🎙️ What if actions spoke louder than grades? In this episode of Global Student Voices, Scott Martin interviews Matthew Hayes, founder of Citizens — the platform redefining student achievement by recognizing skills, character, and service alongside academics. Learn how Citizens is helping students, schools, and families showcase what truly matters.

🎧 Free for students. Trusted by top schools. Discover more at www.citizens.co

#StudentVoice #FutureOfEducation #DigitalPortfolio #SkillsBasedLearning #CitizensPlatform

🎙 Welcome to Global Student Voices Season 2 Episode 11— the podcast where we spotlight bold ideas and changemakers shaping the future of education. In this episode, host Scott Martin ("Coach Martin") sits down with Matthew Hayes, Founder of Citizens, a groundbreaking youth development and recognition platform transforming how schools, students, and families define success.

📚 Tired of exams telling only part of the story? Citizens is reimagining education by valuing skills, character, service, and real-world impact alongside traditional academics. Matthew shares how his PhD research in Global Citizenship Education and Youth Skills led to a powerful movement where "Actions Speak Louder Than Grades" and Every Act Counts.

• Why the current education system is broken — and how exams fall short in recognizing true student potential

• How Citizens works: A student-powered platform with stunning digital portfolios, mapped to leading global frameworks (UN SDGs, WEF, McKinsey, Microsoft, and more)

• Citizens Skills 360™ and UN Impact 360: Game-changing tools that give credibility to every student's growth

• Real impact for students, parents, and schools: From UCAS applications to job interviews, leadership development, and whole-child recognition

• AI meets Education: How Citizens is building AI-powered features to support student development and civic engagement

• 🎓 International School Leaders: Want to stand out with your whole-child approach? Discover how Citizens lets you measure and showcase your students’ skills and character development. Join as a founding partner at a discounted rate and lead the change in global education.
  📩 Book a school demo or inquire about founder membership at www.citizens.co

• 👨‍👩‍👧 Parents: Wish universities could see the whole picture of your child? Citizens gives your student a verified digital record of their achievements in and out of the classroom.

• 🧑‍🎓 Students: Build your Skills CV and show the world who you really are. Citizens is completely free for students — start now at www.citizens.co

• 🌐 Website: www.citizens.co

• 🧠 Guest: Matthew Hayes, Founder of Citizens

• 🎙 Host: Scott Martin ("Coach Martin"), Global Student Solutions

• 📄 Coming Soon: Citizens’ Founding White Paper on the research behind the platform’s benchmarks

🔥 Subscribe to Global Student Voices for more bold conversations on how we can create a more equitable, innovative, and future-ready education system for students around the world.
#FutureOfEducation #GlobalCitizenship #StudentDevelopment #CharacterEducation #EducationReform #SkillsBasedLearning #DigitalPortfolio #InternationalSchools #CitizensPlatform #ScottMartin #MatthewHayes #EdTech #IBSchools

In this must-listen episode of the Global Student Voices podcast, host Scott R. Martin ("Coach Martin") is joined by Scott Hayden, Director of Curriculum at International Community School (ICS) in Bangkok. With nearly three decades of experience in Thailand, Hayden shares profound insights on the Third Culture Kid (TCK) experience—from understanding their unique concept of “home” to navigating life in international school settings.

Listeners will walk away with:

• Practical strategies for parents: Learn how to nurture cultural and familial connections, prepare your TCKs for university transitions, and ensure they feel seen, supported, and not alone.
  

• Validation for TCKs: Discover how your upbringing as a global citizen equips you with extraordinary strengths—like being a “bridge builder” who excels in communication, conflict resolution, and adapting to change.
  

• Guidance for school leaders: Explore frameworks for staff longevity, teacher well-being, healthy governance (such as the Carver model), and cultivating a culture of peacemaking that strengthens your school community.
  

Whether you're a parent, student, or educator, this episode offers vital tools to better understand and support global students.

📬 Contact Information

Scott Hayden 📧 Email: scott_h@ics.ac.th 🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @ScottinBangkok 🔗 LinkedIn: Scott Hayden on LinkedIn

Global Student Solutions (GSS) 🌐 Website: www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com 📧 Email: info@globalstudentweb.org

Scott Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-r-martin-coachmartin/

📞 WhatsApp: +1 (765) 551-2105

🎧 Who Should Listen

👉 For Parents: If you're raising a Third Culture Kid—or preparing to—this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how to help your child stay connected to their roots, navigate identity questions, and smoothly transition to university life. Simple, intentional practices like celebrating national holidays and maintaining regular family check-ins can make a world of difference.

