Express Yourself!

Cynthia Brian, Producer, The Express Yourself! STAR On-Air Teen Team,
  • 3.8 (22)
  • KIDS & FAMILY
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Express Yourself! is an entertaining adolescent fusion program where passion, productivity, and possibility populate the airwaves. Produced by Starstyle Productions, LLC as an international outreach program of Be the Star You Are! charity, the radio program, Express Yourself! is a show for, by, and about teens. Hosted by teens and teenage field reporters from around the country, Express Yourself! is THE destination for teens to be heard. Within the walls of the young adult community, listeners are uplifted and encouraged to be the stars of your own life. Through collaboration and conversation, a global campus of young people express their views. Topics include anything that kids talk about-books, music, making a difference, technology, school, art, humor, writing, tough talks, health, sports, films, family, friends, foes, fashion, and fun. Come play in STAR country and Express Yourself!, Sundays at 3 PM Pacific on VoiceAmerica Empowerment.

  1. 11H AGO

    EMPOWERING MALAWI

    "Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." ·       Nelson Mandela   The poverty-ridden country of Malawi was devastated by AIDS. Host Julia Howe interviews the founder of Jacaranda Foundation, Marie da Silva, a Malawian education activist with a powerful personal story. Auntie Marie was working as a nanny in the US when she heard the local school was closing in the midst of the brutal AIDS epidemic in Malawi. Marie lost more than a dozen family members to AIDS herself. She funded the very modest project with her remittances, and the school started literally in her home -her kitchen is nowadays the headmistress' office!  Marie talks about her work to educate, feed, and provide free healthcare to over 600 orphans and underprivileged youth. She shares the successes of her students and how their lives have been transformed   Bios:    LONG Born and raised in Malawi, Marie Da Silva worked as a nanny in the US for 19 years. She lost many members of her family to AIDS -Malawi was one of the hardest-hit countries by this epidemic. In 2002, after learning the school in her village was closing, she founded the Jacaranda School for Orphans in her childhood home. For nine years, Marie sent to it a third of her salary. Her Foundation now schools, feeds and provides healthcare to 600 children. In 2008, Marie was recognized as Top Ten CNN Hero. She has also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the President of Malawi. Her and her husband, Jacaranda's Executive Director, Luc Deschamps, are also responsible for Luc's Libraries, an initiative that has created 37 libraries through donations, reaching 80,000 children. https://www.jacarandafoundation.org/  https://www.facebook.com/jacarandafoundation/ www.instagram.com/jacarandaschoolfororphans/  https://www.tiktok.com/@jacarandafoundation  https://www.youtube.com/user/JacarandaF   Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    35 min

  2. MAY 8

    Voter Rights and Voter Suppression

    "Bad officials are elected by good citizens who don't vote." - Christian Lange Are voter rights under attack in the United States? In her segment, Empowerment and Equality, Express Yourself!™ radio host, Hannah Sahota, leads us through the history of American democracy, showcased through voting in elections. Voting is one of the most important rights in a democratic society because it is the fundamental tool that citizens can use to influence laws, elect leaders, and shape the future of their country. In the United States, however, the right to vote has not always been equally available to all people. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery, the 14th Amendment granted citizenship and equal protection under the law, the 15th Amendment banned denying voting rights based on race, and the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, granted women the constitutional right to vote. In response to the Civil Rights Movement, Congress passed the Voting Rights Act of 1965, outlawing literacy tests and other discriminatory voting practices. The 24th Amendment banned poll taxes in federal elections, helping reduce economic barriers to voting. The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. Despite these advancements, voter suppression continues to exist in modern forms. Tune in to find out how to use your voice to demonstrate your desire for democracy, representation, and civil rights. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    37 min

  3. MAY 1

    Fashion and the Effects on Accelerated Garbage

    "Become an active citizen through your wardrobe." Livia Firth Today we're not talking about a bill, a ballot measure, or a party platform. We're talking about your closet. The fashion industry generates 92 million tons of textile waste annually. Host Julia Howe and reporter Hanna Yu tackle the tragedy of fast fashion and its environmental impact. Hanna focuses on the philosophy of this conspicuous consumption. Whose fault is it?  Julia talks about TikTok Shop. What makes TikTok different from a regular shopping site is that its algorithm not only understands shopping habits. It understands attention. One e-commerce consultant quoted by CNBC explained that every pause, click, swipe, and moment of engagement teaches the algorithm more about what to show you next. Real style develops slowly. TikTok style often moves in the opposite direction. Our lives are already full of things asking to be bought, worn, displayed, replaced, upgraded, optimized, and aestheticized. Think slowly in a world that wants you to scroll fast. Be mindful of your consumption, invest in our planet. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    29 min

  4. APR 24

    Social Media Phenomena and Rhetoric

    Hosted by Hannah Sahota, this episode of Express Yourself! invites listeners into a thought-provoking exploration of how online rhetoric shapes the world we live in today. In her segment, "Empowerment and Equality," Hannah breaks down how viral posts, influencers, and algorithm-driven platforms like TikTok and Instagram are no longer just sources of entertainment, but powerful forces that influence identity, consumer behavior, and social norms. Through engaging commentary and real-world examples, she examines both the positive and harmful impacts of digital communication from the rise of online communities and evolving language like "algospeak," to the spread of misinformation, performative activism, and algorithmic bias. With a balance of insight and personal perspective, Hannah challenges listeners to reflect on their own online habits and consider the deeper impact of every like, share, and comment. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    46 min

  5. APR 17

    AI on the Moon and Mars?

