Outside The Mainstream

Eddie Blass

Welcome to “Outside The Mainstream,” where we dive deep into the heart of education reform. Hosted by Eddie Blass, founder of Inventorium, this podcast brings together the brightest minds in education, to explore the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities facing today's education system, with a special focus on engaging students who've been left behind by an antiquated system. Join us as we discuss strategies for transforming education, share success stories, and build a community dedicated to creating a brighter future for all students.

  1. The Art of Curiosity w. Bob Choat

    07/03/2025

    The Art of Curiosity w. Bob Choat

    In this episode, I interview Bob Choat, a transformational master with a diverse career spanning the LAPD, Marines, and various business roles. Bob shares his life story, the influence of his multicultural background, and the critical role of curiosity and experimentation in his career. We discuss the importance of breaking down complex ideas into foundational elements, the value of self-knowledge, and the potential benefits and challenges of utilizing the military for educational advancement. Bob emphasizes the role of courage and curiosity in achieving personal growth and innovation. Tune in to explore how curiosity can lead to lifelong learning and impactful change. 00:00 Introduction  00:52 Bob's Diverse Background 02:29 Early Influences and Curiosity 05:06 Career Shifts and Lifelong Learning 12:49 The Importance of Curiosity and Courage 21:48 Military Experience and Education 29:27 Final Thoughts and Advice 30:06 Closing Remarks and Contact Information Follow Eddie Blass and Bob Choat: Connect with Eddie: Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Bob: Website: https://bobchoat.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobchoat/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobchoat/?hl=en

    31 min
  2. Nurturing Creativity w. Patrick Williams

    06/19/2025

    Nurturing Creativity w. Patrick Williams

    In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I'm excited to have Patrick Williams, a leading creativity expert, join me as we explore his journey from a young artist to a multifaceted creativity advocate. Patrick delves into the concept of 'creative colonization' and how education systems often stifle our natural creativity. We discuss how discipline plays a crucial role in fostering creativity and share practical advice on how anyone can reconnect with their creative roots. Whether you're an educator, student, parent, or business professional, this episode will offer valuable insights into nurturing and rediscovering your innate creativity. Tune in and join us on this fascinating journey towards transforming education and unlocking creativity. 00:00 Introduction 01:06 Meet Patrick Williams: A Journey in Creativity 08:12 The Concept of Creative Colonization 12:13 Creativity Beyond Artistic Expression 23:55 The Role of Discipline in Creativity 36:02 Restoring Your Creativity 37:22 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow Eddie Blass and Patrick Williams: Connect with Eddie: Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Patrick: Website: http://patrickwilliams.com/  Email: patrick@patrickwilliams.com

    39 min
  3. AI in Education w. Jordi Torras

    06/05/2025

    AI in Education w. Jordi Torras

    In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sit down with AI entrepreneur Jordy Torres to explore the transformative potential of artificial intelligence in education. We discuss Jordy's pioneering journey in AI from the 1980s to the present, emphasizing how businesses and education systems can leverage AI for innovative learning and engagement strategies. Jordy shares invaluable insights on the evolution of AI technologies, their practical applications, and the future role of AI in teaching. We dive into how AI can serve as a powerful tool for both educators and students, enhancing learning experiences and preparing them for a rapidly changing world. Join us as we challenge educational norms and envision a future where AI plays a central role. 00:00 Introduction 01:05 Meet Jordy Torres: AI Entrepreneur 01:28 Jordy's Journey in AI 03:10 Building and Selling AI Businesses 06:10 AI in Business and Education 10:16 The Future of AI and Its Implications 18:31 Teaching with AI: Challenges and Opportunities 22:08 The Role of Teachers in an AI-Driven World 26:45 Assessing AI Learning in Students 29:30 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Follow Eddie Blass and Jordi Torras: Connect with Eddie: Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Jordi: Website: https://www.torras.ai/en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtorras/

    35 min
  4. STEM Experimentation w. Katherine Geramita

    05/22/2025

    STEM Experimentation w. Katherine Geramita

    This week I’m joined by Katherine Geramita to talk about something we both care a lot about: how we teach science, and who we imagine it’s for. Katherine has been working with CreositySpace, a startup focused on making STEM education more inclusive, more engaging, and more connected to real life. In her own words: “We wanted to build something where kids could see themselves in science—not just as future scientists, but as people who already have ideas worth exploring.” We also talk about the real challenges of working within school systems, the tension between innovation and standardization, and why STEM learning has to be about more than just content. Follow Eddie Blass and Katherine Geramita: Connect with Eddie: Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Katherine: CreositySpace: https://creosityspace.com/about/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-geramita-7939a549/

