Express Yourself!

Cynthia Brian, Producer, The Express Yourself! STAR On-Air Teen Team,

Express Yourself! is an entertaining adolescent fusion program where passion, productivity, and possibility populate the airwaves. Produced by Starstyle Productions, LLC as an international outreach program of Be the Star You Are! charity, the radio program, Express Yourself! is a show for, by, and about teens. Hosted by teens and teenage field reporters from around the country, Express Yourself! is THE destination for teens to be heard. Within the walls of the young adult community, listeners are uplifted and encouraged to be the stars of your own life. Through collaboration and conversation, a global campus of young people express their views. Topics include anything that kids talk about-books, music, making a difference, technology, school, art, humor, writing, tough talks, health, sports, films, family, friends, foes, fashion, and fun. Come play in STAR country and Express Yourself!, Sundays at 3 PM Pacific on VoiceAmerica Empowerment.

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S15 · E824
Yesterday · 22 min
Fresh Water Insecurity Due to Climate Disasters
Climate change is intensifying. Sea levels are rising. Droughts, extreme rainfall, heatwaves, and fires are increasing and unpredictable. Food and water insecurity cause massive human displacement. Radio host Allison Lu tackles these threats and discusses how freshwater scarcity worsens hunger and poverty, creating vulnerable refugees. In segment two, she talks about "risk multipliers" and how they apply specifically to displaced populations. She shares information about the recent horrific glacial flood in Nepal/China that has killed thousands and the flash flood at Bright Angel Creek in the Grand Canyon. In both catastrophic events, floods damage systems that carry clean water. Water is life…and in disasters, causes death. It is critical to be educated about climate change. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E823
August 28 · 38 min
LeadHER Up and Female Empowerment
Confidence isn't something that just happens. It must be rebuilt after being bullied, criticized, excluded, or made to feel like you're not good enough. Radio host Kirpa Gill discusses the importance of empowering girls and maintaining a healthy mind, body, and spirit. She talks about the platform she created to do that, LeadHer Up, focusing on female empowerment, mental health awareness, confidence, leadership, and building healthy relationships. The message is "Breaking stigma, building sisterhood." In segment two, Kirpa interviews the Founder and Executive Director of Be the Star You Are!® 501c3, Cynthia Brian, who shares her wisdom on the challenges facing young people and the solutions to creating confidence, leadership, and empowerment through positivity, kindness, and being your unapologetically authentic self. There is no perfection. There is no competition. Strive for excellence and be the best you every day. Know that you have everything you need to be the writer, producer, and star of your own life. You are enough. You matter. Follow LeadHER up on Instagram at @leadher.up to see events, workshops, and opportunities to get involved. Get Autographed First-Edition copies of any of Cynthia Brian's empowerment books or schedule a coaching session at https://www.CynthiaBrian.com/. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E822
August 21 · 28 min
Sports and the Effects of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness)), ESPYs, and Hitting the Wall
"Sports are a great place to show that equality can happen."— Venus Williams NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness), is the policy that allows collegiate athletes to make money through endorsements, sponsorships, and social media without losing their athletic eligibility. This has created a rippling effect throughout college sports. Host Julia Howe interviews teen George Fogarty about NIL in college sports. Julia shares her experience receiving the Billie Jean King Youth Leadership Award at the ESPYs. It was meaningful because it connected the work she started as a teen through Hitting The Wall to change sports for the better. Julia recalled, "being surrounded by athletes I had admired for years was surreal, but the most important part of the experience was meeting Billie Jean King and seeing how closely she pays attention to who is overlooked and why things are done the way they are. She reminded me that advocacy often starts by simply noticing something that feels wrong and being willing to question it. I left the ESPYs feeling grateful for everyone who helped build Hitting The Wall, but also more motivated to keep challenging the harmful expectations young female athletes face and to help make sports healthier for the girls who come next." Julia is on her way to Yale! Stay tuned for updates! Bio: George Fogarty has been in love with sports since age six. He is a rising senior at Loyola High School in Los Angeles, where he plays varsity tennis and has won numerous sportsmanship awards throughout his playing career. Beyond the physicality of the sport, he is also interested in the relationships that are at play in sports. He has been scouting college football players. He is a contributor for his high school newspaper, The Loyalist. Whether it's going to the gym, playing tennis, or studying sports in general, athletics are his passion. https://theloyalist.org/ Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E821
