The teen hosts open up about their personal struggles with trauma, from divorce to family illness to abandonment issues. When hiding behind invisible shields feels easier than talking, how do you heal? Music that speaks to your soul, leaning on friends who understand, or just having someone nearby — discover what helps these teens cope when life gets overwhelming. Progress isn't perfection, but as one teen puts it: "It doesn't get better. It gets easier." #TeenMentalHealth #ICanRelatePodcast #TeenVoices #TraumaHealing #FindingYourPeople

In Season 5, Episode 2 of the I Can Relate podcast, the hosts take a deep dive into the fascinating—and sometimes tricky—world of language and humor among teens. From the ever-changing landscape of the euphemism treadmill to the ways words take on new meanings in different social contexts, this episode explores how our language choices shape relationships and reflect our values.

The conversation gets personal as the hosts share stories about navigating derogatory terms, the delicate boundaries of humor within friend groups, and the emotional impact of words on others. They tackle tough questions: When does a joke go too far? How can we ensure our words don't harm or alienate marginalized groups?

Whether you're a parent, teacher, or teen yourself, this episode offers thoughtful insights into the power and responsibility that come with the words we choose. Tune in for a meaningful discussion about empathy, respect, and the evolving dynamics of communication.

Kick off Season 5 of I Can Relate with an inspiring and raw conversation featuring Charlie, Andromeda, Caroline, Nikeese, and Isabel. These teens tackle the weighty topics of career pressures, college decisions, and the clash between adult expectations and their personal dreams. From navigating societal timelines to dealing with parental aspirations, they offer a candid look at the struggles and triumphs of defining their own paths. Don’t miss this eye-opening discussion on ambition, uncertainty, and the courage it takes to embrace individuality in a world full of expectations.

On the season finale of I Can Relate, host Ellie Johnson speaks with Lee’s Summit Police Officer Amanda Geno and ReDiscover Board President and CEO Jennifer Craig about a recent Youth Mental Health Forum at the Summit Technology Campus.

On this special episode of I Can Relate, Ellie and Isabel talk to guest Erica Miller, Lee’s Summit R-7 School Board member, about the school board and what they can and are doing to make life better for students.

Returning to the ever-complex subject of growing up, hosts Ellie, Conner, Nikeese, and Charlie discuss how little teens are actually prepared for adulthood and what adults can do to make things better on this episode of I Can Relate.

On this episode of I Can Relate, hosts Ellie, Isabel, and Nikeese talk about womanhood and why life is difficult for women and girls of all ages.

On this episode of I Can Relate, hosts Charlie, Conner, and Maieva discuss the harrowing presence of book bans in schools and libraries across the country and why everyone should work to end this practice of censorship.