases in their native tongue, and correctly pronouncing family names. - Socio-Emotional Support Amidst External Stress: Recognizing the impact of external fears, such as immigration enforcement and community unrest, on a child’s ability to focus and learn. Guest: Dr. Anna Arlotta-Guerrero Retired Professor at the University of Pittsburgh and Founder of My Learning Circle, a platform for homeschooling parents and teachers. Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    54 min
  3. Creating Belonging in Math Class for Black and Brown Students - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 52

    21 JAN

    Creating Belonging in Math Class for Black and Brown Students - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 52

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity Creating Belonging in Math Class for Black and Brown Students Season 6, Episode 52 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this inspiring episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari speaks with math specialist and author Shameeka Browne about reclaiming the joy and humanity within mathematics education. Browne challenges the traditional "survive or assimilate" model of schooling, advocating instead for a "thrive" model where students bring their full cultural identities and lived experiences into the classroom. By sharing practical strategies—from connecting inequalities to social justice to empowering parents with mathematical frameworks—Browne demonstrates how educators can dismantle math phobia and help every student see themselves as a capable mathematician. Topics discussed: Culturally Responsive Mathematics: How educators can use students' cultural backgrounds and lived experiences to make math content meaningful rather than just a process of regurgitation. Dismantling Math Phobia: Practical techniques for addressing students who shut down when they encounter incorrect answers, including shifting the focus from being "right" to thinking critically. The Restorative Justice Window: Understanding how educator biases manifest in punitive, passive, or "for" behaviors, and how to move toward a "with it" approach that equips students with tools to thrive. Math in the Real World: Connecting classroom concepts like percentages and inequalities to real-world issues like child labor laws, civil rights, and social justice projects. Empowering Families: Providing parents with frameworks and "kid-friendly" mathematical practices to support their children’s learning at home, regardless of curriculum changes. Guest: Shameeka Browne, MSEd Math Specialist, Founder of Math is All Around Us LLC, and author of Queen of 24. Instagram: @MathisallaroundusLLCFacebook: Math is All Around UsWebsite: www.mathisallaroundus.org Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    55 min
  4. Stronger Together: The Power of Cross-Sector Collaboration for Community Impact - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 51

    14 JAN

    Stronger Together: The Power of Cross-Sector Collaboration for Community Impact - Rooted2Thrive Ep. 51

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our HumanityStronger Together: The Power of Cross-Sector Collaboration for Community Impact Season 6, Episode 51 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Overview: In this episode, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Valerie Kind-Rubin to explore how deep, relationship-based collaboration can transform the landscape of philanthropy. As the Managing Trustee of the Patricia Kind Family Foundation, Valerie shares the evolution of the "Partners Fund," a collaborative initiative designed to support smaller, historically marginalized nonprofits in Philadelphia through trust-based philanthropy and multi-year general operating grants. The conversation highlights the shift from traditional charity to solidarity, emphasizing that true community impact occurs when funders listen to local leaders as experts and prioritize human dignity over rigid control. Topics discussed: Trust-Based Philanthropy: The importance of providing multi-year, general operating grants and building deep, transparent relationships with grantees rather than imposing top-down requirements. The Partners Fund: The origin and mission of a pooled fund that brings together foundations, businesses, and individuals to leverage resources for grassroots organizations. Capacity Strengthening: Offering workshops, cohorts, and wellness grants to help smaller nonprofits—including those that are volunteer-led or have fiscal sponsors—grow their infrastructure and sustainability. Shifting Mindsets on Poverty: A reflection on moving away from "privilege-based" or "white supremacist" views to recognize the inherent richness and expertise found within communities experiencing financial poverty. Cross-Sector Solidarity: How active sponsorship and collaboration across different sectors and racial lines can multiply social impact and elevate human dignity. Guest: Valerie Kind-Rubin Managing Trustee of the Patricia Kind Family Foundation Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/instagramcompatriciakindfamilyfoundationLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/patricia-kind-family-foundation?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company Website: http://pkindfamilyfoundation.org/ Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    41 min
  5. Joy as a Radical Pathway and Practice of Liberation - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 50

    31/12/2025

    Joy as a Radical Pathway and Practice of Liberation - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 50

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Joy as a Radical Pathway and Practice of Liberation Season 5, Episode 50 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Guest: Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles Overview: In this inspiring and heart-centered conversation on the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles — founder and president of the Joy Hope Collective, creator of the Joy Anyhow platform, and host of the Joy Anyhow Podcast. Together, they explore joy not as a fleeting emotion but as a radical, intentional practice of liberation, healing, and resistance. Drawing from her decades of experience in education and anti-oppression work, Dr. Krista shares how reclaiming joy becomes an act of defiance in the face of injustice and exhaustion. This episode invites listeners to see joy as both a spiritual discipline and a communal strategy for transformation. Topics Discussed: Joy as a radical and liberatory practice amid oppression and adversity The connection between joy, healing, and social justice How intentional joy challenges systemic burnout and despair Creating spaces of belonging and community through the Joy Anyhow framework The importance of self-compassion, rest, and authenticity in collective liberation Guest:  Dr. Krista Robinson-Lyles Founder and President of Joy Hope Collective Instagram: @joyanyhow LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/dr-krista-robinson-lyles-09248120 Websites: joyhopecollective.org and joyanyhow.com  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    53 min
  6. Is DEI DOA?: A Pathway Forward - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 49

