In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine sits down with Whitney Cardosi to discuss her transformative journey from struggling with self-worth to becoming a passionate advocate for nutrition and mental health. Inside This Episode:🔹 Whitney’s personal struggles with self-esteem, addiction, and family challenges as a teen🔹 How the pandemic led to her epiphany about the connection between nutrition, emotions, and mental health🔹 The impact of food choices on family well-being and how parents can model healthy habits🔹 Equipping kids with social and emotional skills through nutrition and conversation tools🔹 The role of authenticity, self-acceptance, and resilience in personal growth Whitney also shares insights from her work, including her kids' cooking classes, her Mom & Tween conversation cards, and the upcoming Bloom Retreat for girls and their mothers. 🎧 Tune in for an inspiring conversation on how making small, intentional choices can transform our well-being and leadership. Follow Whitney on Instagram at @whitney_cardosi and @bloomnorthshore #LeadersOfToday #Podcast #TeenLeadership #NutritionAndMentalHealth #SelfWorth #ParentingTips #HealthyEating #GrowthMindset

In this inspiring episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine sits down with Keyana Cellucci, entrepreneur and podcast host of Trust Me, to explore the transformative power of self-discovery, asking for help, and redefining leadership. Keyana shares her personal journey from a middle child who often overlooked her own needs to a leader who empowers others to embrace self-discipline, inner strength, and the courage to seek help. Together, Lorraine and Keyana discuss the significance of reshaping leadership perceptions in schools, the power of delegation, and the importance of facing challenges head-on. In this episode, you’ll learn about: 1. Keyana’s Journey of Self-Discovery: How her teenage years were shaped by the question, “Who do I want to become?” The impact of being a middle child and the lessons she wished she had learned about asking for help earlier in life. 2. Shifting Leadership Perceptions in Schools: The need to redefine leadership beyond academic and athletic achievements to include delegation, humility, and teamwork. Why parents and educators should model vulnerability and normalize seeking help. 3. The Role of Delegation in Leadership: Keyana’s experience moving from Pennsylvania to Maine and how it taught her to trust others with responsibilities. How delegation helped her business flourish and broadened her leadership perspective. 4. Embracing an Unconventional Leadership Path: Keyana’s decision to follow her instincts rather than conventional routes, and how this led to her becoming a leader by example. Lorraine’s affirmation that leadership is about making intentional, goal-aligned choices. 5. Self-Discipline as a Key to Success: Why showing up for yourself, even on hard days, is essential for growth and leadership. The difference between self-discipline and fluctuating motivation. 6. Inner Strength and Growth: Keyana’s advice to teenagers: Everything you need is already within you—embrace setbacks as opportunities for growth. The powerful analogy of a buffalo running toward challenges to illustrate resilience. 7. Turning Hardships into Superpowers: How overcoming struggles can become a defining strength. Keyana’s personal story of resilience and how it fuels her passion to help others. Key Takeaways: Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness. Leadership is more than a title—it’s about behavior, trust, and collaboration. Self-discipline is the foundation for achieving success and navigating challenges. Facing challenges directly can lead to quicker resolutions and greater personal growth. Resources Mentioned: Keyana’s Podcast: Trust Me Connect with Keyana on Social Media: Instagram: @KeyanaCellucci Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trustme_the_podcast LinkedIn: Keyana Cellucci Connect with Us: Peers Not Fears: www.peersnotfears.com Instagram: @PeersNotFears LinkedIn: Lorraine Connell Don’t forget to subscribe for more inspiring stories of leadership, growth, and resilience! Thank you for listening!

