Stoked Podcast

Steve Larosiliere
  • 0.0 (0)
  • Non-Profit

Turning Potential Into Power Since 2004, STOKED has given 10,000+ underserved youth something most take for granted: the chance to fail safely, get back up, and try again. From NYC to Chicago to LA – and growing – we create safe spaces where compassionate, resilient youth discover they’re capable of anything. Check out https://stoked.org/ for more info.

Episodes

  1. 11/04/2025

    Building Confidence Through Skateboarding | Tony Hawk on Stoked

    Skateboarding isn't just a sport. It's an identity, a community, and a bridge that connects people across every cultural and regional divide. And no one understands this better than Tony Hawk. In this powerful conversation, Steve sits down with skateboarding legend Tony Hawk to explore how skateboarding has profoundly shaped his life and the lives of countless others. Tony opens up about how the sport gave him a sense of confidence and helped define who he is today. He reflects on the unique community that skateboarding creates, one that welcomes people from diverse backgrounds and fosters genuine connections that transcend barriers most other activities can't cross. Tony shares his perspective on witnessing the evolution of skateboarding over the decades, from its underground roots to its global reach today. He discusses what makes the skateboarding community so special and how it continues to bring together people who might never otherwise connect. The conversation touches on the cultural significance of skateboarding, the sense of belonging it provides, and why being part of this movement has been one of the most rewarding aspects of his journey. Through his work with organizations like Stoked, Tony continues to pass on these values to the next generation. Whether you're a skater, a fan of Tony Hawk, or simply curious about how action sports can change lives and build bridges, this episode offers an inspiring look at the power of community and confidence. Tune in to hear from a legend about what skateboarding really means beyond the tricks and competitions. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations that matter. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction to Stoked and Tony Hawk  00:32 The Evolution of Skateboarding and Global Scenes Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    22 min

  2. 10/31/2025

    The Joy of Teaching Kids to Skate | Mac Premo on Stoked and Mentorship

    A skateboard can be more than just a piece of wood and wheels. It can be a gateway to confidence, community, and connection. Mac Premo knows this firsthand, and his work with Stoked has shown him the transformative power of teaching kids to ride. In this energizing conversation, host Steve Larosiliere sits down with Mac Premo to hear about his experiences engaging with youth through skateboarding and creative community building. Mac shares a memorable story about distributing skateboards to kids and teaching them their first tricks, from popping their first ollie to finding their balance. He talks about the pure joy and confidence that comes when a young person masters a new skill, and why those moments of achievement matter far beyond the skatepark. The conversation explores how skateboarding serves as more than just a sport. It's a tool for connection, a way to build supportive environments where kids feel encouraged to try, fail, and try again. Mac discusses the importance of hands-on experiences in youth development and how Stoked creates spaces where small victories are celebrated and every kid feels seen. Whether it's learning to drag your foot for that perfect ollie or simply showing up and being part of a community, these experiences build lasting confidence and inspire young people to keep pushing forward. If you're passionate about youth empowerment, community engagement, or the power of action sports to change lives, this episode will remind you why showing up and teaching matters. Tune in to hear Mac's inspiring stories and discover how skateboarding can open doors you never expected. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations that matter. Chapters:  00:00 Creative Connections and Collaborations  00:34 Legacy and Lessons: Parenting Through Creativity Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com Connect with Mac at: https://www.loadedboards.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-tashman-5740b01/

    21 min

  3. 10/30/2025

    Stoked 2.0: Six NYC School Deals, Stoked Plus, Demo, and 'Algorithmic Youth Development'

