The We Are All Awesome Show

We Are All Awesome Show is the go-to podcast for parents, students, educators, and changemakers in the K-12 space. Hosted by Carter Higley, Founder of WiddyUp, this show spotlights the dreamers, doers, and impact-makers shaping the future of education.

Each episode dives into the inspiring stories of students, parents, and leaders making a difference while tackling key topics that affect schools today. From fundraising strategies and scholarship insights to game-changing education trends, We Are All Awesome is your resource for making a bigger impact in the K-12 world.

Brought to you by WiddyUp—the fun, video-driven fundraising platform flipping the script on traditional school fundraising. Tune in, get inspired, and start making waves! Let’s WiddyUP!

Episodes

Jul 22, 2026

25 min

In this episode of We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, host Carter Higley sits down with rising high school sophomore Camille Grigsby to explore her journey of discovering a passion for theater. Camille shares how trying everything from basketball and track to choir and sewing helped her realize that success isn't about finding your passion overnight. It's about staying curious, embracing new experiences, and trusting the process until something truly clicks.
Camille also reflects on the mentors who shaped her journey, the lessons theater has taught her about confidence, patience, and communication, and why young people should never be afraid to keep exploring new opportunities. Whether you're a student searching for your purpose or a parent, teacher, or mentor supporting someone else's journey, this conversation is a reminder that finding your "thing" starts with simply taking the first step.
 
Key Takeaways:
Try different activities until you discover what genuinely excites you.
Great mentors can help unlock potential you didn't know you had.
Confidence, communication, and consistency are skills that extend far beyond the stage.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow #WiddyUP #CamilleGrigsby #MattWard #FindYourThing #Theater #StudentSuccess #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #Leadership #Mentorship #Confidence #CommunicationSkills #HighSchool #GrowthMindset #KeepTrying #CareerJourney #Inspiration #Podcast #Education
 
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Jul 22, 2026

25 min

Jun 19, 2026

36 min

In this inspiring episode of We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, recent high school graduate Emerson Hawkins shares how a lifelong curiosity for understanding how things work led her from robotics competitions and NASA engineering programs to a future in biomedical science. Emerson reflects on seven years with the Jackson Hole RoboBroncs robotics team, the power of mentorship, and how following her passions helped shape her confidence, leadership skills, and vision for the future.
The conversation also explores personal growth, resilience, and the importance of building a community that supports your authentic self. Emerson opens up about navigating challenges during high school, staying true to her interests despite social pressures, and her mission to advance women's health research. As she prepares to study Biomedical Sciences at the University of Melbourne, she shares valuable lessons for young people about self-determination, purpose, and creating a life aligned with their values.
Key Takeaways:
Stay passionate about what you love, even when it feels different from what others are doing.
Strong communities and authentic relationships help you overcome challenges and grow with confidence.
Your curiosity, dedication, and willingness to stay true to yourself can create opportunities to make a meaningful impact in the world.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow#WiddyUP#Podcast#PodcastLife#PodcastEpisode#Leadership#PersonalGrowth#StudentSuccess#Robotics#STEM#Engineering#BiomedicalScience#WomenInSTEM#WomenInScience#Innovation#NASA#FutureLeaders#Authenticity#StayPassionate#CommunityMatters#Confidence#Resilience#GrowthMindset#YouthLeadership#Inspiration 
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Jun 19, 2026

36 min

Jun 4, 2026

47 min

What happens when talent meets courage, discipline, and opportunity? In this inspiring episode of We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, host Carter Higley sits down with the Four Tuscan Troubadours, Malachi Bowes II, Ezell Carey, Gabe, and Alex, students from the renowned Duke Ellington School of the Arts. The group shares their journey from passionate young performers to earning the opportunity to study and perform in Tuscany, Italy, where they will deepen their vocal training and immerse themselves in the birthplace of classical music.
The conversation explores the realities of pursuing excellence in the arts, balancing demanding schedules, overcoming self-doubt, and taking chances before feeling ready. From audition stories and career aspirations to lessons on confidence, perseverance, and personal growth, these young artists offer wisdom far beyond their years. Whether you're a student, entrepreneur, creative, or parent, this episode is a reminder that passion grows when you commit to it. Opportunities often begin with a single leap of faith.
🔥 Key Takeaways
Be your own motivator. Your future depends on the actions you take today.Take the chance, even when you doubt yourself. Opportunities often come from simply showing up.Stop comparing your journey to others. Focus on your growth and trust your path.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow #WiddyUP #Podcast #PodcastEpisode #PodcastLife #PodcastCommunity #Inspiration #Motivation #PersonalGrowth #Leadership #Mindset #SuccessMindset #TakeTheChance #BelieveInYourself #SelfMotivation #ArtsEducation #YoungArtists #ClassicalMusic #Opera #VocalPerformance #MusicEducation #PerformingArts #StudentSuccess #FutureLeaders #CreativeJourney #Tuscany #ItalyExperience #DukeEllingtonSchoolOfTheArts #FourTuscanTroubadours #MakeItCount
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase what you do in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP
 
