13 to 19 Podcast Deana Hassanein

People will try to shape you and affect you in all stages of your life but remember, YOU DECIDE what success is. Everyone's success and happiness looks different so focus on being the best version of yourself for you and not others. Also don't be so hard on yourself. Finding who you are is a long process with no final destination.

Hiding who you are really can take its toll on your mental and physical health. I know it can hurt but the labels people give you DO NOT MATTER. At the end of the day you should be happy with yourself, not hiding yourself to make others happy. My two incredible guests (Alex Santana and Char Bailey) talk about their experience hiding their sexuality and likes and the relief they felt when they were finally honest about who they are. 

Talk to someone! If you don't feel safe speaking to someone you know there are always amazing people ready to listen! Organisations like Samaritans, YoungMindUK and ChildLine to name a few. 

Growing up is confusing but if you're growing up with a disability sometimes your teenage years can feel even harder. I speak with disability campaigner Samantha Renke to discuss her memories of growing up and PROVE to you that your disability shouldn't hold you back! 

I know they tell you to ignore what people say (and of course you should because people's opinions of you don't mean ****) BUT, it is also important to talk to someone especially if it is constant. There is nothing wrong with you, we are all out here trying to grow and find who we are.

That first heartbreak is going to hurt like a mother fudger, I know. Don't let it shatter your confidence or self-worth, it is going to be ok! This episode I have two lovely ladies helping me dissect that first heartbreak and honestly, they're really funny! EVERYTHING IS GOING TO BE OK!

We talk love, the reality of sending a nude and explain consent. You really need to know your stuff; Trust me these are not the topics you should be uneducated in.