Express Yourself!

Preserve and cherish the pale blue dot, the only home we’ve ever known. -Carl Sagan As humanity ventures deeper into space, a big challenge has become the effects of space debris. Saanvi Phaneendra discusses what space debris is and why it is so dangerous. What is space debris? Simply put, it's any man-made object in orbit that no longer serves a purpose. This includes everything from old satellites and discarded rocket stages to tiny fragments created by collisions and disintegrations. How does all this junk end up in space? Every time a spacecraft is launched, bits and pieces of the rocket are left behind in orbit. As more missions take place, the number of debris steadily increases. Collisions between objects—whether they’re active satellites or fragments of debris—only add to the mess, creating even more fragments. Saanvi then interviews her sister, Siri Phaneendra, a former radio host who recently graduated from UC Berkeley in Business and Data Science. Siri was a project manager for one of UC Berkeley’s data science consulting organizations. Siri led a project with DataGood, a consulting organization that focuses on projects with a social impact. Their project aimed to analyze data from a dataset operated by the U.S. Strategic Command, to understand space debris better and find ways to reduce its risks. Tune in to find out more about working with the stars to clean up space debris and keep our planet safe.. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/

“Young people are not just the leaders of tomorrow; they are the change-makers of today.” – Barack Obama Julia and Keerthi host this election episode to discuss how teens influence election outcomes. Julia focuses on the new media company Jubilee, which is shaking up political discourse online and inspiring a new level of engagement among young people. Through debates on hot-button issues, like abortion restrictions, gun control, the 2024 election, Jubilee’s “Middle Ground” series draws millions of viewers. Youth reporter Milan, talks about the Republican and Democratic parties and who is running for office. Democracy means that we the people, get to vote and choose our president or any other elections. Keerthi says that teens may not be voting, but they are shaping elections with their views. This election is about the future—teens future. So how can we, the “too-young-to-vote” crowd, make waves in 2024? Get Informed Start Conversations: Use Your Platforms Volunteer and Participate Remember Teen Voices Are Powerful The future is powered by the teen generation, so speak up in the election! Watch out world! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“Technology, like art, is a soaring exercise of the human imagination” - Daniel Bell Saanvi Phaneendra, host for today’s AI presentation , is the founder of Galactic Getaway, a nonprofit dedicated to inspiring curiosity and passion for space exploration. Galactic Getaway brings hands-on learning experiences and new-generation interactive rocket model displays to communities, helping youth engage with STEM and imagine their future in space technology. Saanvi discusses how AI isn’t just supporting space missions—it’s becoming a crucial partner. From rovers on Mars to managing satellites orbiting Earth, AI is making space missions smarter and more autonomous. One of the big challenges of space is the time delay in communications, especially for missions far from Earth. AI solves this by making real-time decisions when human intervention isn’t possible, and this is helping push space exploration to new heights. Saanvi then introduces a special guest, Siri Phaneendra, who is not only her older sister, but explores the fascinating technology of Generative AI. GenAI, refers to AI systems that are capable of creating new content—whether that’s text, images, music, or even complex code. What makes it different from traditional AI is that it doesn’t just analyze data; it uses that data to generate something new. Think of it like a digital artist or writer. Siri also discusses the challenges and ethical concerns that come with GenAI, the importance of regulations, and its most impactful applications. Everything you wanted to know about AI and didn’t know who to ask! Tune in! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

Hosts Julia, Keerthi, and Sharanya, along with volunteers Ella and Sean star in this special edition of Express Yourself!™ Teen Radio as they reminisce about the extraordinary celebration in which they participated on September 28, 2024: the Parade and Pear Festival hailing the 50th anniversary of the Town of Moraga and the 25th anniversary of Be the Star You Are!® charity. It was a day beyond everyone’s wildest expectations and so much fun. The chairperson of the parade, Ella, wrangled her wonderful and generous parents into renting a truck which they decorated with stars, banners, and balloons. Volunteers marched with banners and balloons chanting “Read, lead, succeed!” as Madeleine cookies were thrown to the crowds. Keerthi and Sharanya chaired the Pear Festival booth, Julia cooked up delicious treats for the 25th-anniversary party, and Sean, the official BTSYA videographer ran around shooting stills and videos. Children planted seeds to take home as part of the Plant the Seeds of Literacy program, books were read to enthralled children, many freebies were distributed, and the sweet sensations of being part of a vibrant, inclusive community were in the air. When the volunteers were recognized on stage as the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year, Ella gave a beautiful speech acknowledging the accomplishments of the volunteers, supporters, and everyone who donates their expertise to make this a better world. The Chamber of Commerce organized a ribbon cutting to commemorate the 25th anniversary of BTSYA’s service, which was a very special event for the teens. Praise for the positive outreach programs, radio broadcasts, and community service of Be the Star You Are!® was recognized and most of all, everyone declared it was a day to remember in posterity! • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

