Talk2BeWell
Our Work2BeWell podcast featuring Dr. Robin Henderson and teen voices from across the country focuses on key mental health topics. From conversations on social justice and mental health activism, to navigating digital learning or supporting mental health during the holidays, we explore topics that build meaningful dialogue and student activation around mental health. For more information and resources, please visit https://work2bewell.org/ Music: Mi-Lo by Smith the Mister https://smiththemister.bandcamp.com, Smith The Mister https://bit.ly/Smith-The-Mister-YT
EP 177: Not One-Size-Fits-All: Different Minds, Different Strengths
Not everyone learns, processes information, or experiences the world in the same way—and that's okay. Every brain is unique, bringing its own strengths, challenges, perspectives, and ways of solving problems. Yet learning differences are often misunderstood, oversimplified, or surrounded by stereotypes.
In today’s episode, NSAC students share their personal experiences with learning differences, highlighting both the obstacles they've faced and the unique strengths they've discovered along the way. Through honest conversation, we’ll explore what it means to learn differently, challenge common misconceptions, and celebrate the value of diverse ways of thinking and learning.
For...
EP 176: Stride w/ Pride in 2026
Pride Month is a time to celebrate identity, community, and the progress that’s been made — but it can also be a time when important conversations about mental health come to the surface. For many in the LGBTQ+ community, navigating identity, acceptance, and external challenges can impact well-being in real and complex ways.
In today’s episode, we’re continuing that conversation by exploring how young people build confidence, cope with challenges, and create supportive circles that uplift and empower. This is about embracing who you are, finding your voice, and knowing there’s a community that stands wit...
EP 175: Feeling FOMO? Go Slomo - Summer Edition
Summer is often seen as a time full of freedom, fun, and endless possibilities. But with that freedom can also come pressure — pressure to stay busy, be social, and not miss out on what everyone else seems to be doing.
Join us as we talk about FOMO — the fear of missing out — and how it can show up during the summer months. Whether it’s seeing friends hang out without you, comparing vacations on social media, or feeling unsure how to spend your time, we’re exploring how to slow things down and find a balance that works for...
EP 174: Don’t Go Ham With The Fam - How To Deal With Family Vacation Stress
Summer vacations are often meant to be relaxing, fun, and a break from everyday stress. But when you’re traveling with family, things don’t always go as planned. Between long travel days, different personalities, and packed schedules, even the most exciting trips can come with moments of stress.
In this episode, we’re talking about how to navigate those moments — how to stay calm, find ways to relax, and still enjoy your time, even when family vacations don’t feel as peaceful as expected.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 173: Live Your #W2BW Summer
Summer break can mean something different for everyone. For some, it’s a time to relax and recharge after a busy school year. For others, it’s a chance to grow, set goals, or stay active. But even with more free time, summer can also bring its own pressures — from staying connected with friends to feeling like you need to make the most of every moment.
We’re talking about how to find balance during the summer months — how to rest without guilt, stay connected without pressure, and make the most of your time in a way that feels...
EP 172: Caps Fly, Tears Cry - The Emotional End to High School
Graduation is often seen as a celebration — a time to recognize achievements and look ahead to what’s next. But for many seniors, the end of high school also brings a mix of emotions. Excitement, uncertainty, pride, sadness — and sometimes all of those at once.
In this episode, we’re talking with NSAC seniors about what this moment really feels like — the emotions they didn’t expect, the memories they’re holding onto, and how they’re preparing for what comes next.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 171: Blast from the Past: NSAC Alumni and How They #Work2BeWell
Looking back on high school, a lot can change with time, experience, and perspective. Things that once felt overwhelming may feel different, and new challenges can bring new growth. For many teens, it can be hard to imagine what life — and mental health — might look like beyond high school.
In this episode, we’re joined by NSAC alumni who are reflecting on their own mental health journeys, sharing what they’ve learned since graduating, and offering advice to teens who may be navigating challenges right now.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support th...EP 170: Spring Time Habits That Actually Improve Your Mood
Spring often feels like a fresh start. The weather changes, the days get longer, and many people naturally begin thinking about resetting routines or building healthier habits. But improving your mood doesn’t require a complete life overhaul — sometimes small, realistic changes can make a big difference.
