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In this episode we unpack why teens join, why they quit, and how to keep sports joyful while still building grit, trust, and leadership. Adult expert Scott Jarvis shares how great coaches center people over trophies and how families can reduce burnout and widen access.
Let's talk about:
• participation trends, injury risks, and dropout data
• cheer as a case study in trust and fear
• athlete to athletic trainer pathway and health literacy
• burnout versus healthy culture and fun
• transferable skills for school, college, and careers
• inclusive options beyond varsity and elite teams
• honest roles, specific feedback, and belonging
• equity barriers like transport and jobs with flexible fixes
• parents letting go while kids learn to fail safely

This episode of Smells Like Teen Parent is brought to you by Path, the sleek refillable aluminum water bottle that's ending our dependence on single-use plastic
If you have any questions, topic ideas, or you'd just like to share your own expertise, email me at smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com.
If your teen is approaching college applications, or you could use some coaching, I offer personalized college counseling and academic consulting through yes and counseling. You can learn more at yesandcounseling.com or by emailing me directly

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

Send us a text

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

Send us a text

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

Send us a text

Discover the transformative power of advocacy and inclusive education with guest Dr. Kristin Vogel-Campbell, a leading expert in special education. This episode promises to equip you with practical strategies for navigating the often-challenging world of special education, from early interventions to transitions from high school to college. She shares how fostering partnerships among educators, families, and administrators to ensure that every student receives the support they need. Through the compelling voices of our diverse student contributors, you'll gain firsthand insights into how accommodations like 504 plans and IEPs can open doors to educational success. Host Jenny Debevec helps shine a light on the critical role of supportive teachers, the art of self-advocacy, and the profound impact of understanding neurodiversity in creating environments where all learners can thrive.

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

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What if embracing your unique identity could lead to a rewarding career in the performing arts? Join Jenny Debevec as she talks with Jonathan Cormur, an accomplished actor and passionate advocate for neurodiversity, who opens up about his journey with autism. From the challenges of navigating a Catholic school environment to discovering his passion for theater and voiceover, Jonathan's story is a testament to the power of self-acceptance and resilience. Listen as he recounts his transformative experiences and his impactful work at Great America theme park, which not only boosted his confidence but also helped him form lasting friendships.

In this episode, Jonathan also shares invaluable advice for young individuals on the spectrum, emphasizing the importance of learning from failures and staying true to oneself amidst societal judgments. We explore his advocacy work, including the memorable "The Mighty League, with J-Man and Reginald T Hedgehog" presentation, and the critical role of family support in his life. From discussing how the understanding of autism has evolved over the years to his rise as a minor celebrity, Jonathan's journey is an inspiring beacon for anyone striving to embrace their unique identity and passions. Don't miss this heartfelt conversation that highlights the significance of supportive environments and the joy that comes from celebrating neurodiversity.

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

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Ever wondered why so many young women are misinformed about their own bodies? On this episode of "Smells Like Teen Parent," high school students Alexis Hom and Emma Slocum tackle the glaring gaps in women's health education with their junior capstone project. From sharing personal struggles to confronting the unreliable information circulating on social media, Alexis and Emma shed light on the urgent need for accurate education on puberty, menstruation, STDs, and healthy relationships. They also bust the myth of perfect body standards perpetuated by AI and social media, revealing the real-life consequences of these unrealistic images.

Together, we delve into the broader need for social-emotional learning and comprehensive sex education in schools, particularly for young women. Hear about the transformative power of a supportive environment where students can ask awkward questions without feeling ashamed, and the resistance faced from some parents who are uncomfortable with these essential topics. We also offer practical tips for creating safe spaces at home to foster open discussions about women's health. Join us as we envision a future where informed and empowered young women are the norm, not the exception.

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

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Discover the delicate dance of trust that defines the ever-evolving parent-teen relationship with thoughtful insights from Jenny Debevec, adult guest expert Dr. Eric Solomon and teens themselves. Together, we peel back the layers of truth, lies, and the quest for adolescent independence, offering you a treasure trove of understanding and strategies to fortify these crucial bonds. Hear heartfelt stories and expert research that illuminate the reasons behind teenage secrecy and its reverberating effects on everything from school success to self-esteem. We confront the tough issues head-on, advising on how to handle the moment a child entrusts you with their hidden truths and exploring ways to rebuild trust when it’s been shaken.

Venture further into the intricate fabric of family dynamics, as we navigate the challenges authenticity faces in an era where opinion is often mistaken for fact, not just in the public arena but also within the close-knit circle of family life. The conversation introduces innovative tools like the 'trust barometer' and the 'line of humility', aimed at nurturing curiosity and open dialogue over defensiveness and stubbornness. Fundamentally, we emphasize the value of adopting a learning stance over the need to always be correct, with the ultimate goal of cultivating deeper, more transparent family connections amid our complex social landscape. Don't miss this essential exchange filled with actionable insights for parents and teens alike.

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com

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Join me, Jenny Debevec, on this journey through the transformative world of career counseling. Let's explore how early conversations about ambitions can shape the lives of adolescents and teens. Imagine a child's playful dream of designing Lego masterpieces transitioning into a fulfilling career - this episode unpacks how nurturing youthful imagination and self-efficacy equips our youth with the tools to turn their vibrant visions into actionable realities. With personal anecdotes and keen insights from children of all ages, we dissect the myriad ways exposure to diverse environments and role models serves as a compass for teens navigating the sea of potential futures.

www.yesandcounseling.com

smellsliketeenparent@gmail.com