The Passionate Youth Worker

June 17, 2024 Season 5 Episode 2Over the past four years, The Passionate Youth Worker podcast has been listened to in 106 different countries. Each of our 107 guests shared their unique stories with humility and grace. In this final episode, we reflect back on what their stories taught us about what it means to be a youth worker. And how their passion for serving our young people motivates and inspires us every day. Please, lend us your ears for this fond farewell!Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the Show.

June 3, 2024 Season 5 Episode 1Khomas region, Namibia: Tuli Kamati has learned to transform challenges into triumphs. She generously shares all of her life lessons to benefit others. And she leads with both a strong heart and a determined mind to bring about social justice for herself and others. Tuli is a passionate advocate for reproductive rights and healthcare equity for women and girls. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page. Support the Show.

May 20, 2024 Season 4 Episode 27Nairobi, Kenya: Cyprine Omollo has a story of overcoming obstacles, persevering, and finding a path to help others through the struggle. She is warm and straightforward in sharing her experiences and the lessons learned. And you'll surely find inspiration in her resilience. She does not give up and will remind you to keep going too. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page. Support the Show.

May 6, 2024 Season 4 Episode 26Minnesota, United States: Hope Flanagan (Seneca) is Noodinesiikwe (Little Wind Woman) from the turtle clan. She comes from the people of Tonawanda, Seneca Reservation. Her interconnectedness with nature informs her work with young people. She brings a deep respect and authentic style of storytelling as a means of gifting knowledge and wisdom to help others. Her gift is the same for you.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the Show.

April 22, 2024 Season 4 Episode 25Minnesota, United States: Ashley Daniels had a very difficult childhood, growing up with an alcoholic parent, dealing with countless challenges of her undiagnosed autistic ADHD, followed by a number of mental illnesses. That resulted in her being bullied and abused, unable to understand what made her so different. But, since learning about her diagnoses, she has become a vocal champion for the rights of neurodivergent individuals and an advocate against ableism in our systems. Please listen to her story and learn from her powerful advice for youth workers.Content warning: This episode includes a candid conversation about a suicide attempt which may be difficult for some people to hear. If you or someone you know is having thoughts about suicide, call your local crisis lifeline for help. In the United States, the number is 988. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

April 8, 2024, Year Season 4 Episode 24Normandy, France: Michael Dawson chose to leave a lucrative career in sales to pour himself into paying forward the gift of support he had received from caring adults at a time of turmoil in his life. Now an author, podcast host, and creator of youth work training resources, he knows he wouldn't be who he is today without the experiences of his past. And he uses all those lessons to help others now. You can learn more about Michael's work by visiting The Action Factory.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

March 25, 2024 Season 4 Episode 23Idaho, United States: Cailee Fitzgerald grew up in an unstable environment. Her parents abused drugs, engaged in illegal activities, and spent time in prison. She was determined not to follow in their footsteps. She persevered against unbelievable odds. Cailee credits a high school basketball coach who cared about her and could see her potential. That was all the encouragement she needed to dream big for herself. Sheer determination and a passion for giving back make her the youth worker she is today. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

March 11, 2024 Season 4 Episode 22Bulawayo, Zimbabwe: Rumbidzai Chitsa grew up in a ghetto in Zimbabwe. But the possibilities she saw for herself opened up through the experience of an uncle who had become a doctor. She started on the same path, studying science. But, following her heart, she chose a different path. She now gives back to help others growing up in similar circumstances to pursue bigger dreams for themselves as well. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

February 26, 2024 Season 4 Episode 21Minnesota, United States: Katie Shatusky's life was deeply impacted when her beloved grandfather died by suicide in 2010. She has struggled with mental health challenges, discovered her corporate work life was not fulfilling in a meaningful way, and transformed the tragedy of her grandfather's death to turn her pain into purpose. She launched a nonprofit called Thumbs Up and does whatever she can to connect with and make a difference for young people in her community. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

