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Positive, Uplifting, Life-Changing Talk Radio
Be the Star You Are! ® Radio
An Unique Approach to Empowerment Broadcasting!
Meet Express Yourself! Guests
2021-2026 Express Yourself! Programs & Guests
Every week, our Express Yourself!™ Star Teens bring you a stimulating, mind-bending, original program with guests from around the world and all walks of life!
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PLEASE NOTE: All programs broadcast before 1-1-2025 can now be found at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220.
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12-21-25 Holiday Celebrations with Julia Howe
"Christmas waves a magic wand over this world, and behold, everything is softer and more beautiful." – Norman Vincent Peale.
In this holiday episode, Host Julia explores what the season really feels like for teenagers: balancing stress, shifting family dynamics, and the pressure to enjoy a “magical” time of year, while learning how to make the holidays meaningful on our own terms. Julia reflects on practical, honest ways teens can enjoy the season without clichés, perfection, or forced cheer. The show also features a special caroling segment from the LWHS Waves, LWHS Vocal Ensemble, and the San Francisco Girls’ Chorus.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Express Yourself!™ and Be the Star You Are!®
"Peace on Earth, goodwill to men!" — Lewis Carroll
Bio: Julia Howe is a youth entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and co-host of Express Yourself Teen Radio from San Francisco, California. She is committed to introducing Chinese Opera to younger audiences, empowering teen girls in sports, and advocating for innovative education. Julia founded Jing Shao Nian, a youth Chinese Opera company, and Hitting The Wall, a non-profit dedicated to empowering teen female athletes. As the program director of Heart In Motion, she orchestrates the efforts of thousands of student volunteers at athletic events. Julia can be found singing with the San Francisco Girls Chorus Premier Ensemble or training for her next triathlon. And she has been accepted to Yale for next fall. https://www.jingshaonian.org/
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Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/
Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at
Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
LISTEN TO THIS SHOW: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/holiday-celebrations-with-julia-howe
In this holiday episode, Host Julia explores what the season really feels like for teenagers: balancing stress, shifting family dynamics, and the pressure to enjoy a “magical” time of year, while learning how to make the holidays meaningful on our own terms. Julia reflects on practical, honest ways teens can enjoy the season without clichés, perfection, or forced cheer. The show also features a special caroling segment from the LWHS Waves, LWHS Vocal Ensemble, and the San Francisco Girls’ Chorus.
Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Express Yourself!™ and Be the Star You Are!®
"Peace on Earth, goodwill to men!" — Lewis Carroll
Bio: Julia Howe is a youth entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, and co-host of Express Yourself Teen Radio from San Francisco, California. She is committed to introducing Chinese Opera to younger audiences, empowering teen girls in sports, and advocating for innovative education. Julia founded Jing Shao Nian, a youth Chinese Opera company, and Hitting The Wall, a non-profit dedicated to empowering teen female athletes. As the program director of Heart In Motion, she orchestrates the efforts of thousands of student volunteers at athletic events. Julia can be found singing with the San Francisco Girls Chorus Premier Ensemble or training for her next triathlon. And she has been accepted to Yale for next fall. https://www.jingshaonian.org/
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/
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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
Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
LISTEN TO THIS SHOW: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/holiday-celebrations-with-julia-howe
12-14-25 Exploring the Existence of God
“If God did not exist, it would be necessary to invent Him.” Voltaire
Does asking whether God exists help teens think about bigger questions like what gives life meaning? What makes something right or wrong? Who or what do I look to when I’m trying to understand my purpose, my identity, my relationships, or the challenges? Host Hanna talks about the fact that even teens who don’t believe in a higher power often care deeply about justice, fairness, compassion, dignity, and the desire to be part of something meaningful. Many of those values were born of religious traditions long before they were written into constitutions or taught in classrooms. Hanna interviews third-year Ph.D student in the Department of Philosophy, Joe Schmid, who provides an argument for and against God's existence. The cosmological argument for God's existence posits that everything in the universe has a cause. Arguments against God's existence center on the Problem of Evil, how an all-good, all-powerful God allows suffering. He then discusses Pascal’s Wager. Blaise Pascal, the 17th-century philosopher and mathematician, argued that we should believe in God and act as if God exists because it is the best bet.
The existence-of-God question is more than a question of belief. It’s a doorway into understanding culture, history, psychology, community, creativity, and the human need for meaning.
Dive deeper into the existence of God and decide for yourself!
Bio: Joe Schmid
Joe is a third year Ph.D. student in the Department of Philosophy with research interests in metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of mind. He earned a B.A. in philosophy from Purdue University in 2022 (Boiler Up!). Joe has published papers in Mind, Noûs, and The Journal of Philosophy, co-authored the SEP entry on Ontological Arguments, and co-authored a book published by Springer. He also runs the philosophy YouTube channel Majesty of Reason. When he’s not doing philosophy, you’ll find him either playing soccer or cuddling with his overwhelmingly cute dog (or both).
Follow us:
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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/
Does asking whether God exists help teens think about bigger questions like what gives life meaning? What makes something right or wrong? Who or what do I look to when I’m trying to understand my purpose, my identity, my relationships, or the challenges? Host Hanna talks about the fact that even teens who don’t believe in a higher power often care deeply about justice, fairness, compassion, dignity, and the desire to be part of something meaningful. Many of those values were born of religious traditions long before they were written into constitutions or taught in classrooms. Hanna interviews third-year Ph.D student in the Department of Philosophy, Joe Schmid, who provides an argument for and against God's existence. The cosmological argument for God's existence posits that everything in the universe has a cause. Arguments against God's existence center on the Problem of Evil, how an all-good, all-powerful God allows suffering. He then discusses Pascal’s Wager. Blaise Pascal, the 17th-century philosopher and mathematician, argued that we should believe in God and act as if God exists because it is the best bet.
The existence-of-God question is more than a question of belief. It’s a doorway into understanding culture, history, psychology, community, creativity, and the human need for meaning.
Dive deeper into the existence of God and decide for yourself!
Bio: Joe Schmid
Joe is a third year Ph.D. student in the Department of Philosophy with research interests in metaphysics, philosophy of religion, and philosophy of mind. He earned a B.A. in philosophy from Purdue University in 2022 (Boiler Up!). Joe has published papers in Mind, Noûs, and The Journal of Philosophy, co-authored the SEP entry on Ontological Arguments, and co-authored a book published by Springer. He also runs the philosophy YouTube channel Majesty of Reason. When he’s not doing philosophy, you’ll find him either playing soccer or cuddling with his overwhelmingly cute dog (or both).
Follow us:
https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio
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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/
11/23 Gratitude and Thanksgiving
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.”— Maya Angelou
A family-friendly Thanksgiving program with host Kirpa and her cousins Milan and Jatin as they celebrate gratitude, food, music, travel, and joy. Thanksgiving is a time of connection, a time to apologize, and forgive. Kirpa advises that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful — and that’s the heartbeat of Thanksgiving. Have gratitude for the sunshine and the rain and even the rainbows that follow. Milan talks about being kind. Jatin shares his music appreciation. All three encourage being grateful for the little things. We wish you a very happy Thanksgiving and we are thankful for you. Be blessed.
Bio: Jatin, Express Yourself! Teen Radio’s newest reporter is a junior in high school with an amazing sense of humor. He loves music, and he has been playing drums for many years and is part of a rock band. He loves science and working out! He is looking forward to being a part of teen radio with his cousin, Kirpa, and brother Milan.
Follow us:
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/thanksgiving-and-gratitude
A family-friendly Thanksgiving program with host Kirpa and her cousins Milan and Jatin as they celebrate gratitude, food, music, travel, and joy. Thanksgiving is a time of connection, a time to apologize, and forgive. Kirpa advises that life doesn’t need to be perfect to be beautiful — and that’s the heartbeat of Thanksgiving. Have gratitude for the sunshine and the rain and even the rainbows that follow. Milan talks about being kind. Jatin shares his music appreciation. All three encourage being grateful for the little things. We wish you a very happy Thanksgiving and we are thankful for you. Be blessed.
