Our Children Need Roots and Wings

Most 20-year-olds are navigating college and career, but Azariah Nixon is charting a path grounded in faith, discipline, and purpose. From a childhood behind the drums in his church to becoming a young leader, Azariah reveals the transformative power of roots—particularly the strong foundation his family and faith provided—and how he’s using those roots to reach new heights. Discover how his journey from the sanctuary to the workfo...

In this episode, we sit down with Joseph P. Lewis, a veteran social worker, educator, and family historian, for a deep and personal conversation about the foundations that shape our children.

We journey back to our roots at Hollywood Elementary, discussing how the structured environment of a school built in 1927 provided a discipline that seems lost in many modern educational settings. Joseph shares powerful reflections on growing u...

In this in-depth interview, Principal Paul Jackson shares his journey from accountant to educational leader, highlighting the legacy of Scotlandville Magnet High School, community engagement, leadership philosophy, and innovative programs that prepare students for the future. In this episode, we explore the challenges and successes of education and community engagement in Scotlandville, highlighting innovative programs, community p...

In this moving and high-energy episode of the BRSTEM Podcast, we sit down with professional photographer Motelewa Smith of Motelewa Smith Photography.

Motelewa takes us on a deeply personal journey—from Baton Rouge to the creative hubs of Nashville—sharing the formative experiences that shaped his character long before he ever picked up a camera. He opens up about the pivotal, middle-of-the-night escape from a dangerous home situati...

In this powerful episode, Eric B. Lewis sits down with Isaiah Marshall to explore a life defined by service, transformation, and an unwavering commitment to family.

The conversation begins with Isaiah’s roots in New Orleans, tracing the path that eventually led him to Baton Rouge. Isaiah shares his candid initial impressions of the capital city and how he successfully translated his expertise into the world of workforce and small bu...

In this episode of the BRSTEM podcast, Eric Lewis interviews Corinthia Lee Jones, the founder of Grace Haven, a non-profit organization aimed at providing support and a nurturing environment for children and youth in need. Corinthia shares her personal journey, the inspiration behind Grace Haven, and the importance of love, mentorship, and educational support in helping children grow and thrive. The conversation explores the challe...

Why do so many students dread high school chemistry before they even step into the classroom? In this solo episode of the BRSTEM Podcast, we dive into the "stigma of fear" surrounding chemistry and how we can dismantle it by starting early with hands-on engagement.

Our Executive Director, Eric Lewis, shares our teams recent experiences conducting Chemical Reaction workshops with our partner schools, where we’ve seen firsthand how cu...

In this episode of the BRSTEM podcast, host Eric Lewis engages in a heartfelt conversation with is guest and brother Marcus about their upbringing, community involvement, and the challenges facing young people today. They reflect on their childhood experiences growing up in a large family, the values instilled by their parents, and the importance of community support. Marcus, who has risen to the position of Vice President of Funer...

In this episode of the BRSTEM podcast, host Eric Lewis engages with Jasmin Johnson, the Executive Director of the Baton Rouge Area Youth Network, to explore the critical role of youth development in the community. Jasmin emphasizes that youth support should be viewed as essential infrastructure rather than a mere service. With over a decade of experience in bridging gaps between schools, nonprofits, and stakeholders, she discusses ...

In this episode of the BR STEM Podcast, Eric Lewis interviews Vikki Lee, the owner of Rosebud Healthcare and Training. Vikki shares her journey as an entrepreneur and healthcare advocate, detailing the various entities under Rosebud, including a CNA training academy and a group home for boys. The conversation explores the challenges faced by young people in the community, the importance of mentorship, and the holistic support provi...

In this introductory episode of Season 2 of the BRSTEM Podcast, Eric B. Lewis, the Executive Director and Founder of Baton Rouge STEM, discusses the mission of the organization, which focuses on providing youth with foundational skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) while also empowering them to reach their full potential. He shares his personal journey from engineering to education, the launch of Baton...