Friends on Air

This month's episode was taped at Friendship Cirlce Pittsburgh's Walk 4 Friendship, where we celebrate the spirit of community and inclusion. In this episode, hosts Alex, Ekow, and Sara bring you a collection of mini interviews with participants from the Walk4Friendship, capturing moments that made the day unforgettable. From personal reflections to experiences of connection and unity, each interview highlights the meaningful impact of the Walk for Friendship. We're incredibly thankful for Alex, Ekow, and Sara's dedication in hosting this episode rain or shine. Special shout out to all of our interviewees for joining us and sharing their stories. Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode, our teen host Georgia interviewed a dynamic duo of #Besties, Jakob and Reid. During the episode, we discuss what it means to be a friend, how Reid and Jakob show up for each other, and the qualities they admire about both them and one another and how friendship impacts their day-to-day lives. In addition, Reid and Jakob give some expert tips on how to relax and cope when they're feeling stressed out. Give this episode a listen! Big thanks to our guests and host, you all are rockstar friends. Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode, our special guest shares the not-so-simple story of her life's journey. Gabriel began to acquire a disability in her years of young adulthood, and the experience furthered her involvement in advocacy and activism around a large variety of societal issues including those surrounding inclusion and disability rights. The vulnerable moments that Gabriel tells are filled with the very real struggles of life; one's that many can relate to. Along with the tremendous amount of insight that she provides, Gabriel details the process of coming to terms with, and embracing, her own unique identity. Listeners are bound to be inspired by Gabriel's authenticity and learn about how we, as friends and allies of the disability community, can constantly be better and contribute to a better world. Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode, Noa and Naomi lead a conversation that addresses the overwhelming emotions that have come up for many individuals within, and outside of, the Jewish community in the wake of the terror and tragedy in Israel since October 7th. In addition, we have just passed the 5th anniversary of the Tree of Life shooting, which has been the cause of immense trauma and pain in our community over the years. In this month's powerful discussion, we bring a mental health professional, and Pittsburgh Jewish community member, to talk about practical ways to cope with the challenges we're facing at this time. With her therapeutic expertise, Mrs. Shoshana Thaler teaches listeners about various tools and quick methods that can help lighten the heavy burden and deep hurt that many are carrying. She discusses the way that immense emotions, such sadness, grief, anger, frustration, confusion and shock might be impacting people; along with how to properly treat and embrace those feelings, while still enabling us to live our daily lives without falling apart. Shoshana also advises on how to engage (or sometimes disengage) from people in our lives, when there is a conflict or clashing in opinions, world views, and values. Thank you, Mrs. Thaler, for sharing your expertise and powerful advice with us, in a way that is practical, understanding and compassionate. Thank you, Naomi, and Noa, for guiding and contributing to this important, yet hard, conversation. We hope this episode brings more peace, both internally and externally, to the world.

With October being Depression Awareness Month, this month's discussion surrounds that exact topic. Ally, our guest speaker, leads an insightful, educational and practical conversation around the reality of living with depression. From the perspective of a clinical mental health professional who also lives with a mental health diagnosis, Ally shares her story that so many will relate to in some way, shape or form. By sharing her experience, Ally destigmatizes mental health challenges (such as depression) and highlights how knowledge, support (friends, family, medicinal, etc.) and experience will affect the intensity and duration of episodes. teen host, with a bit of good humor, leads a conversation that touches on some of the pain that comes with depression, as well as some of the methods that can bring healing; all through Ally's real-life examples. We hope that this episode provides a candid, yet impactful, look at how we should be approaching mental health challenges, specifically within the teen and young adult stages. Thanks, Ally, for sharing so openly with us, and to Alex for hosting and sharing on such an important topic. Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode we explore everything related to Friendship Circle's new teen wellness space- The Beacon! Kaitlin, our clinical director, leads us through the background, mission, and vision for this project. She describes the who, what, where, when and why of the space while giving a glimpse into the people (our teens!) who inspired it. Kaitlin shares a bit about her journey as well, and the reasons as to why she is passionate about her job in the mental health field. Our teen hosts lead a fun discussion around the importance of having a safe and welcoming environment, one that The Beacon was created to provide. We're excited to announce that this space is open to all Pittsburgh teens, and will be opening its doors with consistent programming in this new school year! Thank you Goldie and Ashira for hosting a meaningful and exciting discussion, and to Kaitlin for guiding us through this exciting new phase!Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode we hear from Bob Nelkin, former CEO of the United Way of Wester PA and is said to have turned the organization into "one of the most successful of its kind in the country." Bob is an admirable advocate who has made major change around disability and accessibility rights, and has been working on these efforts since his 20's. The words of wisdom that he shares in this episode are moving, inspiring, and encouraging. He guides listeners to think about their purpose while contemplating the areas in which they can live more deeply and help build a greater world with small action. Our hosts lead a meaningful discussion around Bob's advocacy journey and share a bit about the impacts that they, as teens, are making. This is not an episode you want to miss. Thank you Bob for your words of wisdom and for sharing your experience and insight with us all. Thank you to Abby and Sarah for hosting and contributing to this beautiful conversation. Let us know what you loved most about this episode!Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or Apple Podcasts!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mOWGd25raNU