Bio: Jatin, Express Yourself! Teen Radio’s newest reporter is a junior in high school with an amazing sense of humor. He loves music, and he has been playing drums for many years and is part of a rock band. He loves science and working out! He is looking forward to being a part of teen radio with his cousin, Kirpa, and brother Milan.
Follow us:
https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio
https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself
https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/thanksgiving-and-gratitude
11-16-25 How Teens Preserve their Culture
“If we are to preserve culture, we must continue to create it.” by Johan Huizinga
Culture is not only about connecting the past to the present, but it is also a way we form our identity; it is a part of the puzzle in our lives. Host Julia and reporter Milan discuss the importance of studying culture and keeping one’s heritage and culture alive. Milan talks about how culture forms our identity and shares how teens can illustrate the importance of traditions through events, social media, writing, and more. Julia shares information on the Chinese Opera Program she founded. Jing Shao Nian is a youth-led Chinese opera program that teaches students the foundations of Cantonese and Peking Opera through weekly rehearsals, vocal training, movement workshops, and cultural history lessons. Through the program, students gain confidence in using Mandarin or Cantonese, develop a stronger sense of identity, and build public speaking and performance skills. Julia then interviews a student leader of Jing Shao Nian, Samantha, who talks about how her relationship with Asian culture transformed after joining the group. She describes a typical performance and the effects it has had on the participants and the audiences. Embracing our cultures enhances our lives. Communities are connected through culture.
Visit the Jing Shao Nian website (with lots of photos): https://www.jingshaonian.org/
Read the newsletter on a Cultural Thanksgiving: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/a-cultural-thanksgiving?
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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/
direct link: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/how-teens-preserve-their-culture
Culture is not only about connecting the past to the present, but it is also a way we form our identity; it is a part of the puzzle in our lives. Host Julia and reporter Milan discuss the importance of studying culture and keeping one’s heritage and culture alive. Milan talks about how culture forms our identity and shares how teens can illustrate the importance of traditions through events, social media, writing, and more. Julia shares information on the Chinese Opera Program she founded. Jing Shao Nian is a youth-led Chinese opera program that teaches students the foundations of Cantonese and Peking Opera through weekly rehearsals, vocal training, movement workshops, and cultural history lessons. Through the program, students gain confidence in using Mandarin or Cantonese, develop a stronger sense of identity, and build public speaking and performance skills. Julia then interviews a student leader of Jing Shao Nian, Samantha, who talks about how her relationship with Asian culture transformed after joining the group. She describes a typical performance and the effects it has had on the participants and the audiences. Embracing our cultures enhances our lives. Communities are connected through culture.
Visit the Jing Shao Nian website (with lots of photos): https://www.jingshaonian.org/
Read the newsletter on a Cultural Thanksgiving: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/p/a-cultural-thanksgiving?
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/
direct link: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/how-teens-preserve-their-culture
11-9-25 Preparing for College Applications
“ The future belongs to those who prepare for it today.” - Malcolm X
Although college applications can be stressful, there are small steps to take to make the process feel less overwhelming! Host Diya walks you through actions that will help you fill out successful applications to colleges that will be best suited to your life preferences. Stay organized and start early. Put all your extracurriculars, deadlines for essays, and application fees on spreadsheets and checklists. Research colleges that best fit your personality and interests. Do you want urban, suburban, or rural area? What about going to a small, medium, or large university? Diya advises taking small baby steps every day to make your life easier!
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/preparing-for-college-applications
Although college applications can be stressful, there are small steps to take to make the process feel less overwhelming! Host Diya walks you through actions that will help you fill out successful applications to colleges that will be best suited to your life preferences. Stay organized and start early. Put all your extracurriculars, deadlines for essays, and application fees on spreadsheets and checklists. Research colleges that best fit your personality and interests. Do you want urban, suburban, or rural area? What about going to a small, medium, or large university? Diya advises taking small baby steps every day to make your life easier!
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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/preparing-for-college-applications
11-2-25 Teens and Gun Control
On August 5th, 2012, when Express Yourself!™ teen, was a toddler, he, his brother, and his mother stopped for three minutes at a gas station on their way to their Sikh temple. Those three minutes saved their lives as a gunman began a mass shooting. Today, host Kirpa and reporter Milan discuss gun control and what teens think about it. There are an estimated 400 million to 500 million civilian-owned firearms in the United States, with some estimates putting the number at around 1.5 firearms per person. This means there are more guns in the USA than people. Kirpa indicates that for many teens, gun violence isn’t just something they see on the news. It’s something that’s shaped the way they grow up. Surveys show that nearly 70 percent of teens support stronger gun laws. Milan shares the mass shooting story and also provides the language of the 2nd Amendment. He believes that the crime rate and mass shootings would be reduced by limiting guns and increasing controls. Guns kill. Teens want restrictions to stay safe.
This generation of teen is growing up in a storm, but they’re learning to build umbrellas out of their courage. They’re not waiting for permission to speak — they already are. Maybe it’s time we start listening.
Follow us:
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/teens-and-gun-control
This generation of teen is growing up in a storm, but they’re learning to build umbrellas out of their courage. They’re not waiting for permission to speak — they already are. Maybe it’s time we start listening.
Follow us:
https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio
https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/teens-and-gun-control
10-19-25 How Teens Have Grit?
“I’ve learned you are never too small to make a difference.” Greta Thunberg
With college deadlines looming and pressure mounting, this week’s broadcast turns inward, toward the grit it takes to be a teenager in a world obsessed with perfection. Host Julia opens the show with a commentary on the myth of effortless success, breaking down how real grit isn’t gold stars or motivational quotes, it’s bombing a test and still showing up. She explores the emotional grit behind staying in friendships, choosing honesty over silence, and knowing when to quit without giving up on yourself. In the second segment, Julia zooms in on what it means to be the youngest in the room, at meetings, on boards, in spaces where adults run the show. She unpacks the labor of being taken seriously: the double standards, the polite dismissal, the subtle performances of “maturity.” Julia offers tools for power, how to hold your voice, speak with clarity, and not let the silence erase your presence.
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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/
Direct link: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/how-teens-have-grit
10-12-25 Human Rights for Women and Girls
“I know nothing of man’s rights, or woman’s rights; human rights are all that I recognize.” Sarah Moore Grimke
With global conflict rising, human rights violations demand attention, especially abuses against women and girls. Host Julia begins the broadcast with an investigation of “The Myth of the Perfect Victim”. She asks, “Why do we know Gabby Petito’s name, but not Kaysera Stops Pretty Places, a 17-year-old Indigenous girl who went missing the same year? Who gets a multi-episode special, and who gets a paragraph at the bottom of a local news site?” The “Missing White Woman Syndrome” describes how the media overwhelmingly covers cases of young, white, conventionally attractive women while overlooking missing Black, Latina, Indigenous, and trans girls. If equality means anything, it means that every girl, every person, every background, every zip code, deserves to be searched for, fought for, and remembered.
Julia then interviews Valentina Casas-Sayek, who provides historical examples showing how nations either failed to act or courageously opposed injustices. Women face unique abuses that limit their societal participation, educational access, healthcare, and bodily autonomy, affecting global progress. She talks about the Stolen Babies of Spain in the Franco era and looks at how different societies handle violence against women. Understanding why some communities take action on women’s rights while others stay silent gives us key insights for creating fairer societies and preventing future harm worldwide. Women’s rights are human rights.