👉 For TCKs/Students: You are not alone. This episode celebrates your unique story and helps you see your international experience as a source of strength. Gain encouragement as you navigate transitions and discover how your skills in bridging cultures, resolving conflict, and embracing complexity are true superpowers.

👉 For International School Leaders: Take a deep dive into strategies that foster strong, supportive school communities. Scott Hayden shares lessons on effective hiring, teacher retention, wellbeing, governance, and school culture. Learn how the Carver policy governance model and a culture of peacemaking can create a thriving environment for both staff and students.

👉 For Everyone: Global Student Solutions (GSS) is here to Connect, Serve, and Walk Alongside Global Students. Explore our services—from My College Coach and Global Student Academy, to the Global Education Network, Global Parents Portal, and Gamma Sigma Nu, our student and alumni network for university students. Visit our website or reach out to learn more about how GSS is leveling up education worldwide.

In this must-listen episode of the Global Student Voices podcast, host Scott R. Martin ("Coach Martin") is joined by Scott Hayden, Director of Curriculum at International Community School (ICS) in Bangkok. With nearly three decades of experience in Thailand, Hayden shares profound insights on the Third Culture Kid (TCK) experience—from understanding their unique concept of “home” to navigating life in international school settings.

Listeners will walk away with:

• Practical strategies for parents: Learn how to nurture cultural and familial connections, prepare your TCKs for university transitions, and ensure they feel seen, supported, and not alone.
  

• Validation for TCKs: Discover how your upbringing as a global citizen equips you with extraordinary strengths—like being a “bridge builder” who excels in communication, conflict resolution, and adapting to change.
  

• Guidance for school leaders: Explore frameworks for staff longevity, teacher well-being, healthy governance (such as the Carver model), and cultivating a culture of peacemaking that strengthens your school community.
  

Whether you're a parent, student, or educator, this episode offers vital tools to better understand and support global students.

📬 Contact Information

Scott Hayden 📧 Email: scott_h@ics.ac.th 🐦 X (formerly Twitter): @ScottinBangkok 🔗 LinkedIn: Scott Hayden on LinkedIn

Global Student Solutions (GSS) 🌐 Website: www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com 📧 Email: info@globalstudentweb.org

Scott Martin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-r-martin-coachmartin/

📞 WhatsApp: +1 (765) 551-2105

🎧 Who Should Listen

👉 For Parents: If you're raising a Third Culture Kid—or preparing to—this episode is packed with actionable insights. Learn how to help your child stay connected to their roots, navigate identity questions, and smoothly transition to university life. Simple, intentional practices like celebrating national holidays and maintaining regular family check-ins can make a world of difference.

👉 For TCKs/Students: You are not alone. This episode celebrates your unique story and helps you see your international experience as a source of strength. Gain encouragement as you navigate transitions and discover how your skills in bridging cultures, resolving conflict, and embracing complexity are true superpowers.

👉 For International School Leaders: Take a deep dive into strategies that foster strong, supportive school communities. Scott Hayden shares lessons on effective hiring, teacher retention, wellbeing, governance, and school culture. Learn how the Carver policy governance model and a culture of peacemaking can create a thriving environment for both staff and students.

👉 For Everyone: Global Student Solutions (GSS) is here to Connect, Serve, and Walk Alongside Global Students. Explore our services—from My College Coach and Global Student Academy, to the Global Education Network, Global Parents Portal, and Gamma Sigma Nu, our student and alumni network for university students. Visit our website or reach out to learn more about how GSS is leveling up education worldwide

Welcome to Global Student Voices, hosted by Scott R. Martin!

In this powerful episode, we are joined by Michéle Phoenix—renowned TCK advocate, author, and expert on the Third Culture Kid (TCK) and Missionary Kid (MK) experience.

This conversation serves as a vital companion to Michele’s acclaimed book, Pieces of Purple: The Greatness, Grit, and Grace of Growing Up MK. Host Scott R. Martin, also known as Coach Martin, calls the book a “spectacular resource,” one he has personally shared with international parents—including during a recent trip to Kenya.

Endorsed by TCK thought leader Ruth Van Reken (a previous guest on GSV), Pieces of Purple is available globally via Amazon (including international sites like amazon.fr and amazon.nl) and as an ebook.

