“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.

Episode Release Schedule:

Sept. 6 – Season 2 Episode 1: YAB Discusses the Impact of Teen Relationships on Mental Health (featuring Brookview House)

In this episode of Break the Line, the Youth Advisory Board chats about how relationships—whether with friends or dating—can impact your mental health. They also dive into how substance use ties into all of this. Featuring guests from Brookview House, a nonprofit led by Black and Latinx women fighting for justice and equity for low-income mothers and their children in Boston. Tune in for real talk and advice from fellow teens!

Sept. 13 – Season 2 Episode 2: YAB Discusses Vaping and Cannabis Use (featuring Brookview House)

In this episode, the Youth Advisory Board chats with their peers from Brookview House about vaping and cannabis use. They’re breaking down the latest 2023 data on how high school students are using these substances and what that means. Plus, they’re diving into how perceptions of substance use and different environments—like home versus school—can impact choices. Tune in and check it out!

Sept. 20 – Season 2 Episode 3: YAB Discusses Navigating Youth Employment in Boston

In this episode, the Youth Advisory Board is diving into the struggles of finding a job as a teen in Boston. They’ll talk about the tough competition with older college students, the challenges of job applications for the first time, and the stereotypes that can get in the way. Tune in to get the inside scoop!

Sept. 27- Season 2 Episode 4: YAB Discusses Teen Access to Substances (featuring Catrina Cooley)

The Youth Advisory Board catches up with Catrina Cooley from the Boston Public Health Commission in this episode. They’re talking all about vaping and cannabis use among teens, covering stuff like harm reduction and how family, friends, and the community shape access to these substances. They also dive into how perceptions about substance use can influence teen behavior. Don’t miss it!

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.