Bio: Valentina Casas-Sayek is a high school senior from Dallas, Texas, who is passionate about history and human rights. She has conducted research, written articles, presented her work at national symposiums, and created a podcast, Untold History, focusing on hidden parts of history. Valentina is also involved in her school community as an Honor Council member and a member of the lacrosse and field hockey teams. In her spare time, Valentina enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
Follow us:
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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/
Listen to this program: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/human-rights-for-women-and-girls
With global conflict rising, human rights violations demand attention, especially abuses against women and girls. Host Julia begins the broadcast with an investigation of “The Myth of the Perfect Victim”. She asks, “Why do we know Gabby Petito’s name, but not Kaysera Stops Pretty Places, a 17-year-old Indigenous girl who went missing the same year? Who gets a multi-episode special, and who gets a paragraph at the bottom of a local news site?” The “Missing White Woman Syndrome” describes how the media overwhelmingly covers cases of young, white, conventionally attractive women while overlooking missing Black, Latina, Indigenous, and trans girls. If equality means anything, it means that every girl, every person, every background, every zip code, deserves to be searched for, fought for, and remembered.
Julia then interviews Valentina Casas-Sayek, who provides historical examples showing how nations either failed to act or courageously opposed injustices. Women face unique abuses that limit their societal participation, educational access, healthcare, and bodily autonomy, affecting global progress. She talks about the Stolen Babies of Spain in the Franco era and looks at how different societies handle violence against women. Understanding why some communities take action on women’s rights while others stay silent gives us key insights for creating fairer societies and preventing future harm worldwide. Women’s rights are human rights.
Bio: Valentina Casas-Sayek is a high school senior from Dallas, Texas, who is passionate about history and human rights. She has conducted research, written articles, presented her work at national symposiums, and created a podcast, Untold History, focusing on hidden parts of history. Valentina is also involved in her school community as an Honor Council member and a member of the lacrosse and field hockey teams. In her spare time, Valentina enjoys spending time with her friends and family.
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1-5-25 Ultra-Processed Foods
“Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are.” – Jean Anthelme Brillat-Savarin
Host Julia and reporter Hanna tackle the topic that we chew on every day: ultra-processed foods. Hanna asks if it is ethical to sell food that is unhealthy just to maximize profits at the expense of our long-term well-being. What is the price of health? Whose responsibility is it? What is the future of food? Julia talks about food dyes and artificial flavors that are engineered to cling to whatever is touched, causing you to crave more. Color = emotion. Studies show that red triggers excitement and appetite. Yellow suggests energy and fun. Food companies know these colors get your brain buzzing. Teens are wired to seek novelty and risk. Studies in neuroscience show that the teenage brain’s reward system is hypersensitive, especially to intense flavors and sensations. What are you eating?
They have hope, courage, and are making noise!
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Direct Link: https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/ultra-processed-foods/
Host Julia and reporter Hanna tackle the topic that we chew on every day: ultra-processed foods. Hanna asks if it is ethical to sell food that is unhealthy just to maximize profits at the expense of our long-term well-being. What is the price of health? Whose responsibility is it? What is the future of food? Julia talks about food dyes and artificial flavors that are engineered to cling to whatever is touched, causing you to crave more. Color = emotion. Studies show that red triggers excitement and appetite. Yellow suggests energy and fun. Food companies know these colors get your brain buzzing. Teens are wired to seek novelty and risk. Studies in neuroscience show that the teenage brain’s reward system is hypersensitive, especially to intense flavors and sensations. What are you eating?
They have hope, courage, and are making noise!
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9-28-25 Are Teens Affected by Climate Change?
"Climate change is the most severe problem that we are facing today, more serious even than the threat of terrorism." - Anonymous
The answer is YES! Host Keerthi starts off the show with this message: “We are concerned. You know why? Because we live here! You can’t just order a new planet from Amazon Prime.” The concern is real. Studies show that over 70% of teens say climate change makes them anxious. Teens are creative, resourceful, and a little desperate—an excellent combination when it comes to change. Keerthi interviews the newest reporter, Hanna, who recognizes the injustice of the world teens are inheriting. Young people see that previous generations lived with fewer limits and more consumption, while ours will inherit the bill. And that sparks outrage, but also responsibility. Hanna shares how teens are turning worry into productivity with youth activism. They have hope, courage, and are making noise!
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9-14-25 What Concerns Teen the Most
“Do not wait for leaders; do it alone, person to person.”— Mother Teresa
In today’s episode, host Julia with new reporter Hanna talk about what concerns teens the most…mental health, the climate crisis, waste, eco-anxiety, and more. Julia dives into “doomism”, doom-scrolling, and advocates for her generation that has lived through “historic” tragedies: terrorism, endless wars, “orange alert” paranoia, the 2008 financial crash, the pandemic, cost-of-living crises, natural disasters, and the climate emergency. Studies show empathy levels plummeted after 2000, but this generation of youth is pushing for political accountability. She believes that cynicism doesn’t have to mean paralysis. Julia introduces our new reporter on Express Yourself Teen radio, Hanna.
Hanna’s segment is called Political Philosophy, and in today’s broadcast, she discusses upcycling, donating, and even selling secondhand. These aren’t just eco-friendly actions, they’re ways of living out our responsibility to others and to the future. Studies show that over 50% of young people say climate change makes them very worried, and almost half say it impacts their daily lives. Upcycling means taking something old or “useless” and transforming it into something new, valuable, or beautiful. Unlike recycling, it doesn’t require breaking things down—it just reimagines them.
The U.S. generates 292 million tons of trash every year.
The fashion industry alone creates 92 million tons of textile waste.
Making a single cotton t-shirt takes 700 gallons of water.
Every time you upcycle—or even keep something in circulation instead of tossing it—you’re saving resources and reducing harm. Hanna offers ways to make a difference.
In the final segment, Julia and Hanna engage in a conversation about moral obligations to to future generations, questions about justice, fairness, and responsibility to others globally, ways to live sustainably, and ethical responses to big problems like climate change.
Teens care about everything! Have hope!
Bio: Hanna Yu is a high school senior from the Bay Area who is passionate about political philosophy. She has conducted research with university professors, written articles, and presented her work at national symposiums. Hanna is also a dancer, debater, and sculptor, whose work brings together art and political thought. In her spare time, Hanna pursues her passion for sustainable fashion by leading closet swaps and secondhand clothing sales.
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Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/what-concerns-teen-most
In today’s episode, host Julia with new reporter Hanna talk about what concerns teens the most…mental health, the climate crisis, waste, eco-anxiety, and more. Julia dives into “doomism”, doom-scrolling, and advocates for her generation that has lived through “historic” tragedies: terrorism, endless wars, “orange alert” paranoia, the 2008 financial crash, the pandemic, cost-of-living crises, natural disasters, and the climate emergency. Studies show empathy levels plummeted after 2000, but this generation of youth is pushing for political accountability. She believes that cynicism doesn’t have to mean paralysis. Julia introduces our new reporter on Express Yourself Teen radio, Hanna.
Hanna’s segment is called Political Philosophy, and in today’s broadcast, she discusses upcycling, donating, and even selling secondhand. These aren’t just eco-friendly actions, they’re ways of living out our responsibility to others and to the future. Studies show that over 50% of young people say climate change makes them very worried, and almost half say it impacts their daily lives. Upcycling means taking something old or “useless” and transforming it into something new, valuable, or beautiful. Unlike recycling, it doesn’t require breaking things down—it just reimagines them.
The U.S. generates 292 million tons of trash every year.
The fashion industry alone creates 92 million tons of textile waste.
Making a single cotton t-shirt takes 700 gallons of water.
Every time you upcycle—or even keep something in circulation instead of tossing it—you’re saving resources and reducing harm. Hanna offers ways to make a difference.
In the final segment, Julia and Hanna engage in a conversation about moral obligations to to future generations, questions about justice, fairness, and responsibility to others globally, ways to live sustainably, and ethical responses to big problems like climate change.
Teens care about everything! Have hope!
