“Break the Line”

Welcome to “Break the Line” Podcast: Amplifying Youth Voices in Boston!

Dive into the authentic stories and voices of Boston’s vibrant youth community with “Break the Line” – a groundbreaking podcast by the Youth Advisory Board (YAB), in collaboration with the Boston Public Health Commission’s Bureau of Recovery Services. Our podcast is on a mission to empower and uplift young voices, shedding light on topics that truly matter.

Podcast Overview

“Break the Line” is a youth-led podcast that unveils the raw and unfiltered experiences of teenagers in the heart of Boston. We’re here to confront the silence and bring important conversations to the forefront. Our episodes delve into crucial yet often overlooked subjects, including substance use disorder (SUD), mental health, harm reduction, community violence, and comprehensive sex education in Boston Public Schools.

Why Listen?

Are you a Boston youth or young adult aged 15-24? This podcast is your platform, your voice, your community. Discover relatable stories, insightful discussions, and solutions that resonate with your life experiences. “Break the Line” is your chance to explore real issues, gain perspectives, and drive positive change.

Recent Episodes:

Season 3 Episode 1: Unboxing Gender: The Norms We Never For

This episode of Break the Line dives into how gender norms and double standards shape the way we think, act, and connect. From childhood expectations to dating, social media, and masculinity, the Youth Advisory Board explores the stereotypes we’ve been taught to accept—and how we can start to challenge them.

Season 3 Episode 2: Neurodivergence in a Neurotypical World

This episode of Break the Line explores how neurodivergent people experience and navigate everyday life. The Youth Advisory Board discusses the meaning of neurodivergence, the benefits and challenges of diagnosis, and how understanding and inclusion can help create communities where everyone can thrive.

Season 3 Episode 3: Sexual and Reproductive Health

In this episode of Break the Line, the Youth Advisory Board sits down with special guests to discuss sexual and reproductive health—what it really means, how it’s taught, and why open, judgment-free conversations matter. The group explores consent, healthy relationships, safety, and the importance of inclusive education that empowers young people to make informed choices.

Season 3 Episode 4: Mixed Signals – Substances and Teen Relationships

In this collaborative episode with StartStrong’s “Real Love. Real Talk.” podcast, Boston teens break down how substance use shows up in relationships. From pressure and boundaries to trust and communication, they dig into what’s healthy, what’s not, and how young people can look out for themselves and each other.

Join the conversation, share your thoughts, and be part of the change! “Break the Line” Podcast is your platform to inspire, connect, and ignite transformation in the heart of Boston.