They’re teaching 12-year-olds how to pass laws.

In this episode of The Clark Connection Podcast, Aaron Clark sits down with Cheryle Totten to discuss the Youth Legislature program in Louisiana—a powerful middle school leadership program that teaches students how the legislative process works through hands-on civic engagement.

For more than 25 years, Youth Legislature has empowered middle school students to write, debate, and pass mock legislation while building confidence, public speaking skills, and real leadership experience. This nonprofit youth program is helping shape informed voters, engaged citizens, and the next generation of leaders across Louisiana.

In this conversation, we cover:

00:00 Coming up

01:10 Theme Song

01:35 Introduction to Youth Legislature and Its Impact

06:27 Understanding the Youth Legislature Program

14:00 The Importance of Civic Engagement in Middle School

18:22 Expanding the Program Statewide

24:09 Challenges of Nonprofit Management

32:57 The Role of Educators in Youth Legislature

33:25 Cheryl's Journey to Leadership

41:58 Leadership Lessons and Recommended Reads

47:41 How to Get Involved and Support Youth Legislature

If you're passionate about leadership development, youth empowerment, civic education, nonprofit impact, or preparing the next generation of leaders, this episode is for you.

Connect with Aaron Clark:

Website: https://coachaclark.com

Email: [email protected]

Instagram: https://instagram.com/coach_a_clark

Podcast Instagram: https://instagram.com/clarkconnectionpodcast

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