Professor P

[Mini Series] Episode 18: Jesse Owen's in Today's World: The Relentless Pursuit of Greatness

What does it take to achieve greatness? In this episode, we dive into the extraordinary life of Jesse Owens, the legendary athlete who defied limits and redefined excellence. From his early struggles to his historic victories at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, Owens’ journey is a powerful lesson in hard work, resilience, and peak performance under pressure. Join us as we explore his mindset, discipline, and legacy, uncovering how his story can inspire us to push past obstacles and reach new heights in our own lives.
---------------------------------------------------------
Jesse Owens, born on September 12, 1913, in Oakville, Alabama, rose from humble beginnings to become one of the greatest athletes in history. The son of a sharecropper and the grandson of enslaved people, Owens moved with his family to Cleveland, Ohio, as part of the Great Migration. It was there that his talent for running was discovered, and under the mentorship of his high school coach, Charles Riley, he honed his speed and technique. Despite facing the realities of racial discrimination, Owens remained focused on his passion for track and field, determined to defy the odds stacked against him.
His rise to national stardom came at Ohio State University, where he became known as the "Buckeye Bullet." In one of the most extraordinary feats in sports history, Owens set three world records and tied another—all within 45 minutes—at the 1935 Big Ten Championships. This unprecedented display of athletic dominance showcased his unparalleled speed, agility, and determination, solidifying his reputation as a once-in-a-generation talent.
A year later, Owens stepped onto the world stage at the 1936 Berlin Olympics, where Adolf Hitler sought to use the Games as a propaganda tool to promote Aryan supremacy. Owens, however, had other plans. With grace, composure, and unmatched ability, he won four gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100-meter relay, humiliating Hitler’s racial ideology in front of the world. His friendship with German long jumper Luz Long became a powerful symbol of sportsmanship and human connection beyond political divides.
Despite his Olympic triumphs, Owens returned to a segregated America where he was denied many of the opportunities afforded to white athletes. With no endorsement deals and little financial support, he took on various jobs, including racing against horses for money. However, he never allowed his struggles to define him. Owens later became a motivational speaker and advocate for youth sports, using his platform to inspire future generations. In 1976, he was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, a long-overdue recognition of his contributions to sports and society.
Jesse Owens' legacy transcends athletics. He was not just a record-breaking sprinter but a symbol of resilience, courage, and excellence in the face of adversity. His story continues to inspire athletes and dreamers alike, proving that determination and character can overcome even the greatest obstacles. As he once said, “The battles that count aren’t the ones for gold medals. The struggles within yourself—the invisible battles inside all of us—that’s where it’s at.”
---------------------------------------------------------
FUN FACT: After his Olympic triumphs, Jesse Owens faced financial struggles despite his fame. In an effort to make a living, he became a barnstorming athlete, traveling around the U.S. and competing in races for money. Owens even raced against racehorses and cars at times to entertain crowds. This side of his career was far from glamorous, but it demonstrated his determination to provide for his family while navigating the racial barriers of the time.

Episode 39: The Role of Time in Happiness (Podcast with UCLA Professor and Bestselling Author, Dr.Cassie Holmes) [LEADERSHIP SERIES]

What it does it mean to live a "time focused life"?
“How we spend to our time sums up our life” Dr. Cassie Holmes
In this episode, we explore the role of time in happiness and what it truly means to live a “time-focused life.” Our guest, Cassie Holmes—UCLA professor, bestselling author of Happier Hour, and leading expert on time perception and well-being— shares insights on how we can reframe our approach to time to cultivate more fulfillment in our daily lives.
We’ll also dive into practical lessons from The Blue Zones of Happiness, uncovering what the world’s happiest regions teach us about structuring our time for greater joy and meaning. Finally, in our last segment, one of my former students, Kayla Nahbi, joins us to share her personal take on the topic and how time management has influenced her own sense of happiness.
Join us for this engaging conversation that blends science, practical wisdom, and real-life experiences to help you rethink the way you spend your most valuable resource—time.
*Act of Kindness: Giving a compliment.
-----------------------------
Dr. Cassie Holmes is a professor of behavioral decision making at UCLA Anderson School of Management and an award-winning researcher and teacher. Her work focuses on the intersection of time and happiness, exploring how individuals can make better choices to lead more fulfilling lives. Dr.Cassie’s research has been published in leading academic journals and featured in media outlets such as The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post.
She is the author of the book Happier Hour: How to Beat Distraction, Expand Your Time, and Focus on What Matters Most, where she offers science-backed strategies to help people feel more joyful and purposeful in their everyday lives. With a PhD from Stanford University, Dr.Cassie is passionate about helping people make the most of their time and live with greater meaning and happiness.
-----------------------------
As part of encouraging act of kindness, Professor P Podcast donates monthly to Animal Love Rescue center, located in Costa Rica. Animal love is a no-kill rescue center, a non-profit organization with a clear mission: to save animals’ lives, stop cruelty through education, adoption, and rehoming. In the last 18 years, these 16 compassionate individuals have dedicated themselves to giving hurt and neglected animals a loving home where they can thrive, feel cherished, and be supported. For more information visit their website: https://animallove.cr/

