Aaron Ragon: Building Resilience & Self-Advocacy in Students

What does it really take to help students grow through struggle instead of being defeated by it? In this episode, Brandon sits down with Aaron Ragon, a leader with decades of experience in counseling, mental health, and student support. Aaron is a Partner of Student Support Services for Cherry Creek School District, oversees 192 counselors in Douglas County, and serves as an Adjunct Professor at the University of Denver.Aaron shares his powerful framework—the Zen Warrior mindset—and explains why resilience isn’t just about bouncing back, but about adapting with authenticity. He discusses the role of parents in balancing support with letting kids struggle, how to guide high-potential students with anxiety, and why executive function skills are the foundation for self-efficacy.This episode is for parents, educators, and anyone supporting young people through adversity. You’ll leave with strategies to help students build confidence, independence, and the ability to advocate for themselves—skills that shape both academic success and long-term fulfillment.