In this series, we highlight activists, innovators, and leaders who used their voices and actions to create real change, reminding us that you are never too young to make a difference. At its core, this series is about showing that change doesn’t have to start big. Sometimes, it starts with one idea, one passion, and the courage to act on it. Today’s guest is someone who truly embodies what it means to turn passion into action. That is why I’m so excited to welcome Benton Schroeder.

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The teenage years are full of change. We’re asked to think more seriously about our futures, take on more responsibility, and define who we want to become. But somewhere in the middle of all that, motivation can start to feel unpredictable. You might feel incredibly driven toward one goal, and completely stuck in another area. Instead of assuming that inconsistency means something is wrong, I started wondering: Is fluctuating motivation actually a normal part of adolescent development? What’s happening beneath the surface when our drive shifts? To help us unpack these questions, I’m honored to welcome Dr. Chris Hulleman.

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As we move through our teenage years, emotions can feel heavier, more complex, and sometimes harder to understand. For some teens, those feelings go beyond stress and become something deeper: something harder to explain, like a lingering sadness or a sense of disconnection. These concepts made me start to wonder: Why do depressive symptoms often increase during adolescence? How do stress and identity development shape the way teens experience depression? To help us explore these questions, I’m honored to welcome Dr. Michael Scheeringa.

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