EPISODE
114
114. Same Kids, Same City, Almost Four Times the Results with Dr. Sally Parish
In this episode of Driven By, Sam Coates sits down with Dr. Sally Gates Parish — the accidental superintendent behind University Schools at the University of Memphis. Her schools are ranked in the top three in the state. She has 1,300 kids enrolled and 1,500 more on the waiting list. And she never applied for the job.
EPISODE
112
112. Higher Standards in Higher Ed’s Hardest Era with Dr. Bill Hardgrave
In this episode of Driven By, Sam sits down with Dr. Hardgrave to discuss the future of higher education, leadership in difficult moments and what it means to make decisions with the long game in mind. They also dive into Hardgrave’s own story from growing up in rural Arkansas as a first-generation high school graduate to leading one of Memphis’ most important institutions.
EPISODE
110
110. Burning the Ships in Memphis: The Fight to Keep a School in the City with Trent Williamson
Trent Williamson shares the remarkable story of Harding Academy’s counter-cultural decision to remain in Memphis — a choice that brought real hardship but lasting transformation. He also reflects with striking honesty on leading through a battle with stage IV pancreatic cancer, offering a powerful perspective on faith and resilience.
EPISODE
109
109. Buried $500K Drug Cash, Prison Plea with God, Bootstrapped Boarding School with Melvin Cole
Some stories don’t fit neatly into a redemption arc. Melvin Cole’s is one of them. This episode isn’t polished inspiration. It’s an honest conversation about trauma, responsibility, faith and what it actually takes to change outcomes: not just for individuals, but for communities.
EPISODE
86
“So You Want To Rethink High School?” With Ryan Pryor Crosstown High School
EPISODE
42
“Living Out The Dreams Of Others Before You” with Dr. Tracy D. Hall
EPISODE
20
What Does it Take to Bridge the Gap in Educational Inequality?
EPISODE
