In this episode of Z Rated Success, Nick “The Zebra” Zizi sits down with Bennie Williams for a powerful conversation about fear, opportunity, student success, and what it means to help students become comfortable being uncomfortable.
Bennie brings over 12 years of experience in higher education, student affairs, multicultural education, diversity, equity, and inclusion work, and now K–8 education as a third-grade ELA teacher. In this conversation, he shares lessons from his own journey, including the opportunities he missed because of fear and how that experience now shapes the way he encourages students to try, take risks, and keep going.
This episode is especially valuable for educators, school leaders, student affairs professionals, TRIO and GEAR UP teams, and anyone committed to helping students make better decisions and develop the confidence to grow.
In this episode, we discuss:
- Why fear causes students and educators to miss opportunities
- How to help students become comfortable being uncomfortable
- Why trying matters, even when students do not know the answer
- How educators can use accountability language without discouraging students
- Why emotional regulation is critical before students get to college
- What actually sticks with students after a program, lesson, or experience
- How representation and real examples help students build identity
- Why educators also need to reignite their passion and take care of themselves
Memorable takeaway:
Fear should not be the thing that makes the decision. Students need educators who help them take risks, try, fail, learn, and keep moving forward.
About the Guest:
Bennie Williams has over 12 years of experience in higher education, particularly in student affairs, multicultural education, student leadership, and DEI work. He recently transitioned into K–8 education as a third-grade ELA teacher, where he continues helping students learn, grow, develop confidence, and prepare for real-life situations.
Connect with Bennie:
LinkedIn: Bennie Darnell Williams
Instagram: @theofficialmrcanisius
Learn more about Z-Rated Success:
Visit zratedsuccess.com
Bring Nick Zizi’s Decision Lab keynote or training to your campus, district, or conference:
Visit nickzizi.com