Youth P.O.W.E.R. Podcast: With Kirk Berry

In this episode of the Youth Power Podcast, we speak with Geno Abney, founder of AYG Athletics, about his work with youth in Texas. Geno discusses his background and how his experiences led him to create a program that uses basketball to teach values like discipline, teamwork, and leadership. He explains the structure of AYG Athletics, including how often participants meet and the range of activities offered. Geno also shares insights into the challenges and successes of running a youth-focused organization and offers advice for others looking to make a positive impact in their communities.

In this episode of the Youth Power Podcast, host Kirk Berry is joined by Adam F.C. Fletcher—speaker, consultant, and author of Steps to Youth Leadership in Modern Times. Together, they explore what it means to truly empower the adults who work with youth and why stepping back is sometimes the most powerful way to help young people step forward. Adam shares his personal journey from a young theater mentor in North Omaha to a global advocate for youth voice, engagement, and leadership. He introduces his “three-legged stool” model—personal, cultural, and structural engagement—and challenges listeners to stop doing to youth and start doing with them. Packed with stories, insights, and actionable inspiration, this conversation is a must-listen for anyone passionate about creating meaningful opportunities for young people to lead in their own way. 

Kelly Fair, Founder and Executive Director of Polished Pebbles Girls Mentoring Program, joins the program to discuss her organization's mission to help girls become effective communicators at home, school, and in the workplace. She shares the origins of Polished Pebbles, which began with monthly Saturday sessions and has grown to serve over 50 communities in schools each year. The conversation explores their four core programs, including the Every Girl's A CEO initiative that provides career readiness skills and paid work experience, the Pink Hard Hats program introducing girls to careers in construction and trades, and their global mentoring efforts connecting young women across countries. Kelly highlights the critical need for girl-focused mentorship programs, noting that only 1% of philanthropic dollars worldwide go toward programming for women and girls, while explaining how group mentoring creates powerful spaces for girls to find role models and develop their voices.

In this episode, we welcome Gila Kurtz, co-founder of The BOLO Project, who shares how her innovative dog-centric program helps teens develop emotional resilience, positive mindsets, and essential life skills through the transformative power of the dog-human bond. Gila shares remarkable success stories of teens who have overcome anxiety, depression, and communication barriers while gaining clarity about their futures. The episode reveals how The BOLO Project is helping teens overcome modern challenges and prepare for a successful future through this unique approach that leverages the science-backed benefits of the dog-human connection for youth development. 

In this episode of the Youth Power Podcast, we welcome Zach Garza, Founder and Executive Director of You Can Mentor. Drawing from his personal experience growing up without a father figure, Zach shares how mentors transformed his life, inspiring him to start his organization after discovering that 45 of his 65 student athletes lacked father figures at home. He discusses his journey from founding the Forerunner Mentoring Program to establishing You Can Mentor, emphasizing identity-based mentoring over "fixing" youth and the importance of consistent presence. Zach's core philosophy combines identity development with skills in a safe environment, with the ultimate goal of providing every child who needs a mentor with one.

This episode features a conversation with Nafees Norris, a biopharmaceutical process engineer who is making science fun and accessible for kids in Philadelphia. Nafees shares how he went from being the only Black man in most professional science settings to creating an interactive lab where children can experience hands-on learning beyond traditional classroom experiments. Rather than making volcanoes and slime, his students work with industry-grade equipment and safe materials to tackle real scientific challenges through engaging competitions. Nafees opens up about initially feeling inadequate to teach but realizing the importance of sharing his journey with young people who need to see someone like themselves succeeding in science. Through creative teaching methods, like comparing pharmaceutical processes to a car wash, he's breaking down complex concepts and inspiring the next generation of scientists, all while emphasizing that good character is just as important as technical skills.    

Tune in for a conversation with Christina DeJesus, founder of Part of the Change, an organization that uses art to empower and heal young people. Christina shares her journey from working in finance to discovering her passion for community service, particularly through art therapy and mentorship. She discusses her work in juvenile detention centers, where she conducts weekly art sessions with young girls, and her experience teaching both boys and girls at various youth camps. Christina offers valuable insights about starting a community-focused business without traditional prerequisites like websites or social media presence, emphasizing the importance of showing up consistently and building meaningful networks.