In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell sits down with Shannon Thompson, founder of Dream Bigger Publishing. After aging out of foster care, becoming a young mom, and spending time in prison, Shannon had to learn every part of “adulting” the hard way – from rent and credit to careers and money management. Now she’s turned those painful lessons into a practical life skills curriculum that helps teens (especially those aging out of systems) understand what life really costs, how to build a dream career, and how to avoid the financial traps she fell into. You’ll hear: How aging out of foster care with no safety net shaped Shannon’s path Why so many young people feel 10–20 years “behind” in adulthood The 3 core pillars of her Dream Bigger curriculum Her message for any teen who feels like their past defines their future Connect with Shannon Website: https://www.dreambiggerpublishing.com Books on Amazon: search “Dream Bigger Shannon Thompson” Instagram & Facebook: Dream_bigger_publishing LinkedIn: Dream Bigger Publishing / Shannon Thompson

What if the very things you’re most ashamed of are actually your superpowers? In this powerful conversation, business coach and podcast host Katie Grimes opens up about growing up in a home impacted by alcoholism, being relentlessly bullied, hating her body, and surviving sexual assault, and how she turned all of it into fuel for the life and business she has now. Katie now helps entrepreneurs (especially those with ADHD) build businesses that feel safe, spacious, and wildly successful, without burning themselves out or abandoning their needs. Together, we explore how the patterns we learn as teens, people pleasing, perfectionism, hyper-independence, and hiding our feelings, quietly shape our leadership as adults… and how we can change the story. If you’re a teen, parent, educator, or leader who’s ever felt “too much,” “not enough,” or like your past disqualifies you from leadership, this episode will hit home in the best way. In this episode, we talk about: How bullying, body image struggles, and growing up around addiction shaped Katie’s self-worth The moment she realized perfectionism is not a flex, it’s a survival response What no one tells teens about nervous systems, freeze/people-pleasing, and why we pretend everything is “fine” How Katie rebuilt her life after sexual assault, grief, and being let go from corporate The shift from “I’m a burden” to “I’m allowed to ask for help” Finding safe and trusted adults, and what that actually looks and feels like Why the things that come easiest to you are your greatest leadership gifts How Katie went from all of this… to building a $550k+ coaching business and helping 100,000+ people Connect with Katie Grimes Instagram & TikTok: @kg.katiegrimes Podcast – Anything for Love: https://www.katiegrimes.com/podcast Website & Coaching: https://www.katiegrimes.com/ If something in this episode resonated and you’d like a free coaching session with Katie, email support@katiegrimes.com and mention this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans.

In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell welcomes Olivia, co-founder and CEO of Fresh Starts Registry, for an insightful conversation on transitions, leadership, and the impact of past experiences on personal growth. Lorraine opens up about a stressful morning, juggling her child’s school application process while ensuring leadership in her own commitments. This sets the stage for a deeper discussion with Olivia about navigating life’s transitions, both in school and beyond. Olivia shares her journey from feeling like an outsider in a private school to finding purpose through mentorship, art, and leadership. She reflects on the power of supportive teachers, the role of empathy in school transitions, and the importance of redefining popularity. Together, Lorraine and Olivia explore how connection and mentorship shape young leaders, and how parents and educators can foster spaces where every student feels seen. The conversation takes a deeper dive into Olivia’s mission with Fresh Starts Registry, a platform designed to support individuals through major life changes. She shares how her personal experiences with transition and resilience inspired her to build a community of support, and why staying true to oneself is key to navigating change. Join us for this powerful discussion on embracing fresh starts, shedding negative labels, and leading with authenticity. 🎧 Listen now and be inspired to navigate your own transitions with confidence! Fresh Starte Website Olivia on Istagram #FreshStarts #Leadership #TeenLeadership #Empowerment #StudentSuccess #Authenticity #Mentorship #SchoolTransitions

