Life is an Adventure. Let’s Explore the Journey Together!
In education and expanded learning, we often take the path less traveled – the unpaved trail that leads to exploration and adventure! The BOOST Breakfast Club Blog is excited to spotlight the journeys of the BOOST Leadership and BOOST Ambassador teams in the Fall 2025 Collaborative Blog Series – Share Your Career Journey: Explore the Path We’ve Traveled. Thank you to these important BOOST partners for adventuring into the unknown for the betterment of our youth and communities.
Today, let’s journey with Justin Griffin (He, Him). Thank you, Justin, for inviting us to join your journey! We appreciate you!
Explore the Path We’ve Traveled with BOOST Leadership Team Member, Justin Griffin (He, Him)
Justin is the Owner of Pure Joy Enrichment, Inc. in Corona, CA, and a proud member of the BOOST Leadership Team.
What is your career path journey? How did you get involved in the out-of-school time, expanded learning, and/or educational fields?
I remember when I was in school, we would have visitors that inspired me in a way to want to make something of myself. Whenever I met someone as a kid, I was always intrigued by how they got to where they were in life. During the beginning stages of my player development business (Pure Joy Basketball), my mom worked for the school district as a secretary. I simply asked her if there was a way I could use basketball as my tool to get into the school district. She set up a meeting with the school’s TOSA (Teacher on Special Assignment) and the rest is history!
What part of your career path has surprised you most?
I never knew that I would enjoy teaching as much as I do. Growing up, I’ve struggled with a stuttering problem. Speaking in front of a group always scared me. Once I realized the only way to be successful was to face my fears, I’ve never looked back. Action cures fear, and the only way I can have the most impact is by staying out of my own head and continuing to pursue what I believe I am on this earth to do, and that is impact!
Who has supported you on your journey as a mentor, colleague, or friend?
My family. My family has always been my number one fan. My mentors have been my parents and my sisters. I think the passion they see me have for my work makes them proud to support me along the way. Without their love and support, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What keeps you in the field?
The students. I have a passion for inspiring the youth. I see them in me. Each kid is one session away from believing in themselves to face the challenges this world gives them. My dad always says, “Son, it’s good to be seen”. So I make it my mission to show these kids that I see them individually, and that I want to be someone they can look up to, instilling confidence in each and every one of them to be successful in their own special way!
As you continue on the journey, what areas of leadership are you developing in yourself?
The main thing is always keeping the MAIN thing the MAIN thing. Continuing my personal development in all areas of leadership is a life’s mission. Learning and continuing to stay curious have allowed me to evolve in ways I never thought I could. Also, surrounding myself with the right team has been the most important.
What skills are the most crucial to succeeding in this field?
I believe the skills of Patience, Adaptability, and Transparency. You must have patience in this field. Without it, you will fail. Adapting to your surroundings is also important. You must read the room and meet people where they are first, in order to bring the most out of them. If you can’t communicate and speak the truth in awkward moments, then this field will be extremely difficult for you to grow in.
What would you recommend others pack in their “career backpack”? Why are those items important?
The only things you need to pack in your bag is your sense of BELIEF with a large side of CONFIDENCE. With these two things, you’ll be able to face any adversity and push through to get to whatever level of success you envision for yourself.
Tell us about your BOOST adventure? When did you get started?
My BOOST adventure started at the 2024 BOOST Conference. I never knew there was such a conference with so many like-minded people. I never knew this was a whole industry, because I kind of just fell into it through my own intuition. When I was in attendance, I knew I wanted to be a part of it. I wanted to interact and learn from these people. So, I applied and joined the BLT!!!
What is the best mistake you have made in your career? What did you learn from it?
The best/biggest mistake is assuming people are like you. Assuming people can learn just by watching you do something does not work. Understanding what my strengths and weaknesses are and finding the right people who can fill my weaknesses with their strengths is what works.
Today, for breakfast, I had…
Coffee.
Meredith White
Justin! The two items you suggested for our ‘career backpack’ – BELIEF with a large side of CONFIDENCE – are powerful, and just what I needed to read today. It reminded me to change the narrative… and to change my self-perspective. Today, I am going to practice this, not only for myself but also for others. Belief in each other and confidence in our collective capacity will change our communities! Grateful for you and your example of leadership.
Thanks, Coach!
Rachel Bryant
I love the Career Backpack question and your response!
Deanna Underwood
Love this, Justin! Belief + Confidence = Eventual Success!