Kids Are Talking

Yellow Tulip Project

Fri, 05 Aug 2022 18:09:52 GMT

Smash the Stigma of Mental Illness

Season 2: Episode 5

Join us to learn more about the Yellow Tulip Project and its mission to Smash the Stigma of Mental Illness. Today's panel will consist exclusively of youth leaders from YTP who will be sharing their stories and self-care tips. The goal of this show is to remind everyone that there is help and hope for those living with mental illness.

About the Yellow Tulip Project

We are a determined youth-driven movement tired of the silence surrounding mental illness — and we’re ready to move mountains to bring change and to remind folks that there is help and hope out there. We are tired of the deafening silence around this topic. We are tired of the stigma that keeps people from reaching out and getting the help they need. We are tired of suffering in silence and we are tired of losing our friends to suicide. We are ready to address the elephant in the room that no one wants to talk about, even though one in five people worldwide suffers from mental illness.

Our mission is to smash the stigma surrounding mental illness and to build a community of people who realize that hope happens when youth and community leaders work together. We hope that someday mental illness will be as normal to talk about as any physical illness, and are fiercely dedicated to making this goal a reality.

Panelists

Danielle
Conrad

Related Resources

Yellow Tulip Project https://theyellowtulipproject.org/
Julia's TED Talk https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qeR096V0HQA
More About The Yellow Tulip Project https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Mob5pez7mfY

Boundaries

Mon, 11 Jul 2022 17:47:35 GMT

Featuring The Empathic Coach

Season 2: Episode 4

What are your needs? Do you have difficulty expressing them? How do you take care of yourself? What are you doing for others? When do you put yourself first? Are you able to say “no” and accept when someone else says “no”?

How do you strengthen and maintain personal and relationship boundaries? It is often difficult to draw the line between being nice and helpful to others and feeling used (and abused) by your own kindness.

If any of this resonates with you, join us as our teen panel welcomes an expert on empaths and boundaries, Fraya Mortensen, a Life Coach certified in Mental Health First Aid.

Panelists

Lauren | NC
Natalie | MA
Jesse | CT

Related Resources

Free 2 Be You Coaching with Fraya Mortensen Free2BeYouCoaching.com
Empathic Coach on Social instagram.com/empathiccoach/ | tiktok.com/@empathiccoach

Sleep & Mood

Fri, 03 Jun 2022 17:47:35 GMT

Featuring Bernadette Lecza, Yale University

Season 2: Episode 3

We welcome our expert moderator Bernadette Lecza, Research Associate with the Mood Disorders Research Program at Yale University School of Medicine Department of Psychiatry. We will be discussing sleep habits and how it effects our mood.

The Yale Mood Disorders Research Program (MDRP), directed by Dr. Hilary Blumberg, is dedicated to understanding the causes of mood and related disorders, and suicide risk, over the lifespan. The MDRP brings together a multi-disciplinary group of scientists from across the Yale campus in a highly collaborative research effort to generate new and improved methods for early detection and treatment to reduce the suffering of mood disorders and suicide. The MDRP and Kids Are Talking ^TM are partnering together to find creative ways to open up the conversation and reduce the stigma of mental illness. The MDRP is currently conducting free 12 week therapy studies for individuals ages 13-29 years experiencing mood symptoms and have a parent with bipolar disorder (BD) or may have depression or BD, who are compensated up to $540 for participating. There are also studies for individuals ages 40 and up with BD.

Panelists

Whitley | NC
Stephen | CT
Lauren | NC
Kodee | IN
Blake | CT

Related Resources

Yale Mood Disorders Research Program (MDRP) www.mood.yale.edu
For more information, please call or email Erin at 203-737-2507 erin.carrubba@yale.edu or Bernadette at 203-737-2868 bernadette.lecza@yale.edu .

Conspiracy Theories

Tue, 05 Apr 2022 17:49:06 GMT

Featuring Dr. Ryan Neville-Shepard

Season 2: Episode 2

We welcome our expert co-host, Conspiracy Rhetoric professor, Dr. Neville-Shepard, from the University of Arkansas. We will talk about Project Sunshine, the JFK assassination, and other controversial mysteries.

What is "truth", and how does institutional mistrust affect kids as they navigate through their educational experience? In Dr. Neville-Shepard's KUAF interview, he says the growth of conspiracy culture comes down to: "Where do conspiracy theories come from, who believes them, how do they spread, and how do we respond?"