Challenges are what make life interesting and overcoming them is what makes life meaningful. – Joshua J. Marine Host, Saanvi Phaneendra with reporters Diya and Hasini tackle a topic that every teen can relate to: challenges. Challenges come in all shapes and sizes, from small daily struggles to monumental obstacles that seem impossible to overcome. But here’s the thing about challenges: they’re not just roadblocks; they’re stepping stones. Every challenge is an opportunity to grow, to learn, and to become stronger than before. Whether it’s in our personal lives, our careers, or even in the vast and mysterious expanse of space, challenges push us to innovate, adapt, and keep moving forward. They remind us that nothing worth achieving comes easy, and that persistence is the key to success. As the Space Spotlight reporter, Saanvi discusses one of NASA’s most ambitious endeavors: the Artemis Mission. It’s not just a return to the Moon; it’s a mission that aims to pave the way for future human exploration of Mars. The Artemis program is daring, groundbreaking, and yes, full of enormous challenges. The next time you face a challenge, no matter how big or small, don’t shy away from it. Face it. Embrace it. See it for what it is – an opportunity. An opportunity to push your boundaries, to find new solutions, and to emerge stronger and wiser than before. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“Where words fail, music speaks.” - Hans Christian Andersen Music has a unique power to tap into our emotions in a way that almost nothing else can. Hasini hosts a program focusing on the positive impact music has on our lives. Music transports us and changes our emotions. Hasini is a singer and also plays a traditional Indian instrument, the veena. She finds playing music meditative. Studies have shown that listening to music can drastically reduce stress and anxiety by lowering cortisol levels, the hormone related to stress. Playing an instrument can boost your brainpower. Music gives you a voice. Reduce stress, improve your emotions, and connect with yourself and others through the melodies of music. Tune out and tune in. • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

Parade, Party, Pear and Wine Festival Keerthi hosts this program with Be the Star You Are!® to discuss the parade, Pear and Wine Festival on September 28. Sean, our videographer joins Keerthi to talk about why he became the photographer and videographer for BTSYA. He is excited to create more media at the parade and festival. Ella is chairing the parade entry and the 25th-anniversary party to be held at the booth later. Her excitement is overflowing for these fun events and she is organized and ready to party. This is the second year that Keerthi and Sharanya are the chairpersons for the BTSYA booth. Sharanya talks about what it takes t to be a great chairperson and how to prepare for an event. The town of Moraga is turning 50. Be the Star You Are!® is celebrating 25 years of volunteer service to the world and being honored as the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year. SCHEDULE for Saturday, September 28, 2024 10 am: Parade 11-4pm: Come to our BTSYA booth Plant the Seeds of Literacy project, a reading circle, book giveaways, and book signings, plus more, will be offered. Expect lots of freebies, too. 1 pm: Volunteer recognition on the stage for winning the 2024 Nonprofit of the Year award. 2 pm. Ribbon Cutting 2:30 pm: Party Thank you to our sponsors, The Lamorinda Weekly, MB Jessee Painting, and StarStyle® Productions, LLC. The Moraga Commons Park 1425 St Mary’s Rd, CA 94556, The event is FREE, and the festival is fabulous! Let's party! See you there! https://www.bethestaryouare.org/events-1/2024-pear-and-wine-festival Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“Story, as it turns out, was crucial to our evolution -- more so than opposable thumbs. Opposable thumbs let us hang on; story told us what to hang on to.” - Lisa Cron He sued Donald Trump and won? So begins the conversation teen host, Julia, has with the best-selling author and winner of numerous Moth GrandSLAM Championships, Matthew Dicks as they discuss his newest book with strategies to grow business and brands, Stories Sell. Matt shares how being a storyteller and a math teacher to ten-year-olds catapulted him into becoming a sought-after consultant to major corporations. He offers many techniques, including his Homework for Life, that helps create stories that stick. Reporter Hasini believes it is important for teens to share stories to help with connection. Sharing stories gives teens a voice to express themselves authentically. Storytelling sparks conversations and challenges perspectives. Modern technology has completely changed storytelling. With social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube, teens share experiences instantly. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