Join us as we sit down with David Charles, Co-founder and Executive Director of The STRIVE Initiative, a transformative youth development organization in Pottstown, Pennsylvania. From its grassroots beginnings addressing community vandalism to becoming a comprehensive youth empowerment program, STRIVE (Strengthening Tomorrow Requires Initiative and Vision Every Day) has evolved into a unique model that combines in-school mentoring, multimedia career training, and paid community opportunities for young people. Charles shares how the organization's partnership with the Pottstown School District has opened doors for nearly a thousand students, their innovative approach to measuring impact, and why their holistic method of youth development - which includes everything from lunchtime mentoring to teaching DJing and photography - is creating lasting change in young people's lives.

In this episode, we are joined by K-Rahn Vallatine, founder of Inner Sun Consulting, about changes in youth development. K-Rahn shares his path from working with incarcerated youth to training professionals across the nation. He explains his trauma-informed success mindset model and methods for connecting with young people through consistent engagement and cultural understanding. This episode presents tools for youth workers, educators, and service providers. For more information,. visit: www.innersunconsulting.com 

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Alyssa Bigby, founder and director of Rebel Arts Movement, who is revolutionizing youth empowerment in Philadelphia through the transformative power of circus arts. In this episode, we explore how a unique blend of dance, tumbling, and aerial arts is creating pathways to success for underserved youth in Kensington. Discover how Rebel Arts breaks down financial and accessibility barriers to make circus arts available to all, regardless of background or ability. This episode offers valuable insights for anyone interested in youth empowerment, arts education, or creating inclusive spaces for community transformation.

In this episode, you'll discover insights from Morgan Johnson, NCC, LPC, an adolescent mental health professional with a decade of experience. You'll learn about the importance of mental health care for young people and common misconceptions about therapy. Morgan shares successful outcomes from her practice, including helping teens overcome social anxiety and develop self-advocacy skills. She also explores how the movie "Inside Out" can be used as a tool for understanding emotions, and provides advice for young people interested in mental health careers. 

In this episode of the Youth Power Podcast, host Kirk Berry interviews Amy Meuers, CEO of the National Youth Leadership Council (NYLC). With over two decades at NYLC, Amy shares information about the organization's mission to empower youth through service learning. She discusses how NYLC integrates service learning into educational curricula, fostering youth leadership and community engagement. Amy explains the importance of giving young people a voice and choice in their education, describing how this approach improves academic engagement and develops life skills. The conversation covers NYLC's programs, including Youth as Solutions, and the global impact of service learning

In this episode, we are joined by Ami Yares, Executive Director of BuildaBridge International, an arts education nonprofit in Philadelphia. Ami shares how BuildaBridge uses the power of art-making to teach life lessons and foster resilience, self-efficacy, and hope in youth who have experienced trauma. He explains the concept of teaching artists and describes how activities like singing, music, and dance can help create safe spaces for healing and personal growth. Ami also provides examples of BuildaBridge's impact, including their work with refugee youth and various community partnerships.

In this episode of the Youth Power Podcast, we are joined by Gary Mills, founder of Shoot Basketballs NOT People, a Philadelphia-based organization dedicated to preventing violence and promoting positive change through basketball and mentorship. Gary discusses his background, the inspiration behind starting the program, and the various ways they engage with youth, including affordable basketball training, education workshops, leadership development, and mental health support. He also shares a success story of a young man who has excelled both on and off the court since joining the program. Throughout the conversation, Gary emphasizes the importance of being creative, taking actionable steps, and persevering in the non-profit space to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. 

In this episode, we welcome three amazing guests from the Noble House Fairview Dojo in Camden, New Jersey. These women share their expertise in teaching self-defense and empowering young people through martial arts. They discuss the importance of teaching children how to react in various social situations, the transformative power of self-defense training on a young person's confidence, and how they address issues like bullying and human trafficking. The guests also share practical tips for parents and youth on how to project confidence, communicate effectively, and stay safe in today's world. 

This episode features an interview with Dan Rhoton, CEO of Hopeworks in Camden, New Jersey, an organization that provides technology training, professional development, and real-world work experience to prepare unemployed young adults for living-wage jobs. Dan discusses Hopeworks' unique trauma-informed approach that not only teaches in-demand tech skills but also builds social-emotional readiness for the workplace. He also shares inspiring stories of young people overcoming barriers and excelling through the power of opportunity.

This episode features an interview with Charmaine Bazemore, the Executive Director of the George Washington Carver Community Center in Norristown, PA. Charmaine discusses her vision for the Carver Center, including bringing back the Kid's Cafe program, providing a safe space for local youth, and expanding literacy and learning opportunities. She also stresses the importance of meeting the community's needs when developing youth programs, and provides insights on securing funding, getting community and youth input, and achieving a vision through consistency and intention.

