Moving Forward - Change, Purpose and Possibility

Linda Anderson

After 32 incredible years in education as a teacher, coach, principal, director and mentor-I’ve stepped into a new chapter. My journey has been shaped by personal and professional transformation: leading schools, navigating loss, advocating for equity and raising a bi-racial family. Welcome to the Moving Forward Podcast. Each episode will be a safe space where honest voices will explore real topics in education, identity, mental wellness, leadership, and everything in between. We’ll have courageous conversations and reflect on how we can all keep moving forward, no matter the path we’re on.

  1. 6d ago

    Ep. 54 - Enid Borden

    The Hidden Hungry, Finding Purpose, and Living Out Loud Sometimes we find our purpose in the most unexpected places. For Enid Borden, the road included dreams of becoming a folk singer in Greenwich Village, journalism, government service, nonprofit leadership—and eventually a calling she never could have predicted: helping end senior hunger in America. In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, I sit down with Enid, Founder and CEO of the National Foundation to End Senior Hunger, for a conversation that is about so much more than food. We talk about the older adults Enid calls the "hidden hungry"—people who may be struggling quietly and whose stories can easily go unseen. We talk about dignity, loneliness, isolation, and the importance of simply knowing that someone sees you and cares. Enid also shares what nearly three decades of this work have taught her about the way we value older adults—and why she believes younger generations need to be part of the conversation. But one of my favorite parts of our conversation is Enid's own story. We share a connection to Alfred University, and I loved hearing her reflect on how those years helped her find her voice. We also talked about the twists and turns that came afterward—and the things that may have felt like failures at the time but ultimately helped lead her to her purpose. In this conversation, we explore: Enid's unexpected journey to finding her purpose Who the "hidden hungry" are and why they can be so easy to overlook The connection between hunger, loneliness, dignity, and human connection What decades of advocacy have taught her about creating change Why generations need one another Finding purpose at any age—and having the courage to "live out loud" Enid reminded me that we don't have to have our entire lives figured out. Sometimes we have to try something. Sometimes it won't work. Sometimes what feels like a failure may simply be pointing us in another direction. And if we're willing to keep trying, keep caring, and keep showing up, we may just find the work we were meant to do. "Try it. Live out loud." I hope you'll join us for this very special conversation. Every person has a story. Every story has the power to encourage someone else. Until next time...keep moving forward. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  2. Sep 21

    Ep. 53 - Leena Bakshi McLean

    Helping Young People See: “I Can Do This. I Belong Here.” Who saw something in you before you were able to see it in yourself? For Dr. Leena Bakshi McLean, it was a grandfather who made mathematics come alive through everyday experiences and a high school science teacher who recognized her potential. In this episode of Moving Forward, Leena joins Linda to share the experiences that shaped her journey as an educator, author, and founder of STEM4Real. She reflects on how her family connected mathematics to culture, why relationships with students and families transformed her teaching, and how those experiences strengthened her belief in multiple pathways to success. Leena also discusses the inequities that prevent many students from accessing meaningful STEM learning. Too often, hands-on science, engineering, and robotics experiences are reserved for students already identified as advanced or high-achieving. Through STEM4Real, Leena works to make STEM culturally responsive, relevant, and accessible to every learner. In This Episode Linda and Leena explore: The people who first recognized Leena’s potential How culture, identity, and relationships shape learning Why one chapter in a student’s life should never define their future The importance of expanding access to meaningful STEM opportunities How educators and leaders can help young people see themselves as problem-solvers and innovators About Dr. Leena Bakshi McLeanDr. Leena Bakshi McLean is an educator, author, and founder of STEM4Real, an organization committed to making STEM education equitable, culturally responsive, and meaningful for all students. She is the author of STEM4ALL and the children’s book There’s Something in the Water. Leena encourages young people to observe the world around them and ask: “How can I make this better?” Every person has a story. Every story has the power to encourage someone else. Listen to Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Amazon Music, iHeartRadio, and YouTube Podcasts. Until next time...keep moving forward. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  3. Sep 17

