The GOAT Hub

03/01/2026

Today marks the beginning of Women’s History Month & I am going to use the month of March to highlight some phenomenal women who have got out and thrived! 🌸

I have some incredible women who I plan to highlight and I hope you all join in on celebrating them & all of their accomplishments! 👏🏽

Once upon time, women were stagnated due to the limitations placed upon them. Today, they are breaking ceilings & proving that a woman’s success is limitless! ✨

Let’s celebrate women who are rewriting history. 👑

02/27/2026

Tell yourself these 8 things every morning & watch how your life transforms ✨

The power of “positive affirmations” is unmatched! The more you tell yourself something- the more you begin to truly believe it.

If you have a child who finds themselves stressing out about things out of their control- introduce them to this list!

My favorites are number 5 & 7! Reminds me to give myself grace during uncertain times! 💯

02/24/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Christopher’s Climb ⚖️🧠

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2016, Christopher Oulds began a journey that would eventually blend law, neuroscience, and advocacy. He earned his Bachelor of Science in International Business, along with a Certificate in Neuroscience, a Graduate Certificate in Community Development, and Spanish Interpreting Certification. ✨

Today, he is at Georgetown University pursuing both a Juris Doctor and a Master’s in Neuroscience while working part-time as an LSAT tutor.

Christopher’s path was anything but linear. He originally started college in Engineering but quickly realized the traditional desk-bound structure wasn’t the right fit. After switching to International Business and graduating, he struggled to find international work and moved to Philadelphia, where he worked in youth outreach programs aimed at providing constructive hobbies and reducing gun violence. 💯

That experience led him into local public schools as a substitute teacher and assistant math teacher.

While working with students, he saw firsthand the passion of educators and the resilience of young people navigating serious trauma. He realized his impact might be stronger as a legal advocate, particularly in communities where that support was lacking. Wanting to better understand the neurological impact of trauma, he enrolled at the University of Pennsylvania to earn a Certificate in Neuroscience. There, he discovered a passion for the emerging field of Neurolaw, which applies discoveries in neuroscience and psychology within legal systems. That realization ultimately led him to Georgetown. 🏫

One of his proudest accomplishments came after three months of intense LSAT preparation, earning a score in the 99th percentile—the median score at Harvard—which resulted in acceptances to Columbia and Vanderbilt and a full tuition waiver at Georgetown. 🙌🏾

Throughout his journey, financial pressure meant constantly working while studying, relying on grit, discipline, organization, and asking for help when needed.

Christopher’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Start studying for your LSAT as soon as possible.”

From Eufaula to Georgetown, Christopher Oulds’ journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

— Christopher Oulds, Eufaula High School Class of 2016 | Law & Neuroscience Student

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02/19/2026

One of the most important conversations we can have with young people is about body autonomy, boundaries, and respect. Research consistently shows that age-appropriate discussions about consent and personal boundaries increase confidence, safety awareness, and healthy relationship skills.

Here are evidence-based ways to approach the conversation:

1. Use correct, neutral language.
Teach children the proper anatomical names for all body parts, including private parts. Avoid relying on “cute” nicknames or substitute words. Using accurate terminology reduces shame, increases body awareness, and is critically important for safety. If a child ever needs to report inappropriate touch or harm, being able to clearly and accurately describe what happened helps adults, medical professionals, and, if necessary, legal authorities understand and respond appropriately (American Academy of Pediatrics).

2. Teach body autonomy early.
Children should understand that their body belongs to them and they have the right to say “no” to unwanted touch- even from adults or family members (ZERO TO THREE).

3. Model consent in everyday life.
Ask before hugs or physical affection and respect their answer. Modeling consent teaches them how healthy boundaries work (End Sexual Violence Connecticut).

4. Keep the conversation ongoing.
This is not a one-time talk. As children grow, discussions should evolve with their developmental level. Ongoing conversations build trust and increase the likelihood they will speak up if something feels unsafe (University of Michigan).

5. Empower them to speak up.
Remind youth that they can always tell a trusted adult if someone crosses a boundary or makes them uncomfortable (Military OneSource).

Teaching boundaries is not about fear- it is about empowerment, respect, and safety.

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References 📰:

https://www.healthychildren.org
https://www.zerotothree.org
https://ends*xualviolencect.org
https://hr.umich.edu
https://www.militaryonesource.mil

02/17/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Curtis’ Calculated Climb ⚙️

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2014, Curtis Erickson chose a path that was direct, strategic, and built for impact. He attended Spartan College of Aeronautics and Technology, completing a 15-month nondestructive testing program.