In this conversation, Tim Flynn shares his transformative journey from being a bullied teenager to becoming a martial arts instructor and advocate for youth empowerment. He discusses how his experiences with bullying shaped his mission to help young people build confidence, discipline, and self-respect through martial arts. Tim emphasizes the importance of community, connection, and finding one's passion as essential elements in overcoming adversity. He also offers practical advice for teens facing bullying, encouraging them to seek supportive environments and pursue their interests. takeaways Tim Flynn's journey began with bullying but evolved into a mission to empower youth. Martial arts provided Tim with a sense of belonging and confidence. Tim's program, Karate Chop Bullying, aims to teach kids how to stand up for themselves. Experiencing bullying can lead to feelings of worthlessness, but support is crucial. Tim emphasizes the importance of community and connection in overcoming challenges. Finding a passion or interest can help kids build confidence and friendships. Tim's approach to teaching adapts to the individual needs of each child. Acknowledging children's discomfort can help them feel more secure in learning environments. Martial arts teaches kids to compete with themselves rather than against others. Tim encourages kids to seek out supportive groups and activities. Connect with Tim Flynn LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/timflynn98/ Podcast – Breaking Bullying:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/breaking-bullying/id1686206144  

Show Notes: In this special episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, we switch things up, Courtney, Director of the Center for New Americans, steps into the interviewer role and sits down with Lorraine Connell for a powerful conversation about mentorship, leadership, and the experiences of immigrant youth. Courtney brings her unique perspective as someone who was once a high school mentee, then a peer leader, and now a program director supporting newcomer students. As she interviews Lorraine, their dialogue explores the transformational impact of mentorship and what it takes to create supportive spaces where young leaders can thrive. Together, they dive into: 🌟 Key Themes & Takeaways🔹 How mentorship shapes leadership potential in teens🔹 What immigrant youth uniquely need to feel confident, seen, and supported🔹 Courtney’s full-circle journey from mentee → mentor → youth program director🔹 The ripple effects of peer leadership programs🔹 Leading youth through compassion, accountability, and modeling forgiveness They also share exciting updates about expanding middle school mentorship programs and a possible collaboration with the Choose Love curriculum. This conversational, interviewer-style episode highlights how connection, belonging, and guided leadership can transform a young person’s entire trajectory. #LeadersOfToday #YouthEmpowerment #MentorshipMatters #TeenLeadership #ImmigrantVoices #ChooseLove #FutureLeaders #Confidence #GrowthMindset

Community builder and Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston President and CEO Robert Lewis Jr. shares how growing up in East Boston public housing, surviving a firebombing during the busing crisis, and being lifted by mentors shaped his life’s mission to unite people and invest in youth as Boston’s future talent. We talk assets over deficits, redefining “poor,” belonging, narrative, and how adults can listen, love, and create real opportunity.   Key takeaways Belonging beats scarcity. Community, friendships, and safety redefine what “poor” feels like. Lead with assets. Stop deficit language. See young people as talent and invest accordingly. Turn pain into purpose. Robert’s 16-year-old promise fuels a lifetime of bridge-building. Adults must shift. Listen more, partner more, and stop “fixing” kids. Define your narrative. Do not let others write your story.   Connect with Robert Boys & Girls Clubs of Boston: https://www.bgcb.org/ BGCB waives membership fees for 2025–2026: https://www.bgcb.org/blog/boys-girls-clubs-of-boston-waives-membership-fees-for-2025-2026-school-year/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-lewis-jr-0bb0931a2/

In this episode, Lorraine sits down with trauma-informed mentor, speaker, and The Survivors Chair host Kim Russell to explore how growing up in foster care and being adopted shaped her leadership, resilience, and calling to create safe spaces for healing. Kim opens up about the realities of substance use as a teen, why behavior is communication, and how consistent, caring adults can change a young person’s life. Together, they discuss how to build trust with youth, what educators and mentors can do in real classrooms, and how self-healing helps us lead with empathy and self-trust.  Key Takeaways Behavior communicates unmet needs. Consistency and care build trust. Offer help without judgment. Let youth share at their own pace. Regulate yourself to lead with empathy. Connect with Kim: Website IG TikTok FB LinkedIn

