RightNOWLeaders - SEASON 1

RightNOWLeaders - SEASON 1

by Andre G. Early

Careers Self-Improvement

MBK: Community + Youth: The Secret to Changing Futures with Terrance Jackson

In this episode of RightNOWLeaders, we dive deep into the heart of the 2026 MBK (My Brother's Keeper) symposium at the Westchester County Center. Commissioner Terrance V. Jackson sits down with Andre G. Early, representing the Department of Community Resources at the Theodore D. Young Community Center, to discuss the critical intersection of education, community advocacy, and youth development. This video explores the power of mentorship, the evolution of community-based organizations, and how bridging the gap between school districts and local resources can change lives.

MBK: More Than a Program, It's a Movement for Youth Success with Mary Fox-Alter

In this episode of RightNOWLeaders, we go inside the 2026 MBK Symposium at the Westchester County Center to discuss the transformative power of the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) program. We sit down with an experienced educator with 49 years of service, Ms. Mary Fox-Alter, to explore the vital role of superintendents, elected officials, and mentors in shaping the lives of young men. This conversation dives deep into the strategic importance of creating sustainable foundations in school districts, moving beyond anecdotal success to institutionalized opportunity.

Unpacking the School-to-Prison Pipeline: A Community's Solution with Dr. Corey Reynolds

In this inspiring episode of RightNOWLeaders, we go inside the 2026 MBK Symposium at the Westchester County Center to discuss the vital role of the My Brother's Keeper (MBK) initiative. Superintendent Dr. Corey Reynolds of the New Rochelle Public Schools, and local officials explore how intentional, service-oriented leadership is dismantling the school-to-prison pipeline. This conversation provides essential insights for educators, mentors, parents, and community leaders who are committed to cultivating vulnerable young people into empowered leaders. Dr. Reynolds shares profound wisdom on the importance of knowing one’s history, understanding the 'caterpillar effect' in mentorship, and viewing the diverse backgrounds of our youth as unique gifts rather than differences.

From Desegregation to 90% Graduation: Yonkers' MBK Transformation with Dr. Anibal Soler, Jr.

In this episode of RightNOWLeaders, we sit down with the Superintendent of Yonkers Public Schools, Dr. Anibal Soler, Jr. to explore the powerful impact of the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) symposium and initiative. The discussion dives deep into the history of MBK in Westchester, emphasizing how Yonkers transformed the program into a core pillar of their strategic district plan.

What Happens When a School District Refuses to Settle? with Dr. Eudes Budhai

In this episode of RightNOWLeaders, we sit down with Dr. Eudes Budhai, the Assistant Superintendent of the Peekskill School District, to discuss the transformative power of the My Brother’s Keeper (MBK) symposium. This insightful conversation dives into how school districts can collaborate with community leaders to create a supportive net that helps students thrive both academically and spiritually. We explore the vital importance of early financial literacy, the impact of mentorship programs like Black Diamonds, and the strategies Peekskill uses to produce top-tier graduates who go on to attend prestigious universities like Harvard and Columbia.

Plantations to Prisons: A Mayor's Take on Systemic Issues with Mayor Torrance Harvey

In this powerful episode of RightNOWLeaders, we delve into the 2026 MBK Symposium at the Westchester County Center. Mayor Torrance Harvey of Newburgh, New York, joins us for a candid conversation about his journey from growing up in public housing to becoming an educator and a two-term elected official. Throughout this interview, Mayor Harvey discusses his life's work rooted in the My Brother's Keeper movement, emphasizing the critical importance of mentoring young men of color. We explore the systemic challenges facing urban youth, including the 'school-to-prison pipeline' narrative and the impact of the New Jim Crow.

The Power of Mentorship: A 16-Year-Old's MBK Experience with Noah Valesquez

In this episode of the RightNOWLeaders podcast, we sit down with Noah Valesquez, an 11th-grade student at Gorton High School, to discuss the life-changing impact of the MBK symposium in Westchester. Noah shares his transition from a shy, self-described troublemaker to a focused young leader who utilizes community involvement to build his future. We dive into the core values of the MBK initiative, including brotherhood, mentorship, and academic growth.

Superintendent Reveals Secret to Empowering Youth: MBK's Impact! with Dr. Joseph Ricca

In this inspiring episode of RightNOWLeaders, we go on-site at the Westchester County Center for the 2026 My Brother's Keeper (MBK) Symposium. Join us for an exclusive, in-depth conversation with White Plains School District Superintendent Dr. Joseph Ricca as he explores the vital role of educational leadership in fostering success for young men of color.

How MBK Mentorship Transforms Lives: A Future Harvard Student's Perspective with Marcus Knight

In this episode of RightNOWLeaders, we sit down at the 2026 MBK Symposium at the Westchester County Center to discuss the transformative power of mentorship and advocacy. Our guest, Marcus Knight, a bright student committed to Harvard University, shares his journey as an MBK Fellow and explains how the program provided the essential support system necessary to overcome societal opportunity gaps

My Brother's Keeper: How It Transforms Students into Leaders with Leonard Oduro

In this powerful episode of RightNOWLeaders, we go on-site at the 2026 MBK (My Brother's Keeper) Symposium at the Westchester County Center (NY) to spotlight young leaders making a difference. Our guest, Leonard Oduro, a high-achieving student trustee from Mount Vernon (NY), shares his inspiring journey of community involvement, navigating college applications, and his dedication to the MBK movement.

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