February 12, 2024 Season 4 Episode 20Minnesota, United States: Rosalind Loggin has endured more trials and tribulations in her life than many people could bear. But she finds a way to triumph over them. Her faith is her foundation and she feels called through her troubles to serve even the most challenging young people. She's real, she's determined, and she's just what they need to turn their own troubles around. Content warning: Some of the topics discussed may be difficult for some of you to hear. So, please take care of yourself.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

January 29, 2024 Season 4 Episode 19Portland, Jamaica: Todd Haslam's young life started out well. His father was his hero who loved and cared for him. But when his father suddenly left, everything was upended. His life became very rough. But he sees it all as a blessing. He had people around him who helped him stay grounded and become well-rounded. Both the good and the bad brought him to see his heart of goodness and compassion. In that, he found his passion for youth work. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

January 16, 2024 Season 4 Episode 18New Mexico, United States: Helen Cheromiah was raised by a teenaged mom, grew up in poverty, and struggled to find her people and her right path. Still, she knows every experience went into making her the person she is today. And that person is someone who is guiding and positively impacting the lives of young people who need the same kind of help she needed as a child. Her story is relatable and refreshing.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

January 2, 2024 Season 4 Episode 17Maryland, United States: Benedetto Zanca developed a selfless nature, coming through a difficult childhood. Anything he may have lacked didn't really set him back. Instead, he focused on being of service, guided by his strong faith and the values his mom instilled in him. He's making a meaningful impact for youth workers and young people. His joy comes from seeing others succeed. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

December 18, 2023 Season 4 Episode 16England, United Kingdom: Charlotte Gordon had a rough childhood due to difficulties of undiagnosed ADHD. But rather than simply living with the many challenges, she chose to leverage those challenges into strengths. That shift led her to craft an uncommon vibrancy in her approach to youth work. She shares her hard-earned wisdom with such humility, you will be both inspired and uplifted.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

December 4, 2023 Season 4 Episode 15Mombasa, Kenya: Esha Mohammed Abdallah struggled with self-doubts and very low self-esteem as a young person. But the constant support of her mother helped her find ways to outgrow her limitations. Now she uses those stories of both pain and possibility to help other young women build their own self-confidence. She champions youth voice in Kenya and is a steadfast advocate for creating opportunity for young people.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

November 20, 2023 Season 4 Episode 14Minnesota, United States: Yaya Cochran is the living definition of being a servant youth worker. Her selfless nature and servant heart compel her to create a world where children are able to show up as their most authentic selves. She does that with such passion, commitment, and truly remarkable altruism. Her story offers a rare opportunity to consider your own youth work in a much bigger way.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Plan to join us for our Virtual Annual Meeting of the Association on Friday, December 1, 2023 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am Central Time. It's completely FREE! Here is the link to learn more and register https://yipa.org/community/virtual-annual-meeting/Support the show

November 6, 2023 Season 4 Episode 13Pennsylvania, United States: Michelle Kissinger has literally made her life a work of art. She explores her primal wound of being abandoned as a child and her search to find healing and growth from that trauma. Her story is an ode to self-awareness, being inquisitive, and her durability. She invites us “to bring the arts more deeply into our model of care for youth and youth workers to help them sustain themselves more deeply, and handle the heavy emotional labor that we all carry, working alongside the youth that we care so deeply for.”Visit Michelle's website, [ree-sheyp] your story, pronounced reshape your story, to learn more about her work.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

October 23, 2023 Season 4 Episode 12California, United States: Alyssa Clark grew up a shy child and often felt alone even in her big family. She felt safest staying out of the limelight, staying quiet. But even at a young age, she recognized that as a kind of fear. Through connections with caring adults, she learned to push through her fear. And she turned her own life experience into a mission of helping others. Her insights will inspire you.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