Panelists

Stephen
Blake
Hayden
Victor
Michelangelo

Related Resources

Conspiracy Theories: What Do Some People Believe & What Makes These Theories Take Hold in Society? Radio segment with Stephanie Kelley-Romano, Ryan Neville-Shepard, and Timothy Kaplowitz.
Exploring the World of Conspiracy Theories a preview lecture with Ryan Neville-Shepard
The Rise of Presidential Eschatology: Conspiracy Theories, Religion, and the January 6th Insurrection by Ryan Neville Shepard, Phd

State of the Kids

Tue, 15 Mar 2022 15:31:42 GMT

Featuring Senator Will Haskell

Season 2: Episode 1

In 2018 at the age of 22, Will Haskell became the youngest state senator in the country. In stark contrast to that, we are living in an era where Joe Biden is the oldest person to assume the U.S. presidency. Will joins us along with a panel of politically-minded students to talk about the State of the Kids today.

What are the hot issues on the minds of high school students today? Is it important to get involved in politics at a young age? What can kids do to have an impact on the political arena? Is student government a good stepping stone for aspiring politicians to get in the game? Let's find out!

Panelists

Bill , CT
Lilly , CT
Whitley , NC

Related Resources

About Will Haskell http://senatedems.ct.gov/haskell-about

War in Ukraine

Fri, 11 Mar 2022 16:56:27 GMT

Episode 32

As Putin's war rages on overseas, kids in the U.S. and across the world struggle with the brutal reality of what is—and what is to come. Our panel of kids with family and friends in Ukraine engages in a serious discussion on the reality of the world today and an uncertain future for so many.

Panelists

Sophia
Benjamin
Lexi

The kids on tonight’s panel felt personally and emotionally touched by the war in Ukraine. Their conversation went deep, as they talked about Putin’s disregard for people vs his need for power, the role of NATO, and the admirable leadership of Zelensky.

Sofia’s parents immigrated to the United States, leaving behind her grandfather, aunts, uncles and cousins. As the war is raging in Ukraine, it is harder and harder for Sofia to be able to speak to her Ukrainian relatives. Sofia says she feels guilty that she is living in America, as her relatives are living with sirens blaring hourly. She is concerned about how the war is affecting her parents’ mental health. Her father is devastated as he sees his country being destroyed and her mother worries that Russia will take over Ukraine.

Lexi felt honored to be a Panelist and to be able to speak out against the war in Ukraine. She attends Taft, a private boarding school in Connecticut, where 20% of the students are international. The school has been supportive of the war and the students from Ukraine. They have held vigils. Lexi said she has 5 close friends who are from Ukraine. It is difficult to watch her friends from the sidelines as they worry about their families’ safety. She said nothing in the world has impacted her this way, acknowledging that she wasn’t alive during 9/11. Lexi felt she had to do something personally, which is why she asked to be on Kids Are Talking. She said that when watching the war and hearing about what is happening, things like sports try outs become insignificant.

Ben said that the war has affected his stress and fears. He said that before COVID, he was worried about a nuclear attack. He noted that we live in a globalized world, so the war is already affecting the world, even though the NATO countries are not actively fighting. Ben is trying to understand what is happening and why. He knows that everyone needs to do what they can; we can’t isolate ourselves.

In response to a chat room comment about Russia being Goliath, Ben talked about the Malcom Gladwell book, Underdogs, Misfits and the Art of Battling Giants. He said David was small, and that was his advantage; and being on your home turf gives you a 10-1 advantage. He believes Ukraine wants to win much more than Russia. He thinks many Russian soldiers don’t even know why they are fighting in Ukraine.

Ben voiced great admiration for President Zelensky, who he sees as a leader who all of the country supports because he fights with and for his people. He compared him to Putin who has others fight for his power and makes people fear him. Ben made the connection between Zelensky, who he felt has been thrust into a leadership role and is a great leader to the character in the Netflix series, Designated Survivor. He said that leaders don’t always want to be leaders, it gets thrust upon them.

