Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans

Lorraine Connell, www.peersnotfears.com
  • 5.0 (26)
  • EDUCATION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Welcome to Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans, the podcast where we dive into the experiences of current Titan leaders to uncover how their teenage years shaped their paths to success and how a coach might have helped them along the way. Hosted by Lorraine Connell, Teen Leadership Coach and founder of Peers Not Fears, this show offers parents, teens, and aspiring leaders invaluable insights and practical advice. In each episode, we candidly talk with leaders who reflect on their challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments from their youth. We explore how mentorship and coaching helped or could have impacted their journey, and we invite them to become mentors for our program teens, sharing their wisdom and experiences. Whether you’re a parent seeking to empower your child, a teen navigating the complexities of adolescence, or an aspiring leader looking for guidance, Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans provides the tools and inspiration needed to cultivate leadership skills, foster resilience, and embrace potential. Join our community dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Subscribe now and embark on a transformative journey towards unlocking your teen’s leadership potential!

  1. 6D AGO

    From Silence to Strength: Building Emotionally Safe Homes with Maria Natapov

    In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine sits down with Maria Natapov, a step-parenting and co-parenting expert and Vice Chair of the Sparrow Collective. Maria shares how her teen years, shaped by immigration and “stay small, stay quiet” messaging, impacted her confidence, intuition, and early relationships. She opens up about overcoming an unhealthy relationship and how those experiences led her to support families navigating conflict, divorce, and blended family dynamics. In this conversation, Maria discusses personal leadership, the impact of parental conflict on children, the difference between co-parenting and step-parenting, and her Be H2O framework designed to help families create stronger communication and emotionally safe homes. She closes with advice for teens who feel disconnected from their voice: create small moments to listen inward and trust your intuition. Connect with Maria: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marianatapov/ Website: https://synergisticstepparenting.com/ Be H2O Information: https://whitsonlaw.kartra.com/page/MLf1616 Maria also offers complimentary clarity calls and a Be H2O drop-in class for parents seeking guidance and support.

    41 min

  2. FEB 26

    Taking Off the Mask: Lynne Hughes on Grief, Courage, and Comfort Zone Camp

    What happens when a kid has to keep it together while their world falls apart? In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, host Lorraine Connell talks with Lynne Hughes—founder of Comfort Zone Camp, the nation’s first free bereavement camp for grieving kids. Lynne shares the moment her life changed forever: losing both parents young, walking into junior high the day after her father died, and learning to “blend in” behind a mask. That same experience became the seed of her mission—creating a place where grieving kids can take the mask off, feel normal again, and finally be understood. You’ll hear how Comfort Zone Camp works (weekend camps, “big buddy” mentors, Healing Circles, and real tools kids can use outside camp), why our culture is “death avoidant,” and how a tragedy like 9/11 unexpectedly expanded CZC’s reach across the country. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why grief often becomes invisible—especially in teens What “death avoidance” looks like (and how it isolates kids) How Comfort Zone Camp helps kids feel safe, seen, and supported Why healing is a choice—and how community makes it faster and less lonely How to Connect with Lynne / Comfort Zone Camp Website: https://comfortzonecamp.org/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/comfortzonecamp/ LinkedIn (Lynne Hughes): https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynne-hughes-443b6240/

    32 min

  3. FEB 19

    Trusting Your Inner Compass with Dr. Jennifer Edwards

    Dr. Jennifer Edwards shares how early independence helped her build self-trust, follow her intuition, and become the kind of leader who listens inward first. We talk about the stories our minds create (lowercase truth vs capital T Truth), how quiet helps you hear your inner compass, and why there are no wrong choices, only next steps. Key Takeaways You don’t need a perfect plan. There are no wrong choices, only next steps. The stories in your mind may feel true, but they are not always the truth. Intuition gets quieter when life gets louder. Silence matters. Growth is rarely linear. Like a sailboat, you may zigzag and still arrive. Leadership starts with self-trust before it ever shows up in titles or roles. How to Connect with Jennifer Edwards E-book: 3 Keys to Rediscovering Joy and Happiness https://drjenniferedwards.aweb.page/p/a8fc77ae-8723-4f4e-b462-ff7ba9de081c Website: www.drjenniferedwards.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/drjenniferedwards YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@drjenniferedwards