August 14 · 22 min
Can the Courts Save Democracy
"Where you see wrong, inequality, or injustice, speak out, because this is your country. This is your democracy." – Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall Courts are one of the most important institutions protecting American democracy, but if our entire strategy for preserving democracy is basically, "Hopefully the Supreme Court figures it out," then we have a much bigger problem. Keerthi Eraniyan hosts an important informational program focused on maintaining a democratic country and how the courts play a part. She posits that the real question isn't, "Can the courts save democracy?" but the better question is "Are we giving the courts a democracy worth saving?" America's foundation is built on democracy. It is up to each of us to save it. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E820
August 7 · 33 min
Issues Facing Teens
"Ignore those who tell you which way to go without first understanding where you are." - James Pierce Teens are facing numerous challenges, and in this episode of Express Yourself!™ host, Diya and reporter Allison are talking about the issues surrounding academics, friendships, family, social media, A.I., and more! In Allison's segment, The New Classroom, she shares the statistics that the U.S. is home to upwards of 5.3 million multilingual learner students, representing more than one in ten school-aged students. Yet their reach extends even beyond that proportion: 55% of educators teach at least one multilingual learner. A.I. can be helpful, yet can also hinder, because A.I. is not culturally neutral. Critical thinking skills are fundamental for language development. A.I. should serve as a scaffold, not a crutch. Diya tackles social media and friendships. Whether it's TikTok, Instagram, Snapchat, or Facebook, many teenagers struggle with the idea of when to stop scrolling. Some ways to cope with social media addictions are enforcing time limits, finding other hobbies, setting phone-free times, using websites or ad blockers, or seeking out a trusted adult. Along with making sure you are spending the right amount on social media, balancing your academics is truly necessary. Keeping friendships in your teenage years can sometimes be a struggle. It is also important to choose friends who are supportive, respectful, and encourage positive choices. Remember, there aren't problems without solutions, even for teens! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E819
July 31 · 51 min
Financial Literacy
Impact of Financial Literacy "An investment in knowledge pays the best interest." – Benjamin Franklin Were you taught about finances when you were a teen? The majority of schools don't teach financial literacy, which is a critical skill for life success. Host Julia Howe interviews teen, Sahishnu (Sai) Manivannan, who discusses how financial literacy, combined with early educational intervention and opportunity access, is the key individuals need to build stable financial habits to be passed down for generations. He started a free platform, Finlingo, to help students learn about finances. His goal is to have this program integrated into elementary schools in five states within five years. Julia investigates side hustles. What are they? Why have they become so popular? Which side hustles are actually good ideas for teenagers? Which ones pay far less than they appear to? And which ones are simply scams? She provides statistics and important information on the side hustle economy and how these correlates to financial literacy. INVEST in learning how to make informed, responsible financial decisions. Financial literacy is imperative to independence. BIO: Sahishnu (Sai) Manivannan Sahishunu is a rising senior at The Davidson Academy of Reno, Nevada. They are interested in behavioral economics, finance, and legal studies. They just completed a free Google extension named Finlingo, which works like Duolingo but for financial literacy. Check it out in the store if you would like to see some of their work firsthand! In their free time, they love to play tennis, snowboard, and read up on the latest financial news! https://www.Finlingo.org Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E818
July 24 · 35 min
What Will the Future Look Like?