October 9, 2023 Season 4 Episode 11California, United States: Josh Wagner had an unimaginably hard start in childhood. His parents were consumed by addiction, he was separated from his brother at the age of three, and was out on his own by age eight. In and out of trouble until a foster mom changed his life. His story is a powerful example of how your past does not define you. He says being a social worker, helping young people, is the most rewarding work he's ever done.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

October 5, 2023 Season 4 Episode 10Minnesota, United States: Allie Birdseye-Hannula has the heart of a teacher and a curious nature that helps her keep learning and growing. Self-awareness and practical self-reflection are strengths she relies on to improve her youth work skills. Through trial and error, she developed communication tools to engage more effectively with youth who are demonstrating prickly personalities in the moment. And she's turned her learning into a book she hopes will help other youth workers, too.Allie's book is available on her website www.howtotalktoporcupines.com or from Itasca Books local distribution center. Also available on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

September 25, 2023 Season 4 Episode 9Minnesota, United States: Princess Awa-Ada Kisob seems like a natural born leader and she always knew she wanted to be a youth worker. She started her own nonprofit as a young teen to support immigrant and refugee youth. Princess follows her mother's lead as a fighter, an advocate, and a generous spirt. She leads quietly, being present, centering and creating space for others.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

September 11, 2023 Season 4 Episode 8Florida, United States: Dr. Paul “Paulie” Gavoni is a behavior scientist, educator, author, and speaker. He shares how his lived experience opened up the path for how he could help others. His insights about human behavior and the need to become a keen observer of your own behavior and how it impacts young people will give you plenty of food for thought.Visit https://linqapp.com/paul_gavoni?r=link to find his books and connect.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

Kingston, Jamaica: Odane Brooks is a leading voice in Jamaica and the Caribbean on issues of public policy and youth leadership. His story is told through the lens of his leadership experience, sharing practical wisdom and inspiration for all youth workers. And his thoughts about the importance of inclusion and empowerment for young people will surely resonate with you.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.You can also listen to Odane's own podcast that was mentioned in this episode. Elevata Live with Odane. Support the show

August 14, 2023 Season 4 Episode 6Lilongwe, Malawi: Sylvester Chabuka grew up in Malawi, the poorest country in the world. He, like many children in Malawi, suffered the effects of extreme poverty and malnutrition. But his grandmother instilled in him an unshakeable belief that there was no challenge he could not solve. Now he is solving the problem of malnutrition for children throughout his country and the world. His story will amaze and inspire you.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

July 31, 2023 Season 4 Episode 5Minnesota, United States: Ryan Berg found his way to youth work through his career in theater. Drawn to the impact of storytelling and impactful engagement with community, he took a job as a mentor for LGBTQI youth and found his fit. He shares his story with insight and self-awareness that humbly illuminates what all youth workers know about trust. And sprinkles in nuggets of wisdom for those who wish to grow. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

July 17, 2023 Season 4 Episode 4Minnesota, United States: Soua Thao shares her ongoing journey of fully stepping into her queer and Asian identities. The challenges she faces and lessons she's learning along the way all inform how she shows up for the young people she serves. She has embraced the opportunity at QUEERSPACE collective to be her full self in her job. And you'll hear why she thinks that is so important for all youth workers as well.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

July 5, 2023 Season 4 Episode 3Minnesota, United States: Angie Erickson, as you'll hear, is accomplished yet humble like so many youth workers. She has an optimistic outlook and is especially intentional about using self-reflection as a kind of compass to keep her on track for moving forward with what she sets out to do. What gives her hope is seeing how young people are changing the world.   Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

June 19, 2023 Season 4 Episode 2Khomas Region, Namibia: Ndiilokelwa Nthengwe is an artist at heart and her story reflects the creative ways she brings both her art and her heart so fully into all that she does as an advocate and activist for LGBTQIA+ folks and young people. She has accomplished much in a short time but as you'll hear, she's still stretching to do more to help young people become leaders in whatever way they can.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

