Goodly uses storytelling, cultural engagement, and relationship building to create educational experiences that connect students with accomplished leaders and perspectives beyond the traditional classroom. His work reflects a belief that meaningful exposure can broaden possibilities and inspire young people to envision new directions for their futures.
Through the Orange County Department of Education’s ACCESS program, Goodly has coordinated and conducted conversations with distinguished guests across civil rights, academia, STEM, entrepreneurship, athletics, entertainment, and the arts, providing alternative education and juvenile court school students opportunities to learn directly from their experiences.
Notable guests have included:
Dolores Huerta
Sylvia Mendez
Danny Trejo
Edward James Olmos
Chazz Palminteri
Dr. Bernard Harris Jr.
Lt. Col. Olga Custodio
Luis Guzmán
Ronnie Lott
Anthony Muñoz
Vikki Vargas
Grand Wizzard Theodore
Bobbito Garcia
Tommy Davidson
Shannon Lee
Mister Cartoon
Misty Copeland
Abner Mares
These conversations extend beyond professional accomplishments to explore challenges, setbacks, identity, discipline, decision making, preparation, resilience, and personal growth. By engaging with voices across generations, cultures, professions, and lived experiences, students gain firsthand insight into the choices, experiences, and lessons behind different paths to success.