    40 min

  4. FEB 12

    From Rebel to Resilient Leader: Cassie Crosby's Journey to Empowering Change

    In this inspiring episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine speaks with Cassie Crosby, CEO of Iterata Solutions and founder of Vertex Leadership Lab. Cassie, a 24-year army veteran, shares her incredible transformation from a rebellious teenager to a powerful leader in both the military and the corporate world. With expertise in leadership development, Cassie now helps ambitious executives build confidence, master organizational dynamics, and cultivate their executive presence. Join us as Cassie recounts her journey, including overcoming early challenges, navigating male-dominated leadership arenas, and learning that leadership is not a title—it’s a behavior and responsibility. In this episode, you’ll hear about: Cassie’s Teenage Years: From a “rebel without a cause” to a determined leader, Cassie shares the defining moments that led her to join the army and start her path toward leadership. The Power of Nurturing Potential in "Disruptive" Kids: Cassie and Lorraine discuss the importance of believing in kids who may be overlooked, a trait often seen in successful individuals. Navigating Leadership as a Woman in Combat: Cassie talks about her time in the military and the challenges she faced as a woman in traditionally male roles, from logistics to combat positions. The Evolution of Self-Confidence: From shy beginnings to becoming a confident leader, Cassie discusses how therapy, a shift in mindset, and the influence of compassionate leaders helped shape her journey. Leadership and Decision-Making: Explore how Cassie’s leadership philosophy evolved from strict military hierarchy to a focus on collaboration, questioning, and understanding the “why” behind decisions. Key Takeaways: Leadership is a skill that can be cultivated—it's about behavior and willingness to take responsibility. Teenagers with rebellious or disruptive behaviors may have untapped potential—it's crucial to have someone believe in them. Confidence isn’t something you’re born with—it’s developed through self-reflection and surrounding yourself with strong leaders. Good leaders empower others, and leadership decisions should always have clarity and purpose behind them. Resources Mentioned: Cassie Crosby’s Leadership Development Firm: Vertex Leadership Lab Iterata Solutions: Iterata Solutions Website

    36 min

  5. FEB 5

    From Unsafe to Unstoppable: Josh Colwell’s Journey From Survival to Service

    In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell speaks with Josh Colwell, a leader in the recovery and criminal justice support space in New Hampshire. Josh shares what his teenage years were really like growing up in instability, entering the juvenile system, and navigating environments that didn’t feel safe. They explore how early experiences shape identity, the survival habits teens develop, and what it takes to rebuild trust, purpose, and leadership later in life. Josh also opens up about the turning point that led him into long-term recovery and how he now creates safe spaces for others through advocacy and recovery support. In this episode, we cover: • Josh’s teenage years behind the scenes • When systems meant to help cause harm • Survival mode and identity • The shift that led to recovery and leadership • Why finding the helpers changes everything Hear more of Josh’s story: “From Chaos to Purpose: Josh Colwell’s Journey from Biker Gangs and Addiction to Leading a Life of Impact” on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/4xZqoxvGI6A8VvAGL7Ghg9?si=csqv8-7YS_aZiP4E19apPQ Connect with Josh: Email: www.brighterdayrecovery.com

    38 min

  6. JAN 29

    Navigating the Intersection of Trauma, Gender, and Sexuality with Rebecca Minor

    In this episode, Lorraine Connell sits down with Rebecca Minor, a queer clinician, consultant, and educator, to discuss the complex interplay of trauma, gender, and sexuality. Rebecca shares her personal journey and professional insights, offering a compassionate perspective on supporting trans and gender nonconforming youth. Key Topics: Rebecca's early experiences with mental health and identity The founding of Prism Therapy Collective The importance of trauma-informed and neurodiversity-affirming care Challenges faced by trans and gender nonconforming youth How parents can affirm and support their children Guest Bio: Rebecca Minor is a gender specialist dedicated to creating spaces where young people feel seen and heard. As a published author and lecturer, she brings both personal truth and professional expertise to her work. Resources Mentioned: Prism Therapy Collective Rebecca's upcoming book: "Raising Trans Kids: What to Expect When You Weren't Expecting This" Follow Rebecca on Instagram: @Gender.Specialist Subscribe to our podcast for more insightful conversations and visit our website for additional resources. #TraumaInformedCare #GenderDiversity #LGBTQSupport