    29 min
  5. Purpose-Driven Education w. Brian Bratt

    05/13/2025

    Purpose-Driven Education w. Brian Bratt

    I had the absolute pleasure of speaking with Brian Bratt—a longtime English teacher turned passionate career advisor and communications lead at his school. Students don’t need to have it all figured out—but they do need exposure to real options. Many young people end up “letting life happen to them” instead of taking charge of their path. That’s why Brian's made it his mission to help students do things differently. 00:00 Introduction:  00:57 Meet Brian Brat: A Journey in Education 05:02 The Importance of Career Guidance 08:00 Alternative Education Paths 11:25 The Role of Employers in Education 15:59 Advice for Students and Parents 24:37 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Follow Eddie Blass and Brian Bratt: Connect with Eddie: Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joustaboutcareers-brianbratt

    28 min
  6. Finding Your Voice w. Michelle Cullen Tang

    03/27/2025

    Finding Your Voice w. Michelle Cullen Tang

    "Confidence is built through consistency, not perfection." In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I chat with Michelle Cullen Tang, a special education teacher who has employed theater, drama, and various educational methods across her diverse career. She dives into practical strategies for navigating transitions, the power of self-awareness, and how to stay aligned with your values when making decisions. 01:07 Meet Michelle Cullen Tang 01:35 Michelle's Early Life and Education 03:04 Challenges and Turning Points in School 07:37 College and Career Beginnings 10:06 Exploring New Opportunities 13:41 Adapting to New Roles and Environments 23:59 Reflections and Advice 29:27 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow Eddie and Michelle: Eddie: Web: https://inventorium.com.au/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass/  Michelle:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellecullentang/

    30 min
  7. Developing Entrepreneurship w. Dean Mesick

    03/21/2025

    Developing Entrepreneurship w. Dean Mesick

    In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sat down with Dean Mesick. Dean is the Executive Director of the Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization (CEO), where he helps young entrepreneurs worldwide bring their ideas to life. With a background in humanities and cultural studies, and experience in film and the arts, Dean’s path to entrepreneurship has been anything but traditional. But as we discuss, sometimes the best journeys are the unexpected ones. 00:00 Introduction 01:45 Dean's Journey: From Cultural Studies to Entrepreneurship 07:47 The Impact of Mentorship 11:38 The Core of Entrepreneurship: Problem Solving 20:57 The Role of Failure in Entrepreneurship 25:57 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 27:56 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow Eddie and Dean: Connect with Eddie  Web: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass/  Connect with Dean Collegiate Entrepreneurs Organization: https://www.c-e-o.org/

    29 min
  8. Breaking Stereotypes w. Chay Ross

    02/27/2025

    Breaking Stereotypes w. Chay Ross

    In this episode of Outside the Mainstream, I sit down with award-winning creative arts teacher and advocate for amplifying Black voices, Chay Ross. Chay shares her powerful journey from growing up in Los Angeles, navigating the challenges of being a teen mom, and almost getting caught up in gang life to becoming a passionate educator dedicated to serving her community. Through candid reflections, Chay discusses the systemic barriers in education, the importance of equity over equality, and how the recent cuts to DEI programs are impacting students and communities in need. She also explores how art can be a powerful tool for healing in the wake of personal and collective traumas, such as the devastating fires in Los Angeles. This is an episode filled with resilience, inspiration, and a call to action to fight for accessible resources and fair opportunities for all students, no matter their background. 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast 00:39 Meet Chay Ross: A Journey from Teen Mom to Teacher 01:56 Overcoming Adversity: Chay's Story 05:33 The Reality of Teaching 07:03 Navigating Bureaucracy in Education 11:17 Returning to the Community 15:59 Impact of Government Cuts on Education 21:16 The Devastating Fires in Los Angeles 26:39 The Healing Power of Art 28:31 Final Thoughts and Contact Information Follow Eddie and Chay: Connect with Eddie:  Website: https://inventorium.com.au/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass Connect with Chay:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chalon-l-ross-5442415b/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chayarts_edu/

    32 min
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Trailer

About

Welcome to “Outside The Mainstream,” where we dive deep into the heart of education reform. Hosted by Eddie Blass, founder of Inventorium, this podcast brings together the brightest minds in education, to explore the pressing challenges and exciting opportunities facing today's education system, with a special focus on engaging students who've been left behind by an antiquated system. Join us as we discuss strategies for transforming education, share success stories, and build a community dedicated to creating a brighter future for all students.

Information

  • Creator
    Eddie Blass
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2025
  • Episodes
    25
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Eddie Blass
  • Show Website
    Outside The Mainstream