All of the panelists discussed how the war has put their lives and concerns into perspective. ‘We take life for granted.’ The kids were shown a photo of a teen, with a rifle and a lollipop in her mouth. They agreed it is difficult living their normal lives, worried about a grade on a test, when there are people in Ukraine losing their homes and their lives. These people are trying to survive with ‘bombs crashing down on their heads.’ It is time to stop worrying about the little things and see the bigger picture. The war has brought out the best in people. Ben said he saw an 80-year-old returning to Ukraine to fight. Lexi said people are coming together to help each other, first COVID and now Ukraine. It doesn’t matter how old you are, you can have a voice and help others. It’s about trying to make a difference.

Related Resources

CNN Impact Your World – Help Humanitarian Efforts in Ukraine : Donate to help those in Ukraine

Key Takeaways

Sofia , who said she is usually quiet, ‘feels she has to speak up. The war has made her value love.’
Ben , ‘Situations like this let you see the worst and best in people. He is trying to look at the positive stories.’
Lexi ‘It doesn’t matter your age, if you can help others, do it! Make a difference!”
We are in it together and must stay together.

Athletes & Mental Health

Tue, 08 Mar 2022 02:42:02 GMT

Episode 31

Our all-star panel discusses athletics and the physical and mental stresses of performing during COVID and beyond. High school, college, and olympic athletes all deal with the challenges that sports training and intense athletic competition brings. The varying perspectives of the panelists give us a deeper understanding of how mental heath has begun to bubble up in the world of sports.

Featuring Colby ‘25 - Mules #81 Brendan Sawyer and #82 Jack Sawyer, plus Team USA 2018 Laura Jacobson.

Panelists

Brendan – ME
Jack – ME
Laura – NJ

Show Notes

by Peggy S. Bud, Community Outreach Director

The panelists on this week’s show shared their experiences as athletes impacted their mental, social and emotional wellbeing. They all agreed that mental health is something everyone deals with daily, which is why it is something you must talk about. Training for any sport is both a mental and physical activity. It is important to understand that results are not immediate. “The results of what you do today, come in the future.”

Brendan and Jake were involved in sports as young boys, but didn’t start to play football until middle school. Laura on the other hand started skating at 4 ½. The role sports and training had on her life was significant. It impacted making friends, attending school, going to birthday parties. By 8 years of age. Laura needed to attend school on-line in order to keep up with her demanding training schedule. (This was long before COVID.)

All athletes want to win. Loosing is difficult and can feel like the world is coming to an end. Since it is important to maintain your mental health, learning how to ‘push the re-set button’ is crucial. It is important to get rid of the stigma that an athlete is weak if they need help related to mental health. The panelists all stressed the importance of asking for help. The twins noted that at Colby there is a psychologist in the locker room. They all agreed that athletes should feel they can talk to their coach, which is why the sports scandals were so devastating. The athletes felt betrayed by their coaches.

Laura, who was a member of Team US 2018, noted that injuries can create limitations, physically and emotionally. As a skater, even when injured, she still had to maintain a strict training schedule. When COVID hit, the ice rinks were closed, but she was still expected to train for 8 hours a day. She had a virtual coach, and a rigorous training schedule. She felt like she never had a break, not even on Sunday. This was difficult mentally. In 2021, she decided to take a break from skating and attend her local high school. She is using this opportunity to pursue other areas of interest; theatre, writing, music.

The twins shared their role in Weston High School being the 2019 State Football Champions. They were then recruited to play football for Colby College. Because of COVID the 2020 season was canceled. They deferred college and took a gap year. They said it helped them avoid burnout and gave them a chance to reflect and explore other sports. In addition to their passion for football, they discovered a love of skiing. They are playing football at Colby, balancing their daily training from 6:00 A.M. to 8:00 A.M with their classes and college life outside of sports. This means leaning on each other to ensure they maintain a balance.

As an athlete, everyone wants something from you. It is important to put your life ahead of how you do athletically. They also discussed the relationship between the team and the fans. Of course, all players want to win. Yet, the athletes feel like everyone is putting pressure on them. The panelists called out to teachers and coaches to be sensitive. They also noted the importance of supportive parents.

The conversation highlighted the difference between being a member of a team and competing in a sport as an individual. Team sports teach players the value of camaraderie; individual sports build independence and self-reliance. They agreed that athletes put pressure on themselves to be the best and to win! That means, if you are having difficulty, it is crucial that you ask for help.