Stylist, salon owner, and trauma-informed mentor Kim Russell shares how foster care, adoption, and early survival patterns shaped her empathy, leadership, and mission to create safe spaces. We talk behavior as communication, complex vs. single-event trauma, and how adults can better support teens. Key takeaways Behavior = communication from the body. Trauma lives in the body; safety comes first. “People-pleasing” often begins as protection. Belonging changes trajectories (her vo-tech turning point). Trauma-informed = lived experience + learning + healing. Connect with Kim: Website IG TikTok FB LinkedIn

In this episode, Lorraine sits down with career strategist and JobTalk founder Krystal Hicks to explore how early challenges, from growing up fast and navigating divorced parents to overcoming bullying shaped her empathy, leadership, and purpose-driven work. Krystal shares how she found her voice through journalism, learned to transform hardship into power, and now helps others reclaim agency, confidence, and belonging in their careers. Together, they unpack how childhood experiences shape our professional identities, why emotional awareness matters at work, and what it really means to lead with compassion and courage. Key Takeaways: How early life struggles can evolve into strengths that define your leadership style The power of storytelling and self-advocacy in shaping your career Why setting boundaries at work is an act of self-respect, not rebellion How to handle workplace “bullies” with curiosity instead of fear Why taking time to explore before choosing a career path can change everything Connect with Krystal: TikTok / Instagram: @jobtalk.llc Facebook: /jobtalkllc LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/krystalhicks

In this episode, Lorraine Connell interviews Winnie da Silva, an executive coach and leadership strategist, about her journey and insights into leadership and resilience. Winnie shares personal stories from her teenage years, her career path from social work to executive coaching, and the importance of resilience and trying new things. The conversation also touches on parenting, the power of reframing challenges, and the role of confidence in personal growth. Keywords Winnie da Silva, leadership, resilience, executive coaching, personal growth, parenting, confidence, reframing challenges Takeaways Resilience is built through facing and overcoming challenges. Trying new things is essential for personal growth. Confidence is a skill that can be developed over time. Reframing challenges can lead to new opportunities. Parenting involves supporting children through failures. Leadership is about understanding and addressing blind spots. Personal growth often comes from unexpected experiences. Titles and roles can be self-defined and empowering. Listening and empathy are crucial in coaching and parenting. Success is not always immediate; it's a long-term journey. Contact Winne here: YouTube LinkedIn

In this episode, Lorraine welcomes Bryant Mitchell, an Enterprise Account Executive at Ace Up and a seasoned coach, to discuss the intersection of personal experiences, athletics, and leadership development. Together, they explore how resilience, self-reflection, and meaningful connections can shape athletes, students, and coaches alike. Topics Covered: Bryant’s Journey in Football Overcoming the challenges of being a late bloomer in football, from walking on at the University of New Hampshire to earning a scholarship. Learning valuable lessons through setbacks, including injuries and self-confidence struggles, and how they shaped his perspective on growth and leadership. Transitioning from Athlete to Coach Bryant’s shift from playing to coaching, emphasizing resilience and a growth mindset. Insights on balancing competitiveness with character development and life skills in coaching. Lessons from Coaching Kids Adapting to different learning styles and addressing fears with empathy and strategy. Using personal experiences to encourage a culture of openness, feedback, and teamwork. The Role of Communication and Recognition in Leadership How consistent communication and individual recognition can motivate team members. Bryant’s plans to engage with players on a deeper level to acknowledge their efforts and foster personal growth. Personal Connections and Development The power of personal connections in making athletes and students feel valued and seen. Bryant and Lorraine’s reflections on stepping out of comfort zones to create impactful change. Key Takeaways: Resilience and Growth: Embrace setbacks as opportunities to learn and improve. Character Over Competitiveness: Balance the drive to win with fostering essential life skills and values. Effective Communication: Keep open, consistent dialogue with team members to inspire trust and motivation. Recognition Matters: Acknowledge efforts and strengths to build confidence and encourage progress. Join Lorraine and Bryant as they share heartfelt stories, practical advice, and thought-provoking insights on leadership, coaching, and empowering others to succeed. 🎧 Listen now and discover how you can lead with purpose and positivity. Connect with Lorraine Connell:Website: Peers Not FearsInstagram: @peersnotfears Connect with Bryant:Learn more about his work at Ace Up.