Bio: Hanna Yu is a high school senior from the Bay Area who is passionate about political philosophy. She has conducted research with university professors, written articles, and presented her work at national symposiums. Hanna is also a dancer, debater, and sculptor, whose work brings together art and political thought. In her spare time, Hanna pursues her passion for sustainable fashion by leading closet swaps and secondhand clothing sales.
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9-7-25 Galactic Getaway
“Shoot for the moon. Even if you miss, you’ll land among the stars.” Norman Vincent Peale
Host Saanvi Phaneendra take you on a journey into the world of rockets, space, and the story of her nonprofit, Galactic Getaway. Her Eagle Scout project turned into a mission: bringing museum-quality rocket exhibits into libraries and universities across the San Francisco Bay Area to inspire kids, teens, and adults about the future of space exploration. Over the next half hour, she shares the vision behind Galactic Getaway, the rockets she chose, how she researched and curated their specifications, where the exhibit has traveled, the impact it has made, and where she hopes to take it in the future. To learn more about the project or how to bring the exhibit to your community, visit galacticget.org.
Space exploration is unfolding, and it starts with the curiosity we inspire today. Saanvi’s hope is that every child who sees these rockets will believe: ‘That could be me someday.’
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Host Saanvi Phaneendra take you on a journey into the world of rockets, space, and the story of her nonprofit, Galactic Getaway. Her Eagle Scout project turned into a mission: bringing museum-quality rocket exhibits into libraries and universities across the San Francisco Bay Area to inspire kids, teens, and adults about the future of space exploration. Over the next half hour, she shares the vision behind Galactic Getaway, the rockets she chose, how she researched and curated their specifications, where the exhibit has traveled, the impact it has made, and where she hopes to take it in the future. To learn more about the project or how to bring the exhibit to your community, visit galacticget.org.
Space exploration is unfolding, and it starts with the curiosity we inspire today. Saanvi’s hope is that every child who sees these rockets will believe: ‘That could be me someday.’
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8-24-25 How Teens Can Stay Healthy
“Self-care is not selfish. You cannot serve from an empty vessel.” – Eleanor Brown
Host, Julia, is an athlete and a healthy teen. In today’s program, she talks about how teenagers can stay healthy. She highlights student researchers who are part of the Hitting the Wall Curriculum project that she founded in 2023. Hitting the Wall is a movement dedicated to fostering positive change within the teen-girl endurance sports community, empowering healthier and happier athletes. The research program, in collaboration with SFUSD schools, UCSF researchers, professional athletes, and coaches, is committed to elevating underrepresented perspectives in women’s athletics, advocating for the complexities of girlhood and sport, and amplifying the voices of women in the athletic community. Sports provide incredible benefits, including strength, stamina, teamwork, and mental toughness. Yet, the risks include severe injuries. Tune in to Express Yourself!™ for this informative special with Julia that will help you be a healthier and more active teen.
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Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220
Host, Julia, is an athlete and a healthy teen. In today’s program, she talks about how teenagers can stay healthy. She highlights student researchers who are part of the Hitting the Wall Curriculum project that she founded in 2023. Hitting the Wall is a movement dedicated to fostering positive change within the teen-girl endurance sports community, empowering healthier and happier athletes. The research program, in collaboration with SFUSD schools, UCSF researchers, professional athletes, and coaches, is committed to elevating underrepresented perspectives in women’s athletics, advocating for the complexities of girlhood and sport, and amplifying the voices of women in the athletic community. Sports provide incredible benefits, including strength, stamina, teamwork, and mental toughness. Yet, the risks include severe injuries. Tune in to Express Yourself!™ for this informative special with Julia that will help you be a healthier and more active teen.
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8-10-25 Is Democracy Dying
“Democracies may die at the hands not of generals but of elected leaders—presidents or prime ministers who subvert the very process that brought them to power. “ - Steven Levitsky
Host Keerthi brings substance and humor to a very serious topic: democracy. Democracy is a mess. It’s a beautiful, chaotic, meme-worthy mess. Democracy has made mistakes. Big ones. But she’s evolving. Citizens should be worried about voter suppression, disinformation overload, political polarization, cynicism, and apathy. Democracy isn’t perfect because people aren’t perfect. When this country was founded, there was one clear goal: No kings. Because, despite all the chaos…
• More young people are voting than ever before.
• More women and people of color are running for office.
• Protest movements—from climate to racial justice to gun reform.
Democracy isn’t dying, but it is up to us to protect it.
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Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://sites.libsyn.com/560220/is-democracy-dying
Host Keerthi brings substance and humor to a very serious topic: democracy. Democracy is a mess. It’s a beautiful, chaotic, meme-worthy mess. Democracy has made mistakes. Big ones. But she’s evolving. Citizens should be worried about voter suppression, disinformation overload, political polarization, cynicism, and apathy. Democracy isn’t perfect because people aren’t perfect. When this country was founded, there was one clear goal: No kings. Because, despite all the chaos…
• More young people are voting than ever before.
• More women and people of color are running for office.
• Protest movements—from climate to racial justice to gun reform.
Democracy isn’t dying, but it is up to us to protect it.
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8-3-25 Helping to Educate Schools in Other Countries
"To every child – I dream of a world where you can laugh, dance, sing, learn, live in peace, and be happy" - Malala Yousafzai
Host Sharanya Roy doesn’t believe brilliance is limited by borders. She recently returned from Africa where she witnessed children eager to learn and study, with a profound quest for knowledge. Learning is freedom. It’s power. And it deserves to be shared. To bring computer science education to underprivileged societies, Be the Star You Are!® teenager, Sharanya, founded the organization PlotLyft. She is currently working with the young Maasai students in Ngorongoro, Tanzania. She says, “We have so much to learn from each other. Real impact doesn’t come from giving things. It comes from listening. From sharing. From showing up, and staying committed.”
If you’d like to help bring education to the Maasai in Africa, please visit
https://www.gofundme.com/f/together-lets-bring-classrooms-to-the-maasai
You can also email Plotlyft@gmail.com for more information or to get involved in the program.
Africa didn’t just teach Sharanya how to help others. It taught her how to be grateful and be a better human.
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Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220
Host Sharanya Roy doesn’t believe brilliance is limited by borders. She recently returned from Africa where she witnessed children eager to learn and study, with a profound quest for knowledge. Learning is freedom. It’s power. And it deserves to be shared. To bring computer science education to underprivileged societies, Be the Star You Are!® teenager, Sharanya, founded the organization PlotLyft. She is currently working with the young Maasai students in Ngorongoro, Tanzania. She says, “We have so much to learn from each other. Real impact doesn’t come from giving things. It comes from listening. From sharing. From showing up, and staying committed.”
If you’d like to help bring education to the Maasai in Africa, please visit
https://www.gofundme.com/f/together-lets-bring-classrooms-to-the-maasai
You can also email Plotlyft@gmail.com for more information or to get involved in the program.
Africa didn’t just teach Sharanya how to help others. It taught her how to be grateful and be a better human.