    In this Stoked Edition, Steve Larosiliere and Cue Pierre move from style and first impressions to the real work of building programs and systems that meet young people where they are. They touch on how appearance shapes perception (mustaches, glasses, NYFW) and why Steve ultimately left NYC for Chicago—family, school access, and the cost-of-living calculus many parents face. Then they dive into Stoked 2.0: a practical update on school partnerships (six contracts signed and counting), how to close deals with principals (show up, bring coffee, make it easy), and an inside look at Stoked’s the new platform designed to track programs, participation, and impact in real time. The conversation introduces "algorithmic youth development," a fresh approach to mentorship that helps teens intentionally reprogram their social feeds toward positive goals, skill-building, and role models. They wrap with a quick update on Stoked's 20-year event and a reminder that the organization is no longer just talking about change. Key Topics Covered Why presentation matters: mustaches, glasses, and being "seen" in youth culture (hello, NYFW).NYC vs. Chicago for families: lotteries, school access, and the true cost of raising kids.School partnerships update: six contracts signed (including HSFI), with more in the pipeline.How to close with principals: show up with solutions (and coffee), make Stoked a flex they can share.Quality vs. quantity: aim for fewer, deeper partnerships—or both if capacity allows.Stoked 2.0 vision: meet youth on their phones with intentional, positive content."Algorithmic youth development": helping students reshape their For You pages toward goals and growth.Systems thinking for teens: understanding and navigating education, tech, and other systems.Stoked 20-Year Event: ticket sales, art auction, sponsorship outreach, and a fundraising run.Stoked Plus reveal: admin dashboard, youth/coach logins, enrollments, attendance, and future features (programs, events, mentor signups).Tracking what matters: logging hours across activities (like Fortnite tracks playtime) to close the opportunity gap.From idea to build: the journey from "Stoked Plus" mockups (2013–2016) to a working platform today. Chapters 00:00 The Power of Appearance 00:55 Understanding Systems Thinking Ready to join the community? Here's how you can connect with us: Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    40 min

  4. 10/30/2025

    Stoked Weekly Recap: 20th Anniversary, Mentor Pledge Record, and School Year Plans

    In this first weekly recap of Stoked Podcast, Steve Larosiliere sits down with Stoked Program Manager Cue Pierre to share big updates and a bold challenge. The team is expanding to 10 schools, prepping a 20th anniversary celebration on November 6, and rallying the nation to break the world record for most mentoring pledges in 24 hours. You'll hear how they plan to mobilize thousands of supporters to commit to mentoring—and why this record matters for youth far beyond action sports. Cue reflects on his journey from part-time coach to program manager and the culture shift since Steve's return: more trust, creativity, and clarity in the work. They dig into summer highlights like the return of weekend skate mentor sessions and a month-long internship partnership at Camp Woodward, share fresh school-year program packages (Risers for middle school, Pathways for high school), and celebrate outcomes from last year's 308 registered "Stokers" to 45 high school graduates. The episode closes with a five-year vision: an ecosystem of mentors and experiences that help young people thrive—on boards and in life. Key Topics Covered The big push: expanding Stoked to 10 schools and celebrating 20 years on November 6World-record attempt: mobilizing 2,000–3,000 mentoring pledges in 24 hours (current record: 1,500)Meet Cue: from action sports coach to program manager—and how speaking up sparked his growthCulture shift at Stoked: trust, autonomy, creativity, and becoming more AI-enabled for efficiencyBy the numbers (last school year): 308 registered youth, 2,332 total session attendances, 1,300+ program hours, 62 returning participants, 45 HS graduates (NYC)Summer wins: revived weekend skate mentor sessions; job-experience internship with Camp Woodward; partnership momentum (incl. Westside Skates)New program design: "Risers" (middle school—high school readiness) and "Pathways" (high school—internships, snow trips, life/college planning)Who Stoked serves: resilient, outspoken, optimistic youth who embody the core values—expanding across the Bronx, Manhattan, Brooklyn, and Queens (Rockaway)Alumni spotlight: a former Stoker (Brooklyn) now a Wharton MBA; long-term partnership with Bronx Lab School (10+ years)The five-year vision: a cycle of mentorship that creates options, community, and life-changing experiences for youth Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Weekly Recap  03:18 Meet Cue: Journey at Stoked  05:34 Changes and Growth at Stoked  08:44 Impact and Statistics of Stoked Programs  10:05 Summer Programs and Internships  12:29 Personal Journey and Career Development  16:42 AI Integration at Stoked  17:58 Team Dynamics and Program Repackaging  18:24 New Program Packages and Focus Areas  20:47 Understanding the Kids: Sentiment and Resilience  22:37 Alumni Success Stories and Community Impact  25:23 Looking Forward: Future Goals for Stoked Interested in mentoring or partnering? Visit stoked.org and follow along on Instagram and YouTube to join the record-setting pledge and support youth across NYC. Ready to join the community? Here's how you can connect with us: Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    29 min