 

Jun 4, 2026

47 min

May 18, 2026

24 min

In this inspiring episode of the We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, host Carter Higley sits down with high school sophomore Atticus Lavelle to discuss how a lack of safe skating spaces in Ennis, Montana, sparked a youth-led movement. What began as conversations around a dining room table turned into public presentations, fundraising events, marketing campaigns, and nearly $300,000 raised toward building a community skate park. Atticus shares his passion for skateboarding, skiing, creativity, and how stepping outside his comfort zone helped him grow into a confident young leader.
This episode explores much more than skateboarding. Carter and Atticus dive into topics such as public speaking, overcoming the fear of failure, community engagement, youth entrepreneurship, and building a future around passion and purpose. With support from local families, Montana State University students, and Pearl Jam bassist Jeff Ament, Atticus learned that young people can create real change when they stop waiting for permission and start taking action. This conversation is packed with inspiration for students, parents, educators, and anyone interested in leadership, creativity, and community-driven projects.
🔥 Key Takeaways
Ideas become reality when you take action: A simple conversation at home grew into a community-backed skate park project with major fundraising success.
Confidence grows through failure and experience: Atticus shares how skateboarding, public speaking, and putting himself out there helped him stop fearing judgment.
Passion should guide your future: From skiing to teaching kids, Atticus explains why meaningful work matters more than chasing money alone.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow #WiddyUP#CarterHigley#AtticusLavelle #Skatepark #Skateboarding #YouthLeadership #CommunityImpact #Montana #TeenEntrepreneur #PublicSpeaking #Fundraising #SkateCulture #StudentSuccess #CreativeYouth #DreamBig #BuildSomething #Leadership #YouthEmpowerment #SmallTownBigDreams #PurposeDriven #Inspiration #Podcast #PodcastEpisode #SelfGrowth #ActionTakers #CommunityBuilding #SkateLife #FollowYourPassion #Motivation #GenZCreators 
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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Apple
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

May 18, 2026

24 min

Jan 15, 2026

48 min

In this powerful and refreshingly honest episode of the We Are All Awesome Show, hosts Carter Higley and Coach Randy sit down with high school senior Eugene Spankie Higley to cut through the noise of the college application process. From balancing 15+ hours a week as a competitive swimmer to rebuilding a ceramics portfolio under deadline pressure, Eugene shares what it’s really like to apply to college without a perfect GPA, and why authenticity, curiosity, and persistence matter more than check-the-box metrics. This conversation dives into college fit, holistic admissions, and how students can stand out through essays, extracurriculars, and personal stories that go beyond test scores.
Listeners will gain real-world insight into navigating the Common App, FAFSA, CSS Profile, athletic recruitment, and the emotional highs and lows of acceptances and rejections. Eugene opens up about refining his essays after a denial, leveraging passions like art, faith-based leadership, and environmental curiosity, and why smaller colleges with strong faculty relationships changed his outlook. Whether you’re a student, parent, or educator, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking clarity, confidence, and strategy in the college journey, without chasing perfection.
🔥 Key Takeaways
College fit beats perfect stats: Schools look at the whole student: passions, leadership, essays, and resilience matter as much as GPA and test scores.
Rejection isn’t the end; it’s feedback: Use denials to refine essays, portfolios, and applications, and don’t be afraid to recalibrate or appeal.Start early and tell your real story: Strong essays, meaningful extracurriculars, and understanding financial aid (FAFSA & CSS) can change outcomes dramatically.
#CollegeJourney#CollegeBound#AdmissionsAdvice#CollegePlanning#ApplyingToCollege#CollegeTips#AdmissionsSeason#DreamSchool#CollegeDecisions#HighSchoolLife#StudentMindset#GrowthOverGrades#BeyondTheGPA#ResilientStudents#AuthenticEducation#PurposeDriven#StudentAthlete#SwimmerLife#AthleticRecruiting#ExtracurricularsMatter#LeadershipInSports#AthletesInSchool#ArtPortfolio#CreativeStudents#HolisticEducation#MoreThanGrades#PassionProjects#FindYourWhy
 
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
Website
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Apple
Spotify
🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Jan 15, 2026