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9/20-12/27/2020 Express Yourself! Guests
Every week, our Express Yourself!™ Star Teens bring you a stimulating,
mind-bending, original program based on a chapter from our
Click on Photo for description of episode
12-25-20 Christmas and Puppies
It’s a wonderful time of the year! Despite the challenges of 2020, we have so much to be grateful for. Hosts Andrea Smith and Arjin Claire talk with reporter, Nihal Gill as he shares how, after their beloved dog was killed, they adopted a rescue puppy which brought them great joy. Dog trainer and author of 101 Rescue Puppies-One Family’s Story of Fostering Dogs, Love, and Trust, Kathy Callahan, describes the sheer bliss of being a foster family for dogs and puppies. Kathy offers great advice on how to help pandemic puppies get used to being alone sometimes. Because of stay-at-home mandates, dogs are accustomed to having their human packs with then 24/7. This energetic dog-lover guides us through the delicious family puppy connection. What a gift! The hosts wrap up this entertaining episode with Cynthia Brian’s chapter, The Gift of Giving from the book, Be the Star You Are!® 99 Gifts for Living, Loving, Laughing, and Learning to Make a Difference, which chronicles how her family’s rescue puppy became the greatest Christmas gifts. (https://www.CynthiaBrian.com) Celebrate the holidays with giving, gratitude, and puppies! Make a tax-deductible donation to Be the Star You Are!® charity. (https://www.BetheStarYouAre.org) through through PAYPAL GIVING FUND and PAYPAL with 100% going to BTSYA with NO FEES: https://www.paypal.com/fundraiser/charity/1504
Bio: Kathy Callahan
Kathy Callahan is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) living in Alexandria, Virginia. She loves to coach people and their puppies into a great pack life. Her family continues to foster puppies amid their own furry pack. Over the past decade, Kathy Callahan’s family has taken in more than a hundred rescue puppies. The delightful photo-filled book, 101 Rescue Puppies-One Family’s Story of Fostering Dogs, Love, and Trust, features the wonderful stories that emerged as these foster pups were suddenly surrounded by a nurturing family complete with patient adult dogs and curious cats. With a gift for capturing the moment in both words and images, Callahan brings readers inside the poignant and ultimately uplifting work of fostering. This inspiring read is indeed about puppies, but it’s also about family and human connection. It’s about finding your own way — through that one special thing you can do to light a candle, instead of cursing the darkness.
www.PuppyPicks.com.
https://www.puppypicks.com/puppy-training-videos
Instagram: puppy.picks
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127198/gratitude-giving-holidays-and-puppies
Bio: Kathy Callahan
Kathy Callahan is a certified professional dog trainer (CPDT-KA) living in Alexandria, Virginia. She loves to coach people and their puppies into a great pack life. Her family continues to foster puppies amid their own furry pack. Over the past decade, Kathy Callahan’s family has taken in more than a hundred rescue puppies. The delightful photo-filled book, 101 Rescue Puppies-One Family’s Story of Fostering Dogs, Love, and Trust, features the wonderful stories that emerged as these foster pups were suddenly surrounded by a nurturing family complete with patient adult dogs and curious cats. With a gift for capturing the moment in both words and images, Callahan brings readers inside the poignant and ultimately uplifting work of fostering. This inspiring read is indeed about puppies, but it’s also about family and human connection. It’s about finding your own way — through that one special thing you can do to light a candle, instead of cursing the darkness.
www.PuppyPicks.com.
https://www.puppypicks.com/puppy-training-videos
Instagram: puppy.picks
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127198/gratitude-giving-holidays-and-puppies
12-20-20 Home for the Holidays with Express Yourself!
Express Yourself!® teen radio host, Andrea Smith relives happy memories of Christmas’s past with traditions from her Argentinian and Scottish families. Christmas is her favorite time of the year and she shares her excitement with the world. The Gift of Magic from Cynthia Brian’s book, Be the Star You Are! 999 Gifts of Living, Loving, Laughing, and Learning to Make a Difference, is read bringing the wonder and awe of this blessed season to life. Andrea is joined by reporter Jonathan Jackson in a lively conversation about the holiday, food, songs, family, customs, and gifts. As BTSYA’s kindness coordinator, Karen Kitchel says, “The gifts we tend to remember are those which are wrapped with love.” Wishing everyone a very happy, healthy, and memorable Christmas. It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Giving you the gift of love!
Wishing you a very Merry and Healthy Christmas from our Star Team.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127594/home-for-the-holidays-with-express-yourself-teen-radio
Wishing you a very Merry and Healthy Christmas from our Star Team.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127594/home-for-the-holidays-with-express-yourself-teen-radio
12-13-20 Self-Acceptance with Laura Stegman
Self-acceptance is recognizing who we are. Hosts Andrea Smith and Siri Phaneendra talk with reporter Jack Pawlakos about refocusing thoughts and energy on our uniqueness, special skills, talents, and abilities to develop personal self-acceptance. The hosts interview publicist and author, Laura Segal Stegman with her middle grade debut novel, Summer of L.U.C.K. about three kids finding their way to self-acceptance with the help of a ghost who haunts a magical carnival. Laura shares the perseverance it took to bring this novel to publication during 18 years of creation. She was inspired by a few of her favorite books from middle school. The novel helps young people find their voices. A final discussion about self-esteem and the role of social media ensues. Be who you are. There is only one you. Be the Star you were born to be!
“We accept the love we think we deserve.” Stephen Chbosky
BIO: LAURA SEGAL STEGMAN:
Laura Segal Stegman is a Los Angeles-based arts publicist and author whose middle grade debut novel, Summer of L.U.C.K., will be published in September 2020 by INtense Publications, followed by a sequel in 2021. Laura's non-fiction credits include collaboration on the travel book Only in New York, and her feature stories have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine, Westways Magazine and Christian Science Monitor, among others. A long-time publicity consultant, she owns Laura Segal Stegman Public Relations, LLC, which has represented a wide-ranging client list of businesses, arts organizations and non-profit events over the years. She is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of UC Irvine with a B.A. in Drama and lives with her husband in West L.A. and part-time in New York City. She loves reading, L.A. Dodgers baseball, classical music and theater. LauraStegman.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraStegman
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laura_stegman/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraSegalStegmanAuthor/
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127453/self-acceptance
“We accept the love we think we deserve.” Stephen Chbosky
BIO: LAURA SEGAL STEGMAN:
Laura Segal Stegman is a Los Angeles-based arts publicist and author whose middle grade debut novel, Summer of L.U.C.K., will be published in September 2020 by INtense Publications, followed by a sequel in 2021. Laura's non-fiction credits include collaboration on the travel book Only in New York, and her feature stories have appeared in the Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Magazine, Westways Magazine and Christian Science Monitor, among others. A long-time publicity consultant, she owns Laura Segal Stegman Public Relations, LLC, which has represented a wide-ranging client list of businesses, arts organizations and non-profit events over the years. She is a Phi Beta Kappa graduate of UC Irvine with a B.A. in Drama and lives with her husband in West L.A. and part-time in New York City. She loves reading, L.A. Dodgers baseball, classical music and theater. LauraStegman.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LauraStegman
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/laura_stegman/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LauraSegalStegmanAuthor/
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127453/self-acceptance
12-6-20 Writing, Journaling, and Humanities+
Writing and journaling increases motivation and reduces stress. Host Andrea Smith and reporter Jack Pawlakos discuss the benefits of getting thoughts on the page. Andrea then interviews brother/sister founders of Humanities+, Ryan and Sidney Suh who have created an online journal that releases seasonal issues on a quarterly basis. The + symbol represents the foundational goal, which is to foster constructive discussions that transcend the traditional divides between the Humanities and STEM fields. Humanities+ serves as a destination for readers seeking integrity, quality, and global perspectives. The chapter, The Gift of Writing penned by author by Daniel M. Wong from Cynthia’ Brian’s book, Be the Star You Are! Millennials to Boomers Celebrating Gifts of Positive Voices in a Changing Digital World ignites the reasoning that writing is an escape that heals the spirit and provides solace in the most unexpected ways.