[Mini Series] Episode 17: Socrates in Today's World: The Courage to Question and the Power of Thought

What does it mean to truly live a meaningful life? Join us as we explore the wisdom of Socrates, the legendary philosopher who taught the world the power of questioning, self-examination, and intellectual humility. From challenging assumptions to standing up for one’s beliefs, Socrates' ideas remain strikingly relevant today. In this episode, we’ll dive into his philosophy, his bold approach to dialogue, and his ultimate sacrifice for truth. Discover how applying his principles can transform the way we think, communicate, and grow in our daily lives.
---------------------------------------------------------
Socrates (470–399 BCE) was a Greek philosopher from Athens, often considered the father of Western philosophy. Unlike other philosophers of his time, he wrote nothing down, and his ideas are known through the works of his students, particularly Plato. He spent his life questioning politicians, poets, and craftsmen, exposing ignorance and encouraging deeper thought. His commitment to truth and philosophy ultimately led to his trial and execution, where he was accused of corrupting the youth and disrespecting the gods of Athens. Instead of fleeing, Socrates chose to drink hemlock, believing it was better to die with integrity than to compromise his principles. His legacy profoundly shaped ethics, logic, and the very nature of philosophical inquiry.
---------------------------------------------------------
Fun fact: Socrates was sentenced to death for “corrupting the youth” and “impiety”, but he had a chance to escape. His friends, including Plato, arranged for his escape from prison, yet Socrates refused to flee. He believed that obeying the laws of Athens—even unjust ones—was part of his moral duty. Instead, he calmly drank the poisonous hemlock, engaging in philosophical discussion until his final moments, solidifying his legacy as a thinker who lived and died by his principles.

Episode 38: The Beauty of the Mess: Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool (Podcast with an Award-Winning Educator and TED Speaker, Dr.Ramsey Musallam) [LEADERSHIP SERIES]

Why is it important to "embrace the mess" in education?
"Curiosity can be a manipulative strategy to help someone learn something new" Dr. Ramsey Musallam
In this thought-provoking episode, we sit down with Dr. Ramsey Musallam, an award-winning educator and advocate for curiosity-driven learning, to explore the profound importance of "embracing the mess" in education. Together, we unpack what it truly means to embrace failure as an essential part of the learning process and why traditional education often avoids it. Dr. Musallam shares his insights on how a mindset shift around failure can empower students to face challenges with confidence and resilience.
We dive into the critical role curiosity plays in reframing failure as an opportunity for growth and creativity. Dr. Musallam also offers actionable steps for educators to create classroom environments where students feel safe to take risks, make mistakes, and learn from them. Drawing from his own teaching experiences, he illustrates how embracing the mess has led to transformative learning moments.
This episode also includes practical lessons from the book Fail Fast, Fail Often by Dr. John Krumboltz, highlighting the value of taking action, learning through experience, and iterating quickly. Additionally, we feature a perspective from one of my former students, Mayra Quezada, who shares her insights on navigating failure in both academic and professional settings.
If you’re an educator, parent, or lifelong learner curious about how failure can become the foundation for innovation and deeper understanding, this episode will inspire you to rethink the way you approach teaching and learning.
 
