New Milford Youth Agency Podcast

Cole Bartmon and Finlay Savoir sit down to discuss social media and the impacts on society they've noticed, as well as their personal experiences growing up in an age dominated by the internet.

Cole Bartmon talked with Jayleen, Ash, and Clove about the upcoming holiday and their thoughts on all things Thanksgiving.

Amelia, Jayleen, Victoria, and Joanna talk about the wonders and joyfulness that lie in each of their cultures!

Cole, Finlay, Bryce, and Jack talk about what it's like during your first year of college, applying to college, and preparing for college!

Teens talk about all things relating to self esteem, body positivity, and the impact of social media. Cole discusses with Amelia, Alex, and Jayleen about their perspectives on how we view body image.

Cole Bartmon discusses all things personal finance with Jennifer Birdseye the Director and Banking Center Manager of New Milford's Webster Bank. They have an in depth discussion of how to manage your savings and how to craft reasonable and effective monetary goals.

Members of the YA Video Crew, Cole and Finlay, sit down with Pete Bass to talk about what makes New Milford so great. From the parks to the people, there is so much that goes into making New Milford "a really great soup". If you're curious about what's going on in New Milford, visit www.newmilfordnow.org and sign up for Notify New Milford at www.newmilford.org.

Cole Bartmon and Annabelle Colonna discuss body positivity and its impacts on mental health. Annabelle's Influencer Recommendations:@Danaemercer@Breeelenehan

The YA Media crew gets together with a group of high school seniors to discuss their future plans and all types of advice they have for other youth who are in the process of applying to college and beginning to plan their lives after high school.

The Youth Agency’s Aine McInerney sits down with New Milford residents Tracey Ruscil, Paula Taylor, Tammy McInerney, and Todd McInerney to discuss what it is like to be a parent to a child/children who are nuerodivergent, and resources that may be helpful to those experiencing this as well.Maria Leo:[email protected] Instagram with other helpful resources:https://www.instagram.com/Nmyouthagency/ Other NMYA Websites:https://youthagency.org/https://www.facebook.com/NMYouthAgency/https://www.youtube.com/@newmilfordyouthagencymedia6099

If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, call 1-888-789-7777 or visit CCPG.ORG. This interview was conducted as part of Connecticut Youth and Gambling Awareness Project 2024 supported by CREC, CPG and PGS. Thank you to YA Media's Jack Morrison and Cole Bartmon for their work on this project. Also, thank you to Dylan Heydet, Elliet Shriver, Jayleen Paulino, and students Jonathan Dota, Tavi Storrs. Thank you to Sacred Heart University's James Geisler, Brian Dolan and Kathy Katts for this interview.

The Youth Agency’s Aine McInerney sits down with New Milford resident Sarah Seo to discuss her accomplishments as an Eagle Scout and first-year college student at WestConn.

Finlay sits down with Ray Hadden to discuss how to get involved with the Special Olympics and how it fosters opportunities for those with intellectual disabilities.Website: www.soct.org

Cole Bartmon sat down with Elizabeth Cotter, M.S., L.P.C., a Mental Heath Advocate, Presenter, Therapist, and Educator with a specialization in trauma-focused services for women, children, and young adults. They discuss all things social media and how the internet and modern technology affect all of us. Website:commonsense.org

Cole Bartmon talks with teens, Bryce Lewis, and guests Josh and Emma, about their challenges growing up in middle school and high school. Tune in to hear about dealing with the transitions into middle school and into high school. Please note, that the opinions stated in this podcast do not directly represent those of the New Milford Youth Agency. These opinions reflect the views of high school and middle school teenagers. Enjoy!

