The latest episode of the podcast Memoir Nation features a conversation with John B. King Jr., who served as the tenth U.S. Secretary of Education under President Barack Obama. In this episode, the hosts discuss King’s new career memoir, which highlights the mentors who shaped his journey in public education and his path to becoming Secretary. This marks the final episode of the podcast’s seventh season, which has focused on memoir and personal writing since its inception in 2018.
Hosted by Brooke Warner and Grant Faulkner, the podcast aims to inspire writers while exploring industry trends and resources. In their conversation with King, they delve into the importance of pursuing one’s passions versus merely working for survival. The discussion is particularly relevant given the ongoing challenges facing the U.S. Department of Education.
King’s Journey and Contributions to Education
John B. King Jr. has held multiple roles within the education sector. He began his career as a high school social studies teacher and later became a middle school principal. King also made history as the first African American and Puerto Rican to serve as New York State Education Commissioner. He has been a college professor and is currently the chancellor of the State University of New York (SUNY), the largest public higher education system in the nation.
King’s memoir reflects on his upbringing in a family of educators in New York City. His parents’ dedication to public service deeply influenced his commitment to education reform. In his role at the Education Trust, a national civil rights organization, King focused on ensuring that all students receive equitable opportunities to succeed.
Book Recommendations and the Importance of Storytelling
This week’s episode also features the Book Alley segment, spotlighting Garrett Glaser’s memoir, Fairyboy, which explores the underground gay community in New York City before the Stonewall Riots. The juxtaposition of King’s experiences with Glaser’s storytelling underscores the rich tapestry of narratives that memoirs can offer. Both highlight the power of mentorship and community support in personal development.
Listeners can subscribe and download this episode of Memoir Nation on various podcast platforms to discover more insights from John B. King and the transformative power of mentorship in education.
