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His Comeback Season: Himothy’s Journey Through Juvenile Justice (Part 2)

Join us for the powerful conclusion of Himothy’s journey on Youth Voice Amplified. After the birth of his daughter, Himothy made a complete turnaround, dedicating himself to community service, full-time work, and pursuing higher education. In this episode, Himothy reflects on his life after overcoming years of hardship, sharing what he’s most proud of and how he’s found fulfillment in fatherhood and his commitment to giving back. As Himothy looks back on his journey, he also addresses common misconceptions about youth involved in the juvenile justice system and offers valuable words of wisdom to those facing similar challenges. Tune in to hear Himothy’s inspiring story of resilience, growth, and the transformative power of second chances.

His Comeback Season: Himothy’s Journey Through Juvenile Justice (Part 1)

Join us on a special two-part episode as we dive into the remarkable story of Himothy on Youth Voice Amplified. From a young age, Himothy faced adversity and challenges head-on, including entering the juvenile detention system at just 12 years old. Despite facing instability in his early years, Himothy discovered a sense of belonging and purpose in sports, which became a guiding force in his young life. However, when sports seasons ended, Himothy found found himself getting into trouble, leading to a cycle of returning to the juvenile justice system.

In this first part of a two-part episode, Himothy shares his experiences in juvenile detention centers and group homes, giving us a glimpse into a world many don’t see. With candid storytelling, Himothy reflects on his journey’s highs and lows, highlighting the resilience that kept him moving forward. Join us for this moving episode that not only explores the challenges faced by youth in the justice system but also celebrates the strength found within.

Rising Phoenix: Horus’ Unbreakable Spirit (Part 1)

Join us for part one of ‘Rising Phoenix: Horus’ Unbreakable Sprit,’ where we delve into Horus’ courageous journey through childhood challenges and homelessness. From a young age, Horus faced the daunting reality of being on his own, constantly shifting from one school to another, and feeling the weight of loneliness. In this raw and honest conversation, he also opens up about the mental health struggles he encountered as a result and offers valuable insights into how schools and the court system can better support unhoused youth.

Tune in to discover Horus’ resilience and determination in the face of adversity, as he navigates through life’s ups and downs with unwavering courage. Don’t miss this first part of this two-part episode filled with hope, challenges, and the power of perseverance.

Shining Bright: Jo’s Journey of Courage & Hope

Get ready to be inspired as we dive into 2024 with Jo’s remarkable story on Youth Voice Amplified! Jo’s story resonates with the struggles many of us encounter. In this candid conversation, she bares it all, sharing her experiences being homelessness at a young age to facing tough times and foster care in her teenage years.

Discover how her connection to her family and her time in foster care became pivotal turning points, reshaping Jo’s life for the better. She also addresses the stigma attached to foster care and homelessness, offering firsthand accounts that shed light on the misconceptions surrounding these experiences.

But hold on tight because this story isn’t just about hardships—it’s a celebration of the strength found in family. As a devoted mother, Jo shares how having children helped her cherish life’s small moments and the importance of living in the present. Tune in for an uplifting conversation and kick off your new year with a dose of hope and joy!

Voices of Resilience Youth Panel (Live from the 2023 EMBRACE Equity Symposium)

In September 2023, we had the honor of moderating the Voices of Resilience student panel at the 2023 EMBRACE Equity Symposium, where educators from across California converged to champion equity and inclusion in schools.

In this episode, you’ll hear the uplifting conversation we led with an exceptional group of youth who’ve conquered adversities like homelessness, foster care, and the juvenile justice system. But this wasn’t just about their stories—it’s a discussion into the influential force of student voice. These resilient students share insights into how student voices can shape equitable schools and how educators and advocates can champion change from the perspective of our youth!

Get ready to be inspired and enlightened as we bring you the raw, unfiltered audio from this enlightening panel directly from the EMBRACE Equity Symposium. This isn’t just a panel discussion; it’s an opportunity for you, our listeners, to gain deep insights, learn from real experiences, and be inspired by these remarkable young changemakers!

On the Frontlines of Hope: Supporting Homeless Students in Schools

In honor of Homeless Youth Awareness Month, “Youth Voice Amplified” brings you an inspiring episode featuring Michelle Blalock, the Homeless Education Liaison, and Gabby Britt, a Registered Associate Clinical Social Worker, both dedicated to making a difference in the lives of homeless students. They are on the front lines, tackling the pressing needs and challenges often overlooked in schools. Join us for an exclusive behind-the-scenes look into their tireless work, highlighting the vital role they play in the well-being and success of these students in California’s largest high school district. Don’t miss this must-listen episode for those passionate about youth advocacy and education!

Episode #10 Dr. John Mendiburu, the Superintendent of Kern County Schools

In celebration of our 10th episode, we have a special guest who brings a unique perspective on the intersection of student voice and equity in education, especially for students facing adversity like those experiencing homelessness and foster care. Join us as we welcome Dr. John Mendiburu, the Superintendent of Kern County Schools, to the “Youth Voice Amplified” podcast! In this milestone episode, we hear about Dr. Mendiburu’s early years in Kern County and his journey to his current leadership position. We uncover with him key moments and mentors that ignited his passion for education, and how his own experiences navigating adversity propelled him towards a career in education and leadership. Dr. Mendiburu also provides invaluable insights into the importance of student voice, both as a personal philosophy and as a powerful tool for promoting equity within schools. Throughout our conversation, Dr. Mendiburu offers invaluable advice for fellow educators on nurturing student voices to support resilience, as well as inspiring words of encouragement for youth on their own journeys toward making a positive impact. It’s a conversation that truly has something for everyone, and we can’t wait to share it with you!