Related Resources

Laura Jacobson Figure Skating

Brendan Sawyer's Highlight Reel

Jack Sawyer's Highlight Reel

Notable Quotes:

‘It is important to speak up. Do it at the moment, as it gets worse if you wait. Just ask for help.’
“Don’t kill the athletes when they lose! They want to win more than anything.”
“Perspective is important. Over-stressing can be your downfall. Play sports because you love it!”
How can you make things better? Learn to lose!

Mental Health in the Mirror

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 16:42:35 GMT

Episode 30

Our partnership with Turning Point CT continues as our panel discuses how the image we see in the mirror impacts our mental health. We also took a closer look at eating disorders and how they are not always directly related to body image, but also a reflection our mental health in general. We're digging deep and asking each other the tough questions.

Panelists

Kailey – CT
Sasha – CT
Robyn – CT

Show Notes

by Peggy S. Bud, Community Outreach Director

In this episode, we discuss the ‘war with our body.’ The panelists on Mental Health in the Mirror all continue to struggle with eating disorders. They openly and honestly shared their thoughts and experiences and explained the link between mental health problems and eating disorders. ‘Not eating’ is a coping mechanism to address feelings of depression and anxiety. ‘What goes into our body’ is a way to get control of your life and to punish yourself. It’s about learning not to ‘listen to hunger cues and how to ignore them.’

The panelists all agreed social media escalates how you view yourself and your body image. Often celebrities and influencers post edited photos; yet, many of these people are actually experiencing some type of anorexia. The pictures are saying ‘skinny is pretty.’ They are ‘praising people who are skinny.’ The panelists agreed many times, ‘you feel like you know these people and so you accept the ideas they put into your head.’

Everyone felt talking about anorexia and other types of eating disorders seemed to be taboo and was even normalized in high school. They questioned why high school health programs openly discussed depression and suicide but not anorexia. Anorexia isn’t just a ‘girl’ problem; guys have eating disorders too. ‘Their struggles are more silent because they (men) think that no one expects this from me.’ Some athletes develop what is called orthorexia, which means they obsess about eating healthy to the extreme that it takes over their lives and damages their overall health. The difference is anorexia focuses on calories and orthorexia on healthy foods.

It is important for kids to know they are not alone; help is out there. However, all panelists shared that it was a medical crisis that opened them up to getting help. One panelist said that she stopped menstruating and thought she was pregnant. However, since she had never had sex, she thought ‘Could I be another Virgin Mary?’ It was only after this experience that she learned that malnutrition affects all aspects of your health including your menstrual cycle. Starving themselves has also created chronic health problems for all of them.

Anorexia is a complicated mental illness, which is why when parents say ‘just eat’ …their comments are not helpful. Being anorexic isn’t that simple’ and requires professional therapy. All of the panelists agreed since parents ‘are not professionals, they can make comments that are harmful.’ There are many different types of programs that will provide professional support to those with eating disorders. For some, ‘group therapy is best because it makes everyone feel they are not alone and helps to validate their struggles.’

Watch Mental Health in the Mirror to hear more about the journey these kids took to realize that ‘life is worth more than sitting alone in your own darkness.’

Related Resources

http://www.TurningPointCT.org was developed by and for young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues.
Positive Directions today is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing a continuum of prevention, counseling, and recovery supports to individuals and families struggling with mental health or substance use disorders. positivedirections.org
PetVet Care Centers petvetcarecenters.com

College Application Stress

michaelbud@squaresquared.com (Michael Bud) — Sat, 12 Feb 2022 19:02:24 GMT

Episode 29

This episode is all about the stress of applying to colleges. Most seniors have just gone through this process and it has taken its toll. The discussion will include healthy ways to handle the stress and a heads up on what's coming your way if you are currently a high school junior. Mental health is on the minds of kids. Covid has made it worse

Panelists

Colin – CT
Livy – CT
Mia – CT
Kayleigh – CT
Ryan – CT

Related Resources

Fairfield Cares – https://www.fairfieldct.org/fairfieldcares
PetVet Care Centers petvetcarecenters.com

Crush with Benefits

Mon, 31 Jan 2022 18:59:47 GMT

Episode 28

With Valentine's Day around the corner, our high school panel discusses how they navigate building trust in a relationship. How important is it to become vulnerable in building closeness between two people? There are many elements that create a crush. it transcends the physical. What's on the table? Everything. The struggle is real especially in times of COVID.

