The Blueprint: Guiding Students as They Draw Their Future

From Student to Educator: Greg's Inspiring Journey

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 08 Apr 2026 09:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Manny Tejeda interviews Gregory Herman, a former CFES scholar, who shares his journey from high school to becoming a dean at a Harlem elementary school. Greg discusses the challenges he faced during his education, the pivotal role of CFES in his college preparation, and the importance of mentorship and representation in education. He emphasizes the need for more black male educators and the impact they can have on students, particularly young black boys. The conversation highlights the significance of community support and innovative approaches in education.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint
(00:01:32) - Gregory Roberts on CFES and His College Experience
(00:05:18) - Post-Post-Bachelor's Advice
(00:06:23) - In the Elevator With CFES Educators
(00:08:44) - An Impact of African American Educators
(00:11:57) - Black Educators' Need for Professional Networks
(00:17:36) - Mentorship programs for black men
(00:18:23) - Mentorship for Black Men in Education

The Skills That Will Change Your Life

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 11 Mar 2026 09:12:00 +0000

In this episode, Manny Tejeda and Greg Muccio discuss the critical importance of essential skills in the evolving job market. They explore the challenges students face in developing these skills, the significance of networking, and practical strategies for building and showcasing essential skills. The discussion emphasizes the need for effective communication, adaptability, and resilience, as well as the role of parents and educators in fostering these skills in students.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint: Preparing Students for the Future
(00:01:31) - The Blueprint
(00:02:13) - Essential Skills in our Future
(00:04:03) - Exploring Your Career Pathway
(00:07:53) - What Does the Skills Survey Say About Jobs
(00:10:08) - Build and showcase the Essential Skills
(00:12:25) - The Durable Skills of Leadership
(00:18:22) - Employment Network: Communication Skills
(00:20:21) - Interviewing Students: Clear Path

Breaking the Mold: Alternative Paths to Success

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 10:00:00 +0000

In this episode of The Blueprint, Manny Tejeda speaks with Stephanie Simper about her unconventional journey from military service to a successful career in corporate America. They discuss the value of alternative paths to success, the importance of understanding personal definitions of success, and the lessons learned from navigating career transitions. Stephanie emphasizes the significance of networking, research, and making informed decisions about one's career path, while also encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys and make their own music in life.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint
(00:00:39) - The Blueprint: Skip the 4-Year Degree
(00:01:32) - Stephanie From The Military Joins Transperfect
(00:06:11) - Military Recruitment: The Process
(00:09:38) - Military Experience and Transition to the Workforce
(00:11:31) - On Supporting Students in Their Career Path
(00:15:27) - Tim Ferriss on His Unorthodox Path
(00:19:30) - Stephanie's Journey to Success on The Blueprint

The Vital Role of Entrepreneurship in Education

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 14 Jan 2026 11:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Manny Tejeda and Dr. John Fortune discuss the significance of entrepreneurship, especially for the younger generation. Dr. Fortune shares his journey from being a trauma surgeon to becoming an entrepreneur in medical simulation. He emphasizes the importance of identifying problems, taking risks, and the essential skills needed for success. Mentorship plays a crucial role in navigating the entrepreneurial landscape, and Dr. Fortune reflects on the lessons learned from his ventures. The discussion also highlights ways to foster an entrepreneurial mindset in youth through hands-on learning and real-world experiences.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint
(00:01:23) - John Fleming on Starting a Business and His Challenges
(00:05:33) - Starting a Business
(00:07:12) - In the Elevator With Entrepreneurs: The Essential Skills
(00:09:38) - In the Elevator With John Feist
(00:11:01) - Your First Venture and Second
(00:13:02) - Blitzech: Encouragement and Support for Entrepreneurs

First Gen Playbook

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 13:00:00 +0000

Listen in as host Manny Tejeda is joined by Shameka Shoemaker, CFES (Brilliant Pathways) alumna, who shares her inspiring journey from being a first-generation college student to pursuing a PhD in educational leadership. She discusses the challenges she faced in navigating college, the importance of community support, and her passion for giving back. Shameka emphasizes the role of perseverance and open-mindedness in achieving success and encourages others to challenge the status quo.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint
(00:01:37) - First-Generation Students at the Blueprint
(00:06:13) - St. John's alumnus on her path to a Ph
(00:09:24) - CFVs in the Community
(00:11:34) - Inspiring Students: Perseverance
(00:13:03) - The Blueprint: College and Career Readiness

College ROI: Beyond the Numbers

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this conversation, Colgate University President, Brian Casey, discusses the shifting dynamics of higher education, emphasizing the historical context of renegotiating the relationship between society and colleges. He highlights current challenges, including demographic shifts, rising costs, and a growing skepticism about the value of a college education.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint: College and Career Success
(00:01:51) - Higher Education: The Valor of Colleges
(00:09:10) - Late Decision on Colleges
(00:15:58) - The role of the liberal arts in the future
(00:20:57) - The Blueprint: A Special Thank You for Colgate University

Where Have All the Young Men Gone?

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Manny Tejeda and Kyle Dodson dive into the growing concern of fewer young men enrolling in college and pursuing higher education. We examine the societal pressures, educational barriers, and personal challenges driving this decline, and how these factors shape career opportunities, workforce readiness, and the future economy. Our conversation also explores solutions—emphasizing the role of supportive learning environments, mentorship, and skill-building opportunities that can reignite passion for education and help young men thrive in school, work, and life.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint: Why Men Are Not Going to College
(00:01:26) - Why Are Few Men Choosing College?
(00:01:49) - Why Are Men Not Committing to College?
(00:03:55) - On Men and Toxic Masculinity
(00:07:13) - On college choice for boys
(00:10:59) - What Can Schools Do to Increase Male Student Participation in Education?
(00:11:55) - The Need for a More Connective Education
(00:16:36) - Passion in the Military
(00:21:56) - The Opportunity Gap for Young Men
(00:23:42) - Crisis with Males on The Blueprint

Is College Still the Golden Ticket?

Brilliant Pathways — Wed, 17 Sep 2025 13:00:00 +0000

In this episode, host Manny Tejeda and Bob Seaberg dive into the shifting landscape of higher education and ask the big question: Is a college degree still the golden ticket in today’s economy?

They unpack the decline in enrollment, rising doubts about the return on investment, and the growing appeal of alternative paths like trade schools and community colleges. More than just credentials, the conversation highlights the real keys to success—skills development, adaptability, and a growth mindset—helping students prepare for a job market that’s changing faster than ever.

Chapters

(00:00:00) - The Blueprint
(00:01:16) - Is College Broken or Even pointless?
(00:05:40) - Enrollment cliff for colleges
(00:09:33) - Not Ready to Give Up on College Degrees
(00:10:42) - WSJD Live: How to Win in the Future
(00:14:30) - The Future of College: Alternatives