    Ep. 52 - Bob Wieckowski

    The Constitution, Public Service, and the Responsibility of Citizenship Special Constitution Day Episode In recognition of Constitution Day, Moving Forward is sharing a special additional episode this week. Host Linda Anderson sits down with Bob Wieckowski, attorney and former California State Senator, for a conversation about the Constitution, public service, civic responsibility, and where we find ourselves as a country today. Bob has spent much of his career in public service—from the Fremont City Council to the California State Assembly and State Senate. He reflects on what first drew him to this work, some of the experiences that shaped him along the way, and what he learned from representing a diverse community. And yes, the conversation gets political. Bob shares his perspectives on some of the issues facing our country today, while he and Linda explore the Constitution, the role of government, civic engagement, and what it means to participate in a democracy—especially when we don’t all see things the same way. That’s part of what makes this conversation especially fitting for Constitution Day. We don’t have to agree on everything to listen to one another, ask questions, and stay engaged. Perhaps that willingness to listen and keep talking matters now more than ever. You may agree with Bob. You may disagree with him. The hope is that this conversation gives you something to think about—and maybe even something to talk about with someone else.  Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope Until next time...keep moving forward. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  4. Sep 14

    Ep. 51 - Alina Zabihailo

    Courage, Belonging, and Building a Life Far From Home What does it take to leave everything familiar behind and begin again in a country you’ve never visited? In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda welcomes Alina Zabihailo, a recent graduate of Alfred University whose journey is a powerful story of courage, resilience, gratitude, and possibility. Alina arrived in the United States from Ukraine on the very day she began college at Alfred University. Over the next four years, she not only found a sense of belonging—she became deeply woven into the life of the university. She graduated Magna Cum Laude with degrees in Business Administration, Data Analytics, and Music, along with a minor in Marketing. During her time at Alfred, she competed as a varsity tennis player, founded the Ukrainian Students Association and TEDxAlfred University, served as a student ambassador, helped lead the campus radio station, studied abroad in London, performed as a musician, and found countless ways to create opportunities for others. But this conversation goes far beyond her accomplishments. Alina shares what it was like to build a new life thousands of miles from her family while her homeland endured war, how her Ukrainian identity continues to shape her, and the people and experiences that helped Alfred become a second home. Linda and Alina also explore the meaning of resilience, gratitude, leadership, and responsibility—and why some of the most important qualities we carry into the future can never be measured on a résumé. As Alina prepares for her next chapter at Johns Hopkins University, where she will pursue graduate studies in Business Analytics and Artificial Intelligence as a Dean’s Scholarship recipient, she reflects on how quickly life can change and what she would tell the young woman who stepped off that plane four years ago. In this conversation: Beginning again in a country you’ve never visited How culture and home shape identity Finding belonging far from family Pursuing your dreams while carrying concern for a country at war Leadership as service and creating opportunities for others The people who shape us along the way Gratitude, resilience, and staying grounded Why human qualities matter even more in an age of artificial intelligence What it means to move forward when the path ahead is uncertain Alina’s story is a reminder that courage doesn’t always mean knowing exactly where the road will lead. Sometimes it means taking the first step, trusting that you will find your way, and remaining open to the people and opportunities that meet you along the journey. Every person has a story. And every story has the power to encourage someone else. Until next time...keep moving forward. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  5. Sep 7

    Ep. 50 - Linda Anderson: Podcast Host

    Fifty episodes. Fifty stories. One remarkable journey. In this milestone episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, host Linda Anderson is joined by producer and friend Ury Gonzalez for a special conversation reflecting on the first 50 episodes of the podcast. This time, Ury turns the microphone around. Through a series of thoughtful questions, Linda and Ury look back at the conversations that have shaped Moving Forward—and at the lessons that have emerged from listening to educators, students, military leaders, physicians, nonprofit founders, business executives, authors, artists, athletes, and community leaders share their stories. Together, they reflect on the beginnings of the podcast, the guests and moments that have stayed with them, and the common threads that have connected people whose lives may look very different on the surface. They talk about purpose and identity. Authenticity and vulnerability. Loss and healing. Leadership and service. The unexpected doors that open when one chapter ends—and the many different ways people find the courage to keep moving forward. They also explore some of the questions that have become central to the podcast: Who are we beyond our titles and accomplishments? Why do authentic stories often connect us more deeply than stories of success? What does it really mean to move forward when life doesn't go as planned? Can purpose change without disappearing? And what can happen when someone is willing to share their story—and someone else is willing to truly listen? Looking back at the first 50 episodes, one lesson rises above the rest: Our lives are shaped less by what we achieve than by who we become and what we choose to do with our experiences. Episode 50 isn't simply a celebration of reaching a number. It's a chance to look back at the people, stories, lessons, laughter, difficult moments, and unexpected wisdom that have shaped the first year of Moving Forward—and to look ahead to the conversations still waiting to be had. Because after 50 episodes, the message that began this journey feels more meaningful than ever: Every person has a story. And every story has the power to encourage someone else. And sometimes, sharing those stories is exactly what helps all of us keep moving forward. Thank you for being part of these first fifty stories. We can't wait to share the next fifty with you. If this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who may need a little hope today. Until next time...keep moving forward. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  6. Aug 31