In this episode of Leaders of Today, Lorraine Connell interviews Brady Barre, Development and Communications Coordinator for New Hampshire Outright. Brady shares their journey of self-discovery and leadership, emphasizing the importance of representation and inclusive leadership for LGBTQ+ youth. They discuss their personal experiences with identity exploration, the impact of supportive adults, and their work in advocating for LGBTQ+ youth. Keywords LGBTQ+, leadership, identity, representation, youth advocacy Takeaways Your differences define your leadership. Quiet strength is as powerful as loud voices. Representation is vital for identity and leadership. Inclusive leadership breaks stigma around identity. Supportive adults can change a young person's life. Identity exploration is a lifelong journey. Believing in youth's identity is crucial. Community support is essential for LGBTQ+ youth. Leadership comes in many forms and strengths. Finding your strengths is key to effective leadership.  

Join host Lorraine Connell as she sits down with Francine Tirrell, a spiritual business and mindset coach, energy healer, and founder of Forever Changed Coaching. In this episode, Francine shares her journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a beacon of empowerment for women seeking clarity and confidence. Discover how Francine's personal experiences have shaped her approach to helping others break free from overwhelm and embrace their true selves. Key Topics: The impact of childhood beliefs on adult life Francine's journey of self-discovery and weight loss The importance of quieting the mind and embracing discomfort How Francine uses tools like EFT and Oracle cards in her coaching The role of intuition and self-awareness in personal growth Guest Information: Francine Tirrell: Founder of Forever Changed Coaching, specializing in mindset coaching and energy healing. Website: ForeverChangedCoaching.com Social Media: Instagram @ForeverChangedCoach, Facebook, LinkedIn Podcast: F'n Friday with Francine Hashtags: #Empowerment #Healing #MindsetCoach #FrancineTirrell Call to Action: Tune in to hear Francine's inspiring story and learn how you can start your journey towards empowerment and healing. Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast for more insightful conversations with today's leaders.

In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine sits down with Melissa, co-founder of Women’s Business League (WBL), to dive deep into the power of building genuine connections, overcoming challenges, and fostering confidence in leadership. Melissa shares her personal journey, from facing rejection in high school cheerleading to finding her unique way to stand out and be part of a team. This story laid the foundation for her commitment to creating inclusive communities that inspire confidence and leadership in others. Together, Lorraine and Melissa explore: The importance of creating a sense of belonging for teens and adults alike. Practical strategies to help young people—and ourselves—build stronger connections and communities. How vulnerability and authenticity are key to creating lasting relationships. The role of mentorship in helping individuals embrace their strengths and lead with confidence. Tips for navigating networking with intention and building leadership skills at every stage of life. They also discuss Melissa's experiences building Women’s Business League and how the principles of collaboration and shared growth apply to both business and youth development. Whether you're an aspiring leader, a parent looking to guide your teen, or someone seeking to build stronger connections, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Key Takeaways: True leadership starts with community and connection. Networking and confidence are skills that can be learned and practiced. Empowering young people to embrace their individuality can lead to transformational growth. Connect with Melissa: Follow on Social Media. LinkedIn Learn more about Women’s Business League and their mission to support women entrepreneurs. Stay connected with Lorraine and Peers Not Fears for resources on leadership development for teens. Listen now and join the conversation on building a stronger, more connected future for leaders of today and tomorrow!

