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The Innovators & Investors Podcast


1 AI in Wealth Management: Scaling Financial Advisory & Democratizing Access 45:49
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In this episode of The Innovators & Investors Podcast hosted by Kristian Marquez, guest Sindhu Joseph, founder and CEO of CogniCor, shares how artificial intelligence is transforming the financial services and wealth management industry. Sindhu discusses the significant wealth disparity she has observed globally and how CogniCor’s AI-powered co-pilot platform empowers financial advisors to scale their services, reaching beyond the traditional 30% of affluent households to potentially 70-80%. By reducing administrative burdens and providing a unified, real-time 360-degree view of client households, CogniCor enables advisors to deliver personalized, data-driven financial advice efficiently. Sindhu also reflects on her 15+ years of experience in AI, her global upbringing across India, Europe, and the US, and how her human-first approach shapes CogniCor’s mission to democratize access to wealth management. The episode explores the future impact of AI on work and society, the importance of domain expertise combined with AI knowledge, and the challenges posed by fragmented legacy systems in financial services. Listeners gain valuable insights into the intersection of AI innovation, fintech disruption, and ethical leadership in building scalable, impactful technology solutions. Whether you’re a financial professional, investor, or tech enthusiast, this episode offers a deep dive into AI’s transformative potential in wealth management and the inspiring journey of a visionary founder driving meaningful change. Learn more about Sindhu's work at https://www.cognicor.com/ Connect with Sindhu on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sindhujoseph/ Think you'd be a great guest on the show? Apply at https://finstratmgmt.com/innovators-investors-podcast/ Want to learn more about Kristian Marquez's work? Check out his website at https://finstratmgmt.com…
Top 6 of 2024 - Supporting Implementation As An Administrator - Robert Mueller
Manage episode 456592233 series 2674259
Content provided by CharacterStrong. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by CharacterStrong or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Learn More About CharacterStrong:
- Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
- Attend our next live product preview
- Visit the CharacterStrong Website
455 episodes
Manage episode 456592233 series 2674259
Content provided by CharacterStrong. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by CharacterStrong or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://ppacc.player.fm/legal.
Learn More About CharacterStrong:
- Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples
- Attend our next live product preview
- Visit the CharacterStrong Website
455 episodes
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1 The Power of Presence in a Rushed World - John Norlin 5:58
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On today's episode CharacterStrong Co-Founder John Norlin explores a simple idea with big impact: the pace of our day influences the way we show up for others. When we’re constantly rushing, even our best intentions, like showing kindness or practicing empathy, can get lost in the shuffle. John invites educators and leaders to reflect on how we prioritize connection in our daily routines. Sometimes, the most powerful shift we can make is slowing down just enough to see the people right in front of us. Click here to subscribe to the CS Weekly Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 2025 Tier 2 Summit: Problem-Solving Common Barriers to Tier 2 - Dr. Clay Cook 14:42
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Today we talk with Dr. Clay Cook, the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. He shares the biggest reasons Tier 2 systems stall—and what to do about it. Dr. Cook unpacks common barriers like unclear roles, limited capacity, and lack of team clarity, offering practical, hopeful solutions every school can apply. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 What Happens When Kids Know You Believe In Them - Dr. Andre Stout 17:40
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Today our guest is Dr. Andre Stout, principal at Gray Middle School, in Tacoma, WA. We talk to Dr. Stout about how intentional systems—not just goals—drive lasting change. From daily character lessons and biweekly Fireside Chats to celebrating growth and reclaiming the hallways, he breaks down the simple, strategic systems that helped shift school culture. Dr. Stout also shares why capacity-building—not just buy-in—is key to sustainability, and how being present as a leader creates the credibility to raise expectations and drive impact. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 Every Student, Every Need: Rethinking School Support - Jeff Cohen 12:14
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Today our guest is Jeff Cohen, CEO of FullBloom. We talk to Jeff about what it really means to support students. He challenges us to rethink the one-size-fits-all models and instead embrace a personalized approach, one where schools are equipped to meet every student where they are. From personalizing learning experiences to strengthening the adult systems that guide them, Jeff lays out a compelling vision for the future of education, and how CharacterStrong and FullBloom are helping to make it possible. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 Tools, Trust, and Teaching What Matters - Kelli Brabson 16:01
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Today our guest is Kelli Brabson the MTSS Coordinator at Mossville Grade School. We talk to Kelli about what it means to invest in students intentionally, proactively, and with heart. Drawing from over two decades of experience as a teacher, principal, and now MTSS leader, Kelli shares practical strategies for building community, fostering accountability, and equipping students with the skills they need to thrive. From postcard welcomes to classroom compacts, picture books to I-statements, Kelli reminds us that consistency, community, and competency go hand in hand. Her powerful message: we’re all making an investment—so the question is, where are we putting it? Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Kelli Brabson grew up in the small town of Chillicothe, Illinois. Although she enjoyed school and generally earned good grades, academic success didn’t come easily—she had to work hard to achieve it. Encouraging teachers played a significant role in her journey, and their influence, both positive and challenging, helped shape her decision to pursue a career in education. After briefly considering nursing, Kelli realized it wasn’t the right path and found her calling in a Children’s Literature class at Illinois Central College. From that moment on, she knew teaching was what she was meant to do. She went on to earn her degree in Elementary Education from Illinois State University in 2003. In 2006, she completed her first master’s degree in Teaching and Leadership from Saint Xavier University, followed by a General Administration degree from the American College of Education in 2011. Throughout her career, Kelli has served in a variety of roles, including first grade teacher, third grade teacher, Junior High Principal, and now, MTSS Coordinator. Kelli has been married to her husband, Nick, for nearly 20 years. They have two sons: Dylan, 18, and Cooper, 13. Their family life is filled with sports—baseball, football, basketball, lacrosse, and even a little wrestling. Dylan will be heading to Florida Atlantic University in the fall to study Exercise Science, while Cooper is entering 8th grade and eagerly looking ahead to high school. Go Panthers!…

