Ever since launching Youth Voice Amplified, we dreamed of featuring a student who would take their passion for youth voice and turn it into real, lasting change. In this powerful follow-up to Episode 20, we welcome back Carter Beardsley—now a college student, Education Navigator, and still a full-force advocate for youth voice.

Carter discusses how his high school work in leadership, literacy, and advocacy led to the creation of Pathways, a countywide initiative helping foster and homeless youth access college and career opportunities. From policy pitches to program-building, Carter shares how a simple idea turned into a system-shifting program with the support of adults who believed in him.

In this episode, Carter reflects on what it means to go from being given a seat at the table to helping build the table for others. He shares how student-led projects evolved into countywide change, what it takes to move from tokenism to true partnership, and how supportive adults helped fuel his journey. This episode is a masterclass in action, equity, and what happens when youth are truly heard.

Find helpful resources mentioned in this podcast episode.

Connect with Youth Voice Amplified

• Youth Voice Amplified Podcast
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If you would like to ask us a question, recommend a topic, or suggest a guest, please email us at [email protected].

Credits:

Producers: Brian Johnson, Gennessa Fisher, Kim Silva and Allyson Baptiste
Production Partners: Liam Silva and Kern Education Television Network, the Kern County Superintendent of Schools Office
Theme Song: “Beatitude” by Mountaineer 

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