Episode #9 Breaking Barriers: A Foster Youth’s College Journey

In this special back-to-school episode, we’re diving headfirst into the inspiring story of Tom, a former foster youth who defied the odds to pursue higher education. Join hosts Gennessa and Brian as they unravel the challenges, triumphs, and insights that shaped Tom’s journey to and through college. From navigating the complexities of foster care placements to conquering the unexpected hurdles of the pandemic, this is a tale of resilience, determination, and the unwavering pursuit of dreams. Join us as he shares invaluable insights, and listen closely as Tom offers heartfelt advice to fellow foster youth who are walking a similar path. Whether you’re a student, educator, or simply someone who finds strength in stories of triumph, this episode will leave you inspired!

Episode #7 Resilience Rewritten: Evelette’s Story (Part 2)

In the heartfelt conclusion to our captivating two-part series, Evelette shares her experiences as a teen parent, overcoming challenges during high school, and dealing with homelessness. She reveals the sacrifices she made to provide a stable home for her daughter and her unwavering commitment to being there for her child every step of the way. Join us for this inspiring episode as Evelette, now a youth advocate, draws from her own journey to offer hope and guidance to other youth facing similar struggles. Witness her advocacy for homeless youth and the debunking of misconceptions, making a significant impact on policy-makers and agencies. Be prepared for a transformative story of hope, compassion, and the incredible power of resilience!

Episode #7 Resilience Rewritten: Evelette’s Story (Part 1)

Ever since she could remember, Evelette has battled extraordinary circumstances, made tough decisions, and overcome difficult challenges…all while on her own. In this inspiring two-part series, Evelette takes us on an unforgettable journey through her experiences in foster care, becoming a teen parent, and completing high school despite homelessness. With the support of caring adults, her love for her children, and unwavering hope, Evelette defied the odds and found the strength to persevere. Brace yourself for an extraordinary story of resilience and determination!

Episode #6 Don’t Give Up Hope: Manuel’s Journey to a Life of Purpose & Service

Manuel has lived a lot of life in his 20 years. He joined us to share his deeply personal story tracing his journey from running with the wrong crowd and incarceration as a teen to a college student and community advocate with a heart for service. Manuel describes the hard choices he had to make starting at a young age and the emotional impact of stigma on juvenile justice-involved youth. He also shares the transformative power that one caring adult had in helping to shape him into the man he is today. Manuel’s life story of resilience and perseverance is heartwarming and laced with messages of hope and positivity that will inspire listeners of all ages. It could very well change your life!

Episode #5 Keep Moving Forward: Frenchie’s Story about Foster Care

In celebration of Foster Care Awareness Month, we spoke with Frenchie, a former foster youth, who shares his journey through the foster care system including what his experience has been like after leaving care and what he would say to a youth experiencing foster care right now. He also opened up about the resilience and inner strength he discovered during tough times, along with the supports and services he has received to achieve his goals for himself. Frenchie’s powerful story will help listeners understand the emotional impact foster care has on children and youth, and the challenges foster youth can encounter after turning 18, including homelessness. If you want to learn how you too can help foster youth keep moving forward, this episode is for you.

Episode #4 Growing Up with Type 1 Diabetes: One Student’s Story

In this episode, we talk with Ghost who was diagnosed at a young age with Type 1 Diabetes (T1D) – a chronic disease that affects more than 245,000 American children and adolescents under age 20. She opens up about her childhood diagnosis story, what a typical day looks like for her managing her diabetes, and her journey toward independence during college. Even though Type 1 is the most common type of diabetes in U.S. youth, we learned there are still a lot of misconceptions about the disease. Ghost sets the record straight by dispelling common T1D myths and offering helpful advice to newly diagnosed youth, their families, and schools. Ghost also stresses how important patience, understanding, and the support of her family and friends have been for her to live a full, active, and healthy life. If you want to become an ally for youth with Type 1 Diabetes, don’t miss an episode!

Episode #3 Unlocking The Power of Youth Voice: What Schools & Agencies Need To Know

Get ready! It’s time to get some deeper insights about the role of youth voice in our schools and the community from our expert guest for this episode. We sit down with homeless youth advocate Allyson Baptiste from the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office to discuss the importance of championing student voices in schools and community agency programs. Like us, she is passionate about lifting up youth voices as an instrument of change, but how can schools and agencies ensure that the voices of all students are heard? What does authentic student voice mean? What does it sound like? Allyson provides insight to research around the positive impact of youth voice on student learning and program improvement. She also shares examples, ideas, and resources to help you inject youth voice into your schools, programs, and equity work. Listen to get all your questions answered!

Episode #2 Full Circle: A Journey From Homelessness to Community Advocacy

It’s time to roll out the red carpet for our special guest, Melie. She’s here to share her journey through homelessness during the Pandemic and how she became a full-time college student who is now bringing a voice to the experience of homeless youth in our community. Melie’s courageous story shines a light on the often-invisible realities of homeless youth for our listeners. She is a tremendous example of strength, resiliency, and hope. In fact, the day of the podcast recording marked the 3rd anniversary of her losing her permanent housing. Listen to her full-circle story!

Episode #1 Our Why: Meet Your Hosts Gennessa and Brian!

Hey everyone and welcome to our podcast! In this first episode, we want you to get to know us by listening to our own personal stories and our “Why” for this new podcast series. We will also share what we mean by youth voice, why it is important, and what you can expect during this first season when we give youth the mic to share their personal stories.