The Light of Youth Podcast
Episode Title: The Bible vs. Reality
Hosts: James Curet & Timi | Guest: Pastor Alex Williams

In this powerful episode of The Light of Youth, hosts James Curet and Timi sit down with Pastor Alex Williams to dive deep into a foundational question: Why should you believe in the Bible?

Together, they explore the Bible’s historical accuracy, its infallible truth, and how its words remain living and breathing—still changing lives today. Pastor Alex reminds us that no struggle or temptation is truly unique—there’s someone in Scripture who’s faced it too. The Bible isn’t just a book—it’s the voice of God, and if you listen closely, you can hear Jesus speaking through every page.

James shares why he believes the Bible is God’s direct teaching to us, and Timi reflects on how people’s lives are dramatically transformed after encountering God’s Word. They unpack why the Bible is the most stolen and most purchased book in the world—and why it continues to offer hope to this generation.

Whether you’re questioning your faith or looking for something real, this episode is for you.

Light of Youth Podcast Episode: "Our Minds Matter”
Hosts: Le’Anna Britton & Dylen
Special Guest: Edison Jacquez
In this powerful episode of the Light of Youth podcast, we explore an essential and timely topic: Our Minds Matter and the importance of being mentally, emotionally, and spiritually grounded.

Our podcast guest, Edison Jacquez shares three Key Protective Factors Against Suicide:
1. Individual Protective Factors
    •    Know your personal triggers—awareness is the first step to healing.
    •    Have safe spaces and people where you can talk without judgment.
    •    Remember: We all need help. Reaching out is a sign of strength, not weakness.
2. Community Protective Factors
    •    Stay connected—whether it’s through your church, local organizations like the YMCA, youth leadership programs, or mentorship groups.
    •    Being part of a community reminds you that you’re not alone.
3. Societal Protective Factors
    •    Don’t let society define you or place stigma on your mental health.
    •    Push back against the idea that struggling means you’re weak—it doesn’t.

Youth Reflections:
Our Podcast Guests Le’anna and Dylen shared how much they resonated with Edison Jacquez’s insights. They opened up about facing real-life issues like suicidal thoughts, bullying, and financial struggles.
They also shared their gratitude for God, prayer, and having a relationship with Him as a source of strength and peace.
 Final Encouragement
Take ownership of your mental health. Speak up. Be there for others. Don’t let anyone feel silenced or invisible.
Life comes with challenges, but with support, faith, and resilience, we will get through them—together.
Be kind. Be a light. And most importantly—be a safe place for others to be heard.

 

In this episode of the Light of Youth Podcast, hosts Lamira Britton and Adiel Maina are joined by special guest Rev. Dr. Nicole B. Simpson to explore the essentials of financial literacy and smart money management. Dr. Simpson introduces the 10/10/80 method, a simple yet powerful strategy that encourages setting aside 10% of income for savings, 10% for giving, and living responsibly on the remaining 80%. She stresses the importance of financial discipline, warning against the common pitfall of spending too much on food—reminding young people, “Don’t bite off more than you can chew.”

The conversation also delves into the realities of earning a paycheck, breaking down FICA and OASDI deductions and explaining how these mandatory contributions affect take-home pay. Dr. Simpson emphasizes the importance of thinking ahead, encouraging young listeners to start saving for retirement as soon as they get their first job. She highlights the benefits of employer-matching contributions, explaining how early planning can create long-term financial stability and generational wealth.

Beyond just earning and saving, the episode challenges listeners to make intentional financial decisions and develop habits that lead to financial freedom. Whether you’re a teenager earning your first paycheck or a young adult navigating financial independence, the insights shared in this discussion will empower you to manage your money wisely. No matter how much you have, financial literacy is key to securing a strong and stable future.

Episode Title: “But My Friend Said”

Host Dr. Ayanna Towers and Guest Kailey Nix and Kylie Reed. 

Have you ever had a friend who made you feel small, controlled, or manipulated? In this episode of The Light of Youth, we’re talking about a real issue many teens face—when bullies disguise themselves as friends. Not all friendships are healthy, and sometimes, the people closest to us can be the ones tearing us down. True friends don’t hurt you, but toxic ones might use guilt, control, or peer pressure to keep you in their grip.

So how do you handle fake friends? We break it down with real talk on setting boundaries, limiting access to people who don’t respect you, and knowing when to walk away. Sometimes, that means answering a call with a text instead, gradually pulling back, or even ghosting when necessary to protect your peace. It’s not about being mean—it’s about valuing yourself enough to step away from what isn’t good for you.

We also dive into ways to stop bullying and take back your power. The first step is recognizing that you deserve respect—if someone constantly puts you down or manipulates you, they are not a real friend. Establish firm boundaries, stand up for yourself, and don’t be afraid to cut ties with people who mistreat you. Reduce how accessible you are by limiting calls and messages, and surround yourself with true friends who support you. If you ever feel mistreated, step away, because your mental and emotional well-being matter.

Bullying doesn’t just happen at school; it can happen in group chats, social media, and even within your own friend circle. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a toxic friendship, this episode is for you. Tune in as we share practical ways to recognize fake friends, protect your peace, and build healthy, uplifting relationships.

Strategies Stop Bullying

Stopping bullying starts with each of us. Be the kind of friend who uplifts others, not one who tears them down. If you see someone being mistreated, stand up for them or offer support. Speak up, whether it’s confronting the situation directly, reporting it to a trusted adult, or simply letting someone know they’re not alone. And if you’re the one experiencing bullying, remember: you don’t have to go through it alone. Seek help from supportive friends, family, teachers, or counselors. You are worth so much more than someone else’s negativity. Choose kindness, choose respect, and most importantly, choose yourself. Let’s work together to create friendships and spaces where everyone feels valued and safe.