Anthony Abastilla is a school counselor that has worked with students of all ages; Elementary, Middle School, and High School. In the first season, he interviewed students and staff at one of his old districts, but since then, Mr. A. interviews people from different backgrounds professionally and personally so they can hopefully inspire, encourage, and intrigue people from their stories. Do you have a story that you might find to be interesting that might inspire, entertain, or encourage others? Let him know! He would love to share your story in the near future!
If you have any questions or feedback, feel free to reach him on his Instagram page @conversationswithmra
Episode 65: The Deep End of Determination. Swimming Beyond His Years
Conversations With Mr. A — Interview with Jackson: Swimming Beyond His Years
In this episode of Conversations With Mr. A, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jackson Sword, Ruth’s middle child, while visiting South Carolina. Jackson is heading into 8th grade and is already making a name for himself as a competitive swimmer.
Jackson has been competing on a swim team and has had the opportunity to compete against swimmers who are older and more experienced—including high school athletes. What really stood out to me during our conversation was his maturity, determination, and drive at such a young age.
We talk about his journey in competitive swimming, what motivates him to keep improving, what it’s like competing against older athletes, and the challenges that come with pushing yourself to become better. We also discuss the importance of discipline, confidence, handling competition, and setting goals.
Jackson may be young, but his mindset and approach to his sport show a level of maturity well beyond his years. I really enjoyed getting to know him better and hearing his perspective on swimming, competition, and what he hopes to accomplish moving forward.
Thanks for watching/listening to Conversations With Mr. A! If you enjoy the episode, be sure to like, subscribe/follow, and share it with someone who might enjoy Jackson’s story.
🎙️ Conversations With Mr. A Real conversations. Real people. Real stories.
11 Aug 2026
Episode 64: From High School To Higher Goals. A New Course Ahead
Conversations With Mr. A — Interview with Jude Sword: The Journey of a Competitive Golfer
In this episode of Conversations With Mr. A, I had the opportunity to sit down with Jude Sword while visiting South Carolina. Jude is the oldest son of Ruth, one of my wife Yolanda’s best friends, and he recently graduated from high school.
Jude has spent the last several years playing competitive golf, putting in the time, practice, and dedication required to compete at a high level. In our conversation, we talk about his journey in golf, what drew him to the sport, the challenges and lessons that come with competitive competition, and how the experience has helped shape him both on and off the course.
We also talk about what it’s like to reach such an important transition point in life—graduating high school and looking ahead to what comes next.
I really enjoyed getting to know Jude better through this conversation, and I think his story offers some great insight into commitment, perseverance, competition, and pursuing something you love.
Thanks for watching/listening to Conversations With Mr. A! If you enjoy the episode, be sure to like, subscribe/follow, and share it with someone who might enjoy Jude’s story.
🎙️ Conversations With Mr. A Real conversations. Real people. Real stories.
21 Jul 2026
Episode 63: From Chimacum to Cougar Valley. The Senior Year Send Off
In this special episode of Conversations With Mr. A., Mr. Abastilla reconnects with one of his former students, Rylee Jo Spainhower, for a full-circle conversation as she reflects on her journey from freshman year to high school graduation.
Mr A. first met Rylee while serving as a school counselor at Chimacum Junior/Senior High School during the 2022–2023 school year. Now, just a few years later, Rylee shares what her senior year was like, the lessons she learned throughout high school, the memories she’ll cherish, and the excitement—and nerves—of preparing for her next chapter at Washington State University this fall.
As the first interview with a Chimacum student since Season 1, this episode is a meaningful reunion and a celebration of growth, perseverance, and new beginnings. Whether you’re a student preparing for graduation, a parent watching your child take that next step, or someone who enjoys hearing inspiring stories of young adults chasing their dreams, this conversation is sure to encourage you.
Congratulations, Rylee, and best of luck as you head to Cougar Country! Go Cougs!
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
698
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
4 ratings
Spotify
5.0 / 5
5 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 62 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
85
Social presence
0
YouTube
66
Engagement
32
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