June 5, 2023 Season 4 Episode 1California, United States: Brad Fulton never sought to be a teacher or to work with young people. But he came to believe God created him for this purpose. And when he stopped struggling against that, he really found a passion for making a difference. His story is an honest take on the ups and downs that led him value being connected to his purpose by creating positive connections with young people.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

May 22, 2023 Season 3 Episode 26Minnesota, United States: Marquise Bowie took a difficult path through his young years into adulthood. Involvement with drugs, gangs, guns, and trauma led to a 12-year prison term. But that's when his transformation happened. He says he's got a masters in disasters and he uses his life lessons now to transform street energy into community energy with young people. His humility is an inspiration and a lesson to us all.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

May 8, 2023 Season 3 Episode 25Minnesota, United States: Peter Wieczorek has drawn on his life experience to shape his own ideal career serving young people. Now he can't imagine doing anything else. His optimism for and about young people inspires him as much as it does them. He always finds something to smile about and his story may make you smile too. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

April 24, 2023 Season 3 Episode 24Minnesota, United States: Jade Schleif is YIPA's training coordinator. She honed her ability to build trusting relationships as a youth worker and brings that same ability to her work for youth workers now. Her impact is literally global! And her care, compassion, and curiosity are endless. She shares her struggles with anxiety and depression as openly as she shares her strengths and successes. You'll feel like you're listening to a friend.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

April 10, 2023 Season 3 Episode 23 New York, United States: Jeff Dwyer has always charted his own course. He knows that comes with both the good and the bad, but it makes him who he is. And he doesn't regret his experiences. He's got an inner strength and drive that he relies on. But as you'll hear, he's a softy at heart when it comes to working with young people!  Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

March 27, 2023 Season 3 Episode 22Pennsylvania, United States: A.J.Rinaldi embodies a determination to pursue being the best that he can be for young people and helping others do the same. He is a motivational speaker, leadership coach, and youth development consultant whose stories will enlighten, inform, and inspire you. His wholehearted devotion to service shines through his words.If you'd like to connect with A.J., check out PIT 2 Purpose on Facebook,  Instagram, and email. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

March 13, 2023 Season 3 Episode 21London, England: Vanessa Rogers brings her whole self to her work for young people with a unique combination of self-awareness, humility, and honesty. She has had her own challenges and learned to use them to better hear and understand the young people she works with. She's always looking for creative ways to connect and inspire growth. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

February 27, 2023 Season 3 Episode 20California, United States: Jack Witt has an innate passion for people development. He intensely understands the need for self-awareness in service to others. His story is a thoughtful exploration of the dynamics of our relationships with young people and with ourselves.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

February 13, 2023 Season 3 Episode 19Southern District of Malawi: Catherine Kita was just 13 years old when she took on inequity for girls in Malawi. Her experience with the normal but difficult stage of getting her period sparked a fire in her to speak out in spite of cultural norms and taboos. She started a movement to address period poverty and challenged her government to make changes. Her vision, courage, and compassion make this an amazing story you have to hear.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

January 30, 2023 Season 3 Episode 18Eastern Region of Uganda: Abubaker Sekatuka views the experiences of his life as stories that have helped him become who he is. Though some of his childhood experiences were tough, and he's had his share of challenges and pain, he somehow finds the positive. Telling his stories is a strength born of struggle. It takes courage to be honest and transparent but he knows that is how he helps others.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

January 17, 2023 Season 3 Episode 17Minnesota, United States: Francis Yengistic seems to see the good in everything. Though his own circumstances growing up were difficult, the guidance and support of his beloved grandmother made it possible to view life full of hope and optimism. He's dedicated his life to service. He shares his story and lessons from his grandmother, to help young people and youth workers believe in themselves, too. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