*Act of Kindness suggested by our guests: Sharing new ideas you have with your teacher; Having empathy towards other individuals and listening to them.
-----------------------------
Dr. Ramsey Musallam is a pioneering educator, author, and speaker dedicated to transforming the way students engage with learning. With over two decades of experience in the classroom, he currently teaches science at Sonoma Academy in Santa Rosa, California, where he brings chemistry, biology, and robotics to life through hands-on experimentation and inquiry-based learning.
Beyond his work as a teacher, Dr. Musallam is an adjunct professor of education, having taught at institutions such as the University of San Francisco, Sonoma State University, and Concordia University. His expertise extends into coaching competitive robotics teams and directing invention camps, where he fosters creativity and innovation among young minds.
Dr. Musallam gained international recognition for his TED Talk, 3 Rules to Spark Learning, which was featured in TED’s first-ever PBS TV premiere, TED Talks Education. In his talk, he highlights the power of student curiosity as the foundation for deep learning—an idea that continues to inspire educators worldwide.
As the author of Spark Learning: 3 Keys to Embracing the Power of Student Curiosity, Dr. Musallam challenges traditional teaching methods and encourages educators to design lessons that provoke curiosity and critical thinking. His work has been featured on platforms like NPR, Edutopia, and the Huffington Post, further cementing his influence in the field of education.
Dr. Musallam holds a doctorate in educational technology and a passion for integrating cutting-edge pedagogical research into real-world classroom practices. Whether in the classroom, on stage, or in the pages of his book, he remains committed to empowering teachers and students to embrace curiosity, creativity, and lifelong learning.
-----------------------------
As part of encouraging act of kindness, Professor P Podcast donates monthly to Animal Love Rescue center, located in Costa Rica. Animal love is a no-kill rescue center, a non-profit organization with a clear mission: to save animals’ lives, stop cruelty through education, adoption, and rehoming. In the last 18 years, these 16 compassionate individuals have dedicated themselves to giving hurt and neglected animals a loving home where they can thrive, feel cherished, and be supported. For more information visit their website: https://animallove.cr/
 

Official Professor P's Trailer Olympic Series (Coming Soon)

What does it truly take to become an Olympian? Beyond the medals and podium moments, there is an untold story of discipline, resilience, and the mental battles that define the world’s greatest athletes.In this new series of Professor P Podcast, we sit down with Olympic athletes to explore the highs and lows of their journey—grueling training sessions, overcoming setbacks, and the mindset that separates champions from the rest. These conversations go beyond competition, offering powerful insights into what it means to push human potential to its limits.
Whether you are an athlete, coach, or someone striving for excellence in any field, this series will give you a rare look into the habits and thought processes that drive success at the highest level.The first episode drops March 31st. Stay Tuned!

[Mini Series] Episode 16:Khalil Gibran in Today's World: The Seeker of Truth and Poet of the Soul

In this episode, we explore the life and philosophy of Khalil Gibran, the Lebanese-American poet and philosopher whose timeless work continues to inspire. We dive into his thoughts on love as a transformative force, freedom with responsibility, and the role of pain in shaping personal growth. Gibran’s belief in the interconnectedness of humanity and the power of creativity offers profound lessons for living with purpose in today’s world. Join us as we reflect on The Prophet and Gibran’s other writings, discovering how his wisdom can guide us toward deeper connection, inner peace, and personal fulfillment. Whether you’re familiar with his work or encountering it for the first time, this conversation will leave you inspired to engage with life more authentically and compassionately.
---------------------------------------------------------
Khalil Gibran (1883–1931) was a Lebanese-American poet, writer, and artist whose work transcends cultural and religious boundaries. Born in the village of Bsharri in present-day Lebanon, Gibran emigrated to the United States with his family at a young age. He spent much of his life in Boston and later Paris, where he immersed himself in art and literature. His most famous work, The Prophet (1923), is a collection of poetic essays on topics such as love, freedom, joy, and sorrow. Gibran’s writings reflect a blend of Eastern mysticism and Western philosophy, making his ideas accessible to a global audience. Known for his deeply humanistic worldview, Gibran's work continues to inspire readers to live with purpose, compassion, and authenticity.
---------------------------------------------------------
Fun fact: Khalil Gibran was not just a writer but also a talented painter and illustrator. He created numerous artworks, often using mystical and symbolic imagery that paralleled the themes in his writings. Some of his paintings were even exhibited alongside works by Auguste Rodin. Gibran believed that art and literature were deeply connected, using both mediums to explore spirituality, love, and the human condition. Many of his books, including The Prophet, were originally published with his own illustrations.