Grandparents are both our past and our future. In some ways, they are what has gone before, and in others, they are what we will become. —Fred Rogers Hosts Julia and Keerthi talk about the superpowers of grandparents. They possess the unique ability to turn every mundane event into an epic adventure. Each one is a treasure trove of adventure, mystery, and, quite often, questionable fashion choices from their youth. They’ve seen it all—wars, moon landings, and the evolution of the telephone from rotary to touch. Keerthi’s grandparents are Indian and don’t speak English, so they couldn’t be on the show today. But Keerthi shares how much she loves hanging out with them on their coconut farm when she visits India. One set of her grandparents is from the same village where Kamala Harris' mom grew up! Julia introduces us to her two amazing and accomplished grandpas. Yukon joined Julia and Keerthi for a lively discussion about how he came to America from China and became a renowned economist, not seeing China again until he became the World Bank's country director for China with an office in Beijing. His stories and advice will have listeners craving more. Unfortunately, Julia’s grandfather on her dad’s side was unable to come on the program but she interviewed him about his life earlier. Jonathan Howe is a retired four-star United States Navy admiral, who worked at the White House with Henry Kissinger and President Nixon. He was the Special Representative for Somalia to United Nations Secretary-General Boutros Boutros-Ghali. He met his future wife at age 13 and the rest is history. Both grandpas have Wikipedia pages. Yukon Huang: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yukon_Huang Jonathan Howe: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jonathan_Howe This show honors grandparents everywhere! Grandparents are the heart of our history, the soul of our future. Celebrate your grandparents. Happy Grandparents Day! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“The cinema has no boundary; it is a ribbon of dream.” - Orson Welles Are teens accurately represented in films and TV shows? Host Keerthi and reporter Hasini don’t think so. They tackle this issue and agree that teens are often written by adults who have forgotten their teen years and played by older adults. There is a focus of focus on stereotypes (like the nerd, the jock, the mean girl), but not enough on the complexities and nuances that reel teens experience. Filmmakers forget that real teenagers are mostly just trying to figure out how to get a good grade while avoiding their parents’ endless “life lesson” conversations. Teens are still depicted as either effortlessly cool or hopelessly awkward. It’s like directors have a script that says, “Let’s make the teen either an Instagram influencer who has their entire life figured out or someone who doesn’t understand the concept of a phone charger.” There’s rarely an in-between. Hasini thinks that, Euphoria, has done a great job of reflecting the real world. The show addresses issues like mental health, addiction, gender identity, and trauma, and it doesn't shy away from showing the raw, messy realities that many teens face. The characters are complex, flawed, and very real, which makes them relatable. Keerthi notes that cinematic portrayals are like candy—deliciously sweet but not very nutritious. They offer an escape from reality and a chance to dream about lives more glamorous, dramatic, or adventurous than our own. In conclusion, let’s celebrate the diversity of teenage experiences in cinema. Let’s have characters who are awkward, unsure, and who occasionally wear the same clothes three days in a row. Every teenager deserves to see themselves represented in a way that’s as real as their struggle to keep their room clean. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“Behind every young child who believes in himself is a parent who believed first.” –Matthew Jacobson Our parents are like our first influencers. They were there before social media, showing us how to navigate life. Host Julia discusses how our parents shape our views on pretty much everything—money, relationships, education, and life. She shares personal stories of growing up and the advice she was given. She shares behaviors that children learn from parents, both positive and negative. Work ethics, social skills, and handling stress, are all connected to how you grew up. Kids who grow up in a nurturing environment tend to score higher on exams. Parents who shelter their kids from tough life lessons often end up with anxious adult children. In the second segment, Julia describes her dad’s experience as a “Navy brat”, moving constantly to different states and countries because his father was a four-star Navy Admiral working with Henry Kissinger. He was resilient and adaptable, traits that continue to inspire Julia. She illustrates the different parenting styles with authoritative, yet loving, being the most balanced. We owe a lot to our parents—not just for raising us, but for shaping the way we think, act, and see the world. So, next time they’re giving us advice, maybe we’ll listen a little closer… or at least pretend to. “To the world, you’re just one person, but to your parents, you are the world.” Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

When we think about animals, we often imagine them as playful companions or majestic creatures in the wild. Host, Keerthi tells us that animals also play a crucial role in our health. Animals are far more than just pets or wildlife. They are our companions, our helpers, and our sources of comfort. Whether offering emotional support, assisting with daily tasks, or simply being a part of our lives, animals play a crucial role in our health and happiness. Appreciate the humor, the love, and the downright absurdity that pets and animals bring into our lives. Whether they’re chasing their tails, making us laugh with their antics, or simply sitting quietly beside us, they remind us that life is a little bit better with a bit of furry—or scaly—company. Embrace the joy of animals – they’re the heartbeat of our happiness. memories. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy Stella Bella’s Barnyard Adventures, true stories about animals in children’s picture books with proceeds benefiting Be the Star You Are! charity @ https://www.starstyleradio.com/store

