Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans

Empowering Youth Through Leadership and Mentorship with Courtney Perron from the Center for New Americans

Show Notes:

In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell sits down with Courtney, Director of the Center for New Americans, to explore the transformative power of mentorship and leadership for young people—especially those from immigrant backgrounds.

Courtney shares her personal journey from being a high school mentee to becoming a peer leader and eventually dedicating her career to youth empowerment. Together, she and Lorraine discuss the importance of creating supportive environments for young leaders, the challenges immigrant youth face, and how programs like theirs are fostering confidence, resilience, and leadership skills in students.

🌟 Key Takeaways:
🔹 The impact of mentorship on youth leadership development
🔹 Encouraging confidence and self-worth in teenagers
🔹 How the Center for New Americans is breaking down barriers for immigrant students
🔹 The evolution of peer leadership programs and their ripple effect
🔹 The power of redemption, second chances, and modeling forgiveness

Plus, hear about their exciting new initiatives, including the expansion of middle school mentorship programs and a potential partnership with the Choose Love curriculum!

#LeadersOfToday #YouthEmpowerment #MentorshipMatters #TeenLeadership #ImmigrantVoices #ChooseLove #FutureLeaders #Confidence #GrowthMindset

Leaving a Legacy: The Impact of Everyday Leadership

In this episode of Leaders of Today, we explore what it truly means to leave a legacy—not just through grand gestures, but in the everyday moments that shape the lives of those around us. Leadership isn’t about titles or status; it’s about the impact we make through our actions, our words, and the way we show up for others.

I reflect on:

• The moments in my own journey that reshaped my understanding of leadership
• How small acts of kindness and mentorship can create a ripple effect for generations
• The role of educators, parents, and mentors in shaping young leaders
• How we can be intentional about the legacy we leave behind, both personally and professionally

Your legacy isn’t something you build at the end of your journey—it’s something you create every single day. Join me as we dive into the power of everyday leadership and how we can all make a lasting impact.

🎧 Listen now and start shaping your legacy today!

Connect with me:
🌍 Website: Peers Not Fears
📸 Instagram: @peersnotfears
🔗 LinkedIn: Lorraine Connell

From Transitions to Leadership: Olivia Howell’s Journey & the Power of Fresh Starts

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

What Makes You Confident? A Teen Leadership Coach’s Perspective

Bonus Episode: What Makes You Confident? A Teen Leadership Coach’s Perspective

In this bonus episode of Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell dives into the true meaning of confidence and how teens can build it in a way that lasts. Drawing from her blog post, What Makes You Confident? A Teen Leadership Coach’s Perspective, Lorraine explores the difference between external validation and inner confidence, and why leadership plays a key role in developing self-assurance.

Tune in to hear practical tips on how teens can step into their confidence, embrace challenges, and grow into strong, self-aware leaders.

For more leadership insights and resources, visit Peers Not Fears.

Embracing Student Voices and Building Leadership with Tim Powers

In this episode, Lorraine Connell welcomes Tim Powers, an experienced educator and school administrator, to discuss his journey into leadership, the power of student voices, and creating a supportive school community. Drawing from his background as a student-athlete and his career in education, Tim offers insights into how students and teachers alike can find meaningful ways to grow, connect, and lead. Here’s what you’ll find in this episode:

Key Topics:

• Personal Journeys: Lorraine and Tim reflect on their high school experiences, and Tim shares how his time as a student athlete helped shape his values and approach to leadership.
• Leadership Beyond Titles: They discuss how leadership extends beyond formal titles and roles, emphasizing the value of self-respect, connection, and action.
• Supporting Freshmen: Tim talks about strategies for helping freshmen make connections in new environments, from field days to advisory periods that foster friendship and mentorship.
• Saying Yes to Opportunities: Embracing new experiences has been central to Tim’s career, and he shares how a ‘yes’ mindset has helped him grow personally and professionally.
• Promoting Student Voice: Tim explains the importance of amplifying student perspectives, encouraging everyone to take on leadership roles, and celebrating accomplishments across the school community.
• Building Community in Schools: Tim’s focus on relationship-building and varied activities helps students find their place and feel supported in school, which he believes is key to both academic and personal success.
• Encouraging Self-Care and Growth: Both Lorraine and Tim discuss the role of self-care, seeking help, and continuous learning as critical parts of growth and resilience for young people and adults alike.

Join us for an insightful conversation on fostering leadership, student voice, and a sense of community in schools!

From Athlete to Coach: Building Character, Embracing Failure, and Leading with Purpose Bryant Mitchell's Story

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.

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Connect with Lorraine Connell:
Website: Peers Not Fears
Instagram: @peersnotfears

Connect with Bryant:
Learn more about his work at Ace Up.

Becoming 'The Happy Leader': Calvin Lawrence's Journey of Self-Discovery, Mentorship, and Positivity in Leadership

In this special episode of Leaders of Today, Lorraine Connell hosts Calvin Lawrence, CEO, success coach, and author-to-be, as he shares his inspiring journey from aspiring physical therapist to influential leader and educator. Lorraine and Calvin discuss the profound role of mentors, teachers, and family in shaping their paths, as well as the impact of Calvin’s upcoming book, The Happy Leader, available for purchase on Amazon.