"The future belongs to those who prepare for it today." — Malcolm X Radio host Saanvi Phaneendra welcomes Express Yourself's newest reporter, Allison Lu as they discuss what the future will look like. Saanvi talks about AI data centers in space in her segment Space Spotlight, while Allison discusses equality in educational systems in her segment, The New Classroom. Saanvi talks about the earliest chapter of what could become a totally new kind of space race. Not a race to the moon or to Mars, but a race to build the computers that will power our future in the sky above us. Allison explores what schools are currently doing for refugee and multilingual students, where support still falls short, and what a truly equitable classroom of the future would look like. The goal is not simply to help students adapt to a new environment; it should empower them to thrive within it. Whether it's a data center orbiting Earth or a classroom trying to give every student a fair shot, the future is being built right now by people who choose to prepare. This is our future! Bio Allison Lu Allison is a rising senior in Houston, Texas. Besides running her non-profit organization, Allison can be found swimming competitively, playing the violin with her orchestra, and listening to her favorite artist, Noah Kahan. She also enjoys to co-leading her school's Student Affairs Council and East Asian Affinity Group. In her segment, The New Classroom, she will be reporting on educational equity in the United States, with a primary focus on refugee and multilingual students. Instagram Handle: allisonzlu Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E817
July 17 · 28 min
Learning to Negotiate
What is the difference between arguing and negotiating? Host Keerthi, (our Be the Star You Are!® queen of debate) interviews Ryan Chang about how teens can learn to negotiate to better approach problems and collaborate for the best results. Negotiation is a commonly misunderstood idea. Most believe it is a method to win. But in reality, it is a mutually beneficial compromise made to resolve a conflict. When people change their mindset, negotiation becomes a vital asset in everyday life, especially for teenagers. In this episode, Keerthi explores why negotiation is so challenging, ways to make negotiation easier, and what not to do in a negotiation. Negotiation is one of the most useful—and most underrated—skills you'll ever learn. Tune in and learn to negotiate for collaborative solutions! Bio: Ryan Chang is a high school sophomore and has participated in Model United Nations (MUN) for the past 5 years. Ryan has won many awards for negotiation and public speaking. Currently, Ryan is the Under-Secretary-General for his school's MUN team and advisor/mentor to his middle school's MUN club. Ryan also created a curriculum and program to teach negotiation to middle/elementary school kids. For Ryan, negotiation is more than just speaking to others or trying to win in a conflict – negotiation is about coming to a compromise in which all parties benefit. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E816
July 10 · 39 min
A.I. + Autonomous Tools and Debates
In this episode of Express Yourself!, host Hannah Sahota reflects on a Fourth of July trip to San Francisco that sparked a deeper conversation about the future of artificial intelligence. After witnessing the city's streets overwhelmed with traffic, she explores how autonomous vehicles are transforming transportation and what that means for society. From safety and public health to privacy, employment, and the future of public transit, Hannah examines the opportunities and challenges of embodied AI, highlighting the companies driving this technology and asking whether society is prepared for a future where AI is no longer confined to our screens but is sharing the road with us. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E815
July 2 · 36 min
The 250th Anniversary of America
"Ask not what your country can do for you—ask what you can do for your country.". President John F. Kennedy The 4th of July commemorates the signing of the Declaration of Independence in America. This year, the USA celebrates 250 years of this American experiment in democracy. Join host Hannah and reporters Jatin and Milan as they share historical and personal perspectives on this semiquincentennial event. Can democracy survive? Teens weigh in. Let the fireworks begin! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E813
June 19 · 32 min
Deep Fakes
"There's a danger in the internet and social media. The notion that information is enough, that more and more information is enough, that you don't have to think, you just have to get more information - gets very dangerous." Edward de Bono Imagine receiving a video message from a celebrity, politician, or even a family member. They look real. They sound real. They seem completely authentic. But what if it never happened. That's the reality of deepfakes. Join host Kirpa and reporters Milan and Jatin as they describe what deepfakes are and how to protect yourself from getting scammed or sucked into a fake reality. The next time you encounter a shocking video, an unexpected voice message, or an image that seems almost too unbelievable to be true, remember one simple principle: Don't immediately trust your eyes or your ears. Verify! Tune in to learn more. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E812
June 12 · 40 min
The Women's Reproductive Rights in the United States