Be not afraid of growing slowly; be afraid only of standing still.— Chinese Proverb Teens are often told to think about the future. This is a challenging and overwhelming task at that age. Host Hasini shares her personal dreams, goals, and struggles as she is evolving. She gives us permission to enjoy the process. She then interviews vivacious and unapologetically authentic influencer, Skylar Sorkin, who is the Founder of the podcast, Regardless, and an Account Executive at Influential. Skylar shares the backstory of Regardless and her mission to provide tools, information, and positive reinforcement for twenty-somethings. Skylar is a powerhouse on social media with a clear and inspirational mission. She advocates fiercely for women, is dedicated to personal growth, and gives gratitude to her parents who are also life coaches. This is an energizing, powerful hour of upbeat talk.Embrace your journey with confidence, knowing that every step you take, no matter how small, brings you closer to your dreams and makes you a better version of yourself. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Empowerment Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

Want to know what teens think about the 2024 elections and the nominees? Join hosts Julia and Hannah as they both provide election history as well as their personal thoughts. They interview guest teen Viranshi Vira who discusses the inequities in healthcare, specifically the disparity with racial maternal mortality. She and her peers organized a school walkout to protest the overturn of Roe v. Wade and advocate for reproductive rights. Hasini enters the conversation and states that even though young teens can’t vote yet, their interests must be taken into account. Policies on education, climate change, healthcare, and social justice directly affect their lives, both now and in the years to come. Knowledge about the political process now prepares teens to be responsible and informed voters when they reach voting age. It also empowers teens to participate in discussions, advocate for causes they care about, and support candidates who align with their values. Elections are the cornerstone of democratic governance, giving citizens the power to choose their leaders and influence the direction of their country. In 2024, the stakes are high. Do citizens want democracy or a dictatorship? Do Americans want a leader who has integrity and advocates for freedom or a convicted felon who seeks revenge and retribution? Whatever your age, your voice makes a difference. If you are old enough to vote, do your homework and choose the best candidate. The future of our world depends on it and every vote counts. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“A journey is best measured in friends rather than miles.” – Tim Cahill Returning just hours before the broadcast from a phenomenal choral tour of South Africa, jet-lagged and seasoned teen host, Julia, enthusiastically talks about the new friends she made on her journey and welcomes three other teen reporters to discuss the joys of international travel. Two reporters, Diya and Armine, are making their debut segments. Diya shares the suspense she experienced in the cenotes of Mexico, Mayan ruins, and the awe of visiting the Taj Mahal. Armine encourages eco-traveling with simple tips on how to explore the world while keeping the health of the planet in mind. Hasini, another new reporter, reflects on last summer’s two-month internship at a hospital in Hyderabad in South India where she worked in a laboratory and enjoyed eating street food. She also waxed poetic about the history and magnificence of the Taj Mahal. Despite the challenges and exhaustion of flying, all the teens agree that traveling to a foreign land offers cultural awareness with distinctive perspectives. Making friends and bringing back memories tops the list of bonuses. Do your research, pack your bags, and get ready to fly. Remember wherever you travel, leave only footprints, and take only memories. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/

“You can speak well if your tongue can deliver the message of your heart.”-John Ford Does your stomach turn into circles if you must give a speech? How do you react when you must debate someone? Our two teen hosts, Julia and Keerthi, are accomplished speakers and debaters and they have plenty of useful tips to keep you from “dying.” Julia recently gave a Tedx talk that had her jittering in her boots. Keerthi is spearheading the Be the Star You Are!® debate collaboration with Eloquence. Both advise you to stay confident in your knowledge and the importance of your message. Authenticity resonates with audiences more than perfection. Julia heads to the airport to catch a flight for South Africa where she is performing with her choral group while Keerthi introduces our newest reporter, Hasini Ramala with her segment Teen talk!. Hasini feels right at home on the radio talking about storytelling and the importance for teens to share their real lives. She suggests that you enjoy the process of speaking about your stories and express yourself! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/