Michéle shares her own background as a TCK and MK—born in France, holding three passports, and having spent two decades teaching at Black Forest Academy in Germany. She brings to life the complexity of the TCK identity through her famous “purple Play-Doh” analogy: unlike monocultural children (red or blue), TCKs blend diverse cultural influences into a rich, complex, and often confusing shade of purple.

Key insights from this episode include:

• The often hidden grief and trauma carried by TCKs—and how it manifests emotionally

• The intense, fast-forming relationships typical of globally mobile youth.

• A breakdown of the six types of belonging that TCKs seek throughout their lives.

• The unique “superpowers” of TCKs—including emotional intelligence, adaptability, and their innate ability to build bridges across cultures.

• Michéle calls on international schools to recognize and nurture these strengths, especially as they are increasingly valued in fields like diplomacy and global business.

As someone who has worked extensively with international students, Scott R. Martin underscores the depth and relevance of Michéle’s insights. This episode is part of a broader effort to elevate global student voices and to provide meaningful resources for students, parents, and educators navigating cross-cultural lives.

Connect with Michéle Phoenix:

• Website:⁠ michelephoenix.com⁠

• Facebook:⁠ facebook.com/shellphoenix⁠

• Podcast: A Pondering Purple (audio versions of her articles) ⁠https://open.spotify.com/show/0zqqxnBUbuTif04j8Z1lHu?si=da2d6b40fc6b45a6⁠

• Book: Pieces of Purple – available on Amazon and global Amazon platforms ⁠https://a.co/d/2GRLJY3⁠

Connect with Global Student Voices and the ⁠Global Student Solutions⁠ family:

Are you part of an international school community? Whether you’re a student with a story to tell, a parent seeking guidance, or a school leader looking to strengthen your support systems—Global Student Voices is here for you. Subscribe, share, and connect with us to become part of a growing global network committed to elevating student voices worldwide.

School leaders are invited to explore ⁠GSS Consulting Services⁠ and join the ⁠Global Education Network⁠, a powerful community designed to support international schools through resources, collaboration, and leadership development. For students and parents, our ⁠My College Coach⁠ services offer personalized guidance to help you navigate global university admissions with clarity and confidence.

Let’s build something remarkable—together.

Welcome to Global Student Voices, hosted by Scott R. Martin!

In this powerful episode, we are joined by Michéle Phoenix—renowned TCK advocate, author, and expert on the Third Culture Kid (TCK) and Missionary Kid (MK) experience.

This conversation serves as a vital companion to Michele’s acclaimed book, Pieces of Purple: The Greatness, Grit, and Grace of Growing Up MK. Host Scott R. Martin, also known as Coach Martin, calls the book a “spectacular resource,” one he has personally shared with international parents—including during a recent trip to Kenya.

Endorsed by TCK thought leader Ruth Van Reken (a previous guest on GSV), Pieces of Purple is available globally via Amazon (including international sites like amazon.fr and amazon.nl) and as an ebook.

Michéle shares her own background as a TCK and MK—born in France, holding three passports, and having spent two decades teaching at Black Forest Academy in Germany. She brings to life the complexity of the TCK identity through her famous “purple Play-Doh” analogy: unlike monocultural children (red or blue), TCKs blend diverse cultural influences into a rich, complex, and often confusing shade of purple.

Key insights from this episode include:

• • The often hidden grief and trauma carried by TCKs—and how it manifests emotionally
  • The intense, fast-forming relationships typical of globally mobile youth.
• • A breakdown of the six types of belonging that TCKs seek throughout their lives.
• • The unique “superpowers” of TCKs—including emotional intelligence, adaptability, and their innate ability to build bridges across cultures.
    

  Michéle calls on international schools to recognize and nurture these strengths, especially as they are increasingly valued in fields like diplomacy and global business.

As someone who has worked extensively with international students, Scott R. Martin underscores the depth and relevance of Michéle’s insights. This episode is part of a broader effort to elevate global student voices and to provide meaningful resources for students, parents, and educators navigating cross-cultural lives.