48 min

Jan 6, 2026

35 min

In this insightful episode of the We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter Higley and Coach Randy Narciso sit down with high school senior Finna Halsey for a real, unfiltered look at the college application journey. From navigating the Common App and supplemental essays to choosing liberal arts schools and defining “college fit,” Finna shares what it’s actually like to apply to college today. As a nationally competitive speech and debate leader with a 4.0 GPA, Finna breaks down how curiosity, consistency, and self-awareness shape a compelling college story.This conversation goes beyond applications, diving deep into financial aid, FAFSA, scholarships, and the power of open family conversations about money. Coach Randy delivers must-hear guidance on need-based vs. merit-based aid, while Finna offers practical advice for students and parents on starting early, staying organized, and reducing stress in the process. Whether you’re a student planning ahead or a parent supporting the journey, this episode is a roadmap to making confident, informed college decisions, without the overwhelm.
🔥 Key Takeaways
College fit matters more than prestige: Align your interests, values, and goals with the right academic, social, and financial environment.
Consistency wins in applications: Essays, recommendations, and activities should all reinforce the same core story.
Don’t fear the sticker price:  Understanding financial aid, FAFSA timing, and scholarships can dramatically change what’s affordable.
 
#CollegeAdmissions#CollegeApplication#CollegeBound#HighSchoolSenior#CollegePlanning#ApplyingToCollege#CollegeTips#HighSchoolLife#FutureCollegeStudent#StudentSuccess#CollegeParents#PayingForCollege#FAFSA#Scholarships#FinancialAid#CollegeFit#CollegeEssays#StudentLeadership#AcademicSuccess#EducationMatters#WeAreAllAwesome#WiddyUP#AwesomeStudents#NextGenLeaders#YouTubeShorts#PodcastClips#StudentTok#EduTok
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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Apple
Spotify
🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Jan 6, 2026

35 min

Dec 25, 2025

39 min

In this episode of the We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter and Randy sit down with standout student-athlete Tyler Vuille to uncover what it really takes to excel in one of the nation’s toughest basketball leagues while maintaining top-tier academic performance. Tyler opens up about his journey from early struggles with confidence to becoming a disciplined, faith-driven leader who dominates on the court and in the classroom. He breaks down his mindset for preparation, visualization, emotional control, and how faith, humility, and daily habits have shaped his transformation as both a player and a person.
The conversation also dives deep into leadership culture, team chemistry, his breakout experience competing internationally in the Philippines, and how he balanced rigorous academics, including five AP classes, while playing major varsity minutes. Tyler shares powerful insights on building confidence, stacking meaningful practice reps, adapting under pressure, and creating a supportive environment for younger teammates. Whether you're an athlete, parent, or student seeking to elevate your performance, Tyler’s story offers real-world inspiration and actionable strategies to enhance your mindset and work ethic.
🔥 Key Takeaways
Preparation builds confidence: visualize, practice with intention, and treat every rep like game day.Leadership is service: culture grows when you set the example and uplift your teammates.Faith + discipline = growth: consistency in prayer, meditation, and daily habits fuels high performance.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow#WiddyUP#StudentAthlete#HighSchoolBasketball#AthleteMindset#FaithDriven#LeadershipMatters#PerformanceMindset#StudentSuccess#BasketballLife#HardWorkPaysOff#AthleteJourney#MindsetShift#DisciplineEqualsFreedom#GrindMode#ConfidenceBuilding#NextGenLeaders#AcademicExcellence#HoopCulture#AthleteMotivationFind The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer, or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Dec 25, 2025

39 min

Dec 20, 2025

44 min

In this episode of the We Are All Awesome Show powered by WiddyUP, Carter and Randy sit down with standout high school senior Harper Mollinet, who breaks down exactly what it takes to navigate the modern college admissions maze. From juggling leadership roles in Best Buddies, Model UN, Key Club, NHS, lacrosse, and more, Harper walks listeners through how she built a powerful application profile while staying academically strong with a 4.0 GPA and a rigorous AP schedule. Her story offers students and parents a real-world look at how to balance extracurriculars, academics, and personal passions in a competitive admissions landscape.
Harper also shares a step-by-step breakdown of her entire application process, from researching schools and managing deadlines to writing essays, choosing between the SAT and ACT, and using tools like Common App and the UC Application. She explains how she created a strategic list of 15 schools across reach, target, and safety categories while staying organized using Google Calendar and a weekly task planning system. Whether you’re a freshman just getting started or a senior deep into applications, this episode is filled with practical insights you can apply right away.
🔥 Key Takeaways
Start early and stay organized: using planners, timelines, and task batching makes the application load manageable.
Build impact, not just participation: leadership roles and meaningful involvement stand out more than long club lists.
Prep smart for SAT/ACT:  take practice tests, identify which test fits your strengths, and prepare months ahead.
#CollegeAdmissions #CollegeApps #CollegeAdvice #HighSchoolTips #StudentSuccess #EducationTips #CollegeApplicationProcess #HowToGetIntoCollege #SATPrep #ACTPrep #CollegeEssays#StudyMotivation#CollegeBound#AcademicSuccess#ModernEducation#Motivation #LifeTips#SelfImprovement#SuccessMindset #GlowUp #DailyMotivation #LearnAndGrow #MindsetShift #InspirationDaily #LevelUp
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer,or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Dec 20, 2025

