In this episode, hosts Liz and Jordan talk with therapist and educator Tracie Berry-McGhee about the impact of social media on adolescents, particularly how it influences relationships, cyberbullying, and mental health. Tracie shares her work with the Sista Keeper Empowerment Center, explains her innovative Wellness Mobile, and introduces her self-esteem-building LOVE Principles. She emphasizes the need for educators, families, and communities to create safe, empowering environments for young people navigating digital life.

🔑 Key Takeaways:

✔️ Social media is a double-edged sword: it connects but also fuels anxiety, comparison, and relational aggression.
✔️ Cyberbullying doesn't stop at the school doors—it follows students 24/7 and deeply impacts school culture.
✔️ Students are seeking connection, but many feel isolated even while surrounded by followers.
✔️ Middle schoolers are particularly vulnerable to social media's harms due to identity formation and impulsivity.
✔️ Educators can make a huge impact by creating safe spaces, paying attention to non-verbal cues, and encouraging emotional literacy.

💬 Memorable Quotes:

🗣️ “Followers, but no friends—that’s how many of our students feel.”
🗣️ “Your algorithm will find you if you’re being true to yourself.”
🗣️ “We compare ourselves to a highlight reel that isn’t even real.”
🗣️ “You must be a keeper to yourself first before you can be a Sista Keeper.”
🗣️ “Social media isn’t going anywhere. We have to teach kids how to use it as a tool—not be used by it.”

🧠 Strategies You’ll Learn:

The LOVE Principles: A practical framework for students, educators, and parents:

• L – Listen: Encourage mindfulness, quiet time, and tuning into inner thoughts and feelings.
• O – Observe: Look beyond words—watch non-verbal behavior and shifting moods.
• V – Validate: Use affirmations and let students know they are seen, heard, and valued.
• E – Empower: Promote self-worth by encouraging originality, not comparison.

👁️‍🗨️ Additional Practices:

• Use restorative justice circles and safe group spaces for expression.
• Practice meditation, journaling, and affirmations in school settings.
• Monitor emotional shifts via body language and classroom behavior.
• Encourage positive use of social media (affirmation posts, reflection prompts, etc.).
• Promote digital literacy: understanding the emotional effects of algorithms and social comparison.

📚 Resources & Links:

🔗 Tracie’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theempowernista/
🔗 I Define Me website: https://www.idefinememovement.com/who-we-are
🔗 Meet JOY: https://www.idefinememovement.com/copy-of-idm-media
🔗 Book The IDM Wellness Mobile: https://www.idefinememovement.com/book-the-wellness-mobile

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