In this episode, we’re talking about practical, teen-friendly ways to refresh your mindset, your environment, and your daily habits so you can feel more balanced and motivated during this time of year.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 169: Showing Up & Speaking Out - The Power of Student Advocacy
Advocacy isn’t just about big speeches or national movements — it starts with showing up. Whether it’s standing up for a peer, organizing a service project, or speaking out about mental health, student voice has the power to create real change. Today, we’re exploring how service and advocacy connect to teen mental health — and how small actions can create meaningful impact in schools and communities.
In this episode, we're joined by a special guest from the National Association of Secondary School Principals who sponsor National Student Council and National Honor Society, Jen Silva, to talk about Showi...
EP 168: Prom Planning Stress
Prom is often talked about as one of the most exciting moments of the school year — but for many teens, it can also come with a lot of pressure and stress. From figuring out what to wear, coordinating plans with friends, managing costs, or making sure everything goes perfectly, prom season can quickly feel overwhelming.
In today’s episode, we’re talking about why prom planning can feel so stressful and sharing some helpful tips to make the experience more manageable — and hopefully more fun. Because at the end of the day, prom should be about enjoying the mome...
EP 167: You’re Allowed to Be Tired in Spring
As spring rolls around, there’s often this expectation that we should feel energized, motivated, and ready to finish the school year strong. But for many teens, this season brings exhaustion — from schoolwork, activities, social commitments, and life in general. Today, we’re talking about why feeling tired right now is completely normal, and why rest is not something you need to earn or feel guilty about.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 166: You Don’t Have to Bloom on Anyone Else’s Timeline
In a world that constantly pushes timelines — grades, college plans, achievements, and “success stories” on social media — it’s easy to feel like you’re behind. But growth isn’t a race, and it doesn’t look the same for everyone. Today, we’re talking about what it means to grow at your own pace, honor your journey, and celebrate progress without comparing yourself to others.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 165: Dealing with Social Comparison
Scrolling through social media can make it feel like everyone else is ahead — achieving more, doing better, or living a “perfect” life. Comparison has a sneaky way of showing up, impacting our mood, motivation, and mental health. Today, we’re talking about why social comparison happens, how it affects teens, and how to refocus on your own path without getting stuck in comparison traps.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 164: Self-Love 101 - The Importance of Your Relationship With Yourself
The way you treat yourself sets the tone for everything else in life — how you handle stress, how you show up in relationships, and how you move through challenges. Today, we’re talking about what self-love really means, how to quiet negative self-talk, and how to build a healthier relationship with yourself in realistic, everyday ways.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 163: When You’re the Leader: Managing Stress and Staying Positive
Being a student leader can be exciting and empowering — but it can also be stressful, exhausting, and full of pressure that others don’t always see. Today, we’re talking about the mental health impact of student leadership, how to manage expectations, avoid burnout, and stay positive while leading at school.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 162: Choices & Consequences: Decision-Making
Every choice we make — big or small — shapes our lives and mental health in ways we don’t always notice. From everyday decisions to big life moments, choices can bring pressure, stress, and sometimes uncertainty. Today, we’re talking about how you make decisions, what influences those choices, and how to learn and grow when things don’t go as planned.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 161: When the News Hurts: Coping with Negativity and Hate
It’s tough to scroll through the news or social media and see leaders using slurs, bullying others, or tearing people down. It can feel discouraging, confusing, or even scary — especially when the people impacted look like you, your friends, or your community. Today, we’re talking about how negativity in the news affects teen mental health, and how young people are choosing to stay informed without losing hope.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 160: New Year, New Goals: Making Resolutions That Stick
Too many New Year’s resolutions focus on perfection — changing everything at once, setting unrealistic expectations, or pushing ourselves until we burn out. Today, we’re flipping the script and talking about what it really looks like to set meaningful, manageable goals that support our mental health instead of draining it.