Streaming LIVE 02/10/2022.

Panelists

Whitley - NC
Lauren – NC
Kodee – TN
Laura – NJ

Related Resources

Mental Health Stigma

Thu, 27 Jan 2022 19:44:23 GMT

Episode 27

Our panel—brought together by Turning Point CT —discuses how the stigma of mental health impacts our day to day life. What are the difficulties in dealing with labels and stigmas? With so much in the news today about people dealing with these issues, we're bringing it close to home and looking at it from a youth's perspective. We're digging deep and asking each other the tough questions.

Panelists

Kailey – CT
Sasha – CT
Jen – CT

Related Resources

Turning Point CT - TurningPointCT.org was developed by and for young people in Connecticut who are in recovery from mental health and substance use issues.
Positive Directions - Positive Directions today is a non-profit behavioral health organization providing a continuum of prevention, counseling, and recovery supports to individuals and families struggling with mental health or substance use disorders.Positive Directions - The Center for Prevention and Counseling – positivedirections.org
PetVet Care Centers – petvetcarecenters.com

Pets Are Awesome

Mon, 24 Jan 2022 00:01:34 GMT

Episode 26

Each of us have different types of pets. Some have fur, some have scales, some have wings. What is it about having a pet that makes it so cool and fun? Our teen panel brings their pets on screen and we learn about why they are so awesome.

Panelists

Dash – CT
Sophie – CT
Aryan – Canada

Related Resources

PetVet Care Centers petvetcarecenters.com

Entrepreneurship

Mon, 17 Jan 2022 21:30:34 GMT

Episode 25

You don't need to be an adult to be a CEO, founder, or business owner. Some of the best ideas come from the brightest young minds. Find out what drives them, what inspires them, and the hardest parts of being an awesome innovator.

Panelists

Ben – CA
Sumay – VA
Aila – VA
Grayson – CT

Related Resources

Ben | Kid CEO Media – https://benjaminwong.co/
Sumay | CEO WEquil School – https://www.wequil.school/
Greyson | Chess Success – https://chess-success.com
Sumay & Aila interview Dr. Don – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vKK_9DL0uxg

Gaming and Gambling

Mon, 03 Jan 2022 23:35:55 GMT

Episode 24

Let's level-up with this show talking about the world of online gaming. What's hot and what's not? How much time is being spent playing games online and offline? How does gambling come into play with online gaming? It the times of COVID has gaming been helpful or hurtful?

The voice of the YOUTh

Ryan – CT
Ciaran – CT
Nick – CT
Stephen – CT

Related Resources

Year in Review

Tue, 14 Dec 2021 19:08:14 GMT

Episode 23

Four of our panelists from this year return to the show to talk about what they have learned and experienced throughout the year and how they have grown. They will also look ahead to 2022 and discuss their outlook and resolutions for the coming year.

The voice of the YOUTh

Ben – CA
Jessi – CT
Whitley – NC
TBA

Related Resources

Class of 22 Film/Movie Review

Tue, 07 Dec 2021 23:17:38 GMT

Episode 22

The Class of '22 hosts a special episode 22 to discuss movies and films. What are the best trilogies? Best movies? Best actors? Best genres? Best one-liners? Lights. Camera. Action. There is going to be a heated debate. This group of teens has a lot to say.

Co-produced by Ryan

Featuring Ciaran, Gabe, Victor, Blake, Sean, Nick, Stephen, and Matuesz.

The voice of the YOUTh

Ryan (Co-host)
Ciaran
Gabe
Victor
Blake
Sean
Nick
Stephen
Matuesz

Related Resources

Student Video: Normal Activity – https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvx_8lo-Nxg

Guns & Violence

Tue, 23 Nov 2021 15:21:28 GMT

Episode 21

As Don and Michael recorded the preview segment for this show on guns and violence, little did they know that— at that very moment— a student was gunning down his fellow classmates at Oxford High School in Michigan. This discussion needs to happen now, more than ever.

We see vigilantism on the rise. Senseless killings in schools and at public events continue to make headline news. The great gun control debate is forever on-going. How do guns, violence, and the media coverage of it all effect the mental health of our kids today? Our teen panel will discuss their opinions and how they internalize, interpret, and rationalize the violent tendencies of today.

