Meet the Founder

Mike Branson – Founder, Carve Your Own Path

Hi, I’m Mike, and I started Carve Your Own Path to support kids who don’t always thrive in traditional spaces—because I was one of them. School wasn’t always a great fit for me, and it took a lot of trial, error, and exploration to find where I truly belonged. That winding journey is at the heart of why I do this work today.

My background in education and outdoor leadership reflects my commitment to helping kids learn and grow in ways that feel meaningful and authentic. I hold a Master’s in Curriculum and Instruction and a Bachelor’s in Human Development and Education from CU Denver. Over the past seven years, I’ve worked in special education, earning a professional teaching license in the state of Colorado, endorsements as a special education generalist (ages 6–21) and elementary education, and a designation in educating English learners, as well as being Read Act certified. These tools help me offer academic support that’s flexible, individualized, and affirming—especially for kids with IEPs, 504s, and learning differences.

But I’ve always believed that learning doesn’t just happen at a desk. For many kids, it starts on a board, in a stream, or out on a trail. I’ve been skateboarding for over 28 years, snowboarding for 25, and coaching competitive snowboarders for the past 12, backed by a Level 200 USASA coaching certification. I’ve also worked as a professional guide for fly fishing trips in Colorado, launched skateboard clubs at Title 1 schools, and created outdoor programs that build confidence, connection, and joy.

I hold certifications in SafeSport, Heads Up Concussion Safety, and previously served as a nationally certified Wilderness EMT-Basic. These safety practices help me create environments where kids can stretch, explore, and be themselves—secure in the knowledge that they’re supported every step of the way.

At Carve Your Own Path, I’ve woven together my love for education, the outdoors, and advocacy to build something that supports youth in a holistic, personal, and powerful way. This program is not about fitting kids into a system—it’s about building experiences around who they are.

Is the traditional path to “success” is not working? Then Carve Your Own!
We’d love to welcome your family into this journey.