This episode focuses on the profound impact of yoga on urban youth and how it can be a transformative tool for educators, mentors, and youth workers. Tune in to a conversation with Dennis Davis aka "Yogi Den", as he shares his journey from personal trauma to healing through yoga. As a certified yoga instructor and youth advocate, Yogi Den provides invaluable insights and practical tools. You'll learn how to integrate yoga principles into your work, foster resilience, and empower youth to navigate life's challenges. 

This episode features a conversation with Dave Beal, CEO of Brain Power Wellness, to discuss social-emotional learning and holistic wellness strategies for students, teachers, and families. Dave shares practical tips and activities from the Brain Power Classroom book to promote positive mental health and development in the classroom. They discuss embracing resistance from students as an opportunity and the importance of being present for youth. Dave also highlights research showing academic improvements from social-emotional learning interventions. Listen to learn more about empowering youth, educators, and families through mindfulness, community building, and self-care.

Kris Breslin, Master Technician at Team Toyota of Glen Mills, joins the program to discuss her career journey and what it is like to be a woman working as an automotive technician. Kris also provides an overview of the work she did with the KB Foundation's overnight girls mentoring camp, and why it is important for girls and young women to be familiar with the fundamentals of car repair, such as changing a tire. She also provides advice for anyone who has an expertise that they would like to share with young people.       

Vernon Ray Jr., Owner of Creative Mind Productions, joins the program to discuss his own journey of developing a passion for photography and the campaign that he created to combat gun violence. Vernon shares how his campaign is helping give youth a different creative option to pursue and helps youth feel heard and supported. Vernon also shares tips about how to connect and communicate with young people.

Atiyah Harmon, Founder of Black Girls Love Math (BGLM), joins the program to discuss the work that her organization does to cultivate a positive math identity for Black girls. BGLM uses a research-based approach to create a fun, encouraging, and culturally conscious space for Black girls to explore and discover math.

Joy Jamerson, Program Manager-Outreach, H-CAP (Healthcare Career Advancement Program, joins the program to discuss her career journey of supporting youth in various roles. Joy shares her thoughts about how to engage youth and how to talk to youth in a way that compels them. She also reveals tips for employers who want to recruit and retain youth, and how to prepare youth for the workforce. 

Jonathan Alvarez, Founder of 914United Inc., joins the program to provide an overview of the mission and vision of his organization. Discover how 914United emerged in 2020 to serve at the forefront of advocating for the youth and the formerly incarcerated residing within the Lower Hudson Valley. 

Mike Brown from the Philadelphia Gaming Initiative joins the program to reveal how the organization is using gaming as a way to engage youth and keep them out of harm's way. Mike also shares how the Philadelphia Gaming Initiative uses gaming as a hook to bring young people into their space, and the other life skills instruction that is available to youth. Discover the importance of creating safe spaces for youth within a community, and how to create a gaming initiative in your own city or town. 

Alexandra Ingram, MSW, joins the program to discuss her organization, Make the Distinction. Alexandra shares the work that her organization is doing to prepare black girls between the ages of 13-18 for the adult world by fostering confidence and self-esteem, connecting girls with Black women as mentors in a professional field, and providing personal and professional development skills. 

In this episode you'll hear from Ramat Oyetunji, author of Kids and Money: The 5 Stacks Method. The book teaches kids how to manage money and is written from the perspective of a 9-year-old who is excited about earning money for the first time, thanks to a car cleaning business she started in the summer. Ramat shares advice for parents and caregivers about how to better connect to youth.   

Joanna Smith, Founder and CEO of Daley Smith Inc., joins the program to discuss the work that her organization is doing to expose students in grades K-12 to Science, Technology. Engineering and Math (STEM) related fields to increase the number of minorities in STEM careers. She reveals the innovative methods that are used to expose students to quality fun unconventional STEM and music programs, including roller skating classes! 

This episode focuses on how to build positive and empowering parent-children relationships. The guest is Noah Coslov, who co-hosts the show "The Follow Up" along with his daughter, Eden. The Follow Up is intended to entertain audiences of all ages, but most importantly to build confidence in young children learning how to actively listen & communicate effectively. 

In this episode, Kirk Berry is interviewed by his podcast producer, Doug Foresta. Kirk shares details about his exciting new online training program, Connect & Empower: The Art of Motivating Youth. Discover why connecting with youth is crucial for adults who work with youth in any capacity and the first step to take when connecting with young people. To learn more and to sign up for the training, visit https://www.kirkberry.com/ 

In this episode, you'll hear from a guest whose parents were both foster and adoptive parents while she was growing up. Discover the challenges that come along with adopting and fostering children and the importance of providing loving and supportive environments to foster children. Discover tips for anyone considering becoming a foster or pre-adoptive parent. 

