Building F.A.Y.E. Learning Center: Personal Power, Purpose & Microschool Leadership
In this vibrant, soul-led conversation, David K. Richards, CEO of Changemaker Education, sits down with microschool Founder Christina “Pip” Pipkin, who’s launching a Changemaker Partner Microschool, the F.A.Y.E. Learning Center in Houston, Texas. As the first founder featured on the podcast, Pip shares her journey from classroom teacher and EdTech leader to becoming the architect of a personalized, project-based microschool rooted in family, equity, and student agency. They explore the challenges of surrender, self-trust, intersectionality, and stepping into visionary leadership while honoring intuition and faith.
This episode is a masterclass in courage, community, and co-creation—perfect for aspiring founders ready to move beyond the 9–5 and into deep purpose-driven work.
Memorable Quotes:
- “I jump and grow my wings on the way down.”
- “You all took away all my excuses.”
- “F.A.Y.E. is my baby. It’s fulfilling a promise—and a purpose.”
- “We are not just opening schools. We are transforming lives.”
- “It’s bigger than me. I’m just the vessel being used.”
Key Topics Covered:
- Pip’s background in classroom teaching, EdTech, and doctoral study
- The personal call to open a microschool and surrender control
- Founding F.A.Y.E. Learning Center—named after her grandmother
- The role of intersectionality as a Black, LGBTQ woman in Texas
- Balancing doctoral studies with launching a school
- Project-based learning, STEM focus, and family engagement
- Community-building and authentic recruiting
- Pip’s spiritual connection to the journey
- Reflections on cohort support, imposter syndrome, and transformational growth
- The long-term vision for expansion and impact
Approximate Timestamps:
- 00:00–10:00 – Pip’s background, family history, and path into education
- 10:00–22:00 – Founding F.A.Y.E. Learning Center and vision for students & families
- 22:00–38:00 – Discovery of Changemaker Education and alignment with purpose
- 38:00–56:00 – Surrendering control, spiritual connection, and finding support
- 56:00–End – Reflections on transformation, community, and future legacy