By the end, he walked away with a new trade, a diploma, and an associate’s degree in Quality Control Management. While that specific program is no longer offered, the industry itself remains wide open to those with a strong work ethic, clean background, and the drive to earn certifications.

Today, nondestructive testing technicians use non-invasive inspection methods like ultrasound and radiography to evaluate welds, aircraft, wind turbines, submarines, and more- ensuring they are safe, sound, and insurable.

Curtis made his decision based on practicality. Traditional college wasn’t the right fit, so he studied demand, entry-level pay, tuition costs, and time to completion. It was a numbers game- and he played it smart.

Personally, his proudest accomplishment has been experiencing the world through his work- 18 countries and 47 states so far. Professionally, he takes pride in being part of the team that builds the world’s most advanced nuclear submarine fleet at General Dynamics, watching each vessel move from blueprint to completion.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges. He has navigated toxic supervisors with patience and composure, faced isolation from constant travel, and endured extreme working conditions ranging from 115 degrees with high humidity to -50 in the wind. Each obstacle strengthened his resilience and reinforced the value of relationships built along the way.

Curtis’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Make a serious plan for what you want out of life and work hard. But if money is the only thing you chase, you’ll be poor in so many other ways. You get one life- prioritize your health and happiness, because money comes and goes.”

From Eufaula to leading quality control on nuclear submarines, Curtis Erickson’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

— Curtis Erickson, Eufaula High School Class of 2014 | Quality Control Supervisor, General Dynamics

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01/20/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Jazzyln’s Balance 🩺

After graduating from Checotah High School in 2016, Jazzlyn Mills continued working as a waitress while attending college for a couple of years. Her path shifted when she became a mother, and with that change came clarity.

Wanting to build a future that allowed her to help others while also providing for her family, she decided to attend Community Care to pursue Surgical Technology. 🩺

Jazzlyn was drawn to healthcare because she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Surgery stood out to her as a field that offered variety, purpose, and the chance to help someone every single day. Returning to school was not easy.

Her first college experience lacked focus, costing her time and money- & starting over meant rebuilding discipline from the ground up. Early mornings starting at 5:30 a.m., long days of class, studying, and still coming home to care for her household and her son tested her endurance- but she stayed committed. 🤞🏽

Her proudest accomplishment is, of course, her son, but being named a 2025 Student of the Month was also a powerful moment as well. The recognition came unexpectedly and affirmed that her hard work, dedication, and perseverance were seen and valued. That moment reinforced that choosing herself and her future was worth the effort. ✨

Jazzlyn’s advice to GOATs in training:
“You don’t have to know exactly what you want to do after school, but make sure you’re certain when you decide. Do something you’re passionate about. Go after what makes you happy and don’t second guess yourself. Limiting yourself will only keep you from your dreams, so be bold and intentional. Life is already hard- don’t make it harder by not setting yourself up for success for your future.”

From Checotah to healthcare, Jazzlyn Mills’ journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

- Jazzlyn Mills (Dandridge), Checotah High School Class of 2016 | Stay-at-Home Mom & Surgical Tech Student

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01/17/2026

Oklahoma tribal citizens ‼️

‼️ MESSAGE FROM THE MUSCOGEE NATION DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY ‼️

We have confirmed that officials from the federal immigration agency ICE are now in Oklahoma. Please be advised that the Muscogee Nation is monitoring the situation to ensure the safety of our citizens both on and off the Reservation. Citizens are encouraged to keep their tribal identification with them as accessible as possible. Should you be contacted by ICE remain calm, respectful, and know your rights. The Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department dispatch has direct access to verify citizenship for any citizen, no matter where they are, and can be reached at (918) 732-7800.

01/15/2026

🔥 FREE MONEY FOR SCHOOL (NO ESSAY!) 🔥

If you’re a student or have one in your life, this is a must-apply.

💸 $2,000 Scholarship
✍️ No essay
⏰ Deadline: January 31, 2026

It literally takes minutes. Apply and share — you never know who this could help!

🔗 https://www.sallie.com/scholarships/no-essay-scholarship/

01/13/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Brettlyn’s Blueprint 🎬

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2011, Brettlyn Bevenue chose a path that allowed her to explore her creativity while preparing for a career that required continued education. She attended the University of Oklahoma, earning a Bachelor of Arts & Sciences in Film and Media Studies with a minor in History.