The voice of the YOUTh

Kodee – IN
Natalie – CT
Ryan – CT

Related Resources

New Title

Life with Autism

Tue, 16 Nov 2021 13:21:26 GMT

Episode 20

Join us as teens with autism—and the friends and family who support them—have a peer-to-peer dialogue about how it impacts their lives.

The voice of the YOUTh

Sophia | Connecticut
Jessi | Connecticut
Alex | Connecticut
Sophia | Connecticut

Related Resources

Stamford Education 4 Autism – https://stamfordeducation4autism.org/

Divided America – Part 2

Tue, 02 Nov 2021 16:59:03 GMT

Episode 19

Our teen panel discusses the issues surrounding hate in today's DIVIDED AMERICA. Religious, racial, and political intolerance are prevalent in today's world more than ever. How do kids feel about it? What are they doing about it? The dialogue will be inspiring, educational, and thought provoking.

The voice of the YOUTh

Anya | Connecticut
Natalie | Connecticut
Ben | California
Madison | Connecticut
Mike | Connecticut

Related Resources

Benjamin Wong, CEO, Kid CEO Media – Benjaminwong.co

Divided America

Mon, 25 Oct 2021 19:47:44 GMT

Episode 18

The voice of the YOUTh

Anya | Connecticut
Jessi | Connecticut
Ben | California
Madison | Connecticut

Related Resources

Benjamin Wong, CEO, Kid CEO Media – Benjaminwong.co

Friendship & Romance

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 15:39:59 GMT

Episode 17

How do kids navigate the issues that are encountered when friends and romance cross over and what social dynamics are at work with friends and couples?

The voice of the YOUTh

Whitley | North Carolina
Zane | North Carolina

Related Resources

Journey of a Panelist

Thu, 14 Oct 2021 22:39:49 GMT

Episode 16

Today we talk with our veteran panelist Whitley and her mother Courtenay. They discuss her journey and growth as a panelist, how it has affected her, and learn some insights into their unique mother daughter interactions throughout her life.

The voice of the YOUTh

Whitley | North Carolina

PREVIOUS Episodes FEATURING Whitley

Related Resources

Photo by Uday Mittal on Unsplash

Popularity & Social Anxiety

Fri, 01 Oct 2021 14:12:28 GMT

Episode 15

What does popularity mean to kids today? There is a major pressure for all us to fit in. How does it affect your self-esteem and confidence? Do the stresses of fitting in and being popular come at a price, and how important is it? It is just as anxiety inducing for the "popular kids" as it is for the not so popular ones. How is depression and mental health effected by the support—or lack of support—of our peers and classmates?

The voice of the YOUTh

Benjamin | California
Jessi | Connecticut
Whitley | North Carolina
Julian | Connecticut

Related Resources

Photo by Uday Mittal on Unsplash

Financial Literacy Today

Tue, 28 Sep 2021 18:37:58 GMT

Episode 14

What does “money” mean to you? Financial literacy is something every person needs to succeed in the world today. Many kids feel like they aren't getting the information they need at school to be able to handle what life throws at them financially. The way money is discussed in the home varies greatly from household to household. What age do kids actually learn that "money makes the world go round," and what impact does it have on their understanding and ability to manage things that will guide their future? Taxes, savings, investments, keeping up with the Joneses... Does money buy happiness? Or can you only rent it?

The voice of the YOUTh

Abby Schlactus – University of Maryland, Business Psychology
Jocelyn Lister – University of Maryland, Supply Chain Management
Kodee Lewis – Indiana University, Finance & Spanish
Amir Saley – Indiana University, Finance & Business
Justin Johnson – Indiana University, Finance

Plus, a special surprise guest from Paradigm Financial Partners

Related Resources

Indiana University Finance Department
University of Maryland Supply Chain Management Major
University of Maryland Finance Majors
Photo by Alexander Mils on Unsplash

Antisemitism

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 22:00:01 GMT

Episode 13

Antisemitism is prevalent in today's world more than ever. We are partnering with the Anti-Defamation League (ADL) to bring kids together to discuss their personal experience with antisemitism and dig into the hate that is tearing our country apart. What do Jewish teens want you to know about antisemitism? Tune in to find out.