YA Media Crew Member Annabelle sits down with Abigail Wood to discuss suicide prevention and postvention. Resources:Western CoalitionDanbury7 Old Sherman, Danbury, CT 06810Waterbury Location117 East Aurora Street, Waterbury, CT 06708Website: wctcoalition.orgTel: 203-743-7741Abigail WoodBehavioral Health DirectorWestern CT CoalitionEmail: [email protected] - Mental Health First Aid TrainingDiane Cassidy, MHAT-WCT Program CoordinatorEmail: [email protected] Tel: 860.567.0863 ext. 1252. CTSABStatewide Suicide Prevention Campaign - One Word, One Voice, One LifeWebsite: https://www.preventsuicidect.org/CT Crisis Help Line: 211National Suicide Hotline: 988Text Helpline: 741741

The YA Media Crew sat down with John, Nick, and Angela to discuss Apex's harm and reduction services. Apex Resources:Website - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/ Services - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/our-services/ HIV - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/hiv-services/ Substance Use and Behavioral Health - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/substance-use-and-behavioral-health/ Harm Reduction and Prevention Services - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/harm-reduction-and-prevention-services/ Support Groups - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/support-groups/Contact Apex - https://apexcommunitycarect.org/contact-us/ New Milford Locations - 30 Bridge Street, Suite 2, New Milford, CT 06776Prevention & Harm Reduction*Van Outreach*New Milford GreenTuesday - 2:00pm to 4:00pmLoaves & Fishes Hospitality House (40 Main St)Last Tuesday of every month - 4:00pm to 5:30pm

NMYA's Jack and Elliet interview Connecticut State Representative, Bill Buckbee. The group reflect on Mr. Buckbee's history in New Milford, and how he helps New Milford in Connecticut's State Congress.

Cole Bartmon talks with teens, Kyle, Finlay, Elliet, and Jack, about topics they're thinking about! Tune in to hear about their experiences with education, Covid-19, technology, and what it's like being a part of gen-z. Please note, that the opinions stated in this podcast do not directly represent those of the New Milford Youth Agency. These opinions reflect the views of high school teenagers. Enjoy!

Finlay and Kyle sat down with Mr. Stephen Matos to have a very informational conversation about the dangers of gambling and discuss prevention skills and strategies!In this podcast, Mr. Matos references the suicide rate among people with a gambling disorder. Please see this LINK reference regarding this statistic. If you or someone you know are affected by a gambling disorder text CTGAMB to 53342 or call 1-888-789-7777Other Resources:MCCA: https://mccaonline.com/Connecticut Council On Problem Gambling - https://ccpg.org/Problem Gambling Services: https://portal.ct.gov/DMHAS/Programs-and-Services/Problem-Gambling/PGS---Home-Page

In today's episode, we are joined by Maryanne Shaffer, the Secretary of the Career Center for New Milford High School, and Steven Culbertson, the Career Pathway Coordinator. Together, they will be discussing the importance of considering options beyond high school, such as college and trade schools, as well as the resources available to help students make informed decisions about their future careers. Tune in to hear valuable insights and advice from these experts on how to set yourself up for success after high school.

Katy Francis, the Vice Chair for the New Milford Town Council, sits down with YA Media's Jack Morrison and Cole Bartmon for a discussion about how she and others keep New Milford running. Katy is also a Community Impact Coordinator for the Southern Litchfield County United Way, and a Rotarian. The three talk about how big a role volunteering plays in modern society. Please listen in and learn more.

With Ivana Butera, Ivana Butera, LMSW, Director of New Milford Social Services and Wanda Flyer, Volunteer and Program Coordinator sit down with YA Media’s Jack Morrison and Cole Bartmon for a discussion about how they help those in need here in New Milford. Although October is Hunger Action Month, Social Services works hard year around to serve our community. Please listen in and learn more.

Members of our YA Media crew came together on this podcast to share anecdotes and advice as children of divorced parents. From double holidays to sharing inside jokes, these teens talk about how divorce changed their perspective on the "perfect family" and reminds them that sometimes happily ever after takes a couple tries.