  5. 10/30/2025

    Every Student Can Be a Success Story | Stoked Plus Update

    In this conversation, Steve Larosiliere and Cue Pierre discuss the current state of their after-school programs, focusing on student engagement and energy, the adjustments coaches are making, and the importance of social-emotional learning. They explore the challenges faced by students in credit recovery schools and the need for mentorship and career guidance. The conversation highlights the significance of building community and providing supportive environments for students, as well as future plans for the Stoked Plus platform. Takeaways - The school year is officially starting, with programs ramping up. - Engagement levels in after-school programs are high, with many students showing interest. - Social-emotional learning is a key focus in after-school activities. - Credit recovery schools aim to help students who have struggled in traditional settings. - Mentorship programs can provide valuable career guidance for students. - Building community is essential for student engagement and success. - Outdoor activities are important for student well-being and engagement. - The Stoked Plus platform is evolving to better support coaches and students. - Clear communication and support systems are vital for program success. - Every student has the potential to be a success story. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Updates on the School Year 02:45 Engagement and Energy in After-School Programs 05:48 Coaches' Adjustments and Support Systems 08:32 Social-Emotional Learning in Skate Programs 11:40 Understanding Credit Recovery Schools 14:22 Mentorship and Career Guidance Initiatives 17:22 Building Community and Overcoming Challenges 20:07 Exploring Opportunities for Outdoor Activities 22:35 Program Development and Future Plans 25:15 Operational Systems and Communication 28:18 Conclusion and Future Goals Ready to join the community? Here's how you can connect with us: Follow the Journey: @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke: Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    28 min

  6. 10/29/2025

    Steve Van Doren on Building Vans: Mentorship, Music & Action Sports

    In this conversation, Steve Van Doren shares the rich history of Vans, detailing its origins, the brand's purpose, and its commitment to community engagement and mentorship. He emphasizes the importance of integrity, the role of action sports in shaping the brand's identity, and the significance of nurturing talent within the community. Steve also discusses the impact of partnerships and the legacy of mentorship, offering insights into how brands can create lasting connections and influence. Takeaways - Vans was built on the foundation of community and action sports. - Integrity is crucial for long-term success in business. - Mentorship is about kindness and reaching out to others. - Building a brand requires sticking to your core values. - Community engagement is essential for brand loyalty. - Nurturing talent helps create a positive impact on youth. - Partnerships with nonprofits can shape the action sports community. - The Vans Warped Tour exemplifies the brand's commitment to music and youth culture. - Creating a culture of mentorship leads to better future generations. - Being real and surrounding yourself with good people is key to success. Chapters 00:00 The Origins of Vans 04:54 Building a Brand with Purpose 09:54 Community Engagement and Culture 14:58 Mentorship and Nurturing Talent 19:42 The Impact of Partnerships 24:19 Celebrating 20 Years of Stoked 29:13 Advice for Future Leaders Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    31 min

  7. 10/29/2025

    Art, Creativity, and Empowerment: Stoked Community Shares Their Stories

    Creativity isn't about having the right skills. It's about finding your voice. And for the mentors and community members connected to Stoked, that journey of self-expression has been transformative. In this inspiring conversation, host Steve Larosiliere sits down with Cabell Molina, Christine Wexler, Jack Laroux, Lamont Joseph White, and Todd Mintz to explore how Stoked helped shape their understanding of art, creativity, and what it means to express yourself. The group shares how their experiences with the organization taught them that you don't need to draw to create something meaningful. From collage and fiber art to working with everyday materials, they break down the barriers that stop so many people from seeing themselves as creative and show why artistic expression comes in countless forms. Beyond technique, the conversation dives into the therapeutic power of art and how it serves as a vital outlet for self-expression, especially for young people navigating their identity and emotions. The panel discusses how Stoked's approach to mentorship encourages kids to explore different forms of creativity without the pressure of perfection, empowering them to discover their own unique voices. This episode celebrates how programs like Stoked create space for growth, confidence, and the freedom to express yourself authentically. Whether you're connected to Stoked, passionate about youth empowerment, or simply curious about how creativity can change lives, this episode offers a fresh perspective on art, mentorship, and the courage to create. Tune in and discover why everyone has an artist inside them waiting to emerge. Don't forget to subscribe for more conversations that matter.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Artists 00:47Art as a Therapeutic Medium Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    39 min