Highlights:

• Calvin’s Book "The Happy Leader": Calvin shares insights into his new book and the importance of positivity in leadership, as well as his goal of inspiring readers to lead with authenticity and commitment. 
• Personal & Professional Journeys: Lorraine and Calvin open up about the winding roads of their careers and the invaluable guidance they received from family, mentors, and teachers along the way.
• The Role of Teachers & Mentors: Calvin highlights his admiration for his fourth-grade teacher, Dora Harris, whose encouragement fostered his love for learning and set him on his current path.
• Leadership & Self-Discovery: Calvin shares how he grew into a leadership role, including his pivotal experiences in high school sports and career-defining conversations with mentors.
• Educational Aspirations & Mentorship: Calvin and Lorraine discuss the importance of personal growth, seeking mentorship, and the power of effective communication in developing future leaders.

Join Lorraine and Calvin as they reflect on their shared vision of fostering resilience and leadership in young people and inspire listeners with stories of positivity, perseverance, and growth.

#EducationUnimagined #TheHappyLeader #Podcast #LeadershipJourney #Mentorship #PersonalGrowth #Inspiration #FutureLeaders #StudentVoice

Finding Your Voice: Erin Snow's Journey & the Seacoast Listening Lounge

Episode Summary:
In this powerful episode, Lorraine Connell sits down with Erin Snow, founder of the Seacoast Listening Lounge, to discuss the importance of holding abusers accountable, self-acceptance, and creating safe spaces for healing. Erin shares her personal journey—from overcoming childhood abuse and struggling with self-worth to becoming a legal advocate and launching a professional listening service for women.

Key Topics Covered:
🔹 Empowering Victims & Addressing Shame – Shifting the focus from victim-blaming to holding abusers accountable.
🔹 Erin’s Journey from Theater to Advocacy – How her personal experiences led her to help victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and stalking.
🔹 Overcoming Self-Doubt & Finding Your Voice – Erin’s struggle with self-acceptance and her path to reclaiming her voice.
🔹 The Seacoast Listening Lounge – Creating a non-clinical safe space for open conversations and healing.
🔹 Supporting Teens & Adults – Why feeling seen and heard is essential for growth and self-worth.

Why Listen?
This episode is for anyone seeking inspiration in overcoming adversity, finding their voice, or supporting loved ones through healing. Erin’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and creating spaces where people can truly be heard.

Connect with Erin & The Seacoast Listening Lounge:
🌎 Website:
📲 Social Media: Instagram

🎧 Tune in now and join the conversation! #Leadership #Healing #Empowerment #Podcast

What Is Public Speaking and Why Does It Matter for Teens?

Bonus Episode: What Is Public Speaking and Why Does It Matter for Teens?

In this bonus episode of Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell explores the power of public speaking and why it’s a crucial skill for teens. Drawing from her blog post, What Is Public Speaking and Why Does It Matter for Teens?, Lorraine discusses how mastering communication helps young leaders build confidence, express their ideas, and advocate for themselves and others.

Listen in to learn how public speaking skills can impact future opportunities, from school presentations to leadership roles, and discover practical tips for overcoming the fear of speaking in front of others.

For more leadership insights and resources, visit Peers Not Fears.

Empathy, Bullying, and Building Resilient Communities with Jeff Frigon

Episode Summary
In this enlightening conversation, Lorraine speaks with Jeff Frigon, founder and executive director of the Brown Center, about his impactful work fostering empathy and teamwork among youth. With a career spanning three decades, Jeff shares his journey of promoting positive change through human connection and experiential learning. This episode dives into the power of empathy, the realities of bullying, and how intentional programs can create resilient, inclusive communities.

Key Topics Discussed

1. Jeff’s Background & Role at the Brown Center
   Jeff describes his mission at the Brown Center to promote empathy and understanding among young people, recounting how his extensive background in interactive education has shaped his approach to experiential learning and outdoor education. The episode previews an upcoming podcast where Jeff will further explore Lorraine’s background and her work with youth leadership.

2. A Childhood of Connection and Challenges
   Growing up in a close-knit working-class family, Jeff details how his mother's work as a teacher and his own sensitive nature influenced his approach to human connection. He candidly shares his experiences with bullying, reconciliation with former bullies, and the powerful impact of his close friends during his formative years.

3. Overcoming Bullying and Building Empathy
   Jeff opens up about his experiences as a target of bullying, how it influenced his career, and his empathy for those who feel misunderstood. His work at the Brown Center leverages this empathy to combat both physical and cyberbullying, emphasizing that connection is a powerful antidote to bullying.

4. Adventure Education and the Ribs Course Program
   Jeff shares how the Ribs Course Adventure, a program he helped create, focuses on connecting students to establish a supportive community. The program encourages openness, resilience, and community norms, creating an environment where students feel safe to learn and grow.

5. Strategies to Reduce Bullying and Foster Empathy
   Lorraine and Jeff discuss practical approaches to creating inclusive, empathetic communities. Jeff shares his belief that understanding others can reduce bullying and its impact, emphasizing the importance of building connections within the “middle of the bell curve.”

6. Restorative Justice in Education and Beyond
   The episode wraps up with an insightful discussion on restorative justice, exploring how it can be integrated into both educational and corporate settings to build accountability and empathy.

Key Takeaways

• Empathy and connection are essential to reducing bullying and fostering supportive environments.
• Programs like the Ribs Course Adventure help build a sense of community and encourage kindness.
• Restorative justice offers powerful tools for creating accountability and positive change.

Connect with Jeff and the Brown Center
To learn more about Jeff’s work and the Brown Center, check the Website here.