YA Media sits down with a group of LGBTQ+ teens to talk about their experiences and opinions on everything from coming out to queer people in history.Suicide Prevention Hotline: 800-273-8255Trevor Project Hotline: 1-866-488-7386Transgender Hotline: (877) 565-8860Resources/Support:https://www.thetrevorproject.org/https://translifeline.orgMore hotlines, chat rooms, and resources: https://www.hrc.org/resources/direct-online-and-phone-support-services-for-lgbtq-youth

YA Media is delighted to have Valerie J. Walsh back to our studio to talk to her about her recently published novel "Shattered to the Core", her CORE Fitness program, as well as a plethora of other important issues such as depression and alcoholism. This discussion left our crew with a new perspective on these problems and with tools to help them be there for others who may be struggling. Links:To purchase Valerie's book, click here!Valerie's Website - https://valeriejwalsh.com/

YA Media enjoyed sitting down with teacher and football coach Mason Flynn to discuss his experiences and what he's learned about the dangers and triumphs of sports over the years. They talk about mental health, sports injuries, and the pressures surrounding high school sports coupled along with the support he can offer as a coach.

YA Media sat down with Dr. Lindsey Maloney to discuss the issue of vaping, its widespread popularity among kids and teenagers, and its effects on health.

YA Media was thrilled to welcome back Ciara Lynch and Evan Carlson, who joined our hosts, Annabelle Colonna and Elliet Schriver, on the other end of our podcasts as guests to talk about their experiences going into their freshman year of college. They discuss their own schools, share their advice, and answer our hosts' burning questions.

YA Media enjoyed sitting down with Robyn Wood from DCF, And foster parents Jen Gaily and Brian and Sam Hembrook, to talk about the process and joys of being a foster parent.CT Alliance of Foster & Adopted Families: 1-888-KIDHERO

Matthew DeLuca, co-founder of Confidant Health, and Michael Gillece, a man in recovery, talk to us about their struggles with substance abuse. The two men share their stories about their journeys to recovery and discuss how they're seeking to help others turn their lives around as well. They remind us that there is hope and help available.Confidant Health - https://confidanthealth.com/ The New Milford Youth Agency - http://youthagency.org/ (860) 210.2030Our Video Crew Recommends This TED Talk about Substance Abuse - Johann Hari: Everything You Know About Addiction Is Wrong

We were excited to sit down with our guests to discuss their career goals and their current projects. Right now they're working on a film here in New Milford, utilizing our beautiful town as a backdrop and including our lovely townspeople in its production. Keep an eye out for the the upcoming "Lillinonah".Instagram:@amerikanamedia@luxbeautyclub@lillinonahmovie

TRIGGER WARNING: SEXUAL ASSAULT, HARASSMENT, AND RAPECara Mackler and Rachel Krehel from the Women's Center of Greater Danbury join us to discuss consent, sexual assault stats, building your boundaries, and more in this informational yet casual conversation. A great listen for rising high school seniors and incoming college freshman, yet still educational and important for all. Women's Center Sexual Assault Hotline: 203.731.5204Our team recommends this video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fGoWLWS4-kU.

Jamell Farmer, LPCA, a behavioral clinician, joins our teen hosts to have an open and honest conversation regarding racial injustice and the many layers that come with discussing it. In this episode, Ciara Lynch welcomes the newest member of the YA Media Crew, Evan Carlson, as well as our guest hosts, Jordyn Ingram and Alex Pascasio.You can find Jamell's podcast at any of the resources below:Twitter: @CCshowPodcastFacebook: Controlled Chaos ShowIG: controlledchaosshowpodcastYouTube: Controlled Chaos Podcast (Controlled Chaos Show)Trellis Mental Health Center:[email protected]: (203) 617-8790Baseball Card Study: https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/abs/10.1111/1756-2171.12115Jordan recommends Sulwe, a children's book by Lupita Nyong'o

