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Feb 2025
1h 7m

Kwame Sarfo Mensah - Got Gemz to Tell

WILL DEYAMPORT, III, ED.D.
About this episode

Kwame Sarfo-Mensah is the founder of Identity Talk Consulting, LLC, a global educational consulting firm that specializes in developing K-12 teachers into identity-affirming educators. Additionally, Identity Talk Consulting, LLC is licensed as a DESE-approved professional development provider and a Minority Owned Enterprise within the Commonwealth for Massachusetts.  Prior to starting his firm, he served as a middle school math teacher in Philadelphia, PA and Boston, MA for nine years. Mr. Sarfo-Mensah holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and a Master’s Degree in Elementary Education from Temple University.  Throughout his 17-year education career as a classroom teacher, author, and consultant, Mr. Sarfo-Mensah has earned numerous accolades for this work, which include being honored as the 2019 National Member of the Year by Black Educators Rock, Inc. and being recognized as a Top Education Influencer by brightbeam, Inc. in 2021 and 2022. His work has been featured in Education Week, WGBH News, Edutopia, Ed Post, The International Educator (TIE), Teaching Channel, and The Tavis Smiley Show. His latest book, "Learning to Relearn: Supporting Identity in a Culturally Affirming Classroom", is out now.

Social Media Links:

WEBSITE - https://identitytalk4educators.com

INSTAGRAM - @kwam_the_identity_shaper

LINKEDIN - https://linkedin.com/in/kwame-sarfo-mensah

PATREON - https://patreon.com/kwamesarfomensah

YOUTUBE - https://www.youtube.com/@kwamesarfo-mensah5785

PODCAST - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/identity-talk-4-educators-live/id1509599570

Takeaways

  • Kwame Sarfo Mensah transitioned from sports to education.
  • He emphasizes the lack of Black teachers in schools.
  • 'Learning to Relearn' focuses on capacity building in education.
  • Names are an important part of identity in the classroom.
  • Consulting started as a response to inquiries about his book.
  • Podcasting helped him build an international network.
  • Networking is more important than a resume in consulting.
  • Collaboration is key in professional development.
  • His understanding of identity has evolved over time.
  • Authenticity is crucial in teaching and consulting. Identity is multifaceted and can create feelings of not belonging.
  • Engaging with diverse backgrounds enhances understanding and awareness.
  • The political climate significantly influences DEI initiatives in organizations.
  • Community support is crucial for those working towards social change.
  • Adapting strategies is necessary in response to political and social shifts.
  • Consultants face unique challenges in client engagement due to geographical constraints.
  • Outsourcing tasks can alleviate the burden of running a business.
  • Professional development is essential for consultants to stay relevant.
  • Multiple income streams can provide financial stability for consultants.
  • Networking with other professionals can lead to shared resources and opportunities.

Chapters

00:00Introduction to Kwame Sarfo Mensah

02:02Journey into Education and Teaching Philosophy

09:47Cultural Identity and Experiences in Boston

12:54Insights from 'Learning to Relearn' Book

18:05Starting Identity Talk Consulting

26:08The Role of Podcasting in Networking and Growth

35:51Bringing Authenticity into Teaching and Consulting

38:35Navigating Identity and Cultural Complexity

42:11The Impact of Political Climate on DEI Initiatives

47:33Building Community for Collective Action

52:52Adapting Strategies in a Changing Landscape

53:57Overcoming Challenges in Business Development

01:00:40Prioritizing Professional Development as a Consultant

 

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The book goes beyond the conventional business literature, providing a comprehensive roadmap from the initial idea to the successful launch and expansion of an education business.

______________________________________________________________________

 

The Edupreneur: Your Blueprint To Jumpstart And Scale Your Education Business

You’ve spent years in the classroom, leading PD, designing curriculum, and transforming how students learn. Now, it’s time to leverage that experience and build something for yourself. The Edupreneur isn’t just another book—it’s the playbook for educators who want to take their knowledge beyond the school walls and into a thriving business.

I wrote this book because I’ve been where you are. I know what it’s like to have the skills, the passion, and the drive but not know where to start. I break it all down—the mindset shifts, the business models, the pricing strategies, and the branding moves that will help you position yourself as a leader in this space.

Inside, you’ll learn how to:
✅ Turn your expertise into income streams—without feeling like a sellout
✅ Build a personal brand that commands respect (and top dollar)
✅ Market your work in a way that feels natural and impactful
✅ Navigate the business side of edupreneurship, from pricing to partnerships

Whether you want to consult, create courses, write books, or launch a podcast, this book will help you get there. Stop waiting for permission. Start building your own table.

📖 Grab your copy today and take control of your future.

Buy it from EduMatch Publishing https://edumatch-publishing.myshopify.com/collections/new-releases/products/the-edupreneur-by-dr-will

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