Superintendent's Hangout Dr. David Sciarretta

Shana Morgan is the owner of Morgan's Monograms, a custom embroidery service and storefront in La Mesa, California. The path of entrepreneurship is not laid with roses, and Shana’s narrative is a testament to the thorns encountered along the way—betrayal, financial upheaval, and natural disasters. With its rich history of craftsmanship, the embroidery industry has been revolutionized by technological advancements and the digital age. Shana provides a front-row seat to the meticulous dance of balancing customer satisfaction with the necessity of evolving and keeping pace with a global market. Prepare to be inspired as we share insights, laughter, and lessons from the front lines of small business ownership and the relentless drive that fuels an entrepreneur's journey.

Learn more about Shana Morgan in a recent San Diego News article.

Learn more about Morgan's Monograms.

Dr. Nicole Wahab is a lifelong educator and serial entrepreneur. Nicole's story is a symphony of resilience, echoing Tom Petty's "Won't Back Down," and serves as a testament to never yielding in the face of adversity, whether leading from the front of a classroom or the helm of a business venture. She illustrates her drive and entrepreneurial spirit, from founding a charter school to being the corporate executive of a sports company and starting her own technology integration business. The episode ventures into the post-Covid era's call for career reimagining, where adaptability is king, and the courage to redefine oneself is paramount.

Learn more about Dr. Nicole Wahab.

Hedy Chang is the Founder and Executive Director of Attendance Works. A 1986 Thomas J. Watson Fellow, Hedy brings a wealth of knowledge and passion about the intricate tapestry of factors that influence why students may not make it to class. Her Chinese American background and family legacy of activism provide a rich context as we discuss her dedication to unraveling the complexities of chronic absenteeism—an issue that's foundational to achieving justice in our education system.

Learn more about Hedy Chang and Attendance Works.

Tracy Thompson is the San Diego County of Education (SDCOE) Executive Director of Juvenile Court and Community Schools (JCCS). This episode charts Tracy's harrowing escape from the clutches of gang life and his current role as a beacon of hope for at-risk youth. Tracy opens up about the mentors who redirected his path and his selfless commitment to those he now serves.

Learn more about Tracy Thompson and the JCCS.

Jack Wong is the CEO of Kamehameha Schools. Jack joined Kamehameha Schools in 1997, first serving as senior counsel from 1997-2000, then as director of the Endowment Legal Division from 2000-2013. Drawing from his unique journey from the legal realm to the helm of one of Hawaii's most influential educational institutions, Jack imparts wisdom on cultivating a shared vision while managing a diverse workforce. His insights offer a roadmap to any leader striving to navigate the complexities of steering a multifaceted organization without losing sight of its core values and mission.

Learn more about Jack Wong.

Visit the Kamehameha Schools website.

Watch a video about the legacy of Kamehameha Schools. 

Jasmine LeFlore is a Senior Aerospace Engineer, Social Entrepreneur, and Co-founder of Greater Than Tech. Throughout the conversation, Jasmine shares her relentless journey, from defying doubters to channeling her grief into a catalyst for change, all while celebrating the mentors and role models who ignited her trailblazing spirit. This led to her co-founding Greater Than Tech where she is not just breaking barriers; she's building bridges for underrepresented voices in STEM fields. Jasmine and Dr. Sciarretta explore the essential role of hands-on experience and the integration of business skills in nurturing the next generation. 

Learn more about Jasmine LeFlore and Greater Than Tech.