  8. 10/28/2025

    Finding Your Voice Through Mentorship with Jennifer Gonzalez

    Jennifer Gonzalez found her answer, and her community, through Stoked, a youth mentorship nonprofit that uses action sports to empower the next generation. In this heartfelt conversation, host Steve Larosiliere sits down with Jennifer to explore her two-decade journey with Stoked. From discovering the organization as a young volunteer to becoming a dedicated mentor who found her voice, built lifelong friendships, and learned invaluable lessons about confidence, community, and connection. Jennifer opens up about how working with kids through Stoked not only shaped her approach to parenting but also sparked unexpected personal growth that influenced her entire career path. Now a health and wellness entrepreneur specializing in gut health and colonic therapy, Jennifer shares how the nurturing mindset she developed as a Stoked mentor continues to inform her work today. The conversation weaves together powerful themes: the transformative impact of mentorship, the surprising connection between gut health and mental well-being, and why creating space for fun and play matters more than we realize, for kids and adults alike. As Stoked celebrates its 20th anniversary, this episode is a beautiful reminder of how one organization can ripple out to touch countless lives, creating waves of positive change that last for generations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Stoked and Jennifer Gonzalez 02:36 Building Community Through Stoked 05:50 The Impact of Mentorship on Personal Growth 08:42 Memorable Experiences with Stoked 11:14 Career Evolution and New Ventures 13:54 The Importance of Gut Health and Well-being 16:22 Celebrating 20 Years of Stoked Follow the Journey: @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke: Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com

    18 min

  9. 10/24/2025

    Mentorship That Lasts a Lifetime with Vilda Vera Mayuga

    In this powerful conversation, Vilda Vera Mayuga takes us back 19 years to when she first discovered Stoked, and reveals how one youth development organization transformed not just her career, but her entire approach to community and connection. This episode is a beautiful exploration of what real mentorship looks like. Vilda opens up about how being part of Stoked shaped her journey, from those early days as a young participant to becoming someone who gives back to the next generation. She shares honest insights on why mentorship is never one sided: it's a relationship where both people grow together, and why practices like journaling and reflection have been game changers for her personal development. You'll also hear Vilda's thoughtful take on the unique challenges facing today's youth in our technology saturated world, and why creating more opportunities for connection and community has never been more critical. From heartfelt memories of community bonding to the lasting impact Stoked has had on entire families, this conversation reminds us that we all need each other. As Stoked celebrates its 20th anniversary, this episode is both a look back at two decades of impact and a hopeful glimpse into the future of youth mentorship and community building. Tune in to hear Vilda's inspiring story, and if this episode resonates with you, subscribe to stay connected with more conversations that matter. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction and Early Memories 02:35 Reflections on Growth and Mentorship 05:40 Career Progression and Personal Development 08:31 Community Engagement and Volunteering 11:31 Challenges Facing Today's Youth 14:15 Fond Memories and Lasting Impact 17:16 Looking Forward and Celebrating Achievements Follow the Journey: @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke: Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com You can connect with Vilda at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vildaveramayuga/