Episode 37:The Rise of Evidence-Based Medicine (Podcast with Officer of the Order of Canada and Educator Renowned for Pioneering Evidence-Based Medicine, Dr.Gordon Guyatt) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

How did evidence-based medicine become a core principle in healthcare, and what does this reveal about the future of clinical practice?
“ For your goal to come into fruition, the context plays an important role but be also ready for criticism and disappointment along the way” Dr.Gordon Guyatt
In this episode, we dive into the fascinating journey of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) with its pioneer, Dr. Gordon Guyatt. Dr. Guyatt shares the story of how EBM evolved from a groundbreaking concept to a foundational principle in modern healthcare. We discuss the early resistance to EBM, the challenges of integrating research with clinical expertise, and the role of patient values in treatment decisions. Dr. Guyatt also explores how EBM has transformed patient care, guided the development of clinical guidelines, and continues to adapt in the age of big data and AI.
In addition, we explore practical lessons from Cognitive Behavior Therapy by Dr. Judith Beck, providing insights into how CBT principles intersect with evidence-based approaches in healthcare. Sophie Grigoryan, my former student, also shares her perspective on part of the discussion, offering a fresh lens on the topic.
Join us as we uncover the impact of EBM on medicine today and what it reveals about the future of clinical practice
 
*Act of kindness: As much as possible accept people as they are; be as empathetic as possible to people specially to children.
-----------------------------
Dr. Gordon Guyatt is a Distinguished Professor of Medicine at McMaster University and a Senior Scientist at the McMaster Health Forum, internationally recognized as the pioneer of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM). His groundbreaking work has transformed how clinical research is conducted, interpreted, and applied in patient care.
Dr. Guyatt earned his MD from McMaster University and later completed his Master’s in Clinical Epidemiology at the same institution. In 1992, he coined the term Evidence-Based Medicine, introducing a paradigm shift that prioritizes integrating the best available research with clinical expertise and patient values. His influence extends across multiple fields, shaping medical education, healthcare policy, and clinical practice guidelines worldwide.
A prolific researcher, Dr. Guyatt has authored over 1,000 peer-reviewed publications, ranking among the world’s most cited medical scientists. His contributions to methodology in systematic reviews, randomized trials, and guideline development have set global standards for healthcare decision-making.
Throughout his career, Dr. Guyatt has received numerous accolades, including being named an Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honors, in recognition of his impact on medicine and public health. He is also a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and has received multiple lifetime achievement awards for his contributions to evidence-based healthcare.
Beyond his research, Dr. Guyatt is a dedicated educator, mentoring generations of clinicians and researchers in critical thinking and the application of EBM principles. His work continues to evolve in the era of big data and artificial intelligence, ensuring that medical practice remains rooted in rigorous scientific evidence.
-----------------------------
As part of encouraging act of kindness, Professor P Podcast donates monthly to Animal Love Rescue center, located in Costa Rica. Animal love is a no-kill rescue center, a non-profit organization with a clear mission: to save animals’ lives, stop cruelty through education, adoption, and rehoming. In the last 18 years, these 16 compassionate individuals have dedicated themselves to giving hurt and neglected animals a loving home where they can thrive, feel cherished, and be supported. For more information visit their website: https://animallove.cr/

[Mini Series] Episode 15: Rumi in Today's World: A Poet’s Journey to Love, Unity, and the Soul’s Awakening

In this episode, we dive into the life and philosophy of Rumi, the 13th-century Persian poet and mystic whose words continue to inspire across cultures and generations. We explore the transformative power of love, the wisdom of surrendering to life’s flow, and the importance of seeking truth within. Rumi’s teachings challenge us to embrace pain as part of growth, connect with others beyond labels, and live authentically in harmony with the universe. Join us as we reflect on Rumi’s poetic wisdom and discover how his insights can guide us in finding meaning, peace, and connection in today’s chaotic world. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a lover of poetry, or simply curious about life’s mysteries, this episode offers timeless lessons to inspire your journey.
 
 
---------------------------------------------------------
Jalal al-Din Muhammad Rumi (1207–1273), commonly known as Rumi, was a 13th-century Persian poet, mystic, and Sufi scholar. Born in present-day Afghanistan, Rumi spent much of his life in Konya, Turkey, where he became a renowned spiritual teacher. His life changed profoundly after meeting Shams of Tabriz, a wandering mystic who became his spiritual companion and inspired much of his poetry. After Shams’s mysterious disappearance, Rumi channeled his longing and love into his poetry, resulting in some of the most beautiful and influential verses in world literature. His magnum opus, The Masnavi, consists of six volumes of poetic wisdom. Rumi’s work explores themes of love, unity, inner transformation, and the divine, transcending religious boundaries and resonating with people across cultures and centuries. Today, Rumi’s poetry remains a global source of spiritual insight, inviting readers to embrace love, unity, and the mysteries of existence.
---------------------------------------------------------
Fun fact: Rumi’s practice of whirling dance as a form of spiritual meditation gave birth to the tradition of the Whirling Dervishes, still practiced today by the Mevlevi order. Rumi believed that spinning in circles mirrored the movement of celestial bodies and brought the dancer closer to divine unity. This ecstatic dance became both a symbol of spiritual enlightenment and a powerful way to express love and devotion to the divine.