College felt like the right fit because she knew her future would require more learning, and while she initially applied for OU’s strong journalism and history programs, she ultimately found her place in its thriving film studies community—surrounded by people who shared her passion for storytelling. 📖

One of Brettlyn’s proudest accomplishments has been coming full circle professionally. While in college, she interned with the Oklahoma Film & Music Office, unsure of where the industry might take her and worried she would have to move to places like Los Angeles or New York to build a career. 🏙️

Today, she works full time in the film industry as the Program Manager for the Cherokee Film Institute, helping people receive training to work in film production right here in Oklahoma and growing a workforce that allows creatives to build meaningful careers without leaving their communities. ✨

Along the way, one of the biggest challenges she faced was the mental toll of stepping outside her routine. Growing up in the same town with the same people and rhythms until adulthood, she knew she needed to take the next step to feel fulfilled—but didn’t anticipate how lonely that transition could feel. That experience shaped how she views growth, purpose, and connection.

Brettlyn’s advice to GOATs in training:
“No matter what your post-high school plan is, you have to find community. Find people who you feel safe with and find a connection to the world around you. From there, you’ll find your purpose.”

From Eufaula to helping build Oklahoma’s film workforce, Brettlyn Bevenue’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive. 💫

— Brettlyn Bevenue, Eufaula High School Class of 2011 | Program Manager, Cherokee Film Institute

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01/10/2026

This week, we’re giving major flowers 🌷 to the incredible team at Tulip and Table.

Tulip and Table is more than just a café or a flower shop — it’s a community hub. 🤞🏽

From the moment you see their food- you can practically taste it through the pictures. The care, creativity, and intention behind everything they do is obvious.

What truly sets them apart, though, is their commitment to bringing people together.
Trivia nights.
Holiday events.
And now a Galentine’s event in February just for the ladies.
They consistently create spaces where community can gather, connect, and feel at home. 🏠

Eufaula is better because of places like Tulip and Table — businesses that don’t just serve food or sell flowers, but actively strengthen the fabric of the community. ✨

01/08/2026

WE MUST PROTECT OUR BOYS TOO 🚨

We talk about protecting girls — and we should.
But there’s a serious blind spot we keep ignoring:

Boys and young men are being abused and trafficked in the United States — often silently.

📌 According to the U.S. Department of State, boys and men are victims of s*x trafficking but are frequently underidentified and underreported, meaning the problem is far bigger than what most people see or talk about.

Now add this reality:
We raise boys to be strong, quiet, independent, and to “handle it themselves.”

We pressure them to never look weak — but rarely teach them:
• that consent applies to them
• how to recognize abuse
• that being victimized doesn’t make them less of a man

That silence doesn’t protect boys. It exposes them.

And when society assumes “this doesn’t happen to boys,” predators notice the blind spots.

This isn’t girls vs. boys.
This is child safety.

👦 Boys deserve protection, education, and belief — just like our girls.

Please share.

01/05/2026

BUILT THE GOAT WAY: Kaylea-Shey’s Journey 🗺️

After graduating from Eufaula High School in 2012, Kaylea-Shey Buie began her post-secondary journey at Eastern Oklahoma State College on a livestock judging scholarship.

From there, she attended Oklahoma State University, earning her Bachelor of Science and certification in Agricultural Education. Teaching was just the beginning.

A few years into her career, she pursued a Master of Education—then another—and eventually earned three master’s degrees in education. Today, she is a doctoral student at the University of Oklahoma studying higher education, continuing a path defined by growth, purpose, and perseverance. 👏

Kaylea-Shey chose this path because she wanted to become the educator she needed when she was younger. She often reflects on her ag teacher, David Turner, as the one educator who truly met her where she was, made her feel seen, and believed in her potential. ✨

Every career decision she has made—from classroom teacher to administrator, and one day professor—has been driven by that same goal: to champion others and ensure people feel supported in every avenue of life.

One of her proudest accomplishments has been allowing herself to be the first in her family to do many things. Rather than letting unfamiliar territory hold her back, she embraced it. 💫

Over time, what once felt intimidating became energizing. Still, the journey has not been without challenges. Self-doubt, others not fully understanding her goals, and learning how to balance ambition with building a life have all been part of the process.

Kaylea-Shey’s advice to GOATs in training:
“Choose a path that makes you happy. You’re the one who has to do the work, make the strides, and climb the ladder, so make sure it’s something you love—but remember that things change. As you gain experience, you’ll discover new passions and aspirations. Follow them. There will never be a role placed on your heart that isn’t on purpose. Put your passion to purpose.” 🙏

From Eufaula to doctoral studies, Kaylea-Shey Buie’s journey shows exactly what it means to Get Out and Thrive.

— Kaylea-Shey Buie, Eufaula High School Class of 2012 | Curriculum Designer

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