Champions for Youth Podcast

What can adults learn if we spend more time listening to young people and empowering them to lead their peers?In this episode, we’re joined by the hosts of 1Brotherhood Empowered Podcast to hear how youth and adults are working together to build the next generation of leaders. Each represents a different chapter of their leadership journey; from founding the organization as a teen, to stepping into mentorship, to preparing to lead the next wave of youth.We learn that when adults trust young people’s ideas and guide rather than control, young people begin to see the value we bring in helping them grow as leaders.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What would it take to make healthier habits the normal, easy, and fun choice for young people?In this episode, we explore how simple, engaging programs are helping young people experience health and wellness in ways that feel natural and enjoyable. From movement and nutrition to hands-on activities that make healthy living part of everyday life.We talk about why meeting youth where they are matters, how giving them voice and choice leads to stronger engagement, and why building reliable partnerships makes these programs easier to adopt and last.Because when healthy habits are simple, fun, and part of the culture, they stop being something we teach, and start becoming something everyone expects. Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if digital well-being is about more than limiting screen time — what if it’s about helping young people build real-world community?In this episode, we explore how teens themselves are reshaping the conversation around technology and mental health. Through youth-driven digital wellness curriculums, teen advisory boards, and real-world collaboration, young people are helping design healthier ways to navigate a world that never stops scrolling.We talk about why listening to teens makes a difference, how simple ideas like screen-free spaces and real-world connection are gaining momentum, and why many young people are asking for something surprisingly simple — space to unplug, reconnect, and go back to the basics.Because when we create real value instead of just another activity, young people don’t have to be convinced to participate, they show up.halfthestoryproject.orgGet your free toolkitFollow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if growing food wasn’t just about nutrition, but about growing leaders from the ground up?In this episode, we explore how hands-on cooking, gardening, and youth agriculture programs are doing far more than teaching about nutrition or food literacy, they’re building confidence, voice, and real-world leadership. From after-school programs to paid internships, young people are stepping into responsibility, connecting to culture through storytelling and recipes, and learning how food systems shape their communities. This conversation goes beyond nutrition. It sets the example for what becomes possible when we sow the seeds of change and allow young people to grow.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

How can one voice, one story or one book change the world for today’s youth? This is a story of how a single school projected launched a powerful youth-led movement that transformed how young people, especially young Black girls, see themselves in pages of a book. Through the Thousand Black Girl Books project, a new generation is finding confidence, connection and a sense of belonging through stories that reflect their true selves. We explore how representation shapes youth well-being, how visibility unlocks possibility, and why youth-lead advocacy is reshaping classrooms, culture and what’s possible for the future generation. Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the freedom to explore who you are was the first step to discovering who you could become? This episode looks at what happens when LGBTQ+ youth have supportive environments for real-world exploration, their identities, and long-term growth. We explore how Rainbow Labs is building community through intentional programs, mentorship pairings, and skill-building experiences that help youth develop confidence, leadership, and a sense of belonging. It’s not just about offering support, it’s about showing young people what’s possible when they’re given the space to feel seen, heard, and valued.To learn more visit rainbowlabs.orgFollow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

How do we grow as youth health professionals? Not just in what we know, but in how we think, connect, and lead meaningful change?In this episode, you’ll hear firsthand the impact of stepping into spaces designed for inspiration, collaboration, and action. How the Champions for Youth Summit is creating opportunities to think outside the box across a wide range of health topics and offering real, tangible solutions to improve the well-being of youth.Discover the value of bringing together hundreds of people like us, and leave empowered to take your work, and yourself, to the next level.Join us May 4–6 in Reston, VA. Visit championsforyouthsummit.org to learn more.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