1 Carrying Less, Caring More: The Power of Emptying the Backpack - Sam Demma 19:08
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Today our guest is Author and Keynote Speaker Sam Demma. We talk to Sam about the powerful concept of “Emptying Your Backpack,” which began during a series of live Instagram chats with students. Sam shares why it’s essential to help young people release the negative thoughts, emotions, and labels they carry, and how doing so can create space for growth and connection. He also emphasizes the importance of empathy, reminding us that “students aren’t giving you a tough time, they’re having a tough time.” Sam also shares what he is learning directly from students and how we can better support each other, one conversation at a time. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Sam Demma is a best-selling author and one of the most in-demand keynote speakers today. He has shared the stage with icons like Kardinal Official and Sarah Blackwood, collaborated with brands like Taco Bell, delivered two TEDx talks, and has toured his messages across Canada, the United States, and Kenya. His work is often featured on national news shows like Marilyn Dennis, Breakfast Television, and, most notably, his mom’s Facebook. Sam delivers hundreds of performances annually, and his comical and entertaining performances address the topics of Empathy, Mental Health and Leadership. For more information, please visit: www.samdemma.com…

1 2025 School Safety Summit - Prevention in Action: The Power of Effective Threat Assessment - Dr. Dewey Cornell 16:24
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On this episode we are sharing a conversation from the 2025 School Safety Summit. Dr. Dewey Cornell, a leading national expert in school safety, shares the science and practical strategies behind effective threat assessment. He explains why prevention must go beyond zero tolerance policies and how schools can use structured, research-backed approaches like CSTAG to keep students safe, supported, and thriving. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 From Listening to Launch: Collaborative Curriculum Selection - Joanna Frankel 19:56
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Today our guest is Joanna Frankel the Director of Elementary Culture and Climate at Portland Public Schools. We talk to Joanna about how her team led a deeply collaborative curriculum selection process—gathering input from over 300 staff members, conducting a community listening tour with families, and piloting options with 37 educators. She reflects on the power of stakeholder voice, and how this inclusive approach not only informed their final decision but also built trust and ownership across the district. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Joanna Frankel serves as the Director of Elementary Culture and Climate for Portland Public Schools in Portland, Maine (the "other" Portland!). Her role serves as a bridge between Portland's ten elementary schools and Central Office departments and staff, working in the areas of social, emotional, and behavioral systems of support for students, in addition to helping to ensure positive relationships and experiences for staff and families. Previously Joanna was an Elementary Assistant Principal in Portland, Coordinator of Teaching and Learning in Gray, Maine, and for nearly two decades taught all grades Pre-K through 5th in Maine, Massachusetts, and Pennsylvania. A native of Philadelphia, Joanna holds a BA from Sarah Lawrence College (NY) and an MEd from Smith College (MA), where she was a Graduate Teaching Fellow. Joanna is a PBIS trainer in the state of Maine and holds a Graduate Certificate in Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports from the University of Maine. She is a proud product of public schools and a proud parent of a public school high school junior. In her spare time Joanna goes on frequent "rides to nowhere" in spin class, is a certified yoga instructor and longtime yoga practitioner, loves sitting on Maine beaches with a good book, and is an obsessive fan of the band Wilco. At work she's known as "the feelings lady.”…