Join Lorraine Connell as she sits down with Kevin Mecchella, a former educator and professional musician turned youth advocate. Kevin shares his transformative journey from being the class clown to becoming a nationally recognized speaker, using music and humor to empower students in building strong mental health foundations. Key Takeaways: Kevin's teenage years and the quest for validation The pivotal car accident that changed his life How music and mental health education intersect The importance of decision-making in shaping one's future Kevin's advice for teenagers seeking belonging and validation Guest Information: Kevin Mecchella is a youth speaker and musician who inspires students across the country. Learn more about his work : Youtube Channel, IG, Facebook, LinkedIn Hashtags: #YouthEmpowerment #MentalHealth #MusicEducation #Leadership  

Show Notes: In this episode, Lorraine reconnects with her high school student, Luke, now the Brand Activation and Events Manager at Woodward Park City. They dive into Luke’s inspiring journey from an unconventional teen to a leader in the action sports industry. Here are the highlights: 🎯 Luke's Leadership Journey: Luke shares how his non-traditional path, personal challenges, and passion for snowboarding helped him become a mentor and leader for young athletes. 🏂 Growth of Action Sports: Lorraine and Luke explore the evolution of sports like skateboarding, snowboarding, and the rise of new activities like Parkour. Luke reflects on the power of community in supporting resilience in action sports. 💡 Advice for Young Adults: Luke offers valuable advice for young adults struggling to find their passion or career path, emphasizing the importance of persistence and trying different experiences. 🧠 Overcoming Challenges: Luke opens up about his own personal challenges, including a significant brain injury, and how it shaped his views on mental health and resilience. Lorraine and Luke also discuss the importance of peer support during tough times. Tune in for an insightful conversation on leadership, personal growth, and finding success beyond the conventional path. #ActionSports #LeadershipJourney #Resilience #WoodwardParkCity #PeersNotFears #YouthMentorship #Podcast #ADHD

Description: Join Lorraine Connell as she welcomes Iuri Melo, a licensed clinical social worker, author, and co-founder of School Pulse. In this episode, Iuri shares his journey from Portugal to the U.S., his innovative approach to therapy using adventure-based activities, and the creation of School Pulse, a proactive student support service. Discover insights on positive psychology, the importance of forgiveness, and how to empower teens to face their challenges with confidence. Key Topics: Iuri's personal journey and challenges as a teen Adventure-based therapy and its impact on youth The founding and mission of School Pulse Positive psychology and its role in student success Advice for teens on confidence and relationship building Hashtags: #TeenSupport #PositivePsychology #AdventureTherapy 2 MINUTE VIDEO that summarizes our service and how schools deploy our incredible strategies Here is a link to all of our extraordinary VIDEOS to share with your listeners - All Teen focused content Here is a link to the most comprehensive MENTAL HEALTH RESOURCE PAGE in the country, that we created and deliver to every school, parent, and student. Links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/iuritiagomelo Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iuri-melo-1b41482/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/iuritmelo/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SchoolPulsePodcast/videos?view=0&sort=dd&shelf_id=2 Know Thy Selfie -Tips, tricks, and tools for an awesome life - t.ly/juUMB Mind Over Grey Matter - Training the mind to heal the brain - t.ly/SxNUU

Show Notes: In this inspiring episode, Lorraine sits down with Reverend Dawn Adams, Senior Minister at 1st Congregational Church, Wolfborough, UCC. Dawn shares her profound journey into ministry and leadership, offering valuable insights into self-perception, personal growth, and the importance of finding one's true calling in life. Together, they explore: 🔹 Dawn's early experiences in ministry and the path that led her to become a spiritual leader. 🔹 The importance of embracing curiosity, trusting your gut, and following what brings you joy. 🔹 Leadership evolution—shifting from a hierarchical approach to one that values collaboration and listening. 🔹 The power of community and how impactful leadership can emerge from the margins. 🔹 Finding and following your "calling" in life—how it can lead to a meaningful and fulfilling career. 🔹 The ongoing challenges faced by women in ministry and the importance of mentorship in fostering growth. Reverend Dawn’s life story serves as a reminder that self-discovery and personal development are lifelong processes, and it’s okay to pivot and shed old paths when you discover your true passion. Whether you’re exploring your own calling or just curious about leadership in ministry, this episode is full of wisdom and encouragement. #Leadership #Ministry #PersonalGrowth #SelfDiscovery #WomenInLeadership #CallingInLife #Podcast #PeersNotFears