Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to SaulPaul. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.

Hi SaulPaul, thanks for joining us today. So, let’s start with a hypothetical – what would you change about the educational system?

If I could change one thing about the education system, I’d make it more relevant and responsive. Too often, education feels disconnected from real life. I believe school should teach young people how to live well and earn well. That means integrating things like emotional intelligence, financial literacy, communication skills, entrepreneurship, and exposure to high-demand careers that don’t always require a four-year degree—like HVAC, electrical work, or tech trades.

My story is living proof of why that change is needed.

I transitioned from tragedy to triumph. School didn’t always make space for my creativity, my entrepreneurial mindset, or my lived experience. I was a young man with potential, but without a pathway. I had to learn the rules of success the hard way—outside the classroom.

That’s why I created Skill Builders Career Academy. It’s a solution born from my story. We serve youth, justice-impacted individuals, and people from underserved communities, equipping them with hard skills, soft skills, and life skills. We use culturally relevant programming, VR, AI, and hands-on learning to bridge the gap between education and opportunity.

We’re not just preparing people for jobs—we’re preparing them for life.

One of my favorite stories is about a student who told me, “I never thought a job like this was for me. But now I see myself in it.” That’s what real education should do—it should open eyes, open doors, and ignite purpose.

SaulPaul, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?

I’m SaulPaul — artist, entrepreneur, and founder of Skill Builders Career Academy. I’m a GRAMMY-nominated musician, but my purpose goes beyond entertainment. I use music, media, and mentorship to empower people—especially youth and marginalized communities—to dream big and build bigger.

My journey into this work wasn’t traditional. I went from prison incarceration to college graduation. From poverty to prosperity. From being underestimated to becoming a business leader and changemaker. That lived experience fuels everything I do. I know what it feels like to be counted out. I also know what it takes to make a comeback.

Through Skill Builders Career Academy, we’re building a new type of educational and workforce development model—one that’s creative, culturally relevant, tech-forward, and focused on real economic opportunity. We work with youth, former foster youth, justice-impacted individuals, and people living in poverty or on public assistance. Our academy teaches hard skills like construction, HVAC, and electrical trades—but we also teach life skills, soft skills, entrepreneurship, and digital literacy.

What makes us different is how we do it.

We bring in the arts. We leverage AI and VR. We gamify learning. We make career exposure cool. We host job fairs, youth expos, and festivals that blend music, money, and mission.

I also run a summer content house with 50 Gen Z student employees who create media to promote high-paying skilled trades. They’re not just learning and earning — they’re becoming storytellers, influencers, and ambassadors for economic mobility.

What I’m most proud of is that we’re not just helping people get jobs—we’re helping them build lives they’re proud of. We’re changing the narrative around what success looks like and who gets to access it.

For anyone discovering me or my work for the first time, I want you to know: I’m proof that where you start doesn’t determine where you finish. My brand is all about hope, hustle, and helping others win. Whether through music, mentorship, or workforce innovation—I’m here to build bridges to a better future.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

I built my reputation by being consistent, authentic, and committed to impact. I show up as the same person in every room—whether I’m on a national stage, in a classroom, or meeting with city officials. That consistency builds trust.

What also helped was the combination of results and relationships. I don’t just talk about change—I create it. Whether it’s helping students land real opportunities, connecting employers with diverse talent, or launching creative initiatives like albums, music videos or career expos—I follow through.

Another big part of my reputation is my ability to bridge worlds. I speak the language of business, education, government, and culture. I can perform at a music festival, then present a workforce strategy to city leaders the next day. That blend of artistry and strategy makes me stand out.

But ultimately, my reputation has been built on service. I lead with purpose. I give back. I invest in others. And I stay rooted in the communities I serve. That’s what people remember—not just what you do, but how you make them feel and who you empower along the way.

Any advice for managing a team?

The key to managing a team and keeping morale high is leading with vision, empathy, and clarity. People want to feel seen, valued, and part of something bigger than themselves.

First, cast a clear vision. Let your team know why the work matters. When people understand the purpose behind what they’re doing—especially when that purpose is impact-driven—they show up differently.

Second, build a culture of ownership and celebration. I give my team space to lead, make decisions, and be creative. At the same time, I celebrate the wins—big and small. Acknowledgment goes a long way in keeping morale high, especially when you’re working in fast-paced, mission-driven environments like mine.

Third, stay human. Life happens. I don’t just manage tasks—I support people. Whether it’s a teen intern or a seasoned collaborator, I try to lead with compassion and keep communication open.

Lastly, make it fun. I bring my full self to work—music, humor, energy. I believe work should be meaningful, but it can also be joyful. That balance creates a team culture where people feel motivated, respected, and inspired to give their best.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.SaulPaul.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/saulpaul
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/officialsaulpaul
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saulpaul
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/saulpaul
• Other: https://www.SkillBuildersCareerAcademy.com

Image Credits

SaulPaul Productions