    24/12/2025

    Is DEI DOA?: A Pathway Forward - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 49

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Is DEI DOA?: A Pathway Forward Season 5, Episode 49 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Guest: Rodney Patterson Overview: In this compelling episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Rodney S. Patterson — CEO of The Learner Group, pastor, coach, consultant, and author of Trump and the Race Card and Is DEI DOA?: How to Create Ongoing Success in the Marketplace and Beyond. Together, they explore the state of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in today’s social and professional landscape. Their conversation dives deep into the challenges organizations face when DEI efforts lose direction or become performative, and how leaders can realign with purpose, humanity, and authentic engagement. With decades of shared experience in higher education and leadership development, Rochelle and Rodney bring both insight and heart to the question: Is DEI truly dead on arrival, or can it be reimagined for lasting impact? Topics Discussed: The evolution and current challenges of DEI in corporate and institutional spaces How leadership and engagement connect to authentic inclusion The risks of performative DEI and how to build sustainable practices The intersection of faith, leadership, and social consciousness Practical steps organizations can take to move DEI from stagnation to transformation Guest:  Rodney Patterson CEO, The Learner's GroupPastor, Coach, Consultant, Author Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theengagementcoach_/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodney-patterson-5a859710/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheEngagementCoachwww.youtube.com/@TheEngagementCoach  Website: www.theengagementcoaches.com  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    58 min
  7. From Allyship to Action: How Leaders Build Equity and Justice - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 48

    17/12/2025

    From Allyship to Action: How Leaders Build Equity and Justice - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 48

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | From Allyship to Action: How Leaders Build Equity and Justice Season 5, Episode 48 Host: Rochelle Peterson-Ansari Guest: Adam Barney Overview: In this energizing and authentic conversation on the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, host Rochelle Peterson-Ansari sits down with Adam Barney—energy coach, author, and podcast host—to explore what it means to move beyond allyship into real, sustained action for equity and justice. Drawing from his experience coaching leaders and his work on personal empowerment, Barney shares how optimism, accountability, and integrity intersect with social change. Together, they unpack the challenges of leading with empathy, balancing authenticity with responsibility, and transforming good intentions into meaningful impact within organizations and communities. Topics Discussed: Moving from performative allyship to action-driven leadership How self-awareness and energy management support equitable decision-making The importance of optimism and resilience in building inclusive spaces Turning personal values into systemic change in business and education Strategies for cultivating empathy, accountability, and courageous dialogue Guest:  Adam Barney Energy Coach, Author, Podcast host Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/adamwbarneyscalesmarter/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adamwbarney/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamwbarney/x  X: https://x.com/adamwbarney  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@adamwbarney-scalesmarter  Website: www.wonderspring.org  Check out more content and ways to connect with us: ➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/ ➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited ➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/ ➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com  ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.com Please feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below! Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    55 min
  8. Identifying Implicit Bias in Education - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 47

    10/12/2025

    Identifying Implicit Bias in Education - Rooted2Thrive Podcast Ep. 47

    Rooted2Thrive Podcast: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity | Identifying Implicit Bias in EducationSeason 5, Episode 47Host: Rochelle Peterson-AnsariGuest: Zakiyyah Boone, MBAOverview:In this inspiring and thought-provoking episode of the Rooted2Thrive Podcast, Rochelle Peterson-Ansari welcomes Zakkiyah Boone, CEO of WonderSpring Early Education, to discuss how implicit bias shapes educational experiences from early childhood through adulthood. Boone draws from nearly three decades of work in youth advocacy and education to share powerful stories about how educators can uncover hidden biases and create more equitable learning environments. Together, they explore the importance of self-awareness, cultural humility, and systemic change in transforming how we nurture every child’s potential.Topics Discussed:Understanding what implicit bias looks like in classrooms and early learning spacesHow educators’ lived experiences and assumptions influence student outcomesThe role of leadership in creating inclusive school cultures and equitable policiesPractical strategies for identifying and interrupting bias in everyday interactionsBuilding accountability, community partnerships, and continuous reflection for lasting changeGuest: Zakiyyah Boone, MBAChief Executive Officer, Wonderspring Early EducationFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/wonderspringECE Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wonderspringece/?hl=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zakiyyah-boone-mba-1a24874a/ Website: www.wonderspring.org Check out more content and ways to connect with us:➡️ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/perceptions/➡️ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/perceptionsunlimited➡️ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/perceptionsunlimited/➡️ Email: info@perceptionsunltd.com ➡️ Website: www.perceptionsunltd.comPlease feel free to share your thoughts in the comments below!Thank you for tuning into Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity!

    43 min
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About

Interested in expanding your ability to reach, teach and lead those you’re entrusted serve? Rooted2Thrive: Conversations That Elevate Our Humanity brings you powerful conversations with experts who are committed to maintaining human dignity in our personal lives, our work and in learning environments. We speak to hearts and minds of leaders and educators with practical insights to counter the programming that makes us, often unconsciously, devalue other humans who we perceive as different from ourselves. CHANGED MINDS will CHANGE DIRECTION!

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