For more information and resources, visit Work2BeWell.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 159: Offline and in the Moment - Creating a Healthier Relationship with Social Media
Social media isn’t all bad — it helps us connect, learn, and express ourselves. But finding a healthy balance in a world that’s constantly online can be tough. Today, we’re talking about unplugging with intention, boosting your mental health, and building a healthier relationship with the digital world around you.
For more information and resources visit Work2BeWell.
EP 158: Winter Blues or Something More?
Feeling a little off this winter? You’re not alone. In this episode of Talk2BeWell, teens from the National Student Advisory Council open up about the winter blues and explore when it might be something more. From stress, low energy, and holiday pressure to tips for finding light in darker months, this conversation dives into the real side of seasonal depression— and how to support yourself and your friends through it.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 157: Breaking Barriers: Mental Health in First Gen and Low-Income Students
Being the first in your family to go to college or managing life with limited resources can be tough — but you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re talking about the pressures, the pride, and the real experiences behind the first-gen journey. Tune in for honest conversations about mental health, support, and resilience.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
EP 156: When Life Changes...How to be There
Life is full of change — new schools, new friends, coming out, loss, family moves, breakups — and sometimes it feels like everything’s shifting all at once. In this episode, we’ll talk about how to be there for the people we care about when life gets hard. Because being a good friend doesn’t mean having all the answers — it’s about showing up, listening, and learning how to support each other through the ups and downs.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 155: Everyday Gratitude & The Benefits of It
Today we’re talking about gratitude. Gratitude is tricky because it can be hard to see it and feel it in times of stress or struggle, but we know by practicing it on a regular basis, it can boost our mood, strengthen relationships, and help us feel more grounded.
So, let’s explore some simple ways to make gratitude a part of our daily routine.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
EP 154: In the Know, Not Overwhelmed
There’s a lot going on in the country and the world, much of it heavy and stressful. From constant breaking headlines to viral TikToks, we’re diving into how you can follow the news without feeling overwhelmed. Because staying informed isn’t just about knowing what’s happening–it’s about staying grounded, curious and connected.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 153: Holiday Heebie Jeebies
Time flies and the holidays will be here before you know it. In this episode, we discuss the stress, pressure and anxiety that can play a role in the holiday season for many of us. We’ll share some simple ways to cope and find some peace amid the chaos.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 152: OCD-Social Media vs. Reality
In this episode of Talk2BeWell, we’re taking a closer look at OCD, or Obsessive Compulsive Disorder. What it really is and how it’s often misunderstood. From the oversimplified portrayals on social media to the lived experiences that rarely get spotlighted, we’re unpacking the realities of OCD beyond the stereotypes. Whether you live with the disorder, know someone who does, or just want to better understand mental health, this conversation is for you.
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 151: Back to School Tips + Tricks
Back to School doesn’t have to mean back to stress! This week’s episode is all about tips & tricks to make the transition smoother, keep your stress in check, and set yourself up for a successful year—whether you’re in middle school, high school, or college.
Listen now & start your year strong!
For more information and resources, visit: Work2BeWell
★ Support this podcast ★EP 150: 988 Day
Whether you're a student, educator, parent, or just someone who cares deeply about wellness, today’s conversation is all about making sure you know how to access help when it’s needed most.
We have special guest, Wendy Martinez Farmer, from the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to help us learn more about what 988 offers, and explore how we can all be part of building a culture of care and connection.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #crisis #teenmentalhealth #988
Resources:
Work2BeWell
988 Lifeline
EP 149: PRIDE 2025
This Pride Month, we’re shining a light on mental health and the LGBTQ+ community! From finding safe spaces to navigating identity and self-love, we’re talking about what really matters. It’s all about support, connection, and reminding each other that you’re never alone.
For mental health resources for LGBTQ+ community and allies visit, The Trevor Project - an American nonprofit organization focused on suicide prevention efforts for lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and questioning youth.