Bio: Ryan and Sidney Suh
Ryan and Sidney Suh are the Founders and Editors-in-Chief of the Humanities+ Journal. Ryan is currently a senior at Cate School, where he is the Senior Columnist for the school newspaper, El Batidor, and a class representative for the student body government. He is also a published writer and enjoys playing squash in his free time. Sidney is currently a junior at Cate School. Outside of the classroom, she is the founder and leader of an international science fiction and historical fiction book club. In her spare time, she loves to play the euphonium and conduct interdisciplinary university-level research. To find more information, you can visit www.hplusjournal.com or find Humanities+ on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/humanities-plus-journal.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127324/writing-journaling-and-humanities
Bio: Ryan and Sidney Suh
Ryan and Sidney Suh are the Founders and Editors-in-Chief of the Humanities+ Journal. Ryan is currently a senior at Cate School, where he is the Senior Columnist for the school newspaper, El Batidor, and a class representative for the student body government. He is also a published writer and enjoys playing squash in his free time. Sidney is currently a junior at Cate School. Outside of the classroom, she is the founder and leader of an international science fiction and historical fiction book club. In her spare time, she loves to play the euphonium and conduct interdisciplinary university-level research. To find more information, you can visit www.hplusjournal.com or find Humanities+ on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/humanities-plus-journal.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127324/writing-journaling-and-humanities
11-22-20 Fashion, Acting, and Modeling with SuperModel, Eugenia Kuzmina
If you enjoy fashion, modeling, acting, and comedy, this is the episode you won’t want to miss. Maggie Campione provides historical info on how fashion started as protection and can inspire systemic change and connection. Hosts Siri Phaneendra and Andrea Smith discuss what fashion means to them and they interview Russian-American supermodel, actress, and comedian, Eugenia Kuzmina about her exciting life and career. Eugenia is energetic and engaging as she reminisces about world modeling tours, Paris Fashion Week, acting jobs, and her newest endeavor, stand-up comedy. Taking care of oneself, exercising, and eating correctly are critical elements to a life on the fast track. Eugenia offers career advice encouraging listeners to not listen to the naysayers and to express your inner dreams with authenticity and passion. To be successful, be grateful and be yourself. Wise words!
BIO: Eugenia Kuzmina
Eugenia Kuzmina is a Russian-American actress, comedian, and model. Her father was a renowned nuclear physicist, who was one of the first responders to the Chernobyl disaster. Her mother is a former scientist and a housewife. Eugenia grew up on food lines in Post Soviet time. She was training to be a professional ice skater when at 13 years old she was pulled out from a group of kids in her school to appear in a Russian version of SNL "Eralash." She was then cast to appear in Chuck Norris film, but couldn't leave the country due to visa issues. After appearing in commercials for Coca Cola, L'Oréal and Wrigleys in Moscow, for which she was paid more than her scientist's dad, she was noticed by a scout at Nathalie Models Europe. She signed a contract and moved to Paris at 15 to work with such brands as Cartier, Dior, Armani, Hermes, Loreal, Vogue among many others...
After Ford Models, then IMG resigned her contract and moved her to the US, she was noticed by Rodrigo Prieto (cinematographer "Wolf Of Wall Street," "Babel") to appear in his directorial debut opposite Elle Fanning "Likeness." The movie was screened at Tribeca Film Festival and received excellent reviews. John Turturro cast Eugenia to play opposite him in a film with Woody Allen "Fading Gigolo." Recently Eugenia worked opposite Bill Murray in "Rock The Kasbah", Milla Kunis and Christina Applegate in "Bad Moms ", Guy Ritchie's " The Gentlemen ". Eugenia's Tv credits include " Spy City ", "True Blood," "New Girl," "Castle," "The Comeback," "Lady Dynamite"," Tour De Pharmacy ", etc
Eugenia is very passionate about comedy and writes and performs Stand Up regularly at The Comedy Store and The Laugh Factory. Her other hobbies include motorcycles, doing her own stunts, languages (French, Portuguese) , and supporting environmental causes around the world.
Kuzmina resides in Los Angeles with her husband Bill Block (Miramax CEO) and three children. http://www.eugenia-kuzmina.com/bio/
• https://www.imdb.com/name/nm4294308/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm
https://turkpr.net/eugenia-kuzmina/
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/127075/fashion-acting-and-modeling-with-supermodel-eugenia-kuzmina
11-15-20 Education and Careers with Mark Herschberg
Andrea Smith and Siri Phaneendra offer an informative episode about education and careers. In Trends without Ends, reporter Jack Pawlakos provides essential tips for students who are doing online-learning. For remote learning, make sure to take control of what you are able: get up at the same time, schedule your day, get noise-cancelling headphone, turn off phones, create a personal study space, take a break, and get outside to embrace nature. Most online courses from professional companies use the latest in technology to make the learning process most efficient. Be patient with teachers. The hosts interview Mark A. Herschberg, author of The Career Toolkit, Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You. Networking, negotiating, communicating, leading, career planning—all skills critical to your career success. But did anyone ever teach them to you? The Career Toolkit will help you master these skills and yield outsized returns for your career and your income. It’s a multivitamin for your career! Mark emphasizes practice, practice, practice. He also talks about why online voting will never be safe plus a discussion on streaming. Reporter Jay Jackson of Jays Sports World talks basketball and informs us how education leads to growth, knowledge, skill, perseverance, and success in all realms of life. Education teaches patience, wisdom, and intelligence. He discusses the Lakers, basketball, and how the pandemic has affected his education.
Bio: Mark Herschberg is the author of The Career Toolkit, Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You. From tracking criminals and terrorists on the dark web to creating marketplaces and new authentication systems, Mark has spent his career launching and developing new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s and in academia. He helped to start the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, dubbed MIT’s “career success accelerator,” where he teaches annually. At MIT, he received a B.S. in physics, a B.S. in electrical engineering & computer science, and a M.Eng. in electrical engineering & computer science, focusing on cryptography. At Harvard Business School, Mark helped create a platform used to teach finance at prominent business schools.
• https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com
• https://twitter.com/CareerToolkitBk
• https://www.instagram.com/thecareertoolkit/
• https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerToolkitBook
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/
Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126936/education-and-careers
Bio: Mark Herschberg is the author of The Career Toolkit, Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You. From tracking criminals and terrorists on the dark web to creating marketplaces and new authentication systems, Mark has spent his career launching and developing new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s and in academia. He helped to start the Undergraduate Practice Opportunities Program, dubbed MIT’s “career success accelerator,” where he teaches annually. At MIT, he received a B.S. in physics, a B.S. in electrical engineering & computer science, and a M.Eng. in electrical engineering & computer science, focusing on cryptography. At Harvard Business School, Mark helped create a platform used to teach finance at prominent business schools.
• https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com
• https://twitter.com/CareerToolkitBk
• https://www.instagram.com/thecareertoolkit/
• https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerToolkitBook
• https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/
Listen at the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126936/education-and-careers
11-8-20 Individuality with Fred Misurella
“Be yourself, your only self, your greatest self! You already are a star!” Cynthia Brian
Research shows that people do not become high performers by imitating others but by being themselves. Host Andrea Smith interviews author Fred Misurella for his fourth book, A Pontiac in the Woods, about a teen girl who lives alone and discovers her plans for her future. In Trends without Ends, Jack Pawlakos focuses on individuality and what trends are in relationship to expressing who we are individuals and how digitization has changed the world. The Gift of Individuality from the book, Be the Star You Are! for Teens by Cynthia Brian is read by Andrea. High performance occurs when a person goes beyond their own expectations in ways that are unique to them, consistently and repeatedly. In other words, state your plan, then exceed it in every way. Proclaim your vision and your mission. You don’t have to live in the woods to express your individuality, but you do need to claim your unique talents and skills. Celebrate your individuality.
