Outside The Mainstream

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/ [https://inventorium.com.au/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass] Connect with Bob: Website: https://bobchoat.com/ [https://bobchoat.com/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobchoat/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobchoat/]  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bobchoat/?hl=en [https://www.instagram.com/bobchoat/?hl=en]

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/ [https://inventorium.com.au/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass] Connect with Patrick: Website: http://patrickwilliams.com/ [http://patrickwilliams.com/]  Email: patrick@patrickwilliams.com [patrick@patrickwilliams.com]

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/ [https://inventorium.com.au/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass] Connect with Jordi: Website: https://www.torras.ai/en [https://www.torras.ai/en] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtorras/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/jtorras/]

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/ [https://inventorium.com.au/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass] Connect with Katherine: CreositySpace: https://creosityspace.com/about/ [https://creosityspace.com/about/]  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-geramita-7939a549/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharine-geramita-7939a549/]

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/ [https://inventorium.com.au/] LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass [https://www.linkedin.com/in/eddie-blass] Connect with Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/ [https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-bratt/]  YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@joustaboutcareers-brianbratt [https://www.youtube.com/@joustaboutcareers-brianbratt]