Just To Know You: Recent Episodes
The J2 Crew
Darian gets Annelise to reveal her secret Saudi Arabia camping spots. The two also go deep into the world of parenting - one of Annelise's passions.
Angela chats with our recent Learning Symposium keynote speaker - Dr. Byron McClure. Tune in to hear more about Byron: where he grew up, his school experience, and the time he and his identical twin switched places. Also don't forget to dig into his book: Hacking Deficit Thinking: Eight Reframes That Will Change the Way You Think About Strength-Based Practices and Equity in Schools.
You can find more about Byron and the Black School Psychologist Network at
on the web: www.bspninc.com
On X: Schoolpsychlife
Insta: bmcclure6
Jeff Cornell teaches Darian about early "social media" - A Cable. Jeff has been a part of Aramco for nearly 50 years - and now it is time to say goodbye. Jeff remains grateful for all his time here - and reminds us that although changes have come - there is no greater place.
Darian sits down with Nadir Youssif. Nadir discusses his love of golf and shoes. Nadir also talks about his duel Egyptian and American heritage and how its influenced his world view.
Darian and Angela left the mic sitting out and Kent picked it up. He interviews Tabitha Pugh, Peter Cunningham and Betsy Hawkins. The three of them are the driving force behind the "Walk of Nations" event at Dhahran Hills Elementary. With nearly 5000 people expected it is one of the largest events in the community. Join Kent and his guests as they talk about what to expect at the event and what goes on behind the scenes to make it happen.
Walk of Nations
Dhahran Hills Elementary
Tuesday, February 20th
From 4:00 - 7:00pm
In a first for Just to Know You - Angela interviews someone outside of SAES: Jason Quinn. Jason trains people to do what he does best - rescue people in difficult conditions. If you think Jason has the perfect voice for a podcast - you are right! He has over 160 episodes of his own podcast: The Real ResQ Podcast. Join Angela and Jason for a fascinating discussion about the life of someone who saves lives.
Angela and Darian sit down with new SAES Manager Ben Jacobs. Ben has served in many roles during his time at SAES in addition to attending SAES schools himself. Ben applies the engineering spirit to all of his projects and once even dreamed of being an astronaut.
Angela kicks off season 2 of "Just To Know You" with Jessica and Dan. Jessica and Dan tell stories about biking all around the world. They caution us about staying at a "naturalist campsite".
Paola chats with Angela about her country Colombia which she describes as incredibly rich and poor at the same time. Paola has strong feelings about the past and future of her country and marvels at Colombians' ability to find happiness through it all.
DHS teachers Mike and Nicki Rawn chat with Darian about their winding road to SAES. For Mike the journey included a whole other career. Nicki has found a new and exciting way to put her body checking skills learned in field hockey to good use.
Nicki's local soccer is the Desert Roses
Mike's Music Podcast is The Mac & Mike Show
Gail Sommer and Darian share a few laughs and even a tear or two. Gail has visited the far corners of Saudi Arabia where few westerners have experienced. She tells stories of camping in the Empty Quarter, riding the dunes and sleeping on the side of the road.
Gail can be found at:
Gail Sommer can be found on both Instagram and TikTok at: sommerwanderess
A whole crew joins our host Angela this week. SAES teachers Scott, Fanni, Kevin, Matt L. and Mathew discuss their kite surfing journey from beginner to expert. They recall their most breath-taking moments as well as some that will raise the hair on your neck. Strap in, check your gear and come along for the ride!
Keynote speaker and Aramcon Richard P. Howard sits down with Angela and Darian to talk about his early life at Aramco, his career and new book. He describes Khobar as a city with only one paved road with few Americans. In his book Richard recounts the tragedy that changed his life and how he realized some things are too painful to bring them up again.
Aramco Brat: How Arabia, Oil, Gold, and Tragedy Shaped My Life: Howard, Richard P: 9798985227208: Amazon.com: Books
Angela and Dr. Smith, Superintendent of SAES, chat about running as a form of meditation and revelation. Dr. Smith recalls his experience in the Peace Corps and his various stops teaching abroad. Dr. Smith finds joy in just being around children - and values the whole child above all else.
From the icy waters of Alaska to the scorching sands of the desert - Zion shares his journey with Darian.
"Reading time can be a bit crazy", Carole tells Angela. With three languages bouncing around there is never a dull moment for Carole, Martin and their three children. Join them as they talk with Angela about the joys and challenges of learning languages at any age.
Adrian Hoquee shares his journey from Toronto to New York to Boston to Saudi Arabia along with the joy and challenges of attending Harvard. Adrian reminds Darian that what happens in Vegas does NOT always stay in Vegas!
Maryam talks with Angela and Darian about coffee, boxing, and teaching. Maryam wants people to see her as herself - a person who loves her family, loves humor and embraces life.
In part 1 - Jen and Angela go back to Jen's childhood in Mossy Rock and how a basketball playbook changed her life forever!
In part 1 - Jen and Angela go back to Jen's childhood in Mossy Rock and how a basketball playbook changed her life forever!
Teresa talks with Darian about her time teaching in Kuwait, moving to Saudi Arabia and running and running a drama program. Teresa reminds us - that no matter what - We Are Enough!
Enrique chats to Angela about a magical childhood, about raising his own children and his joy of being a councilor.
Joanna talks about her journeys to and from rural China before making her way to Abqaiq.
After more than ten years in Udhailliyah we get ready to say goodbye to Trista. Darian and Trista talk about the small town feel of Udhailliyah and the close bonds that form as a result.
Angela interviews Marybeth. They discuss how to find happiness and some of the finer points of the Berber language.
Be sure to like and subscribe for more great interviews from Angela and Darian.