Teaching a generation to manage money more effectively than Congress.

In a warehouse north of downtown Seattle, creativity abounds. Artists knock out graphics that are really important to American youth, set designers re-create game show props, board rooms, class rooms and credit union lobbies. Script writers perfect their craft while talent practice their lines knowing they have to be effective. The beehive of activity is a calling for every single one of them. They are not making a fortune, but they are setting the stage for a generation to do so.

I was recently treated to a tour of the set at BizKid$, the national Emmy-award winning program that is teaching financial literacy to middle school students. Now in its fith season, it is broadcast on PBS in all 50 states. The production crew is cranking out as many quality episodes as possible before some of the talent heads back to college.

BizKid$ is teaching a generation of teenagers how to balance checkbooks, write business plans, apply for loans and execute their dreams. It was a dream that a team of experienced TV producers had and were able to bring to life with financing from the credit unions of Washington state. The producers had the know-how; they created Bill Nye, the Science Guy. The Washington Credit Union Foundation liked the vision and fueled the fundraising.

It was inspiring to see one of the creators, Jamie Hammond, in her role as Executive Producer. She encourages, empowers, expects and rewards her team as all brilliant leaders do. Over lunch she surprised us when she let us know her 65th birthday was days away; her energy and commitment rivals that of any 35 year old. She continues to hear the calling and answer it, as the entire team does.

Thanks to BizKid$, your eighth grader may know more about how to form a corporation that you do.