ADL CONNECTICUT YOUTH Leaders

Jessica
Alana
Samantha
Ilan

Related Resources

Photo By radekprocyk Adobe Stock

The Impact of Music

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 21:58:32 GMT

Episode 12

How does music help or hurt our emotional and mental wellbeing? Has it helped during isolation? Can we imagine a world without music?

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Dillan California
Abi New York
Sophie Connecticut

Related Resources

Headset Photo by C D-X on Unsplash
Record Photo by Erik Mclean on Unsplash

Back To School

Thu, 26 Aug 2021 21:56:13 GMT

Episode 11

What are the stresses and challenges that kids are facing going back to school this year (or back to virtual learning)? The future is unknown with the rampant Delta Variant.

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Leighton Connecticut
Whitley North Carolina
Sophie Connecticut

Related Resources

The Future of Your Future | www.thefutureofyourfuture.com – An organization, founded by panelist Leighton Schur, to raise funds for children and children-focused programs around the world.

Circa 2000: What are teenage girls going through?

Thu, 19 Aug 2021 19:12:34 GMT

From the Archive

What are teenage girls going through today? We examine, explore and discuss what it is like growing up in high school and middle school with four young women.

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH
from Staples High School, Westport, CT

Diana Sophomore
Kat Senior
Lisa Freshman
Leigh Sophomore

Lyrics to the theme song that sets the stage for the show "A Teenage Girl" by American Standard

What's it like to be a teenage girl?

What are you going through growing up ... in this world?

Here at the turn of the century,

have you established your identity?

What are your future hopes, goals, and dreams?

How do you feel about your self esteem?

Image isn't everything, but I know it's on your mind.

Do worries of the way you look plague you all the time?

Who are the role models that guide you through your life?

You're growing older every day, so tell us what it's like.

Do you feel pressure and anxiety?

How 'bout an individuality?

Are you drowning in self consciousness?

Do you feel like you do your best?

Image isn't everything, but I know it's on your mind

Do worries of the way you look plague you all the time?

Who are the role models that guide you through your life?

You're growing older every day, so tell us what it's like.

Do you explore your sexuality?

Or are you waiting till you get married?

How do you feel about the women's role,

as the times change from the old?

Watch LIVE Episode on YouTube , August 19 @ 7pm Eastern / 4 Pacific

The Effect of Mental Health

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 14:01:50 GMT

Episode 10

Mental Health is everywhere. It's at the olympics.... it's everywhere. It is also very stigmatized. What are anxiety and depression? What has created it? What makes it happen? Why is it so prevalent?

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Dillan California
Whitley North Carolina
Maya Connecticut

Anxiety & Depression

Wed, 04 Aug 2021 13:58:37 GMT

Episode 9

Mental Health is everywhere. It's at the olympics.... it's everywhere. It is also very stigmatized. What are anxiety and depression? What has created it? What makes it happen? Why is it so prevalent?

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Jazz San Francisco
Leighton Connecticut
Angel Illinois

Hookup Culture

Wed, 21 Jul 2021 13:57:08 GMT

Episode 8

What impact does the hookup culture have on kids today? Does a culture that accepts and encourages casual sex encounters, including one-night stands and other related activity, without emotional intimacy, bonding or commitment have a negative effect on healthy relationships?

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Chris Connecticut
Eunice New York
Whitley North Carolina

Social Misinformation

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 17:33:45 GMT

Episode 7

Social media has invaded almost every aspect of our lives. How does the information—and misinformation—that comes from these various platforms effect the lives and mental health of teens and young adults? How do "likes" and shares reflect the reality of social acceptance? Listen to our Student panel discuss

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Julia Connecticut
Hallie New York
Molly Illinois
Nick California

Circa 2000: Diversity

Sun, 18 Jul 2021 17:30:51 GMT

From the Archive

We dug into the Kids Are Talking archive and pulled out this episode from January 9, 2000 about Diversity. On this show, Michelle Pincince from the Anti-Defamation League—a human rights organization that fights prejudice—joins us with 5 kids from two different high schools in Connecticut. These kids offer their insight after participating in the A World of Difference Institute's Diversity Day , a state-wide program that brings students together to create the opportunity for change.

Love, Sex, and Relationships

Fri, 09 Jul 2021 16:25:45 GMT

Episode 6

Lockdown and social distancing has thrown a wrench in the works of many young relationships. Each of our kids looks at the struggle from their point of view and they check in with each other with advice and tips on how to make things work in today's crazy world.

