Serene Podcast

Serene Pod | Season 3, Episode 9 - Growing Up in Care & Fighting for Your Rights

In our latest episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Shannon; a care leaver, advocate, and the brilliant mind behind My Life, My Rights. Shannon entered the care system as a young teenager and was living independently by the age of 16. In this honest and deeply moving conversation, she reflects on what it felt like to navigate a system that was rarely explained to her; the loneliness, the uncertainty, and the emotional weight of so many transitions happening all at once, while still trying to figure out who she was. But Shannon didn't just survive it. She did something remarkable, she started researching her rights, answering questions on TikTok, and eventually created a booklet to help other young care leavers understand what they're entitled to. What began as a personal mission quickly became a widely shared resource and one that caught the attention of the BBC. In this episode, Shannon walks us through some of the most important rights care leavers should know about, including council tax exemptions and access to a Personal Adviser (PA) for continued support. Rights that can make a real difference, but only if young people know they exist. This is a conversation about resilience, connection, and why being informed can be the first step tbuo feeling truly supported. If you've ever felt like you had to figure things out alone, then this one's for you. To find out more about Shannon's incredible work and access her resources, visit Future for Care Leavers at the link below. 🔗 www.futureforcareleavers.com [http://www.futureforcareleavers.com]

Serene Pod | Season 3, Episode 7: Chris Baker - Built Different

In this episode of Serene Pod, Chris Baker shares his story the challenges he faced, the turning points along the way, and the lessons that shaped who he is today. Through honest reflection, he opens up about the moments that tested him, the experiences that changed his perspective, and what he learned about navigating pressure, uncertainty, and growth. During a police chase, he was involved in a crash that resulted in the loss of his arm. In that moment, he believed his future was over. This conversation also touches on identity, responsibility, and what it means to grow into yourself beyond expectations, appearances, or external success. Inside a prison cell, he began confronting the decisions that led him there. That moment became the turning point where he decided to take responsibility and start rebuilding his life. It’s not about having everything figured out, but about how you respond when things don’t go to plan. This is a conversation about real life the setbacks, the questions, and the process of becoming. If you’ve ever felt stuck, uncertain, or at a crossroads, there’s something here you’ll connect with.

Serene Pod | Season 3, Episode 6: When School Doesn’t Fit

In this episode of Serene Pod, we explore the evolving understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN) both in schools and in everyday life. We reflect on how things used to be, when many children were misunderstood, overlooked or simply expected to fit into rigid systems and compare that to the growing awareness and support available today. The conversation highlights the importance of recognising each young person’s individuality, especially their creativity, strengths and unique ways of learning. We discuss how schools can nurture creativity rather than suppress it and why understanding neurodiversity and emotional needs is essential for helping young people thrive. This episode is a powerful reminder that awareness is only the first step, real change happens when education systems, families and communities work together to create environments where every child feels seen, supported and valued. Whether you are a parent, educator, professional, or simply passionate about young people’s wellbeing, this discussion will challenge perspectives and spark important conversations about the future of education.

Serene Pod | Season 3, Episode 5 - School Wars in London: The Red vs Blue Controversy

In this episode, we dive into some of the most controversial and troubling stories affecting young people today. We explore the Red Vs Blue controversy in schools, where an adult set up young people against each other, promoting conflict and violence. We also discuss the shocking story of a teenager who was bullied anonymously online for years only to discover it was her own mother behind it. We unpack the impact of social media, youth competition and the pressures on children in today’s digital world, while considering how adults, schools and carers can better support young people. 📌 Join the conversation: Have thoughts on this episode? Share your comments below or connect with us on social media!

Serene Pod | Season 3, Episode 4 - Supporting Girls Success Together! With BelEve UK

n this episode of the Serene Pod, Selin is joined with the sisters behind BelEve UK to talk about the work they do supporting and empowering young girls. We explore why guidance and mentorship are so important for girls growing up today, and how pressures from social media, peer comparison and online culture can shape confidence, identity and self-worth. We also talk on how experiences like grief and personal challenges often inspire people to create change for others. A thoughtful and honest discussion about supporting the next generation of young women, building resilience, and creating spaces where girls feel heard, valued and able to thrive.. 🎧 Tune in and join the conversation. 💬 At the end of the episode, we set the challenge to not use social media for a week and see what you can get done instead! let us know if you will be doing this and how it was!