★ Support this podcast ★EP 148: Listen To Yourself - Using Music To Cope
Music isn’t just background noise — it’s a tool for healing, connection, and self-care. In this episode, we’re diving into how it boosts mood, eases stress, and supports your mental health, one song at a time. From feel-good playlists to emotional release, it’s more powerful than you think!
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #music #teenmentalhealth
★ Support this podcast ★EP 147: Mental Health Awareness with Erika's Lighthouse
May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and we’re so excited to team up with our friends at Erika’s Lighthouse to bring you this special episode! In this discussion, you’ll learn about both organization’s mission to promote mental health, how our resources can pair together really well,
and ultimately how we’ll activate our communities during this important month.
Erika's Lighthouse - Positivity Pledge
The Positivity Pledge makes mental health empowerment fun! Themed weeks focused on nutrition and mindfulness along with a new challenge each day including #Sharesunday, #Mentalhealthmonday, #Winningwednesday, and #Familyfrie...
EP 146: Feel It to Heal It - Embracing Your Emotions
Emotional avoidance can make problems feel distant and our actions to remedy a situation delayed. In this episode, NSAC encourages you to embrace your emotions and move through them. You’ve got to “Feel it to Heal it”!
Access W2BW's Empathy Module!
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #emotions #sel
★ Support this podcast ★EP 145: Spring Cleaning - How to Let Go
The seasons change and so do we! This episode is dedicated to spring cleaning, letting go of what no longer serves you and making space for new or different experiences ahead.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #springcleaning #teenmentalhealth
★ Support this podcast ★EP 144: NSAC Recruitment
Are you passionate about mental health advocacy? Want to build a network of national connections? Apply for Work2BeWell’s National Student Advisory Council (NSAC)! In this episode, NSAC Team Leads talk about what it means to be a student leader, the opportunities that come with being a member of NSAC, and the commitment to have a strong impact on mental health advocacy each and every year.
NSAC 2025-2026 Application due Thursday, May 1st, 2025!
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #w2bwnsac #teenmentalhealth #leadership
★ Support this podcast ★EP 143: The Purrrfect Pet - Pets Impact on Mental Health
A tribute to the pets who have been by our side through the ups, downs, smiles, and cry sessions. Hear from NSAC members about what makes their pets so special and the benefits of having a furry friend.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #pets #serviceanimals #bestfriend
★ Support this podcast ★EP 142: Overcoming Obstacles - Adversity Makes Us Stronger
We all experience life’s challenges and through it become stronger and more empathic individuals. Overcoming obstacles isn’t easy but the lessons we learn and perspective gained is essential to growth. Listen as W2BW’s NSAC members discuss how adversity has made them stronger.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #adversity #teenmentalhealth
★ Support this podcast ★EP 141: Growing Pains - “I’m Not A Kid Anymore”
Maturing can feel like walking a tightrope between adolescence and adulthood. Upperclassmen from W2BW’s NSAC share their experience maturing through high school and advice they’d give to their younger self.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #youngadult #teenmentalhealth
★ Support this podcast ★EP 140: Head In The Game
Mental Health affects all aspects of our lives and our ability to show us up as our best selves. This principle carries over into sports and understanding what your mind and body needs for peak performance. In this episode you’ll meet special guest from Seattle Sounders FC, Alex Roldan, and hear about how keeps his head in the game.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #soundersfc #mentalhealthsports #headinthegame
★ Support this podcast ★EP 139: Lonely In A Crowd - How FOMO Fuels Isolation
FOMO aka Fear of Missing Out can fuel isolation and negative thoughts. W2BW NSAC members share their experiences dealing with FOMO, its connection to peer pressure, and advice on moving through it.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #fomo #teentalk #lonely
★ Support this podcast ★EP 138: Detox Your Heart - Reclaiming Yourself From Relationships
There’s nothing quite like your first relationship or your first breakup. NSAC members discuss teen
heartbreak, red flags, and setting boundaries.
To supplement this episode, we recommend reviewing W2BW’s Critical Conversations Module
great examples on how to navigate emotional conversations and articulate yourself clearly when
doing so.
#Talk2bewell #work2bewell #heartbreak #relationships #teentalk
★ Support this podcast ★