“Posterity! You will never know how much it cost the present generation to preserve your freedom! I hope you will make a good use of it.” – John Adams Our Express Yourself!® hosts are traveling, so producer, Cynthia Brian, is jumping behind the microphone to interview reporter, Kirpa about the meaning of freedom. Kirpa also offers what freedom means to her and how it relates to what is happening in the world today. Cynthia reads the Gift of Freedom chapter from her book, Be the Star You Are!® for Teens, reflecting on two months of a study program in the U.S.S.R. before 1991. Living behind the “Iron Curtain” was a wake-up call about the privilege of freedom. In segment three, Cynthia takes us into the garden to bring freedom and flowers together to help us plant a patriotic Independence Day design. Appreciate the complexities of the gift of freedom. America may not be perfect – no country is. America is a work-in-progress, a country constantly struggling to balance rights with responsibilities and to maintain a level of freedom and justice for all. We are fortunate to have the opportunity to be born in a land that allows us the ability to travel the world, witness the cultures and lifestyles of other nations, and then return to a country that welcomes our expression. Protect freedom as it is never free. Just living is never enough. Oscar Wilde may have said it best. He wrote, “With freedom, books, flowers, and the moon, who could not be happy?” Celebrate the 4th of July and our freedom! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ • Buy books at https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/online-store • Proceeds benefit Be the Star You Are!® 501c3

“Beauty begins the moment you decide to be yourself.” - Coco Chanel We all know the saying “beauty is in the eye of the beholder”, but does that truly describe the meaning of true beauty? Host Charvi shares how our perceptions of beauty change as we grow older, amplified by social media, celebrities, and marketing companies in segment two. She first interviews reporter, Kevin Choo, with his segment “A.I. and Us,” which talks about how A.I. can and does affect our lives. He discusses the use of A.I. in the field of art and asks several questions. Is A.I. art beautiful? Is A.I. art meaningful? Can A. I. evoke emotions? Charvi continues with how social media has significantly affected the concept of beauty and body image by propagating unrealistic beauty standards, such as the hourglass figure, fair skin, perfect facial features, and lean body shapes. Marketing companies and celebrities reinforce these ideals, impacting cognitive and behavioral aspects of body image. This has led to increased body dissatisfaction, eating disorders, and mental health issues like depression and suicidal ideation among women worldwide. The images portrayed on social media often do not reflect reality, exacerbating insecurities and promoting a damaging comparison culture. Beauty can be found in A.I. but the most important lesson for humans to love ourselves and know that we are beautiful just the way we are! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/

Sharanya and Keerthi host a program about a critical topic that affects Americans: gun control. Reducing gun violence is challenging because of the polarization around the issue. Keerthi talks about advocating for the Second Amendment while also requiring safety for gun storage. They interview teen activist, Amelia Vander May, who led a youth team to successfully lobby an ordinance in Santa Barbara that requires firearms to be stored in a locked container and disabled by a trigger lock. Amelia spearheaded the Santa Barbara Youth Council initiative to write and lobby for a safe storage ordinance aimed at preventing youth gun deaths. For a year, she gathered public support for the ordinance, worked with city advisory groups and nonprofits, and presented to the city council. The ordinance, which requires firearms in residences and vehicles to be stored in a locked container and disabled by a trigger lock, was passed into law and became effective in April 2024. Created to reduce gun violence, the Safe Storage Ordinance prevents unauthorized access to firearms, lowering the risk of unintentional injury, mass shootings, and gun suicides. She talks about how teens must get involved, even though many adults don’t take young people seriously. She suggests that teens be professional, do the research, get involved, and have those difficult conversations. Make others aware that guns are dangerous. Banning guns is not a feasible solution. We need bipartisan support and community outreach. Background checks, safe storage methods, services for mental health, addressing racial disparity, and healthy discussions are avenues for creating a safer environment. Sharanya shares a history of firearms and the U.S. grappling with the high rates of gun violence. What are the root causes? Tune in for an educational conversation about reducing gun violence. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/

“Rock bottom became the solid foundation on which I rebuilt my life.”- J.K. Rowling Teen host Sharanya shines light on substance abuse. Addressing teen substance abuse requires a collective effort to raise awareness, promote prevention strategies, and provide support for those affected. Education campaigns aimed at dispelling myths surrounding substance use, promoting healthy coping mechanisms, and fostering resilience can empower teens to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure. Sharanya introduces famous writers who were addicted to drugs or alcohol, yet emerged victorious, using their struggles as fodder for creativity and inspiration. Through their struggles and triumphs, these authors have not only confronted their own demons but also inspired readers around the world to confront their own challenges with courage and perseverance. Getting help for addiction is a courageous and transformative journey that requires commitment, perseverance, and support. With determination, resilience, and the support of others, individuals can overcome addiction and build a brighter, sober future. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio • https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ • https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/