We all want to help young people stay healthy, but knowing where to begin, or how to keep going when nothing seems to be working, can feel overwhelming.This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck, discouraged, or unsure of what to do next when supporting the health and wellness of youth.We break down the Action Plan for a Healthy Virginia, a research-grounded framework designed by Prevention Connections to help youth-serving professionals turn intention into action. Rather than tackling childhood obesity as a single, overwhelming issue, the plan focuses on eight healthy behaviors and shows how small, intentional shifts in everyday policies, systems, and environments can make the healthier choice the easier choice.Whether you work with youth in Virginia or beyond, this practical, hands-on guide offers a clear framework to help you take specific, meaningful steps that are rooted in data and real-world experience.______________________Download the free Action Plan for A Healthy Virginia now: https://preventionconnections.org/action-plan-for-a-healthy-virginia Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What’s really inside a vape, why are so many young people addicted, and what can we do about it?The CDC reports vapes/e-cigarettes are the most commonly used tobacco product among middle and high school students in the United States. Communities across the country are searching for answers about the risks these products pose and need to be rooted in facts, not fear.This episode explores the science behind the youth epidemic, the evolution of vaping technology, and the urgent need for research that keeps pace with what’s actually happening when kids use them. We hear how data is being used not only to shape smarter policy, but to equip young people with the clarity they need to make healthier, more informed choices, without judgment or shame.Because the more we understand, the better we can show up for the youth that depend on us most.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What does grief look like in a young person, and how do we support them when that grief stems from something as devastating as an overdose?As fentanyl-related deaths continue to rise among youth, more and more young people are navigating sudden, unimaginable loss. In this episode, we explore what it takes to truly show up for them, not just with sympathy, but with safe spaces, compassion, and people who are willing to listen.We talk about how youth process grief differently than adults and how community becomes the foundation for long-term sustainable healing.This is a reminder that every loss for a young person carries a story of love and the hope that someone will meet them where they are.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

How can we use social media as an effectively tool for positive change in childhood nutrition?We sit down with Jennifer Anderson, registered dietitian, public health expert, and founder of Kids Eat in Color. We explore how short-form storytelling rooted in empathy helped her become one of the most trusted childhood nutrition influencers, followed by millions of families online.What began as evidence-based public health work evolved when Jennifer realized that best practices alone aren’t enough. To truly connect, we have to meet families where they are. That means trading polished messaging for real stories and compassionate content that reflects the lived experiences of not only kids, but parents as well.We talk about how she turned personal insights into a national movement, why connection comes before education, and authentic storytelling can go farther than advice alone. Because behind every child’s challenge is a parent doing their best.This conversation isn’t just about content, it’s about trust, listening, and leading with heart.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What does it really take to build youth programs that actually create a movement towards change?In this conversation, we explore why successful youth health initiatives are rarely one-and-done. From forming unexpected partnerships to navigating barriers, we unpack how staying flexible and listening closely can lead to the most meaningful impact.We talk about what happens when young people are given a true seat at the table, not just as participants but as co-creators, and why that changes everything. We also discuss how programs grow over time and why every challenge is an opportunity to pivot and build something stronger.This is a reminder that real change takes time, trust, and collaboration; that youth are more than ready to lead if we’re willing to listen.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