    "We are an impossibility in an impossible universe." Ray Bradbury   Radio hosts Julia Howe and Saanvi Phaneendra take us to outer space via AI. Today, we are diving into one of the most exciting things happening in space exploration. Humanity is not just visiting other worlds; we are planning to live on them. And AI is right at the center of making that happen. NASA is not trying to repeat Apollo. The explicit goal is to go to the Moon and stay there, building up to a permanently occupied outpost. AI is the backbone that keeps the whole civilization running. Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and has captured human imagination for centuries. It is our most realistic next home beyond the Moon, it is the target of some of the most ambitious plans in the history of space exploration, and AI is already working there right now. At facilities run by NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, engineers build entire fake Martian terrains, test rovers, and use AI simulations to train until ready to go. Somewhere out there, the person who will live on the moon and walk on Mars is alive right now, probably in school, probably just like you. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    36 min

  6. APR 10

    The Artemis Space Mission

    "We choose to go to the Moon not because it is easy, but because it is hard." — President John F. Kennedy, 1962   Apollo planted a seed. Artemis is the tree. For the first time in over 50 years, humans are flying to the Moon. Not in a textbook. Not in a movie. Right now. NASA's Artemis program was officially established in 2017, named after the twin sister of Apollo in Greek mythology. Host Saanvi Phaneedra breaks down the Artemis mission into three segments in this broadcast of Space Spotlight. In segment one, she shares the legacy that got us here, in segment two, you'll hear about the launch itself, and in segment three, find out about the incredible rocket that makes it all possible. She also talks about her nonprofit, Galactic Getaway and her 1:144 scale museum-quality model of the Space Launch System rocket on display at Stanford University's Aeronautics and Astronautics department. www.GalacticGet.org   Tune in for the blast off!   Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    30 min

  7. APR 3

    Cancer Awareness

    In this episode of Express Yourself!, host Hannah Sahota leads her segment "Empowerment and Equality" with a powerful and accessible conversation on cancer awareness, breaking down what cancer is, how it develops, and why early detection and prevention are critical. The segment explores key warning signs, screening methods, and lifestyle factors, while also highlighting the role of vaccines and environmental exposures in cancer risk, especially how systemic inequalities disproportionately impact marginalized communities. Beyond science, Hannah emphasizes the importance of empathy, debunking common myths, and having open, supportive conversations with those affected by cancer. The episode ultimately encourages listeners to take charge of their health, stay informed, and approach cancer with both awareness and compassion. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    42 min

  8. MAR 27

    When AI Takes Over Earth, Humanity Reaches for the Stars

    In this episode, "When AI Takes Over Earth, Humanity Reaches for the Stars," Saanvi Phaneendra explores the intersection of artificial intelligence and space exploration, and what it means for the future. As AI continues to transform industries such as coding, banking, and creative fields, she raises an important question: what role will humans play in an increasingly automated world? She emphasizes that uniquely human qualities like imagination, curiosity, and the drive to explore will define the future, particularly in space exploration, where humans will continue to lead alongside advanced technologies. Saanvi's nonprofit, Galactic Getaway, brings museum-quality rocket exhibits into libraries to make space exploration accessible and inspiring for young learners. She underscores how much of the universe remains unknown, from billions of undiscovered planets to the mysteries of dark matter, and encourages listeners to see themselves as future explorers. Ultimately, the episode reminds the audience that while AI may reshape the workforce, it can never replace human imagination, the true "rocket fuel" for the future. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/   Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/   Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/     Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220  Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

    18 min
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Ratings & Reviews

3.8
out of 5
22 Ratings

About

Express Yourself! is an entertaining adolescent fusion program where passion, productivity, and possibility populate the airwaves. Produced by Starstyle Productions, LLC as an international outreach program of Be the Star You Are! charity, the radio program, Express Yourself! is a show for, by, and about teens. Hosted by teens and teenage field reporters from around the country, Express Yourself! is THE destination for teens to be heard. Within the walls of the young adult community, listeners are uplifted and encouraged to be the stars of your own life. Through collaboration and conversation, a global campus of young people express their views. Topics include anything that kids talk about-books, music, making a difference, technology, school, art, humor, writing, tough talks, health, sports, films, family, friends, foes, fashion, and fun. Come play in STAR country and Express Yourself!, Sundays at 3 PM Pacific on VoiceAmerica Empowerment.

Information

  • Creator
    Cynthia Brian, Producer, The Express Yourself! STAR On-Air Teen Team,
  • Years Active
    2011 - 2026
  • Episodes
    692
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Cynthia Brian, Producer, The Express Yourself! STAR On-Air Teen Team
  • Show Website
    Express Yourself!

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