Connect with Michéle Phoenix:

• Website: michelephoenix.com

• Facebook: facebook.com/shellphoenix

• Podcast: A Pondering Purple (audio versions of her articles) https://open.spotify.com/show/0zqqxnBUbuTif04j8Z1lHu?si=da2d6b40fc6b45a6

• Book: Pieces of Purple – available on Amazon and global Amazon platforms https://a.co/d/2GRLJY3
  

Connect with Global Student Voices and the Global Student Solutions family:

Are you part of an international school community? Whether you’re a student with a story to tell, a parent seeking guidance, or a school leader looking to strengthen your support systems—Global Student Voices is here for you. Subscribe, share, and connect with us to become part of a growing global network committed to elevating student voices worldwide.

School leaders are invited to explore GSS Consulting Services and join the Global Education Network, a powerful community designed to support international schools through resources, collaboration, and leadership development. For students and parents, our My College Coach services offer personalized guidance to help you navigate global university admissions with clarity and confidence.

Let’s build something remarkable—together.

Join Global Student Voices host Scott R. Martin in conversation with Suahil Housholder, VP for Finance and CFO at Anderson University.

Suahil shares her inspiring journey from international student in the Cayman Islands to a leadership role in U.S. higher education. This episode dives into the major challenges facing small private universities today—enrollment pressures, financial sustainability, and the evolving value of a degree.

Hear how Anderson University is adapting through initiatives like dual credit programs, micro-credentials, online learning, and expanded graduate offerings. Suahil also emphasizes the unique benefits of the on-campus experience, especially for students seeking close-knit community and mentorship.

We also discuss her powerful contribution to the book Community College is College, which challenges misconceptions about community colleges and highlights them as valuable options for both high-achieving and international students.

🎓 Learn more about Anderson University: www.anderson.edu
📘 Check out Suahil’s work on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Suahil-R.-Housholder/author/B0DJZP7GB2
🔗 Connect with Suahil Housholder on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suahilhousholder/

🎤 About the Host:
Scott R. Martin is an international education leader, author, and founder of Global Student Solutions.

📚 Explore Scott’s books on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Scott-R.-Martin/author/B0CLVLCRXV
🔗 Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-r-martin-coachmartin/

🌍 Are you a student, parent, international school, or university looking for expert guidance on global education pathways?
Explore how Global Student Solutions (GSS) can support your journey—from personalized advising and school partnerships to international recruitment strategy and student success resources.

🔗 Visit us at: www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com
📧 Contact us: info@theglobalstudentsolutions.com

Let’s build global futures, together.

Join Global Student Voices host Scott R. Martin in conversation with Suahil Housholder, VP for Finance and CFO at Anderson University.

Suahil shares her inspiring journey from international student in the Cayman Islands to a leadership role in U.S. higher education. This episode dives into the major challenges facing small private universities today—enrollment pressures, financial sustainability, and the evolving value of a degree.

Hear how Anderson University is adapting through initiatives like dual credit programs, micro-credentials, online learning, and expanded graduate offerings. Suahil also emphasizes the unique benefits of the on-campus experience, especially for students seeking close-knit community and mentorship.

We also discuss her powerful contribution to the book Community College is College, which challenges misconceptions about community colleges and highlights them as valuable options for both high-achieving and international students.

🎓 Learn more about Anderson University: www.anderson.edu
📘 Check out Suahil’s work on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Suahil-R.-Housholder/author/B0DJZP7GB2
🔗 Connect with Suahil Housholder on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suahilhousholder/

🌍 Are you a student, parent, international school, or university looking for expert guidance on global education pathways?
Explore how Global Student Solutions (GSS) can support your journey—from personalized advising and school partnerships to international recruitment strategy and student success resources.

🔗 Visit us at: www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com
📧 Contact us: info@theglobalstudentsolutions.com

Let’s build global futures, together.

🎤 About the Host:Scott R. Martin is an international education leader, author, and founder of Global Student Solutions.

📚 Explore Scott’s books on Amazon: ⁠https://www.amazon.com/stores/Scott-R.-Martin/author/B0CLVLCRXV⁠🔗 Connect with Scott on LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-r-martin-coachmartin/⁠

This Global Student Voices podcast features an interview with Scott R. Martin, also known as "Coach Martin," discussing a partnership between Global Student Solutions and Woodland Star International School in Kenya. The partnership aims to provide career and college counseling services to students, which Coach Martin believes is a valuable extension of a school's existing support. He highlights the benefits of an external provider, including reinforcing the school's mission and offering objective guidance, particularly for international school students who often face unique application processes and diverse destinations. Coach Martin also emphasizes the importance of in-person connections and advocating for these students by showcasing their unique stories and experiences. www.theglobalstudentsolutions.com