    Ep. 49 - Parvin Ahmadi

    Leadership Rooted in Purpose, Courage, and Hope What shapes a leader long before they ever hold a leadership title? In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda Anderson sits down with longtime educational leader Parvin Ahmadi for a thoughtful conversation about resilience, service, and the lifelong commitment to helping every child succeed. Parvin's journey began in Iran before she came to the United States as a high school exchange student without speaking English. That experience would become the foundation for a remarkable career spanning nearly four decades in public education—from classroom teacher to principal, assistant superintendent, superintendent of both the Pleasanton and Castro Valley Unified School Districts, President of the Association of California School Administrators (ACSA), university instructor, and executive leadership coach. Throughout the conversation, Parvin reflects on the experiences that shaped her leadership, the importance of remaining connected to classrooms, and why listening may be one of the most powerful leadership skills we can develop. She shares lessons learned while leading through uncertainty, developing future leaders, and making difficult decisions with compassion and integrity. Together, Linda and Parvin explore what it means to lead with calm, serve with humility, and remember that every decision ultimately comes back to the children we serve. Whether you are an educator, administrator, parent, or anyone interested in purposeful leadership, this conversation offers wisdom that extends far beyond schools. In this episode, you'll hear about: Growing up in Iran and immigrating to the United States as a teenager Finding a calling in education and choosing purpose over expectations Lessons learned through nearly 40 years of educational leadership Leading schools and communities through uncertainty and change Why calm, compassionate leadership builds trust Developing and mentoring the next generation of leaders How becoming a grandmother reshaped her perspective on legacy The importance of listening before leading Why equity begins with seeing every child as capable The message engraved on her bracelet that has guided her career:"Nothing you do for children is ever wasted." Memorable Quote"Nothing you do for children is ever wasted." Connect with Linda AndersonIf this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, share this episode with someone who inspires others through leadership, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. You can also continue the conversation by subscribing to Open Doors, Linda's weekly reflections on purpose, leadership, and life's unexpected invitations. Because every person has a story...and every story has the power to encourage someone else. If you have a comment or question please email us at themovingforwardpodcast@gmail.com Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  7. Aug 24

    Ep. 48 - Amvi Maheshwari and Natalie Gonzalez

    When Kindness Becomes Prevention: A Conversation with Amvi Maheshwari & Natalie Gonzalez What if building safer schools begins with something as simple as saying hello? As a new school year begins, students are settling into classes, finding friends, joining clubs, and discovering where they belong. Yet for many young people, the first weeks of school can also be lonely. Some students feel invisible. Others carry struggles that no one around them can see. In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda Anderson sits down with Amvi Maheshwari and Natalie Gonzalez, student leaders of the SAVE Promise Club at American High School. As they begin their senior year, Amvi and Natalie are already leaving a lasting impact on their school by helping create a culture where every student feels seen, heard, and valued. SAVE (Students Against Violence Everywhere) Promise is built on a powerful belief: schools become safer when students feel connected. Through initiatives like Start With Hello and Say Something, students learn that kindness, inclusion, and paying attention to one another are more than nice ideas—they are essential to building communities where everyone feels they belong. But before discussing leadership, Linda invites listeners to meet the two young women behind the titles. Amvi and Natalie share the personal experiences that shaped them, what inspired them to join SAVE Promise, and how their work has changed the way they see themselves and others. They speak honestly about belonging, authentic leadership, trusting teammates, and the importance of listening without judgment. Their conversation offers valuable insights not only for students, but also for educators, parents, and community members seeking to better understand the challenges—and the remarkable strengths—of today's teenagers. Throughout the episode, they remind us that creating a safer school isn't only about responding when something goes wrong. It's about building relationships before someone feels forgotten. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: Why belonging is one of the most important ingredients of a healthy school community. How simple acts of kindness can change the culture of an entire campus. What inspired Amvi Maheshwari and Natalie Gonzalez to become leaders in the SAVE Promise Club. The difference between reacting to problems and preventing them through connection. What today's students wish adults better understood about teenage life. The leadership lessons they've learned by serving others. The legacy they hope to leave as they begin their senior year. Encouragement for students who are still searching for where they belong. Whether you're a student, educator, parent, or community leader, this conversation is a reminder that every person has the power to help someone else feel seen, valued, and connected. Sometimes, the smallest act—a greeting, a conversation, an invitation—can change someone's story. Memorable Quote "Our titles may introduce us. Our stories connect us. Every person has a story. And every story has the power to encourage someone else." Connect with the PodcastIf this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who believes in the power of kindness, belonging, and student leadership. Because when we choose to notice one another, we all move forward. If you have a comment or question please email us at themovingforwardpodcast@gmail.com Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