In the spirit of Mental Health Awareness Month, we flipped our usual roles and instead of our teen hosts interviewing guest speakers, our FC staff speak with a number of our teen hosts to hear about the way mental health impacts their lives personally. Ashira, Bracha, Alex and Abbie share insightful experiences and stories relating to their mental health journeys, allowing listeners to relate and connect with the struggles we address. We talk about mental illness, the stigma that surrounds it, and the various healing methods that have proven effective for our speakers. This episode is filled with authentic and meaningful real-life wisdom, from the teens themselves. You don't want to miss it!Thank you to Abbie, Alex, Ashira and Bracha for your vulnerability, strength and willingness to speak openly.Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on Spotify or apple music!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience!

In this month's episode our teen hosts interview one of our very own Friendship Circle staff members, Becca Greenhouse! Becca shares her expereince living with diagnosed ADHD and how that journey has played out through her life. She speaks about the importance of breaking stigma around mental health issues and the treatment options that exist to support them, including medication and therapy. An impactful message that Becca hopes listeners hear and understand is how vital self love and acceptance is as a young person, while recognizing that it can be a struggle to get there. Through this meaningul, honest and authentic dialogue between our teens hosts and speaker, we hope you benefit from the wisdom and experiences they shared.Thank you Becca for contributing in an incredibly valuable way, and to Bracha and Ava for leading this inspiring conversation!Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on spotify or apple music!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ubGVz0rb5U0

In this month's episode, a group of teens and adults chat in a candid conversation around inclusive spaces, as well as their individual experiences of being a part of them. We talk about the way that safe spaces allow for healthy processing of trauma, loss and any other mental health challenge. Enjoy this free flowing discussion - although it is different than our usual structure, we hope you will gain something from it! Thank you Erin for sharing your story and insight with us, and to Jennifer for inviting us to your space and contributing to our conversation. Thank you Bracha, Rivka and Naomi for contributing as well; having teen insight into real life is what we're all about. Please note, there is brief mention of trauma, disordered eating, and family loss.Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committe, on spotify or apple music!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q_bjQwJIU1sWe are also having a major sale on all FC Wellness Merchandise throughout the winter season! Visit our merch store and get 40% off of all items with the code "SpreadLight"!

In this month's episode, our teen host speaks with Councilwoman Erika Strassburger, who is serving the residents of the Pittsburgh's 8th District and is also the first woman elected to this seat! Through her journey of community involvement, advocacy and staffing other political leaders, Erika speaks of how she reached her current position. She talks about the highs and the lows of having a public presence, and how she copes with the harder days. With a unique peak into her life outside of her job, hearing from Erika will give you interesting insight into the life of a political figure. She gives important and helpful advice for any young people who are looking to become active in their communities and make change around issues they are passionate about- something that Friendship Circle hopes to empower teens to take part in! Thank you Erika for your insight and honesty, and to Ursula for hosting this impactful conversation!Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on spotify or apple music!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TG4vZGhXgfoWe are also having a major sale on all FC Wellness Merchandise throughout the winter season! Visit our merch store and get 40% off of all items with the code "SpreadLight"!

In this month's episode, our teen hosts dive into a deep and meaningful conversation with the co-director of our very own organization, Rivkee Rudolph! We explore important topics while hearing about Rivkee's experience of founding an organization at 23 years old, and the way Friendship Circle has evolved since it's start in 2006. Rivkee shares how she manages to juggle the various parts of her life while still making time to show up presently for herself. Throughout this discussion, listeners will learn about the importance of friendships and connections, and the way that communities we belong to impact our overall wellbeing. Thank you Rivkee, for sharing your personal story with us all, and giving us a peek at what goes on behind the scenes. Thank you Chloe and Maya for leading this inspiring conversation, and sharing your own valuable insight and wisdom with us all. Find our Wellness Playlist, put together by our Teen Wellness Committee, on spotify or apple music!Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SVP5_Y1K-VgWe are also having a major sale on all FC Wellness Merchandise throughout the winter season! Visit our merch store and get 40% off of all items with the code "SpreadLight"!