    32 min

  7. JAN 22

    From Anxiety to Recovery: Jack O’Connor’s Story

    In this episode of Leaders of Today, Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell sits down with Jack O’Connor, a devoted dad of two and recovery advocate who has spent the last decade supporting individuals and families in New Hampshire. Jack shares his story from being a “middle of the pack” teen battling anxiety, to coping through substances, to hitting a turning point in college and eventually finding long-term recovery. You’ll hear what helped him change, what sober living actually looks like, and why the most powerful step is often the simplest one: asking for help. In this episode, we talk about: How anxiety can show up as “being fine” on the outside Why addiction does not discriminate What a sober house is and how structure supports change The myth that you need to know the “why” before you can heal Jack’s biggest message for teens and parents: talk to someone, ask for help, start small If this conversation resonates, share it with a parent, educator, or teen who needs to hear it. How to connect with Jack Phone: 744.402.0225 Website: https://livefreerecoverynh.com/ Manchester location: https://livefreerecoverynh.com/locations/detox-inpatient-rehab-manchester-nh/ LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/jack-oconnor-behavioralhealth

    46 min

  8. JAN 15

    Leah Rothchild on Recovery, Stigma, and Whole-Person Care

    In this episode of Leaders of Today, Teens to Titans, Lorraine sits down with Leah Rothchild to talk about the hidden reality of teen depression, substance use, and what it actually takes to heal. Leah shares how she went from being a joyful, high-achieving kid to silently struggling with depression, self-harm, and addiction, all while still “looking fine” on the outside. Leah breaks down why substance use is not always obvious, how stigma and shame keep people from getting help, and why mental health care must be integrated into everyday pediatric care. She also shares what ultimately changed her path, what teens and parents need most, and why hope can still exist even when it feels like it doesn’t. In This Episode, You’ll Hear What Leah was like as a child and how her mental health shifted around age 10 Why depression can show up even when life looks “perfect” from the outside How guilt and shame can fuel substance use and keep the cycle going The misconception that addiction is always obvious or immediately “destroys” someone’s life The difference between feeling hopeless and being hopeless Why stigma is dangerous, even inside healthcare settings How Leah’s lived experience shaped her path toward pediatric and psychiatric care What parents can do to support teens without judgment, fear, or shame Key Takeaway Feeling completely hopeless is different than being completely hopeless. If you do not get help the first time you ask, ask again. The right support exists, and it can change everything. How to Connect Leah Rothchild Email: rothchild.leah@gmail.com

    44 min
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About

Welcome to Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans, the podcast where we dive into the experiences of current Titan leaders to uncover how their teenage years shaped their paths to success and how a coach might have helped them along the way. Hosted by Lorraine Connell, Teen Leadership Coach and founder of Peers Not Fears, this show offers parents, teens, and aspiring leaders invaluable insights and practical advice. In each episode, we candidly talk with leaders who reflect on their challenges, triumphs, and pivotal moments from their youth. We explore how mentorship and coaching helped or could have impacted their journey, and we invite them to become mentors for our program teens, sharing their wisdom and experiences. Whether you’re a parent seeking to empower your child, a teen navigating the complexities of adolescence, or an aspiring leader looking for guidance, Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans provides the tools and inspiration needed to cultivate leadership skills, foster resilience, and embrace potential. Join our community dedicated to nurturing the next generation of leaders. Subscribe now and embark on a transformative journey towards unlocking your teen’s leadership potential!

Information

  • Creator
    Lorraine Connell, www.peersnotfears.com
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    100
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2021 All rights reserved.
  • Show Website
    Leaders of Today: From Teens to Titans