Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands

Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands Ep #29 with Andy Ragano

Send Lynette a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/fan_mail/new] On this episode of Social Chats, we chat with Andy Ragano, a school communications professional, small business owner, and community advocate, currently wrapping up her fifth year working in school public relations. She is the founder and CEO of Ragano Photo & Video, a communications and multimedia company celebrating its one-year anniversary in February. Through her work, Andy partners with school districts across California, supporting strategic communications, writing, crisis communications, social media, and an increasing focus on photography and videography that centers on students, educators, and community stories. Andy is also the founder of the Lens & Leadership Mentorship Program, which mentors high school seniors interested in communications, storytelling, and leadership while providing scholarship support to help students pursue their next chapter beyond graduation. Her work is grounded in access, representation, and real-world skill-building for young people. A doctoral candidate at the University of Southern California Rossier School of Education, Andy is pursuing an EdD in Organizational Change and Leadership with an expected graduation in May 2026. Her research focuses on women of color in school public relations leadership, examining the systemic barriers, mentorship pathways, and leadership development experiences that shape their careers. Proudly Latina and LGBTQ+, Andy brings both lived experience and professional expertise to her work. She is a mother, a Claremont-based volunteer, and an active community partner who prioritizes collaboration with local nonprofits and small businesses throughout Claremont and the San Gabriel Valley. Across every role she holds, Andy is committed to storytelling that builds trust, strengthens communities, and creates space for voices that deserve to be seen and heard. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrea-ragano-249994122/] Website [https://www.raganocomm.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/support] Thank you for joining me for this episode of Social Chats: Shaping Minds and Brands, I hope you enjoyed the episode and please be sure to like and subscribe to my podcast! Chat soon! LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettewhitesocial/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lynettewhitesocial/]Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lynettewhitesocial]X [https://x.com/lynettewsocial]

Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands Ep #28 with Mike Hofius

Send Lynette a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/fan_mail/new] On this episode of Social Chats, we're joined by someone who traded the baseball diamond for the boardroom and brings that same competitive fire to everything he does. Meet Mike "HOF" Hofius, a sales representative with California Fuels and Lubricants, a Shell Lubricants distributor serving California and Nevada. Before making his mark in the energy sector, Mike built his competitive foundation on the baseball field, playing at Long Beach State and later in the Pittsburgh Pirates organization. That athletic discipline shaped his approach to sales, where he's now recognized for his strong communication style, leadership, and consistent performance. Beyond business, Mike is a devoted family man. He's been married to his wife, Lindsay, for 21 years and is the proud father of two teenagers. Whether he's closing deals or cheering from the sidelines at his kids' events, Mike brings passion and purpose to everything he does—and I'm excited to chat with him today. LinkedIn Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/support] Thank you for joining me for this episode of Social Chats: Shaping Minds and Brands, I hope you enjoyed the episode and please be sure to like and subscribe to my podcast! Chat soon! LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettewhitesocial/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lynettewhitesocial/]Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lynettewhitesocial]X [https://x.com/lynettewsocial]

Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands Ep #27 with Dr. Amy Mathews-Perez

Send Lynette a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/fan_mail/new] On this episode of Social Chats, we will be speaking with Amy Mathews-Perez, Texas-born & raised. Amy has recently retired after 34 years in public education, during which she served as a General Education Teacher, Speech-Language Pathologist, Diagnostician, SPED Supervisor, Principal, Assistant Principal, and Director of Special Education. While her journey of public-school service has come to an end, she now puts energy, effort, and focus into continued service to organizations, schools, and families, and through her LLC. Her passions are communication, relevant learning, and authenticity. She is happiest when she gets to implement these things to inspire & empower others. As a learner, she considers herself an "Experience Expert" because she learns from every experience. She says, “Life is short, but our influence is never ending, so let’s seek joy and create smiles through connecting, sharing, and highlighting the best in others.”   LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-amp-learn-with-me/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/dramy_mp/] Website [https://dramyperez.com/] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/support] Thank you for joining me for this episode of Social Chats: Shaping Minds and Brands, I hope you enjoyed the episode and please be sure to like and subscribe to my podcast! Chat soon! LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettewhitesocial/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lynettewhitesocial/]Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lynettewhitesocial]X [https://x.com/lynettewsocial]

Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands Ep #26 with Dr. Laura Castro

Send Lynette a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/fan_mail/new] On this episode of Social Chats, we will be speaking with a dedicated educator from the Coachella Valley who has spent over a decade transforming classrooms and supporting teachers. She also happens to be one of my closest friends. Meet Dr. Laura Castro, who comes from a family of educators and began her teaching career in 2012. Currently, Dr. Castro teaches middle school students in Southern California. In Dr. Castro’s classroom, she focuses on creating engaging lessons that build critical thinking and help students see themselves in the curriculum. Beyond teaching, Dr. Castro serves as a PBIS Coach, mentors new teachers, and works to build a positive school culture. She recently completed her Doctorate in Educational Leadership from CSU Fullerton, with research focused on how professional development can boost teacher confidence in writing instruction. Dr. Castro’s core belief is simple: when teachers feel supported and confident, students thrive. She’s passionate about creating inclusive learning environments where every student feels valued and every teacher feels empowered to do their best work. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-castro-ed-d-551b7a72/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/dr_l_castro/] EMPOWERMENT THROUGH COLLABORATION: THE IMPACT OF PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND PROFESSIONAL LEARNING COMMUNITIES ON TEACHER CONFIDENCE [https://zenodo.org/records/15866315] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/support] Thank you for joining me for this episode of Social Chats: Shaping Minds and Brands, I hope you enjoyed the episode and please be sure to like and subscribe to my podcast! Chat soon! LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettewhitesocial/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lynettewhitesocial/]Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lynettewhitesocial]X [https://x.com/lynettewsocial]

Social Chats: Shaping Minds & Brands Ep #25 with Dr. Amanda Austin

Send Lynette a text! [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/fan_mail/new] On this episode of Social Chats, we will be speaking with Dr. Amanda Austin, who is currently serving Iberville Parish as the Director of the Iberville Math, Science, and Arts Academy East in St. Gabriel. MSA Academy East is the magnet program of East Iberville High School. With 15 years of experience, her extensive knowledge of STEAM academic and extracurricular programming in elementary, middle, and high school settings made this position a best fit. Dr. Austin’s career in education did not start with her taking the traditional route. She earned a Bachelor's in Sociology with a concentration in Criminology with a minor in African and African American Studies from Louisiana State University, an alternative teaching certification, and a Master of Arts in Teaching from Louisiana College, as well as gained an endorsement for Educational Leadership from McNeese State University. She also pursued a Doctor of Education degree in Educational Leadership from Lamar University.  One of Dr. Austin’s proudest professional achievements was being selected as the Principal to reopen North Iberville High School (NIHS) after the school had been shuttered for over a decade. With community support, input from district leadership, and full hiring autonomy, NIHS is a thriving traditional school with a STEM magnet program. With her recent participation in the Louisiana Superintendent’s Academy and acceptance into ASCD’s Champion in Education cohort, Dr. Austin continuously strives to grow as an instructional leader and expects to lead her school to meet or exceed each student’s individual growth target. Through teamwork with all stakeholders, she believes that all students can and will succeed. LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-austin-ed-d-aaa83310b/] Math, Science & Arts Academy - East [https://msae.ipsb.net/] MSA East IG [https://www.instagram.com/msaeastknights/?hl=en] MSA East FB [https://www.facebook.com/MSAEast/] MSA East X [https://x.com/MSAEastKnights?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor] MSA East YouTube [https://www.youtube.com/@msaeast183] Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2407452/support] Thank you for joining me for this episode of Social Chats: Shaping Minds and Brands, I hope you enjoyed the episode and please be sure to like and subscribe to my podcast! Chat soon! LinkedIn [https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynettewhitesocial/] Instagram [https://www.instagram.com/lynettewhitesocial/]Facebook [https://www.facebook.com/lynettewhitesocial]X [https://x.com/lynettewsocial]