Bio: Fred Misurella
A Pontiac in the Woods is the fourth in Fred Misurella’s cycle of novels about the modern American family. Others are Only Sons, Arrangement in Black and White, and A Summer of Good-Byes. He has also written Lies to Live By: Stories, and Short Time, a novella about Vietnam. His literary journalism has appeared in The Christian Science Monitor, The New York Times Book Review, and other journals. His essays on Primo Levi appear in The Legacy of Primo Levi and Answering Auschwitz. He is the current book review editor for VIA (Voices in Italian Americana). A former Fulbright Scholar in France, he now lives with his wife and children in East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania. Website: www.fredmisurella.com Facebook: www.faceboook.com/fred.misurella
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126812/individuality
10-25-20 Halloween-Salem's Witch, Tituba
Halloween is going to be very different during Covid-19. Host Arjin Claire talks with teen reporters Maggie Campione and Nihal Gill to find out what plans they have to celebrate in a safe, yet fun environment. They discuss costumes, candy, alternative ways to trick or treat, and offer historical background to the Halloween holidays. Author of Tituba, The Intentional Witch of Salem, Dave Tamanini, provides the backstory of the tragic 1692 Salem Witch Trials while adding a bit of magic and intrigue to his historical fantasy novel. Tituba, winner of the 2020 Afro American Historical and Genealogical Society Fiction book award is about power, race, and morality. The villagers see witches and demons everywhere. Their ministers say the Devil has sent them to steal souls. With Dave’s guidance, we revisit Salem’s witch hunts in a provocative new retelling, just in time for a devilish, scary Halloween.
Bio: Dave Tamanini
Dave Tamanini lives in Pennsylvania. His life experiences, combined with a desire to entertain, shape his writing. As a former civil rights investigator, and an attorney for 30 years, he learned a lot about human strength, frailty… and hypocrisy.
Social issues and the ways we deal with them fascinate Dave. In Tituba he weaves a historical/fantasy novel with real-life characters to focus on our common human nature, the abuse of power, and injustice. The real-life Tituba was a tragic figure. An enslaved African, Tituba and her owner, Rev. Parris, are the key voices. But others play a role, too, including the children of Salem village. Overall, Tituba is a provocative retelling of motivations during the 1692 witch hunt madness with an added touch of magic. www.DaveTamaniniAuthor.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126523/halloween-and-tituba-the-intentional-witch-of-salem
10-18-2020 The Art of Perseverance
Perseverance is tenacity, persistence, better-than-average drive, holding firmly to beliefs, and never giving up. Think of a time in your childhood when you were incredibly stubborn. Applying that same level of resolution to adult activities practically guarantees success. Host Andrea Smith reads Cynthia Brian’s chapter, The Gift of Perseverance from her book, Be the Star You Are! 99 Gifts for Living, Loving, Laughing, and Learning to Make a Difference. Newest reporter Nihal Gill, encourages teens to turn off the screen, get up, and get moving. Even though it may be tempting to be a couch potato, it is very important to set up some sort of exercise regimen and always persevere and push yourself to feel great and healthy. Andrea interviews Judith Peck, an accomplished artist, sculptor, professor, and author of several books. They discuss two of her books, Sculpture as Experience, an excellent guide to creating sculpture and her new novel, Naked Under the Lights: A fascinating look at the world as artists perceive it—including the painful self-doubt and driving need to express the inexpressible. The takeaway.: “Persistence prevails when all else fails.”
Bio: Nihall Gill: Reporter: Spark the Interest
Nihal Gill, a sophomore at Turlock High School loves to play golf and is on the THS varsity golf team. His love for music is expressed through the piano, which he has been playing for the last 6 years. He loves to help people; and he has taken his love for robotics and created a non-profit called “Project Spark” to reach out to young elementary students to teach them STEM/Robotics through hands-on kits, coding, and incorporates the four aspects of STEM into his once a month community classes. He has been presented with an award from the Mayor of City of Ceres for “Outstanding Community Service.” When he found out about “Express Yourself Teen Radio,” he fell in love with the idea to be able to reach out to other teens his age and educate them on the hot topics for teens. He would love to spark an interest in topics that are important for health and wellness for teens all over the world. www.theprojectspark.org
Bio: Judith Peck
Judith Peck's sculptures are in 80 collections, including the Yale U. Gallery; Ghetto Fighters Museum, Israel and institutions nationally. Her work has been exhibited at the Intl. Biennial of Art, Malta, Natl. Academy Galleries, NY, Baltimore Museum; Pennsylvania Academy; Detroit Institute; New Jersey State Museum and universities including Yale, Columbia, Adelphi, Montclair, and Rutgers with works displayed on Dag Hammerskjold Plaza & Fordham, Lincoln Center in NYC and numerous sculpture parks. Invited proposals include Rutgers Law Library NJ; New City Jail NY; Somerset Financial Center NJ; North Palm Beach Library FL; Teaneck Centennial; and Saddle River Millennium, NJ. Dr. Peck is Professor Emerita of Art at Ramapo College of NJ. She holds a doctoral degree from New York U. and two master’s degrees in sculpture and art education from Teachers College, Columbia U. Peck is author of Sculpture as Experience; Art Activities for Mind and Imagination; Artistic Crafts: Inventive Creations with Cast-Offs and Leap to the Sun: Learning through Dynamic Play. Her parenting book, Smart Starts in the Arts, and picture book, Runaway Piggy Bank, received the Moms Choice Award for excellence in Children’s products. She has written 4 novels, Naked under the Lights to be released this October. Dr. Peck received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, 2020. http://www.iapbooks.com.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126374/the-art-of-perseverance
Bio: Nihall Gill: Reporter: Spark the Interest
Nihal Gill, a sophomore at Turlock High School loves to play golf and is on the THS varsity golf team. His love for music is expressed through the piano, which he has been playing for the last 6 years. He loves to help people; and he has taken his love for robotics and created a non-profit called “Project Spark” to reach out to young elementary students to teach them STEM/Robotics through hands-on kits, coding, and incorporates the four aspects of STEM into his once a month community classes. He has been presented with an award from the Mayor of City of Ceres for “Outstanding Community Service.” When he found out about “Express Yourself Teen Radio,” he fell in love with the idea to be able to reach out to other teens his age and educate them on the hot topics for teens. He would love to spark an interest in topics that are important for health and wellness for teens all over the world. www.theprojectspark.org
Bio: Judith Peck
Judith Peck's sculptures are in 80 collections, including the Yale U. Gallery; Ghetto Fighters Museum, Israel and institutions nationally. Her work has been exhibited at the Intl. Biennial of Art, Malta, Natl. Academy Galleries, NY, Baltimore Museum; Pennsylvania Academy; Detroit Institute; New Jersey State Museum and universities including Yale, Columbia, Adelphi, Montclair, and Rutgers with works displayed on Dag Hammerskjold Plaza & Fordham, Lincoln Center in NYC and numerous sculpture parks. Invited proposals include Rutgers Law Library NJ; New City Jail NY; Somerset Financial Center NJ; North Palm Beach Library FL; Teaneck Centennial; and Saddle River Millennium, NJ. Dr. Peck is Professor Emerita of Art at Ramapo College of NJ. She holds a doctoral degree from New York U. and two master’s degrees in sculpture and art education from Teachers College, Columbia U. Peck is author of Sculpture as Experience; Art Activities for Mind and Imagination; Artistic Crafts: Inventive Creations with Cast-Offs and Leap to the Sun: Learning through Dynamic Play. Her parenting book, Smart Starts in the Arts, and picture book, Runaway Piggy Bank, received the Moms Choice Award for excellence in Children’s products. She has written 4 novels, Naked under the Lights to be released this October. Dr. Peck received the Albert Nelson Marquis Lifetime Achievement Award, 2020. http://www.iapbooks.com.