"There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish." - Michelle Obama In this episode of Empowerment and Equality, host Hannah Sahota examines the state of women's reproductive rights in America and the social forces shaping the national debate. Through historical context, policy analysis, and thoughtful commentary, the program explores how access to reproductive healthcare (including contraception, abortion care, and preventive health services) affects women's autonomy, education, economic opportunity, and overall well-being. The episode also discusses recent legislative developments, the role of advocacy organizations, the spread of healthcare misinformation, and ways individuals can become informed and engaged. By connecting current events to broader patterns of social change, Empowerment and Equality encourages listeners to think critically about healthcare, bodily autonomy, and the future of reproductive freedom in the United States. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E811
June 5 · 15 min
The Importance of Free Speech
"If freedom of speech is taken away, then dumb and silent we may be led, like sheep to the slaughter" George Washington. Imagine if every time you wanted to say something, a tiny government elf popped up on your shoulder and said, "Hmm… approved… denied… or maybe rephrase that in a way that makes me emotionally comfortable." Host, Keerthi, talks about the importance of free speech. With her naturally comedic flair, Keerthi examines a topic that is critical to democracy. Free speech is how ideas survive. Free speech matters because it lets society correct itself. Free speech also means you're going to hear things you don't like. Yet there are consequences. Free speech is powerful, and it has rules. It protects both the popular and unpopular voices. Free speech and dissent keep society alive, changing, and thinking. Let your voice be heard! Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E810
May 29 · 11 min
Survival Conservation
"The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it." · Robert Swan Why is conservation critical? Host Diya asks us to imagine life without clean water or wildlife. Conservation is one of our strongest defenses against climate change. Forests, oceans, and wetlands absorb enormous amounts of carbon dioxide, helping regulate Earth's temperature. The food we eat depends on healthy soil, clean water, pollinators like bees, and stable weather patterns. Protecting our beautiful planet for future generations to come is essential. Are you doing your part? Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E809
May 22 · 50 min
The Impact of Social Media
On this episode of Express Yourself!, Hannah Sahota's "Empowerment and Equality" segment explores the ever-changing relationship between social media, surveillance, and human dignity in the digital age. Using historical context, personal experience, political commentary, and social critique, the show traces the growth of social media from early internet communication systems to today's hyperconnected platforms driven by algorithms, AI, and data collection. The episode examines how modern technology has normalized constant surveillance through social media, smartphones, facial recognition, and online tracking, while also discussing the psychological and cultural consequences of virality, public humiliation, misinformation, and exploitation-based content. At the same time, the show emphasizes social media's power as a tool for empowerment, activism, creativity, and marginalized voices, arguing that these platforms can either uplift humanity or commodify suffering depending on how society chooses to use them. Through a passionate and thought-provoking narrative, Hannah challenges listeners to think critically about privacy, empathy, equality, and the ethics of online culture in an era where digital life increasingly shapes reality itself. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E808
May 15 · 34 min
EMPOWERING MALAWI
"Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world." · Nelson Mandela The poverty-ridden country of Malawi was devastated by AIDS. Host Julia Howe interviews the founder of Jacaranda Foundation, Marie da Silva, a Malawian education activist with a powerful personal story. Auntie Marie was working as a nanny in the US when she heard the local school was closing in the midst of the brutal AIDS epidemic in Malawi. Marie lost more than a dozen family members to AIDS herself. She funded the very modest project with her remittances, and the school started literally in her home -her kitchen is nowadays the headmistress' office! Marie talks about her work to educate, feed, and provide free healthcare to over 600 orphans and underprivileged youth. She shares the successes of her students and how their lives have been transformed Bios: LONG Born and raised in Malawi, Marie Da Silva worked as a nanny in the US for 19 years. She lost many members of her family to AIDS -Malawi was one of the hardest-hit countries by this epidemic. In 2002, after learning the school in her village was closing, she founded the Jacaranda School for Orphans in her childhood home. For nine years, Marie sent to it a third of her salary. Her Foundation now schools, feeds and provides healthcare to 600 children. In 2008, Marie was recognized as Top Ten CNN Hero. She has also received the Lifetime Achievement Award from the President of Malawi. Her and her husband, Jacaranda's Executive Director, Luc Deschamps, are also responsible for Luc's Libraries, an initiative that has created 37 libraries through donations, reaching 80,000 children. https://www.jacarandafoundation.org/ https://www.facebook.com/jacarandafoundation/ www.instagram.com/jacarandaschoolfororphans/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jacarandafoundation https://www.youtube.com/user/JacarandaF Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E807
