Our Story
The Beginning: A Child’s Fascination with Technology (Age 7)
CodiePie’s origins trace back to Ezra, AKA David Israelian’s early childhood, when his father purchased his first Windows computer at the age of seven. From the moment he powered it on, Israelian became fascinated with how technology worked, spending countless hours exploring the system, deconstructing programs, and experimenting with digital tools. This early exposure sparked a passion that would guide his future, laying the groundwork for a career in coding, problem-solving, and digital innovation.
High School: Refining Skills with Paul Robinson
As Israelian’s technical abilities grew, he encountered Paul Robinson, a skilled coder who became his mentor during high school. Robinson helped refine his programming skills and structured problem-solving approach, introducing him to advanced concepts that strengthened his understanding of software development. This mentorship played a crucial role in shaping Israelian’s perspective—not only as a developer but as someone who believed in the power of technology to transform lives.
2012: Founding CodiePie to Empower Neurodiverse Individuals
With his technical foundation and personal experiences navigating mental health challenges, Israelian recognized a gap in the tech industry—a lack of opportunities for neurodiverse individuals and those living with mental health conditions. In 2012, he launched CodiePie, a program dedicated to bridging that gap by providing hands-on training in coding, digital media, and creative technology. His goal was to redefine mental illness through coding, proving that neurodivergence is a strength, not a barrier, in the world of technology.
Mentorship & Growth: Kevin Naruse and Painted Brain
Early in CodiePie’s development, Kevin Naruse became one of Israelian’s first students through Painted Brain, a nonprofit focused on mental health advocacy through arts and technology. Under Israelian’s mentorship, Naruse developed his digital and media skills, eventually taking on the role of Media Director at Painted Brain, where he successfully expanded the organization’s online presence for over a decade. His journey became a testament to CodiePie’s mission—proving that structured mentorship and skill-building could lead to real career opportunities for individuals with lived mental health experiences.
The Future: Expanding CodiePie’s Impact with Robinson & Naruse
Recognizing the transformative power of mentorship, Naruse and Robinson later joined forces with Israelian to expand CodiePie’s impact. Together, they are amplifying opportunities for neurodiverse individuals and those with mental health conditions to thrive in tech and media careers. Through structured learning, adaptive teaching methods, and industry collaborations, CodiePie continues to bridge the gap between talent and opportunity, proving that neurodivergence is an asset in today’s evolving digital landscape.
Our Team
Ezra “David” Israelian
CEO & Founder
Paul Robinson
Tech Instructor
Kevin Naruse
Media Instructor
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Phone
(424) 387-6806
Address
400 Corporate Pointe Suite 300, Culver City, CA, 90230