Episode 36: Breaking Down Myths About the Brain: Communication, Emotion, and Laughter (Podcast with Award-Winning Science Communicator and TED Speaker, Dr.Sophie Scott) [INFLUENCE SERIES]

What are some misconceptions about how the brain works, especially when it comes to communication, emotion, and laughter?
"Pay attention to who you share your laughter with, as laughter strengthens connections, and remember that your brain is always a work in progress, constantly learning and embracing new things." With Dr. Sophie Scott
Are we using only 10% of our brain? Do left-brained people think differently from the right-brained ones? These are just a few of the myths we’ll dismantle in this eye-opening episode. Joined by the brilliant Dr. Sophie Scott, neuroscientist and expert in communication and laughter, we explore the truth about how our brain works. Discover how our brain processes emotions, builds connections through laughter, and shapes how we communicate.
We'll also draw inspiration from the book The Hidden Brain, highlighting practical lessons on understanding human behavior and decision-making. Plus, in a special segment, graduate student Mounir joins us to share his insights on how these ideas resonate with today’s students.
Get ready to rethink what you know about your brain and learn how these insights can impact your life, relationships, and even your sense of humor!
 
*Act of kindness: Talk with someone who you havent spoken in a while ; smile at a stranger.
-----------------------------
Dr. Sophie Scott is a distinguished Professor of Cognitive Neuroscience and Director of the Institute of Cognitive Neuroscience at University College London (UCL). Her pioneering research explores the neuroscience of human communication, with a special focus on laughter, emotion, and speech processing. As a celebrated science communicator, Dr. Scott delivered a widely acclaimed TED Talk on the science of laughter and is the recipient of the prestigious Royal Society’s Michael Faraday Prize for her exceptional ability to make complex science accessible to the public. A Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences, she has published extensively on vocal communication and humor, offering profound insights into how our brains process emotion and connect through language.
 -----------------------------
As part of encouraging act of kindness, Professor P Podcast donates monthly to Animal Love Rescue center, located in Costa Rica. Animal love is a no-kill rescue center, a non-profit organization with a clear mission: to save animals’ lives, stop cruelty through education, adoption, and rehoming. In the last 18 years, these 16 compassionate individuals have dedicated themselves to giving hurt and neglected animals a loving home where they can thrive, feel cherished, and be supported. For more information visit their website: https://animallove.cr/

[Mini Series] Episode 14: Salvador Dalí In Today’s World: The Art of Eccentricity and Living Without Limits

In this episode, we explore the extraordinary life and philosophy of Salvador Dalí, the surrealist artist who blurred the lines between dreams and reality. Known for his eccentric personality, iconic paintings, and relentless creativity, Dalí’s philosophy extends beyond art into every corner of life. We discuss Dalí’s lessons on embracing the absurd, living authentically, and tapping into the power of the subconscious mind. Learn how his unique approach to creativity, individuality, and persistence can inspire you to live more boldly and embrace the unexpected twists of life. Whether you're an artist or simply seeking to break free from conventional thinking, Dalí's legacy offers profound insights on becoming the masterpiece of your own life.
---------------------------------------------------------
Salvador Dalí (1904–1989) was a Spanish surrealist artist known for his eccentric personality and groundbreaking artwork. Born in the town of Figueres, Catalonia, Dalí showed an early interest in art and was trained in fine arts in Madrid. His involvement with the surrealist movement in the 1920s and '30s transformed his career, as he developed his distinctive style of dreamlike imagery and surreal landscapes. Some of his most famous works include The Persistence of Memory (with its iconic melting clocks) and The Elephants. Dalí's flamboyant persona, characterized by his signature mustache, lavish lifestyle, and bizarre public stunts, made him a cultural icon. In addition to visual art, Dalí worked across multiple media, including film, fashion, and literature, collaborating with artists like Luis Buñuel and Walt Disney. Though criticized for his behavior and shifting political views, Dalí left a lasting legacy, redefining what art could be.
---------------------------------------------------------
*Fun Fact: When Salvador Dalí met Sigmund Freud in 1938, he was thrilled to meet the man whose ideas on the subconscious deeply influenced his art. Initially skeptical of Dalí’s eccentricity, Freud softened as Dalí sketched his portrait, remarking that Dalí was "either a complete madman or a genius." The encounter left Freud both fascinated and intrigued by the artist.