Saturday Evening Conversation with Cintya, Eddie, & Darnell

Date: April 19, 2025 (Saturday Evening) Location: Austin, TX (Bar/Restaurant/Venue) Participants: Gary Sheng, Cintya Montero, Eddie Dunn, Darnell Forbes, John E Walker (briefly mentioned/present?)

Overview

Gary Sheng met up with Cintya Montero, Eddie Dunn, and Darnell Forbes for drinks and conversation. They discussed Gary's work with Alpha Schools, the upcoming high-profile dinner at Zach Levi's ranch, personal backgrounds, and philosophies on life and work.

Key Discussion Points

Alpha Schools Vision & Updates

• Gary explained the Alpha model (AI-driven academics + passion projects) and the vision for global expansion (Alpha India, Japan, etc.).
• Discussed the "American Alpha" competition (13 full rides) and the goal of making Alpha superior to institutions like Harvard.
• Mentioned the strategy of creating specialized microschools led by legends (sports, music, film).
• Talked about the political aspect: advocating for increased school vouchers to make Alpha accessible.
• Emphasized the role of AI in providing foundational learning and freeing humans for mentorship.
• Shared anecdotes about connecting students with mentors (like Mahaveer Dharmchand for Alex Mathew).

Wednesday Dinner at Zach Levi's Ranch

• Gary invited Cintya Montero and Darnell Forbes to the dinner.
• Described the event as a high-powered gathering of potential collaborators, investors, and cultural figures (mentioning potential guests like Will Smith, Chance the Rapper, RZA, Logic's manager).
• Emphasized the goal of inspiring these figures to support or start Alpha Schools.
• Mentioned pre-dinner activities (dirt bikes, shooting) starting at 3 PM, dinner at 8 PM.
• Arranging shuttles from Alpha High School to the ranch.

Personal Updates & Philosophies

• Eddie Dunn recounted meeting Gary in The Villages, Florida through Johnny Rapp.
• Darnell Forbes shared his background (Philly -> Austin -> UT Austin) and upcoming move to Atlanta for a new job.
• Discussion about the importance of genuine human connection vs. superficial interactions.
• Gary shared his perspective on identifying and working with passionate individuals ("superheroes") and avoiding "lukewarmness."
• Eddie Dunn shared his experience playing pickleball in The Villages.
• Discussion about personal style, fashion, and Gary potentially getting new clothes/shoes.

Other Points

• Banter about various topics: Earth Wind & Fire vs. Earth Wind & Water festival idea, retirement communities, pickleball, Shazam movie, celebrity crushes, Austin vs. NYC, past lives, Chinese history, anthropology.
• Gary offered Cintya a sample jacket from his fashion designer friends.

Follow-up Actions

• Cintya Montero and Darnell Forbes to check availability for the Wednesday dinner.
• Gary to potentially coordinate logistics (shuttles) for the dinner.