We pick up right where we left off...at Pablo's turning point. After years of bouncing between foster homes, group homes, and incarceration, he shares what helped him break free from the cycle. In this episode, Pablo talks about his college journey, his work supporting other students, and the advice he would give to youth who feel stuck like he once did. He also speaks directly to educators, social workers, group home staff, and policymakers by offering heartfelt wisdom on how to do better for youth who’ve been through trauma.

If you’ve ever felt like giving up or want to understand how to better support youth who’ve lived through hard things...this is the episode for you!

Find helpful resources mentioned in this podcast episode.

Connect with Youth Voice Amplified

• Youth Voice Amplified Podcast
• Instagram – @youthvoiceamplifiedpodcast
• Youth Voice Amplified on Facebook

If you would like to ask us a question, recommend a topic, or suggest a guest, please email us at youthvoiceamplified@gmail.com.

Credits:

Producers: Brian Johnson, Gennessa Fisher, Kim Silva and Allyson Baptiste
Production Partners: Liam Silva and Kern Education Television Network, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Theme Song: “Beatitude” by Mountaineer

💬 Have thoughts on this episode? Text us and share your take!

In this powerful first half of his two-part episode, we meet Pablo who learned to survive every crashing wave life threw at him. From navigating the foster care system to experiencing incarceration, Pablo opens up about what it was like to grow up feeling invisible, unheard, and alone. But even in the darkest moments, his story is filled with honesty, insight, and strength.

Warning: This episode contains discussions of topics that may be difficult for some listeners, including trauma, child abuse, experiences with the foster care and juvenile justice systems, suicidal thoughts and experiences. Please take care while listening.

If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out. Help is available.
Call or text 988 to reach the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline — free, confidential support is available 24/7.

Find helpful resources mentioned in this podcast episode.

Connect with Youth Voice Amplified

• Youth Voice Amplified Podcast
• Instagram – @youthvoiceamplifiedpodcast
• Youth Voice Amplified on Facebook

If you would like to ask us a question, recommend a topic, or suggest a guest, please email us at youthvoiceamplified@gmail.com.

Credits:

Producers: Brian Johnson, Gennessa Fisher, Kim Silva and Allyson Baptiste
Production Partners: Liam Silva and Kern Education Television Network, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Theme Song: “Beatitude” by Mountaineer

💬 Have thoughts on this episode? Text us and share your take!

This month on Youth Voice Amplified, Gennessa takes the mic for a special episode highlighting one of her favorite themes—human kindness. She revisits some of the most moving moments from past youth storytellers and the adult allies who walked alongside them, weaving together a powerful compilation of real-life experiences where kindness changed the course of someone’s day… or even their life.

From neighbors who stepped in to protect a child to mentors who believed in someone before they believed in themselves, these moments—shared by youth and the allies who stood by them—show how even the smallest acts of kindness can shine brightly in the darkest times.

If you need a reminder of the good in the world—or inspiration to pass that kindness on—this episode will leave you ready to notice it, share it, and be part of it.

Links to featured episodes

• Jordynn’s Story: Parenting With Purpose
• Joy for All: Helping Foster Youth in Need This Holiday Season
• Project I Am From - Playing My Own Game Now
• The Power of Transformative Thinking: Rico's Journey (Part 2)
• Don’t Give Up Hope: Manuel’s Journey to a Life of Purpose & Service

Find helpful resources mentioned in this podcast episode.

Connect with Youth Voice Amplified

• Youth Voice Amplified Podcast
• Instagram – @youthvoiceamplifiedpodcast
• Youth Voice Amplified on Facebook

If you would like to ask us a question, recommend a topic, or suggest a guest, please email us at youthvoiceamplified@gmail.com.

Credits:

Producers: Brian Johnson, Gennessa Fisher, Kim Silva and Allyson Baptiste
Production Partners: Liam Silva and Kern Education Television Network, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Theme Song: “Beatitude” by Mountaineer

💬 Have thoughts on this episode? Text us and share your take!