How are we supposed to stay motivated in today’s ever-changing times and shake the feeling of ‘being stuck?'In this conversation, we explore how your purpose becomes a source of motivation when resources feel scarce and the path forward isn’t always clear. We talk about the courage it takes to step into opportunities before you know exactly where they’ll lead, and how persistence, creativity and unique partnerships is the fuel we need to drive momentum. Lasting impact comes from showing up with purpose, staying the course, and keep moving forward. Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if getting young people moving was one of the simplest, yet overlooked tools we have for improving their health, focus, and sense of belonging?From classroom transitions to community partnerships, we explore what happens when movement becomes part of everyday culture, not just something reserved for sports or PE. We hear how movement improves attendance, reduces disruptions and  supports mental health. And the best part? It doesn’t require big budgets or creating something new, just a willingness to do things a little differently. Because movement matters. And the more we normalize it, the better our youth will thrive.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the intersection of food, culture, and community holds the key to solving some of the more pressing health challenges facing youth?In this conversation we dive into how nutrition is more than science, it’s personal. We explore how food traditions can both nourish and shed light on barriers, how systems of inequality influence what ends up on the plate, and why improving youth health starts with understanding the full context behind every meal.Together, we unpack why 'Food as Medicine' is about more than nutrients or advice, it’s about working alongside communities to create access, empowerment, and honoring the lived experiences of families.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the future of public health doesn’t depending on more programs, but on empowering more young people who believe in them?In this episode, we explore how one person’s lived experience and a spark of encouragement led to the creation of a movement to build a pipeline of change for the next generation of health leaders.Take a listen and learn how youth volunteerism is becoming a powerful tool to close gaps, expand opportunity, and help young people from underserved communities see themselves as part of the solution.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if saving lives started with teaching the truth; early, often, and without shame?In this episode, we learn how one personal tragedy turned into a mission to expose the real dangers of fentanyl and help young people make informed lifesaving decisions. We learn that education rooted in honesty and empathy, not fear, can help teens make safer choices and become advocates for their own health.If you care about keeping youth informed and equipped to face real-world challenges, this is a must listen.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the first step to solving some of the most pressing youth mental health challenges wasn’t a policy or a program, but a peer-supported conversation?In this episode, we hear how one teenager turned her personal struggle with anxiety into a national platform for change. Through vulnerability, persistence, and advocacy, she’s helping reshape how schools and communities talk about mental health.We talk about the power of peer support, the importance of listening without judgment, and why giving young people a seat at the table isn’t optional, it’s essential.This episode is for anyone who believes that teenagers are capable of creating real change with their voices, open hearts, and the courage to speak up, especially when it’s hard.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the boldest form of representation wasn’t just about being seen, but about showing up loudly in spaces that never expected you — like America's biggest stage? Noticing a lack of Deaf representation put Justina on a path toward empowerment at a young age. She started interpreting music in American Sign Language at age 8. Now, it's her job — she even interpreted Rihanna's Super Bowl Halftime Show performance in 2023. Justina uses her talent to empower the next generation of youth to embrace their differences. With the support of ASL interpretation, Justina brings her full voice to the conversation, showing us what’s possible when barriers are broken with purpose and pride. And like all episodes, a full transcript is available to ensure every voice and every story is accessible. This episode is for anyone who believes that when every voice has a place, we can change the narrative for the next generation.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if kids learned nutrition the same way they learned to read? In this episode, we explore how everyday food habits and routines can lay the foundation for lifelong health. We talk about why modeling matters, how nutrition and literacy are deeply connected, and what it takes to overcome the real barriers families face when trying to build healthier habits.This episode is for anyone who believes small, consistent actions can create lasting big change to improve the health of our young people.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the key to leadership wasn’t about having it all figured out, but believing that you’re ready to begin?This episode is all about building confidence, trusting your voice, and creating space for young people to step into leadership, especially when the path isn’t clearly marked. We dive into how clarity, courage, and lived experience can become powerful tools for making a difference.Whether you're working with youth or navigating your own leadership journey, this episode is a reminder that you don’t have to wait to be ready, you already are.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

In recognition of National Fentanyl Awareness Day, this episode highlights a powerful story of recovery, creativity, and community-based harm reduction.We’ll learn how a conceptual artist, and person in long-term recovery, is transforming how young people engage with overdose prevention. Through his Free Naloxone Bike project and Rams in Recovery at Virginia Commonwealth University, John is meeting people where they are with life-saving tools and opening conversations that reduce stigma, create partnerships and empower action.  This episode is a reminder that meaningful change can start with bold ideas, creativity and persistence. Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What if the key to solving some of the biggest health challenges young people face today started long before they even set foot in a classroom?We will explore how early childhood experiences shape lifelong health including our genetics and biology. From the impact of adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) to the hidden struggles many families face, we’re diving deep into the root causes of health disparities and mental health challenges.If you care about building a healthier future for the next generation, this is a conversation you don’t want to miss.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

How do you get young people to actually change their behaviors and make healthier choices? In this episode, we sit down with the founder of Rescue Agency, Jeff Jordan—a powerhouse in behavior change marketing—to uncover messaging strategies that are truly making an impact.This conversation dives into evidence-based tactics and the power of storytelling to craft campaigns that actually resonate with young people and are driving real change. If you’re working in public health, education, advocacy, or just want to know how social movements take off—this is the episode for you.Tune in to learn what works, why it works, and how you can be part of the movement.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.

What happens when young people take the lead in shaping the future of health in their communities? In this debut episode, we’re diving into the impact of youth-driven advocacy with the changemakers from an influential youth-led movement, Y Street.From tackling tobacco use prevention to driving policy change, these young leaders are proving that real change starts with their voices. You’ll hear firsthand how they’re breaking through the noise, challenging the status quo, and making a lasting impact on their communities for a healthier future.If you're passionate about youth empowerment, or just want to hear how the next generation is taking action—this episode is for you. Tune in, get inspired, and share it with someone who needs to hear it.Follow Champions for Youth on social to stay connected between episodes and explore resources shared by youth-serving leaders nationwide.InstagramFacebookLinkedInYouTubeHave feedback or a topic you’d like us to cover? Submit your ideas at vfhy.org/podcast — we’d love to hear from you.