  8. Aug 17

    Ep. 47 - Olden Carr

    Choosing Who We Become: A Conversation with Olden Carr Who do we become when life doesn't unfold the way we expected? Few of us escape disappointment, regret, or unexpected turns. The question isn't whether life changes us—it's how we choose to respond. In this episode of Moving Forward: Conversations on Culture, Identity, Healing, and Hope, Linda Anderson sits down with Olden Carr for a thoughtful conversation about accountability, faith, leadership, grace, and the lifelong work of becoming the person we are meant to be. Although Olden grew up in New Jersey, he didn't discover football until college. The sport became an important part of his identity, teaching perseverance, discipline, teamwork, and leadership. During those same years, one tragic event changed the course of his life. Rather than searching for excuses, Olden chose a path of accountability, reflection, healing, and purpose. He went on to build a respected career as a business leader, earning the trust of colleagues and communities through integrity and service. Instead of allowing one chapter of his life to define him, he chose to let it shape the kind of leader, husband, father, friend, and person he wanted to become. His journey also led him to restorative justice and conversations with leading voices in the field, including David Karp at the Kroc School of Peace Studies, where he came to understand that accountability and healing are deeply connected. As he prepares to return to New Jersey and begin another chapter, Olden reflects on purpose, legacy, and the relationships that shaped his life. This conversation isn't about the worst moment of one man's life. It's about choosing responsibility, extending grace, and using life's hardest lessons to serve others. In This Episode, You'll Hear About: • Discovering football in college and the lessons it taught about leadership and perseverance. • The life-changing event that reshaped Olden's future. • Building a career rooted in integrity, trust, and service. • How faith provided strength through seasons of challenge. • The relationship between forgiveness, grace, and accountability. • What restorative justice taught him about healing and redemption. • Returning home to New Jersey and reflecting on purpose and legacy. • Why authentic relationships matter more than titles. • The wisdom he would share with his younger self. Whether you've experienced regret, loss, or unexpected change, this conversation reminds us that our past does not have to define our future. What defines us is the courage to take responsibility, continue growing, and use our experiences to make a difference in the lives of others. Memorable Quote "While we cannot change the past, we can choose how we respond to it—and how we use our experiences to serve others." Connect with the PodcastIf this conversation encouraged you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who believes in the power of accountability, faith, grace, and hope. Because moving forward isn't about pretending the past never happened. It's about choosing, every day, the person we are becoming. Follow us on: Instagram Facebook  LinkedIn  Music by Maksym_Dudchyk from Pixabay Podcast produced by Ury Gonzalez

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After 32 incredible years in education as a teacher, coach, principal, director and mentor-I’ve stepped into a new chapter. My journey has been shaped by personal and professional transformation: leading schools, navigating loss, advocating for equity and raising a bi-racial family. Welcome to the Moving Forward Podcast. Each episode will be a safe space where honest voices will explore real topics in education, identity, mental wellness, leadership, and everything in between. We’ll have courageous conversations and reflect on how we can all keep moving forward, no matter the path we’re on.

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