We had the good fortune of connecting with Dr. Natalie Coleman and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Dr. Natalie, we’d love to hear more about how you thought about starting your own business?
I started my business after I had an epiphany about my purpose. I knew I was the bridge for generations after me to see themselves in Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math (STEAM). I started part time and spent many days “failing fast”. I constantly tried new programs, new staff, new ideas knowing that one or a few of them would resonate and be a solution to some problem.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
I am the proud founder of After the Peanut (ATP). It was created in 2014 and is named in honor of George Washington Carver. At ATP we are dedicated to building a future where every individual, regardless of their socioeconomic background, gender, zip code, etc has equal access to the transformative power of STEAM education. Aligned with the same values we also have a non-profit subdivision entitled, After the Peanut Foundation which was established in 2017. Both organizations are committed to fostering equity, innovation, and accessibility in K-12 STEAM education. We have served thousands of students and hundreds of professionals. What sets us apart from other education organizations is the fact that we build immersive experiences in STEAM. Our programs are not complete unless it has a Subject Matter Expert, field trip, mentors and hands-on activities. In addition to this, our turn key solution, Summer STEAM Camp, is held on a college or university campuses.

Currently, we have a Solar Energy program for middle school students and a professional development program called Full STEAM Ahead for educators. We pride ourselves in showing STEAM in everyday life, building confidence in young people and equipping those who work with students with the best practices in STEAM education. We have shown proof that we are that “Change Agent” as witnessed by the hundreds of Summer STEAM Camp students and parents who have given us rave reviews as well as feedback from our trained educators.

We didn’t get we are without some great lessons learned. While we have had many successes over the years, we have faced challenges. We were able to overcome them by building a core team and listening to our community, educators, and students. We also participate in numerous community events throughout the year ,which allows us to spread awareness about our innovative AND accessible STEAM programs. We also believe partnerships provide allies who have similar missions, values and goals. We have partnered with over 20 agencies in the past five years and seen great success. Our goal is to increase this number annually.

One of our most recent accomplishments is doubling our number of Summer STEAM Camp scholarship recipients between 2023 and 2024. We were also the recipient of a significant state funded grant that allowed us launch Full STEAM Ahead and impact hundreds of educators.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Well…it would need to be in late Spring or summer for the best weather in Chicago, IL.
So let’s see…here is an itenerary for lets say June 2025

Sunday-Brunch in Chicago -and wherever that leads…

Monday-Starved Rock and Portillos

Tuesday-Museums in Chicago/The Bean/ Skydeck

Wednesday-Spa Day at Kohler in Burr Ridge + Coopers Hawk

Thursday-Naperville, IL River Walk

Friday-Crab Boil in Chicago and Live Music

Saturday-Mani/Pedi and head to airport

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I’d first like to dedicate this story to my wife. She was a major part of the pivot that took place at the company, brought our marketing to a level of excellence and continues to help grow the company. I also like to thank my dearly departed mother who was an educator and my father a happily “retired” electrician. There are many others who have inspired me in some way, but too many people to name. I do believe that my K-8 teachers gave me great inspiration because they were smart, professional, fair, nice and many other qualities that great teachers have. My current mentors are Denise Winfrey and Dr. Phyllis Wilson, two pioneers in their own right who have trail-blazed a path for me and future generations.

Website: https://www.ceonataliecoleman.com

Instagram: @ceonataliecoleman

Linkedin: @ceonataliecoleman

Twitter: @ceonatcoleman

Facebook: @ceonataliecoleman

Youtube: Dr. Natalie Coleman

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