In this episode of the Serene Pod, Selin and Mark dive into the growing debate around a possible social media ban for under-16s.

Is it a necessary step to protect young people’s mental health, or could it create more harm than good? We explore the impact social media has on children and teenagers today from anxiety, self-esteem and online safety, to peer pressure, exposure to harmful content and the way it shapes identity. The conversation also looks at the role of parents, schools and government, and whether banning social media is realistic or simply avoiding the bigger issue.

A thoughtful, honest discussion on one of the most talked-about topics affecting young people today.

In Episode 2 of Season 3, the conversation turns to a topic that has sparked widespread public debate the recent Beckham controversy and what it reveals about parenting, boundaries and up bringing having a voice within family dynamics.

Selin and Mark explore the pressures placed on young people, the complexities of parent-child relationships and the importance of listening rather than assuming.

Drawing on lived experience and professional insight, this episode opens an honest discussion about respect, autonomy, discipline and the line between protection and control.

As always, Serene Pod creates space for real conversations centring lived experiences and honest conversation encouraging reflection rather than judgement.

Welcome back to Serene Pod! Season 3 begins with our first episode of 2026 a moment to pause, reset and step into the year ahead.

The conversations are rooted in honesty, reflection and the continued belief that young people deserve to be heard, understood and taken seriously.

As we begin a new year and a new chapter for the podcast, this episode offers a thoughtful reintroduction to the values at the heart of Serene Pod and the voices it exists to amplify.

Thank you for being here as Serene Pod enters its third season. We are glad to be back with you!

Join us for the Season 2 finale of The Serene Pod as we take a reflective look back at the conversations, insights and standout moments that shaped this season.

In this round up episode, we revisit the themes that resonated most with our listeners, highlight key discussions on supporting children and young people and share behind-the-scenes reflections from the team. Whether you’ve been with us from the first episode or are just joining the Serene Pod community, this wrap-up offers a thoughtful overview of everything Season 2 set out to explore. We also give a glimpse of what’s coming next as we prepare for an even more impactful Season 3.

Thank you for listening, engaging and being part of our journey. Stay tuned, stay connected and enjoy the final chapter of Season 2.

In this episode of Serene Pod, Mark and Selin sit down for a powerful and honest conversation centred around men’s mental health in recognition of Men’s Mental Health Month.

Together, they unpack the realities that many men face but often struggle to voice: the pressures to “stay strong,” the silence around emotional wellbeing and the challenges that come with navigating mental health in a world where vulnerability isn’t always encouraged.

From personal reflections to the insights they’ve gained through working with young people, Mark and Selin explore what change really looks like and why creating safe, judgement-free spaces for boys and men is so important. They dive into resilience, emotional expression, male role models and the small everyday steps that can make a big difference.

In this episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Jared, a dedicated mentor from Spark2Life, an organisation empowering young people to break cycles of offending, build resilience and rediscover purpose. Jared shares his powerful story - from navigating his own challenges growing up, to now guiding others through some of the toughest moments in their lives.

With honesty and warmth, he talks about what it means to show up for young people who’ve been written off by society, and how mentorship can be the spark that transforms a life. This conversation is about hope, change and the impact of real connection. It’s a reminder that with the right support, understanding and belief, young people can rewrite their stories.

Whether you work with young people, have lived experience, or simply believe in second chances, this episode will leave you inspired by what’s possible when compassion meets action. Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to join us for more stories of resilience, authenticity and social change.

n this episode of Serene Pod, producer Theo takes the host seat and turns the spotlight back onto Mark and Selin the familiar voices behind the conversations you’ve been hearing. This time, we dive even deeper.

Theo asks the questions that bring out honest reflections on growth, purpose and the realities of leading a platform dedicated to giving young people a voice. From their personal experiences of resilience and adversity, to the lessons they’ve learned from the incredible guests who’ve joined Serene Pod, Mark and Selin open up about what drives their passion for change.

It’s a conversation filled with insight, laughter and honesty a chance to hear the people behind the pod share what keeps them grounded and what’s next for the Serene journey. Whether you’re here for inspiration or just love real, unfiltered stories about purpose and perseverance, this one’s for you.

Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to join us on this journey through thought-provoking conversations, stories of resilience, hope & lived experience.

In this episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Jonny, a Youth Justice Case Manager. Jonny opens up about his upbringing in Brixton, sharing how growing up in a tough environment shaped his resilience, perspective and drive to make a difference.

From facing challenges in his own youth to now guiding others through theirs, his story is one of transformation, purpose and the power of giving back. Through honest reflections and lived experience, Jonny talks about what it means to truly connect with young people, not by judgment, but through understanding and empathy. He explores how his past fuels his passion to support the next generation, helping them see that no matter where you start, your story can still lead somewhere powerful.

Whether you’re inspired by stories of growth, leadership, or community, this episode is a reminder that change often begins with those who’ve walked the hardest paths. Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to join us on this journey through thought-provoking conversations, stories of resilience, hope & lived experience.

In this episode of Serene Pod, our producer Theo takes charge and turns the spotlight onto Selin and Mark. Instead of hosting, they’re the ones answering questions opening up about their own experiences of burnout, resilience and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. From navigating adversity to finding strength in vulnerability, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the voices usually asking the questions.

Selin and Mark share honest reflections on what keeps them grounded, the lessons they’ve learned and why giving young people a platform continues to drive their passion. Whether you’re curious about the people behind Serene Pod or looking for encouragement in your own journey, this episode is full of authenticity, insight and hope. Don’t forget to like, comment and subscribe to join us on this journey through thought-provoking conversations, stories of resilience, hope & lived experience.

In this episode of Serene Pod, we welcome back Amani Simpson for part two of his incredible journey.

Last time, Amani shared his powerful story of resilience and transformation and now he’s here to tell us what he’s been up to since. From the exciting projects he’s leading, to the positive impact he’s making in communities and the vision he’s building for the future, this conversation dives into how Amani continues to turn his lived experiences into meaningful change.

Whether you’re here for inspiration, insight or a reminder of the strength that comes from perseverance, this episode is not to be missed.