    19 min

  10. 10/23/2025

    The Evolution of Loaded Boards and the Power of Giving Back

    In this episode, Steve sits down with Don Tashman to explore the intersection of skateboarding, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy, and how these worlds collide to create lasting impact. Don shares the journey behind Loaded Boards, from its evolution as a pioneering skateboard company to navigating the unexpected growth during the pandemic. Together, Steve and Don reflect on their shared history in the skateboarding community and discuss how the sport serves as a powerful tool for building connections, fostering creative self-expression, and empowering young people to find independence and purpose. This conversation dives deep into the heart of what makes skateboarding special: its ability to bring people together, nurture creativity, and build legacies that extend far beyond the board. They explore the essential role of philanthropy in skateboarding culture, the importance of surrounding yourself with inspiring people, and why giving back enriches not only the lives you touch but your own as well. Don and Steve share their vision for the future of skateboarding through organizations like Stoked, emphasizing the need to empower the next generation and preserve the independent spirit that makes skateboarding culture so vital in today's world. Chapters: 00:00 The Roots of Philanthropy in Skateboarding 02:44 The Journey of Loaded Boards 05:47 Navigating Challenges and Growth 08:55 The Role of Skateboarding in Community Building 11:50 Creative Self-Expression and Freedom 14:45 The Future of Skateboarding and Stoked 17:35 Memories and Reflections on Stoked 20:23 Building a Legacy Through Skateboarding Tune in for an inspiring conversation about legacy, impact, and the power of doing more for others because in the end, we all want the same things. Follow the Journey: @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke: Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com Connect with Don at: https://www.loadedboards.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/don-tashman-5740b01/

    26 min

  11. 10/22/2025

    Creating Community Through Skateboarding and Self-Expression

    In this episode of the Stoked Podcast, Jeff shares the hustle behind building Uncle Funky's from the ground up, navigating the challenges of visibility, community support, and creating a space where skateboarding meets authentic self-expression. Together with Steve, they explore the intersection of art, mentorship, and entrepreneurship, reflecting on two decades of Stoked's mission to make board sports accessible to all. This conversation digs deep into the evolution of skateboarding culture, from longboards to electric boards, and the ongoing fight for inclusivity in action sports. Jeff opens up about the emotional highs of facilitating first-time skateboarding experiences for young people, the power of personal connections in the art world, and how creativity fuels both business growth and community impact. Whether you're a woodworker, craftsperson, entrepreneur, or anyone who believes in the transformative power of hands-on creation, this episode celebrates the joy of building something meaningful: one board, one connection, one shared experience at a time. TAKEAWAYS Uncle Funky's has been a dream come true for Jeff since 2006The importance of community engagement through art and mentorshipChallenges in the surfing community regarding inclusivity and acceptanceThe evolution of skateboarding from longboards to electric boardsThe significance of personal connections in the art worldBuilding a successful skate shop requires visibility and community supportSkateboarding is an accessible sport that fosters joy and connectionThe emotional impact of facilitating first-time experiences for youthReflections on personal growth through shared experiences in sportsCelebrating 20 years of Stoked highlights the importance of creativity and self-expression CHAPTERS  00:00 The Origins of Uncle Funky's Skate Shop  02:50 Building Community Through Skateboarding  05:32 Navigating Challenges in Surfing Culture  08:25 The Hustle of the Art World  11:02 Connecting Through Art and Charity  16:41 The Story Behind the Signed Skateboard  19:14 Art and Emotional Expression  22:04 The Accessibility of Skateboarding  24:04 The Journey of Uncle Funky's  29:01 Memorable Moments in Skateboarding  30:41 The Importance of Visionary Connections Follow the Journey:  @thelarosiliere Get Involved with Stoke:  Transform lives through action sports and mentorship @stokedorg stoked.org https://worldrecord.stoked.org/ Level Up Your Business: buildergrowth.io Design with Purpose: purposedesignbuild.com You can connect with Jeff at: https://www.unclefunkysboards.com/ https://www.instagram.com/unclefunkysboards/?hl=en

    34 min
  • 11 Episodes

About

Turning Potential Into Power Since 2004, STOKED has given 10,000+ underserved youth something most take for granted: the chance to fail safely, get back up, and try again. From NYC to Chicago to LA – and growing – we create safe spaces where compassionate, resilient youth discover they’re capable of anything. Check out https://stoked.org/ for more info.

Information

  • Creator
    Steve Larosiliere
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2025 BuilderGrowth Media
  • Show Website
    Stoked Podcast