Lauren Brown, a registered dietitian and nutritionist, spoke with us about disordered eating in teens, our relationship with food and our bodies, pressures from society and the food industry, and the pandemic's impact, as well as what we can do to help resolve this pressing issue. Listen to learn more. National Eating Disorders Association: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ Hotline (text or call): 1-800-931-2237Help Guide, Eating Disorders: https://www.helpguide.org/home-pages/eating-disorders.htm

Mayor Pete Bass sits down with our crew, Dillon Thomas, Annabelle Colonna, and Ciara Lynch, to talk about how New Milford coming out of the pandemic and what the future looks like for our town. We welcomed to this podcast New Milford students Lucy Jackson, Conner Martinelli, and Gianna Militana, who joined in on this roundtable discussion to share their questions, concerns, and thoughts regarding the effects of the pandemic on youth in our community.

Matt Austin, Director of Education, Training and Outreach at the Women's Center, spoke with us about pressing topics such as sexual assault awareness, healthy relationships and courses of action, services they offer to anyone who needs it regardless of gender, and much more! The Women's Center of Greater Danbury Website: https://wcogd.orgMatt Austin's Email: [email protected]: Domestic Violence (203) 731-5206; Sexual Assault (203) 731-5204Athlete A - Available on NetflixOur team also suggests you watch this video about consent: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lOS5_I3Yzog

Laura Olson, CO Director of Pupil Personnel and Special Services here in New Milford, Ct. joins us for helpful parenting tips to navigate the school system if your child requires services or accommodations to succeed. Our crew, Annabelle Colonna, Dillon Thomas and Paz Moran, sit down with Laura to find out how parents can recognize if a child needs help and how to access services. Laura referred to many great resources. Please check the links below. People First Languagehttp://www.inclusioncollaborative.org/docs/Person-First-Language-Article_Kathie_Snow.pdfWelcome To Hollandhttps://www.pinterest.com/pin/562879653411713646/The Power of Peers in the Classroom/ Enhancing Learning and Social SkillsCouncil for Exceptional ChildrenEdited by Karen R. Harris and Lynn Mehr

WCSU's Luis Santiago (Director of Admissions) and Kathleen Lindenmayer (Director of the Career Success Center) join Annabelle Colonna and Dillon Thomas for an interview about the choices and opportunities for students as they plan their future, no matter what plans you have in mind. Western Connecticut State University important links: www.wcsu.edu/admissions (admissions office)www.wcsu.edu/careersuccess (Career Success Center website)www.wcsu.edu/westconnworks (jobs, event sign up and more!)also check out the career app: UpperCampus is the first end-to-end career learning and success platform for students, schools and employers. Visit our web site or email us at [email protected] for more information.

In this episode, we look at our Community Care Coordinator, Justin Cullmer. We speak about problems in the community and what he's working to accomplish as the only Care Coordinator in the Nation.

Dillon Thomas, Ciara Lynch and Roxanne Edel produce their first podcast with an interview with Brian Hembrook. Brian oversees the Youth Agency's Childcare Program, works with the Maxx staff and the Youth Advocate to provide education, prevention services, support and positive programming to our community.

Kathy Hanley from Western Ct. Coalition discusses health concerns and statistics related to vaping devices. Resources and support are available for parents and teens who want to quit their addiction to Nicotine.

Join us as we discuss a new program called Wingman with Ian HockleyLink to more informationhttps://www.dylanswingsofchange.org/DISCLAIMERThis podcast was recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic and contents may reflect thus. for more information on COVID-19 and how you can keep you and your family safe, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/.Thank you for your support

Join us as we sit down with Laura Cleary to discuss anxiety in today's youth,how to start the discussion with your children as well as healthy ways to cope.DISCLAIMERThis podcast was recorded before the COVID-19 pandemic and contents may reflect thus. for more information on COVID-19 and how you can keep you and your family safe, please visit https://www.cdc.gov/.Thank you for your support