In this episode of The Teaching Journeys Podcast, host Dave Roberts welcomes veteran film producer and philanthropist Peter Samuelson. They discuss Peter's journey from filmmaking to philanthropy, highlighting his work with several non-profits including the Starlight Children Foundation and First Star Academies. The conversation explores Peter's philosophy on helping the less fortunate, particularly abused and neglected children, and delves into his new book 'Finding Happy: A User's Guide To Your Life.' The discussion also covers themes of critical thinking, the responsibility of elders to guide younger generations, and the importance of leaving a lasting legacy. Peter shares anecdotes from his life and offers practical advice for young people on navigating life's challenges.

Peter’s Bio and Contact Information

 Peter is a veteran film producer behind more than two dozen feature films, including cult classics like Revenge of the Nerd. and Viv and Arlington Road. He is a trailblazing, philanthropist, and a social entrepreneur who has spent decades using storytelling and innovation to change lives. He has founded seven groundbreaking non-profits, including co-founding the Starlight Children Foundation and Starboard World Online Network. He is the founder of the First Star Academies that partners with universities and local CPS to house, educate, inspire, and enable foster youth while in high school, and to prepare them for college and to self-advocate. He also launched EDR. The Everyone Deserves a Roof Initiative. To provide shelter for the unhoused and Aspire, a media training academy for undergraduates outside of traditional film schools built on the values of social responsibility. And now he's added author to the List, his new book, finding Happy A User's Guide To Your Life With Lessons From Mind as Part Memoir, part Life Manual Offering Hard Won Wisdom for Millennials, gen X, and anyone looking to live more meaningfully in a chaotic world. Peter has been married to his wife Saryl for 35 years and continues to fight every day for those less fortunate chief among them, abused and neglected children.

Learn more about Peter Samuelson and "Finding Happy":

Website: https://www.samuelson.la

Book: Available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, ebook, and audiobook formats.

To find out more about Dave go to davidrobertsmsw.com and his author page psychologyprofessorandminister.com