May 8 · 37 min
Voter Rights and Voter Suppression
"Bad officials are elected by good citizens who don't vote." - Christian Lange Are voter rights under attack in the United States? In her segment, Empowerment and Equality, Express Yourself!™ radio host, Hannah Sahota, leads us through the history of American democracy, showcased through voting in elections. Voting is one of the most important rights in a democratic society because it is the fundamental tool that citizens can use to influence laws, elect leaders, and shape the future of their country. In the United States, however, the right to vote has not always been equally available to all people. The 13th Amendment abolished slavery, the 14th Amendment granted citizenship and equal protection under the law, the 15th Amendment banned denying voting rights based on race, and the 19th Amendment, ratified in 1920, granted women the constitutional right to vote. In response to the Civil Rights Movement, Congress passed the Voting Rights Act of 1965, outlawing literacy tests and other discriminatory voting practices. The 24th Amendment banned poll taxes in federal elections, helping reduce economic barriers to voting. The 26th Amendment lowered the voting age from 21 to 18. Despite these advancements, voter suppression continues to exist in modern forms. Tune in to find out how to use your voice to demonstrate your desire for democracy, representation, and civil rights. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E806
May 1 · 29 min
Fashion and the Effects on Accelerated Garbage
"Become an active citizen through your wardrobe." Livia Firth Today we're not talking about a bill, a ballot measure, or a party platform. We're talking about your closet. The fashion industry generates 92 million tons of textile waste annually. Host Julia Howe and reporter Hanna Yu tackle the tragedy of fast fashion and its environmental impact. Hanna focuses on the philosophy of this conspicuous consumption. Whose fault is it? Julia talks about TikTok Shop. What makes TikTok different from a regular shopping site is that its algorithm not only understands shopping habits. It understands attention. One e-commerce consultant quoted by CNBC explained that every pause, click, swipe, and moment of engagement teaches the algorithm more about what to show you next. Real style develops slowly. TikTok style often moves in the opposite direction. Our lives are already full of things asking to be bought, worn, displayed, replaced, upgraded, optimized, and aestheticized. Think slowly in a world that wants you to scroll fast. Be mindful of your consumption, invest in our planet. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E805
April 24 · 45 min
Social Media Phenomena and Rhetoric
Hosted by Hannah Sahota, this episode of Express Yourself! invites listeners into a thought-provoking exploration of how online rhetoric shapes the world we live in today. In her segment, "Empowerment and Equality," Hannah breaks down how viral posts, influencers, and algorithm-driven platforms like TikTok and Instagram are no longer just sources of entertainment, but powerful forces that influence identity, consumer behavior, and social norms. Through engaging commentary and real-world examples, she examines both the positive and harmful impacts of digital communication from the rise of online communities and evolving language like "algospeak," to the spread of misinformation, performative activism, and algorithmic bias. With a balance of insight and personal perspective, Hannah challenges listeners to reflect on their own online habits and consider the deeper impact of every like, share, and comment. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/
S15 · E804
April 17 · 35 min
AI on the Moon and Mars?
"We are an impossibility in an impossible universe." Ray Bradbury Radio hosts Julia Howe and Saanvi Phaneendra take us to outer space via AI. Today, we are diving into one of the most exciting things happening in space exploration. Humanity is not just visiting other worlds; we are planning to live on them. And AI is right at the center of making that happen. NASA is not trying to repeat Apollo. The explicit goal is to go to the Moon and stay there, building up to a permanently occupied outpost. AI is the backbone that keeps the whole civilization running. Mars is the fourth planet from the Sun and has captured human imagination for centuries. It is our most realistic next home beyond the Moon, it is the target of some of the most ambitious plans in the history of space exploration, and AI is already working there right now. At facilities run by NASA Jet Propulsion Laboratory, engineers build entire fake Martian terrains, test rovers, and use AI simulations to train until ready to go. Somewhere out there, the person who will live on the moon and walk on Mars is alive right now, probably in school, probably just like you. Follow us: https://www.starstyleradio.com/expressyourselfteenradio https://www.starstyleradio.com/guests-express-yourself https://www.facebook.com/ExpressYourselfTeenRadio/ https://www.facebook.com/BTSYAcharity/ https://www.instagram.com/expressyourselfradio/ Sign up for FREE Newsletter: https://cynthiabrian.substack.com/ Buy shirts and hats with BTSYA logos: https://www.bonfire.com/store/be-the-star-you-are-merch/ Listen to StarStyle®-Be the STAR You Are!® shows: https://sites.libsyn.com/556617 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/starstyle-be-the-star-you-are/ Listen to all Express Yourself!™ Teen shows at https://sites.libsyn.com/560220 Or https://www.voiceamericamedia.com/show/express-yourself/

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