This episode features an interview with BOLD Education's leader and founder, Steve Robertson. Steve has over 20-years of experience building and operating top-notch and innovative youth-to-adult programming that impacts young people by turning their curiosity into passion and skill. Steve discusses how he is also serving as ESF's Chief Experience Officer (CXO). ESF Camp's mission is to provide the finest camp experience for people of all ages- an experience that will be remembered for a lifetime. Through education, sports, and fun, they offer opportunities for campers and team members to believe in themselves and to achieve their full potential.

In this episode, you'll hear from Dillon, the co-owner of Dillonades, which makes freshly squeezed fruit infused lemonades. Dillon and his mother started Dillonades together during the Summer of 2020 and in this conversation, Dillon shares advice about empowering youth, and what he's learned from his journey so far. 

This episode features an interview with Maurice Williams, Founder and CEO of Born with Purpose, an organization dedicated to transforming individuals and organizations through purpose-filled programming, training, and services. Discover the importance of helping youth to discover their purpose. Maurice also reveals details about his new book, Leila's Dream, an inspirational book for children and parents.     

Vanessa Young, co-founder of the Power of Paint Art Academy, joins the program to reveal the mission of her organization, and how they met the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. Discover how the Power of Paint Art Academy is supporting children, youth and families through the power of art. 

Educator, author and coach Tre Hadrick discusses the importance of literacy for empowering youth, and reveals details about his book Cheesesteaks and Clippers, which features an endearing look at important life lessons learned during a visit to a local barber shop.

In this episode, recorded live at the KB P.O.W.E.R. Mentoring Camp, you'll hear from 2 campers about their experiences, and what they've enjoyed most about the camp so far. Kirk Berry also shares what he hopes the campers take away from their experience, and reveals details about some of the camp activities. 

In this episode, you'll learn about how The KB P.O.W.E.R. Mentoring Camp empowers young men between the ages of 11-13. You'll also hear from a camper and his mother as they discuss why they chose the KB P.O.W.E.R. Mentoring Camp, and what it was like to attend the camp. 

Dr. Kay Ramsey, Executive Branch Director for Bethany Christian Services, joins the program to discuss her own journey as a former foster youth and adoptee, and the work that she does to empower youth. She also discusses her new book Persevering Beyond Adversity: The Blue Print, in which she shares tools to create a blueprint for success on how to turn pain into passion and persevere beyond adversity with faith, vision and a mentor.

Franklyn Athias joins the program to discuss danceLogic, an innovative youth program which teaches teenage girls dance moves and coding. 

Jesse Levine, founder of Alex Levine School of Guitar, joins the program to discuss how he founded his school in tribute to his son Alex Levine. Alex was a developing singer/songwriter and outstanding teacher who was deeply loved by his guitar students and their parents. Discover how Jesse is empowering youth through music, the life lessons and skills that students learn, and how he is creating a powerful community to support young people. 

Marcus Allen, Chief Executive Officer of Big Brothers Big Sisters Independence Region, the Greater Philadelphia region's largest and most experienced youth mentoring organization, joins the program to discuss the power of mentoring. Discover how mentoring helps to empower youth. 

Dimitrios Jones joins the program to discuss HIP Through Science, and how they are expanding efforts to educate youth in the communities of South LA in the STEM fields, 

Dr. Marck Abraham, founder and President of MEA Consultants, LLC,  joins the program to discuss what needs to happen in order to create a world-class educational experience that ensures all students achieve their goals of post-secondary college and fulfilling careers. Discover how to create environments that assist students to reach their maximum potential in life.

We are now over a year into virtual learning. Are students thriving in this virtual Zoom environment or are they "Zoomed Out?" In this episode, you'll hear from two youth, Kara and Sam, as they discuss how they have fared over the past year, the pros and cons of virtual education, and how teachers can best empower students. 

Stephanie Humphrey, AKA "techlifesteph," joins the program to discuss the importance of teaching digital citizenship to youth. Stephanie reveals how she is empowering youth and their parents and helping to ensure that young people are protecting their online brand and using social media in a responsible manner. 

In this episode you'll hear from a teacher about her experience with virtual/distance learning over the past year. Discover the pros and cons of distance learning, how to engage students in a virtual environment, and what teachers need to consider when dealing with "disruptive" students. You'll also discover resources to help empower students. 

In this episode, you'll hear from Kirk Berry, as he shares his journey about how he came to be interested in empowering youth. He also discusses how and why he started the KB POWER Mentoring Camp, and what you can expect in upcoming episodes.