Mr. Jeff Pierce on Hong Kong, History, and Debate

In Episode 24 of The Late Start Show, Charlie Martin and Jack Nelson sit down with Mr. Jeff Pierce, University School’s Jr. K - 8 enrichment specialist, middle school speech & debate coach, and history specialist, to trace the winding path that shaped his life in education. From growing up in Columbus and thriving as a student, to studying history at Harvard, to a formative stint volunteering abroad, Mr. Pierce shares how curiosity (and a willingness to take big leaps) eventually carried him to teaching overseas, where a “one-year” plan in Hong Kong turned into a 14-year chapter in international education.

The conversation dives into what it’s like returning to the U.S. after years abroad, what makes University School special, and how debate, enrichment, and genuine student opportunities can build lifelong skills beyond the gradebook. Along the way, Mr. Pierce reflects on family, coaching, raising two boys at US, and the values that ground him when life gets busy, making the world a better place, and believing that “Pierces can do hard things.”

Credits to Russ Nobles for the Intro and Outro songs, Mr. Wickboldt for being our advisor, and you for listening to our podcast and keeping up with the latest US news.