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Podcast Club

“When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.” Dalai Lama
The primary goal of the podcasting club is teaching our children to advocate for themselves and listening respectfully to multiple points of view. Our High Schoolers are approximately 14-18 years old, and are speaking openly about their thoughts and opinions, on subjects important to them. Topics are chosen by the students.
Our guidelines to them are:
  1. Host(s) must research the shows topic so they can speak in an informative way, and not only opinionated.  Episode topics will be shared with guest(s) in advance.
  2. Allow everyone to state their thoughts with minimal or no interruptions.
  3. No cursing or slander.
  4. Editing to change the context or intention of statements made is never allowed.
  5. The school will attempt to invite a professional on the topic, should we deem a professional presence necessary for follow-up.
The views and opinions expressed in the podcast are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Excelsior Prep High School.
 
 
 
Ever wonder why some days you feel focused and energized, while other days you’re tired, irritable, or just off? In this episode, we dig into how nutrition impacts behavior — from mood swings to motivation to how well you can actually think during class. Students share real stories about skipping breakfast, surviving on snacks, and discovering how small changes in what they eat totally changed how they felt throughout the day.
Also a community reminder: NYC runs hundreds of Summer Meals locations across all boroughs—parks, pools, libraries, schools, and community centers. Teens can walk in and grab a meal, no registration required. Meals typically include fruit, milk, sandwiches, hot entrées, and vegetarian options.
 
 
 
 
Guidance Counselor Ms. Sanon joins the discussion as a guest speaker, and shares mental health resources available to teens.
 
 
 
There are free mental health resources available to NYC teenagers, including:
[1] NYC Teenspace (Powered by Talkspace): A city program offered by the NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene. It provides free, virtual therapy for NYC teens aged 13–17. This is a crucial resource to highlight on-air for listeners who might need help.  
[2] The Child Mind Institute (NYC Based): A national nonprofit dedicated to transforming children's mental health. Their website has extensive, student-friendly data articles detailing exactly how adolescent depression differs from adult depression, particularly regarding irritability and school performance.
[3] NYC 988: The city’s free, confidential mental health support lifeline. You can text or call 988 anytime.
 
 
 

Why is something so normal still treated like a secret? In this episode, we break down the facts and feelings around menstruation — what it is, what it isn’t, and why it’s time to talk about it without embarrassment. Students share real experiences about managing periods during school, dealing with cramps in class, navigating mood changes, and handling the awkward moments that everyone pretends don’t happen.

We also look at how stigma affects students, why access to products matters, and how friends and schools can be more supportive. It’s honest, educational, and full of the kind of conversation that helps everyone understand each other better.

 

 

 
From hallway drama to exam stress, we explore real‑life moments where emotional control makes all the difference. Hear students share their go‑to strategies for staying calm, confident, and connected, even when life gets loud.
 
 
 
Landing your first job should feel exciting — a step toward independence and growth. But what happens when that experience is shadowed by racial discrimination? In this episode, Excelsior Preparatory students open up about navigating bias, microaggressions, and unfair treatment in the workplace.
 
 
 
Why are so many teens turning to smoking when life gets overwhelming? In this episode, we dig into the real connection between stress and teen smoking, from academic pressure to family expectations to the constant buzz of social media. Students share honest stories about why smoking can feel like a quick escape — and why it usually makes things harder in the long run.
If you are ready to quit smoking, you can visit the New York State Quitline, or call 866-NY-QUITS (866-697-8487), to apply for a free starter kit of nicotine medications and to talk to a quit coach.
 
 
We talk about balancing homework with hobbies, finding your people, and discovering passions you didn’t even know you had. It’s a reminder that sometimes the best part of school… happens after school.