In this episode, our teen hosts discuss the importance of creating safe and supportive communities with guest speaker Maggie Feinstein, the director of the 10/27 Healing Partnership located in Squirrel Hill. Following the tragedy that occurred at the Tree Of Life Synagogue on October 27th, 2018, Maggie, along with various community members, gathered together to create an organization that would help the Pittsburgh community heal; on an individual level, but also as one whole. In this episode we learn about what healing as a community can look like, as well as the need to address trauma and mental health in a way that keeps every person and their unique circumstances in mind. Thank you Maggie for sharing your experience, and our teen hosts, Marley and Rivka, for guiding and contributing to this meaningful conversation. Please note, this episode may contain trauma cues. A topic that is discussed, although not in heavy detail, includes the Tree Of Life shooting. If you feel that this conversation is too heavy for you, or makes you feel uncomfortable in anyway, please reach out to your personal mental health professional, or a mental health resource near you. Follow us on Instagram for our latest updates! https://www.instagram.com/friendsonairpodcast/Watch this conversation on Youtube, for a better and more accessible experience! https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cilKa7VbIgs

In the first episode of season 2, Friendship Circle staff introduce the teen hosts for this season. Each host shares a bit about who they are and why mental health matters to them. Join us in a fun discussion about struggle, healing, and the importance of connection. Tune in to future episodes to hear more from these powerful teen leaders!

“Having an anchor”: Kierra and Nic talk about familial and generational trauma, safe spaces that places like Brookline Teen Outreach Center (BTO) and Compassionate Counseling Center can offer, and the social and emotional learning that they aim to provide to teens in this community based outreach. They importantly talk about understanding that things aren't “wrong with you”, and have instead “happened to you” and need to be processed from that perspective. 

In this month's episode, Heather shares her story and experience as an up and coming social media influencer, and the way that online connections have impacted her life. Hear about the nuances of social media and the communities can be created through online platforms. In light of SMA Awareness month, Heather speaks about what it is like to live with Spinal Muscular Atrophy, and why representation of individuals with disabilities online is so important. Thank you so much Heather for being with us and Chaya for hosting this beautiful conversation!

In this month's episode, we speak with Cara, a cherished FC Staff member, who shares her mental health journey and experience with our audience. As someone who discovered some of her mental health challenges through the Covid-19 pandemic, Cara spreads a message that is relatable to many and teaches us some of the tools that helped her through tougher times. We hope that this episode will leave you feeling uplifted and hopeful- we're all in this together! Thank you Cara for sharing your story, and to Madison for being an excellent host!

In this month's episode we invite Michelle Thomas from the Mentoring Partnership to share her insight on the role that relationships play in a person's wellbeing. She spoke about her personal, as well as work, experience and why this topic is something she is so passionate about. Tune in to this episode to hear about the many mentors in our lives who have made us who we are! Thank you Katie for hosting this episode and Michelle for sharing with us!

In this month's episode we speak with teen advocates Connor and Luna, along with their mentor, Sarah about advocacy regarding teen mental health in the Pittsburgh area and beyond! We discuss getting started in advocacy; how having passion and a vision is just as important (or more!) as having “experience” and “training”, and how you can make a difference–just as you are! Little changes make big differences, and we discuss ways of having your voice heard at any age. If it matters to you, we discuss how you can begin to advocate for it! Join us in this important discussion in acknowledgement of Mental Health Awareness Month!

In honor of April being “National Autism Awareness” month, we discuss the personal stories  of our amazing Friendship Circle members Heather and Elana!  They share their experience living with autism, their triumphs and struggles, and teach us that everyone deserves to be seen for their true potential. Heather and Elana teach us that people with autism aren't looking to be “fixed” and that there is no such thing as normal! Being a friend and supporting others, and looking at individuals as more than their diagnosis is so important, as is advocating for our friends and creating a world where everyone is accepted, embraced and loved, just as they are!   Thank you Heather and Elana for sharing with us, and thank you Carly for hosting this episode! 

In this episode we discuss recognizing early signs of mental illness and how to best navigate them- whether it be something you are seeing in yourself, or in someone close to you.  Drew, a staff at The Friendship Circle, speaks about his mental health journey, and how his Bipolar II disorder has impacted, and continues to impact, his life. We learned about knowing when to connect to a network of friends, and how those connections can make all the difference during challenging times. He discusses with our teen hosts when to scale back and reminds us that “everything is fixable.”  We discuss tips for mental health awareness and having “radical kindness” to all our friends during our unique mental health journeys.  Thank you, Drew, for sharing with us! Thank you, Madison and Annie, for hosting this episode!  https://prettyeasypodcasts.com (Produced by Pretty Easy Podcasts)

In this episode we explore the importance of friendship in our lives, and how to create healthy boundaries to maintain those relationships. Our guests, a group of close friends, think back to the first time they met, and discuss lots of sweet memories they share. They talked about what makes them unique, and how their special selves have played a role in their connections with others.  Thank you Abby, for hosting this conversation!

Welcome to Episode 2! In this Episode, our guest speaker, Robert Anthony speaks about his experience growing up as an amputee and the different challenges he had to face as a teen. Robert delivers strong encouragement and advice, with the understanding that “we're all in this together”.

On this episode our Teen Hosts introduce themselves and share their stories, experiences and thoughts on the importance of discussing mental health and emotional wellness. In this episode you will hear about our podcast goals, our unique backgrounds, and why we are so excited to share and grow with our listeners on this podcast!

Welcome to Friends On Air, a podcast presented to you by The Friendship Circle of Pittsburgh! Subscribe now and never miss an episode!