In this episode, host Kevin P. Chavous introduces Denisha Merriweather, founder of Black Minds Matter and a leading advocate for education freedom. Her path includes failing third grade twice, growing up amid instability, earning a scholarship, and becoming the first in her family to graduate from college before completing a master's degree. The theme is second chances in education reform, and the promise is access and dignity for every child, especially those too often left behind. Key Moments [00:00] Failing third grade twice and early struggles [03:00] Poverty, instability, and how it shaped her learning [06:00] A godmother's support and the chance of a scholarship [08:30] Finding a school culture that believed in her [11:30] First in her family to graduate college and earn a master's [13:00] From personal story to national advocacy [16:00] Founding Black Minds Matter and building a directory of schools [21:00] Why diverse school leaders matter for real choice [25:00] Hopes and concerns for the future of education freedom Guest Denisha Merriweather — Founder, Black Minds Matter; education reform advocate; former U.S. Dept. of Education staffer First in her family to earn a college degree; later completed a master's Testified before Congress; active national voice on education freedom Founded Black Minds Matter in 2020 to uplift Black school founders Led work documenting 500+ Black-founded schools across the U.S. Resources Mentioned Black Minds Matter — National initiative uplifting Black school founders — https://blackmindsmatter.net Step Up For Students — Florida scholarship granting organization — https://www.stepupforstudents.org National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) — U.S. education data — https://www.nationsreportcard.gov Connect with Denisha Company: https://blackmindsmatter.net Socials: LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisha-merriweather-a0521820b X / Twitter — https://x.com/DenishaMweather Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/deni_mweather/ Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/denisha.b.merriweather/   Explore K12-Powered Education & Career Pathways K12's innovative programs give students a head start on their future. Enrollment is now open! Join over 3 million students who have chosen K12-powered tuition-free online public schooling for a flexible, personalized learning experience—all from the safety of home. ✅ State-certified teachers trained in virtual instruction ✅ Accredited curriculum supporting all learners, including advanced students & those with special needs ✅ Career-focused programs, including healthcare pathways & more ✅ More family time, stronger class connections, and academic success Apply today to secure your spot and see why families trust K12 for their child's education. 🔗 Learn more about K12's career pathways: https://go.k12.com/mps/national/podcast/?adobe_mc=MCMID%3D11001665815673379801328021772854664479 🔗 Discover K12 Tutoring for personalized academic support: https://tutoring.k12.com/?utm_source=k12&utm_medium=organic-social&utm_campaign=k12-podcast-tutoring-feb-25 Join the Conversation Got thoughts on virtual learning and special education? 📢 Use #WIWTK to share your perspective. 📱 Follow us: 🔹 Twitter/X – https://x.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Facebook –https://www.facebook.com/wiwtkpodcast 🔹 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/wiwtkpodcast/ 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Leave a review—let's reshape the conversation around education.  

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