St Catherine, Jamaica: Clayton Bolton did not have access to many resources or opportunities growing up as a child in Jamaica. But what he did have was an innate drive and resourcefulness to do better for himself and his family. It has helped him excel and now he shares those lessons to help other young people.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

December 19, 2022 Season 3 Episode 15Minnesota, United States: Joanne Rice is YIPA's member satisfaction specialist. She has dedicated her entire professional life to service and brings a wealth of experience to share with us. Joanne is known as the calm in a storm and she just loves helping others find positives to focus on. Her success centers on listening to others with curiosity and following their lead.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

December 5, 2022 Season 3 Episode 14Kampala, Uganda: Angel Pearl Talemwa grew up in a small village in Africa. Poverty, lack of opportunities, limited access to education all thrived there. She endured abuse from her father. Her mother died when she was just ten years old. But her indomitable spirit drove her to go beyond every barrier. She held firm to her belief in herself and pursued her vision. Now she helps others see possibilities beyond their persistent barriers.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

November 22, 2022 Season 3 Episode 13New Mexico, United States: Megan Cederberg is fiercely determined to be fully authentic in everything she does. And she does so many things! Her creative, entrepreneurial side drives her to explore ways to engage young people and inspire them through her own lived experience. Megan always shows up and always shares the power of giving back.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

November 8, 2022 Season 3 Episode 12Tennessee, United States: Travis Claybrooks approaches service with an uncommon perspective of discernment and deeply rooted faith. His life's work focuses on addressing harm and trauma. He reminds us to follow the throb in our chest about making a difference in the world.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

October 24, 2022 Season 3 Episode 11New Mexico, United States: Selena Bejarano has followed her faith to take on big challenges and not let fear stop her. As she says, you do it scared. And that has worked out okay but more importantly, showed her so many ways to grow in the process. She's a true servant leader, committed to helping others even in the most difficult circumstances. Through all the seasons of her life, she learns and grows as she goes.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

October 10, 2022 Season 3 Episode 10Minnesota, United States: Nallely Castro Montoya learned early on to do what you can to support others. But doing so also taught her an invaluable lesson about being more empathetic toward herself. It is a guiding principle that shapes who she is and how she works with young people. And it's a call to action for every youth worker's self-care.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

September 26, 2022 Season 3 Episode 9Minnesota, United States: Barbara Van Deinse never envisioned youth work as a career option. But when her corporate career started to feel less fulfilling, she knew she wanted to make a bigger contribution and work to foster change in the world. Then YIPA's job opening grabbed her heart and she joined this community of people all working together for positive change. She's become a youth worker at heart and is proud to belong!Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

Central Region, Uganda: Florence Bugembe grew up with 13 siblings and didn't always have a stable family life, food on the table, or real opportunity. But to her, every challenge was an opportunity. Her own experience is a lesson she shares to help others in their struggles. Just because you're going through a tough time, don't let it stop you from becoming who you want to be.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

Michigan, United States: Ta'Shena Sams is humble and selfless in her service to young people. She's been involved in youth programming almost her whole life, both as a participant and a practitioner. She honors her Native teachings and culture by always wanting the best for everyone. Nothing makes her happier than seeing young people succeed. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

August 15, 2022 Season 3 Episode 6Minnesota, United States: Felix Martinez-Paz used the difficulties and challenges of his upbringing as a way to understand himself better. With that understanding, he developed a clear vision of his values. He chose to break away from old stereotypes and now shares what he's learned to help other young men. Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show

August 1, 2022 Season 3 Episode 5Minnesota, United States: Anne LaFrinier-Ritchie had to hit rock bottom to discover the kind of perseverance needed to achieve the life she wanted for herself. Drawing on her Indigenous values to see we need a community of people that care about us for us to be fully whole and healthy. Now she brings those value of connection, authenticity, and care to her work with young people. And teaches others to do the same.Accessibility Options: Watch the unedited video interview with subtitles or read the edited podcast transcript by visiting this podcast's web page.Support the show