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Dylan Connecticut
Eunice New York
Chris Connecticut

ADHD COVID Challenges

Tue, 29 Jun 2021 18:38:45 GMT

Episode 5

Remote learning and disrupted class schedules have taken their toll on kids with ADHD and other similar learning differences. Let's dive deep into the struggle with the perspective of kids around the country.

As our panelist Sophie said, "ADHD is not a DISability, it's a NEW ability." Everyone brings a slightly different perspective on one of the most common neurodevelopmental "disorders" of childhood.

For additional resources about ADHD (and LD):

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Sophie Connecticut
Whitley North Carolina
Ezra Connecticut
David Connecticut

Drugs in the COVID era

Thu, 24 Jun 2021 20:41:06 GMT

Episode 4

This week, kids from around the world get real and unfiltered discussing drugs, alcohol, cannabis, and tobacco use and abuse during the COVID

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Hailey Marino New York @haileymarino
Layton Connecticut

RESOURCES

Partnership to end Addiction – https://drugfree.org/
National Suicide Prevention Hotline – 800-273-8255
Dr. Weiner’s Addiction Blog – Insights on Addiction and Behavioral Health https://www.weinerphd.com/blog

Circa 2000: Gay Youth in the Schools

Wed, 23 Jun 2021 18:44:00 GMT

From the Archive

We dug into the Kids Are Talking archive and pulled out this episode from March 26, 2000 about Gay Youth in the Schools. This episode was also featuring journalist Dan Woog and several students from various schools in Connecticut at the time. Many of the struggles that kids were facing then, they are STILL facing now, as discussed on our show last night. This show began with a song written specifically for the show by the musical trio American Standard featuring Michael Bud, Bill Pond, and Ken Pond.

Modern Identity & Sexuality : Then & Now

Tue, 22 Jun 2021 16:45:23 GMT

Episode 3

What issues are kids facing on the dating scene in the COVID era? What struggles are they facing? What is new and better? What don't adults understand about what you are going through?

For youth suicide prevention and crisis intervention for LGBTQ Youth.Contact The Trevor Project at 1-866-488-7386. They are the leading national organization provider in this space. Also available is the Trans Lifeline for transgender suicide prevention 877-565-8860.

In honor of pride month, Dr. Don welcomes a new group of kids to discuss the complexities of modern sexuality and gender identity. We are also joined by Dan Woog, a Kids Are Talking guest from the 90s.

Here are links to the articles mentioned during the show:

Olympics Article: https://www.washingtonpost.com/nation/2021/06/21/laurel-hubbard-transgender-tokyo-olympics/
NFL Article: https://www.nytimes.com/2021/06/21/sports/football/carl-nassib-gay-nfl.html
Catholic Church and Adoption: https://www.cnbc.com/2021/06/17/supreme-court-sides-with-catholic-adoption-agency-that-refuses-to-work-with-lgbt-couples.html

Online Safety

A helpful LGBTQ online safety guide that came out recently from VPN Mentor aims to empower LGBTQs and give them the tools to protect themselves online.
https://www.vpnmentor.com/blog/lgbtq-guide-online-safety/

Panelists

Chris Connecticut
Eunice New York
Niels Georgia

Special Guest: Dan Woog author of 06880danwoog.com

Body Image & Eating Disorders During COVID : Part B

Thu, 17 Jun 2021 16:34:20 GMT

Episode 2

We continue our discussion and add in university student, Becca Rawiszer, who has a unique perspective on the issue. Join us once again for an unfiltered conversation about eating disorders, body image, and general wellness during COVID-19.

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Becca Rawiszer California | Author: When Wellness is Dangerous
Julia Connecticut | Instagram: @thelifeofbalance
Chris Connecticut
Whitley North Carolina

Body Image & Eating Disorders During COVID : Part A

Thu, 10 Jun 2021 16:35:11 GMT

Episode 1

Kids Are Talking has RELAUNCHED after 20+ years. As our first episode in over 20 years, we brought together a group of kids from Connecticut and North Carolina to have an unfiltered conversation about eating disorders, body image, and general wellness during COVID-19.

THE VOICE OF THE YOUTH

Whitley North Carolina
Julia Westport, Connecticut @thelifeofbalance
Chris Ridgefield, Connecticut