Scarlett Lewis’ guest is Lorraine Connell, the founder of Peers Not Fears. Scarlett discusses Lorraine’s background in education and teen empowerment, as well as her book and workbook on leadership skills for teens. They also highlight the importance of choosing love over fear and the effectiveness of peer-to-peer groups in middle and high schools, particularly in facilitating trust and friendships. They discuss the upcoming peer-to-peer program in Rochester, New Hampshire  which aims to address feelings of isolation and promote collective growth.

Lorraine talks about her journey from being a chemistry teacher to embracing leadership roles. Initially, she struggled with the idea of being an expert in social and emotional learning, feeling that she couldn’t lead in advisory roles due to her own lack of skills. However, she eventually transitioned into the work, recognizing the importance of leadership in her role as a mom, teacher, coach, and advisor. She emphasized the need to redefine what leadership means and how it can be stepped into, even by those who feel they lack the necessary skills. https://www.peers-not-fears.com/