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126374/the-art-of-perseverance
10-11-2020: Public Speaking, Politics, Elections
The political atmosphere couldn’t be more polarized or polluted. The first Presidential debate was painful to watch with Trump being a bully, ignoring the moderator’s instructions, and never answering any of the questions. Hosts Andrea Smith and Siri Phaneendra delve into the world of public speaking as they interview author of Mastering the Art of Public Speaking, Michael J. Gelb. Mastering the Art of Public Speaking is a simple, powerful, practical approach to improving one’s public speaking in sales, leadership, and life. Michael said that the principles that help people be influenced by your words can be used for evil or good. Speaking can be manipulative. There is a saying in Hollywood and Washington, D.C.: “Sincerity is the key to success. And once you can fake that you have it made.” The candidates could use Michael’s help in clarifying and shaping a positive message that citizens want to hear. Jack Pawlakos discusses the trends Generation Z is experiencing in the political world of 2020. As a generation, Gen Z are the most digitally connected, with about 60% getting their news through social media. Gen Z plus Millennial voters will make up 37% of eligible voters in 2020. Andrea talks about the documentary The Social Dilemma which explores the human impact of social networking. She immediately deleted all of her social media accounts. Fake news travels faster than the truth, and the tools of social media could hack elections.
BIO: Michael J. Gelb
Michael J. Gelb is the world's leading authority on the application of genius thinking to personal and organizational development. He is a pioneer in the fields of creative thinking, accelerated learning, and innovative leadership. Michael leads seminars for organizations such as DuPont, Merck, Microsoft, Nike, Raytheon, and YPO. He brings more than thirty years of experience as a professional speaker, seminar leader, and organizational consultant to his diverse, international clientele. Michael is the author of twelve books on accelerated learning, creativity, and innovation, including the international bestseller How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci which has been translated into twenty-five languages and has appeared on the Washington Post, Amazon.com, and New York Times bestsellers lists. www.michaelgelb.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel:
https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126244/public-speaking-politics-elections
BIO: Michael J. Gelb
Michael J. Gelb is the world's leading authority on the application of genius thinking to personal and organizational development. He is a pioneer in the fields of creative thinking, accelerated learning, and innovative leadership. Michael leads seminars for organizations such as DuPont, Merck, Microsoft, Nike, Raytheon, and YPO. He brings more than thirty years of experience as a professional speaker, seminar leader, and organizational consultant to his diverse, international clientele. Michael is the author of twelve books on accelerated learning, creativity, and innovation, including the international bestseller How to Think Like Leonardo da Vinci which has been translated into twenty-five languages and has appeared on the Washington Post, Amazon.com, and New York Times bestsellers lists. www.michaelgelb.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel:
https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126244/public-speaking-politics-elections
10-4-2020: Theatre and Multimedia with Producer, Terrence Patterson
Who doesn’t LOVE theatre? Hosts Arjin Claire and Andrea Smith dive into the world of theatre, webseries, and multimedia with an energetic interview with President and CEO of Paragon Multimedia, Terrence Patterson, who has created an entertaining web series, Half Past Jump Time. Recounting the real Roaring 20’s, Harlem Renaissance—Terrence recalls vivid memories of stories and experiences that painted an unforgettable picture by his beloved grandmother. He shares the details on the behind-the-scenes workings of producing and pitching with energy and passion. Maggie Campione, theatre actor and the newest reporter on the Express Yourself! team does a brilliant job of sharing the importance for society that theatre provides as people work with others from different perspectives for a common goal in her segment, The American Connection. Finally, Arjin Claire takes us back to the 5th century to highlight what has changed and what has stayed the same in live productions. Storytelling has evolved with modern innovations such as the internet, TVs, and screens allowing us to experience the same theater in a new way.
Bio: Terrence Patterson
President & CEO at Paragon Multimedia LLC Terrence Patterson…
The experience and journey of the Harlem Renaissance is everlasting with "Half Past Jump Time" series that are offering viewers more than a glimpse into the past... mixed with a flair of sci-fi and musical sizzle. Terrence has been allowing audiences to share a glimpse into a time mixed with incredible imagination and talent with his web series that is based on his grandmother’s stories during the Harlem Renaissance. This dramatic web series is part urban, sci-fi adventure as well as a dance/ entertainment spectacle. Available on Facebook, Vimeo, Amazon Prime Direct and www.halfpastjumptime.com.
Bio: Maggie Campione
Maggie Campione is the newest reporter to join the “Express Yourself” radio show. She is a seventh-grade student and passionate about theater, reading, public speaking and most importantly, helping others. Her segment is called “The American Connection.” where she will present stories about community connections and staying united during difficult times. https://www.expressyourselfteenradio.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126087/theatre-and-multimedia-with-producer-terrence-patterson
Bio: Terrence Patterson
President & CEO at Paragon Multimedia LLC Terrence Patterson…
The experience and journey of the Harlem Renaissance is everlasting with "Half Past Jump Time" series that are offering viewers more than a glimpse into the past... mixed with a flair of sci-fi and musical sizzle. Terrence has been allowing audiences to share a glimpse into a time mixed with incredible imagination and talent with his web series that is based on his grandmother’s stories during the Harlem Renaissance. This dramatic web series is part urban, sci-fi adventure as well as a dance/ entertainment spectacle. Available on Facebook, Vimeo, Amazon Prime Direct and www.halfpastjumptime.com.
Bio: Maggie Campione
Maggie Campione is the newest reporter to join the “Express Yourself” radio show. She is a seventh-grade student and passionate about theater, reading, public speaking and most importantly, helping others. Her segment is called “The American Connection.” where she will present stories about community connections and staying united during difficult times. https://www.expressyourselfteenradio.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/episode/126087/theatre-and-multimedia-with-producer-terrence-patterson
9/27/20 Food, Cooking and a Celebrity Chef
Everyone loves to eat and how fun is it to have a show with a chef to the stars! Andrea Smith hosts and kicks off the program interviewing Trends without Ends reporter, Jack Pawlakos, about the food trends and influences for the year. Expect to devour crickets and also no waste wrappers. New Orleans celebrity chef Ryan Rondeno cooks up a feast of flavors while sharing his journey from culinary school to becoming a private chef for the rich and famous. His spices and menus are available for home delivery. Producer, Cynthia Brian, joins Andrea in the last segment to share the secret sugo from her family’s heirloom spaghetti. Cynthia encourages everyone to grow their own herbs and vegetables for the freshest, most delicious dishes. Are you hungry yet?
Bio: Ryan Rondeno
From a young age, Ryan was focused on one thing—sharpening his culinary repertoire. Training with some of the most legendary chefs, Ryan became a master at his trade with multicultural cuisine that speaks volumes among some of the most notable celebrities in the industry. From basic tips to insiders guide to being a celebrity private chef, Ryan's got it covered! Having cooked for Ashton Kutcher, Diddy, Ben Affleck, Will Smith, Common, Tyrese Gibson, Robert Smith, Xhibit, Mercedes-Benz, Lamborghini, Will McGinest, LA Philharmonic, and more, it’s no wonder why Chef Ryan Rondeno is taking the shaking up the restaurant industry with his line of cookbooks, spices and rubs, and bringing elegant dishes, bold flavor, and simple technique to the home front. He’s making his lavish recipes available to people across the U.S. as he offers some trade secrets, training through simple technique, tips and tricks, and revealing signature recipes for all ages. With a passion for French, Italian and Regional American Cuisine, his focus remains on local, sustainable cuisine with a strong emphasis on bold flavors—not to mention the love of New Orleans cuisine and fresh California flavors.
www.rondenoculinarydesigns.com
BIO
Cynthia Brian is a New York Times best-selling author of several books, TV/Radio personality/producer, lecturer, and enrichment coach specializing in acting, media, writing, speaking, and life success. Cynthia is the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501 c3 empowering women, families, and youth through increased literacy, improved positive media messages, and skills for living. Since 1998 she has produced and hosted the weekly upbeat, lifestyle international radio broadcast, StarStyle®-Be the Star You Are!®. Cynthia created and produces the young adult radio show, Express Yourself!™ for the Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel. She writes for magazines, newspapers, and on-line sites. In her spare time, Cynthia can be found working in her garden or playing with her barnyard of adopted animals.www.CynthiaBrian.com
Listen at Voice America Network, Empowerment Channel: https://www.voiceamerica.com/show/2014/express-yourself
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