44 min

Dec 2, 2025

40 min

In this powerful episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, hosts Carter and Randy sit down with national CTE leader, author, and educator Troy Long to unpack the truth about Career & Technical Education, and why it’s transforming the future of American students. From skyrocketing college debt to employers demanding real-world skills, Troy explains how CTE provides students with industry-recognized credentials, college credits, hands-on experience, and a clear pathway into high-wage, high-demand careers, often without taking on a single dollar of student debt.
Troy also reveals how CTE strengthens communities, aligns with local labor needs, boosts student attendance, and even improves academic performance through real-world application. He breaks down why traditional college isn’t the only route to success, how AI is reshaping career choices, and why giving students tangible, meaningful skills early on can completely change their life trajectory. If you’re raising a teen, working in education, or simply trying to understand the future of work, this episode is a must-listen.
🔥 Key Takeaways
CTE provides debt-free pathways to high-paying, high-demand careers through real skills and industry certifications.
Traditional college isn’t the only option, and for many students, it’s no longer the most practical or profitable path.
Hands-on learning boosts motivation, attendance, and academic success by giving students purpose and real-world vision.
#CTE#CareerTechnicalEducation#FutureOfEducation#EducationReform#WeAreAllAwesomeShow#WiddyUP#StudentSuccess#CollegeAlternatives#SkillsBasedEducation#WorkforceDevelopment#CareerReady#LifeReady#TradeCareers#HighSchoolSuccess#EducationPodcast#EdLeaders#CareerPathways#StudentEmpowerment#RealWorldSkills#DebtFreeEducation#FutureOfWork#NextGenLeaders#ParentTips#TeacherLife#EducationMatters#SkillUSA#DECA#HandsOnLearning#VocationalTraining#CTEWorks#CareerExploration#LeadershipDevelopmet
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
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Apple
Spotify
🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer,or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Dec 2, 2025

40 min

Nov 25, 2025

34 min

In this powerful episode of The We Are All Awesome Show, powered by WiddyUP, Coach James Hampton shares how his journey from coaching Olympic-level athletes led to transforming lives off the track. From working with world-class sprinters across 13 countries to mentoring high school students in Orlando, Coach James embodies what it means to turn passion into purpose. He opens up about the legacy of his late mother, whose compassion inspired him to co-found the Work Daily Nonprofit, helping hundreds of homeless children and families across Florida find stability and hope.
Coach James discusses the deeper meaning behind his mission, teaching discipline, simplicity, and purpose to every athlete and young person he encounters. His story isn’t just about winning medals; it’s about winning in life through hard work, faith, and service. Whether he’s training Olympic hopefuls or organizing food drives that feed thousands, Coach James proves that greatness is built daily,  one act of service, one life at a time.
Key Takeaways:
🏃 Discipline, sacrifice, and simplicity are the foundations of both athletic and personal success.
❤️ Work Daily Nonprofit supports 800+ homeless kids and families across Florida, fueled by community, not grants.
🌎 True greatness isn’t about medals; it’s about using your platform to lift others and create lasting change.
#WeAreAllAwesomeShow #WiddyUP #CoachJamesHampton #WorkDaily #PodcastClips#NowStreaming#InspiringStories#PurposeDriven#MotivationPodcast#LeadershipJourney#GiveBack #NonprofitWork #ServeOthers #CommunityHero #HomelessYouth #KindnessInAction #FaithInAction #HelpingHands #MakeADifference #HumanityFirst#BeTheChange #PurposeOverProfit #SuccessMindset #DailyMotivation #InspirationDaily #PersonalGrowth #LegacyBuilding #EmpowerOthers #RiseTogether #LifeLessons
 
Find The We Are All Awesome Show on:
Website
Youtube 
Apple
Spotify
🎯 Ready to Find Your WiddyUP?
At WiddyUP, we believe everyone has something that makes them…them. Whether you're an athlete, musician, student, leader, dreamer,or tinkerer, we help you showcase your things in life, connect with relevant opportunities, and fuel your journey. 🔥
 
👉 Join the movement and discover what drives you! Visit WiddyUP 🚀 #FindYourWiddyUP
Links:
Website: WiddyUP
Instagram: WiddyUP

Nov 25, 2025

34 min

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