1 2025 School Safety Summit - Beyond Response: Building Safer Schools Through Relationships and Resilience - Frank DeAngelis 15:57
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On this episode we are sharing a conversation from the 2025 School Safety Summit. Frank DeAngelis, former longtime principal of Columbine High School, shares powerful lessons on prevention, resilience, and leadership. He highlights why real school safety is about relationships, readiness, and collective action—and reminds us why we must continue working together to protect and support every student. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 A Purposeful Approach to Student Support - Sam Dusek & Jordan Seifert 20:21
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Today our guests are Sam Dusek & Jordan Seifert, School Counselors at Meyer Middle School and part of the team that was awarded the 2025 Wisconsin School Counseling Team of the Year. We talk to Sam & Jordan about how their school counseling program is leading the way in proactive, purpose-driven student support. They share how a clear mission focused on academic growth, character development, and student well-being—has helped them build a program where character education is intentionally taught and deeply integrated across campus. Their reminder for all of us: when in doubt, trust that every student can grow and that our intentional efforts matter. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Sam Dusek and Jordan Seifert are school counselors at Meyer Middle School in River Falls, Wisconsin. This is Sam’s 13th year as a school counselor and Jordan’s 12th year as a school counselor. They received the Wisconsin School Counseling Team of the year award at the annual Wisconsin School counseling Conference in 2024. Meyer Middle school is a State and National School of Character. Jordan and Sam serve on the Meyer Middle School character education committee.…

1 Holistic Student Support In Action - Cory McCarthy 19:01
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Today our guest is Cory McCarthy, the Chief of Student Support for Boston Public Schools. We talk with Cory about what it means to take a truly holistic approach to student support. He explains the critical difference between technicaland adaptive progress monitoring—and why getting to the “third why” in conversations with students and staff is a game-changer. Cory also shares how Boston Public Schools opens its doors seven days a week to meet student needs and why relational work is at the heart of their approach. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 Celebrate the Small Stuff: The Power of Positive School Storytelling - Dr. Vince Breunig 21:01
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Today our guest is Dr. Vince Breunig, District Administrator at the School District of Lodi. We talk to Dr. Breunig about the power of consistently sharing the good happening in our schools. He shares practical strategies for celebrating small but meaningful moments, filling the community with positivity, and making space for authentic engagement—especially through social media. Dr. Breunig also highlights how involving students in storytelling and using creative, intentional branding can strengthen school culture and community trust. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website Dr. Vince Breunig has dedicated over 30 years to serving students, staff, and families in public education. He began his career as a school psychologist, a role he held for six years before transitioning into school administration. Over the past 24 years, Vince has served as an educational leader in two Wisconsin school districts. For the last 17 years, he has proudly served the School District of Lodi—as Director of Student Services, High School Principal, and currently as District Administrator, a position he has held since 2020. In recognition of his leadership and communication efforts, Vince was named a 2024–25 Superintendent to Watch by the National School Public Relations Association—one of just 25 superintendents nationwide to receive this honor. Vince has been married to his wife Melanie for 28 years. Her unwavering support has been a cornerstone of his journey in education. Together, they are the proud parents of four children.…

1 Sustainability: A Key to Lasting Impact in Education - Dr. Clay Cook 15:24
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Today our guest is Dr. Clay Cook the Chief Development Officer at CharacterStrong. We talk to Clay about one the most important parts of implementation: sustainability. From onboarding and monitoring fidelity to embedding new practices into the fabric of school culture, Clay shares the essential systems that help schools avoid implementation drift. He also highlights how CharacterStrong supports schools through a unique consultative approach focused on sustainable implementation. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Learn more about CharacterStrong Implementation Support Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 Tackling Tech & Teen Anxiety: A Community on a Mission - John Hellwich 20:21
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Today our guest is John Hellwich, the Director of Secondary Teaching and Learning at the Peninsula School District in WA. We talk to John about the Gig Harbor/Key Peninsula community campaign inspired by the book The Anxious Generation . With anxiety rising and screen time out of control, this grassroots movement is bringing together schools, faith leaders, doctors, and local organizations to reimagine what healthy tech habits look like for students. From phone-free weekends and social media detoxes to reigniting the power of unstructured play, John shares how the community is taking bold, united action to protect youth mental health in the digital age. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website…

1 Showing Up Matters: The Power of Daily Connection - Alex Kajitani 19:15
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Today our guest is Alex Kajitani the 2009 California Teacher of the Year and also The Rappin' Mathematician. We talk to Alex about the foundational role that relationships play in education. He unpacks the three essential components every relationship must have and highlights the different types of relationships students navigate daily—with themselves, their peers, the adults on campus, and the content they’re learning. Alex challenges the common belief that confidence leads to competence, offering a powerful reframe. He leaves us with a compelling reminder: the simple act of consistently showing up can make a profound difference in a student’s life. Learn More About CharacterStrong: Access FREE MTSS Curriculum Samples Request a Quote Today! Visit the CharacterStrong Website Alex Kajitani is the 2009 California Teacher of the Year, and a Top-4 Finalist for National Teacher of the Year. He is the author of several books, including Owning It, which **was named “Recommended Reading” by the U.S. Department of Education. He also has a new book out, for new teachers, titled “You’re a Teacher Now! What’s Next?” and it's getting rave reviews. Alex is known around the world as “The Rappin’ Mathematician, has a popular TED Talk, and was honored at The White House. He was also featured on The CBS Evening News, where Katie Couric exclaimed, “I LOVE that guy!” (and you will too!). For more info, visit www.AlexKajitani.com…
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