[This episode features some coarse language, and discussions about suicidal ideation.] In a special PRIDE episode of "Let's Talk" we're joined by novelist and comic writer Rex Ogle. Rex recently released Road Home, the final installment of his memoir trilogy that focuses on his experiences with poverty, abuse and homelessness.  Rex is open and honest about his struggles with suicidal ideation, how RuPaul's Drag Race helped him address internalized homophobia, and healing yourself through forgiveness.  Order a copy of Road Home here: https://wwnorton.com/books/9781324019923  Follow Rex on Instagram here: @ThirdRex

In this month's episode we're discussing chosen families with Covenant House New Orleans. We're joined by Rheneisha Robertson, CEO at Covenant House New Orleans, and Damien Rush, youth advocate with experience using Covenant Houses's programs and services. Learn more about Covenant House New Orleans by visiting https://www.covenanthousenola.org. Listen to the "Red Bean Baby" Podcast Learn more about Covenant House Sleep Out events Watch Covenant House's short film "Pay It Forward"

The Let's Talk podcast kicks off its 6th season with an episode in honor of Black History Month, featuring insightful conversations with Amea Smith and Antonio Davis-Robinson. Both Amea and Antonio serve as passionate advocates for youth mental health through their roles on the NRS Youth Advisory Board, and through their career choices. In this episode we discuss the stigma surrounding mental health within the Black community, the emotional toll of code-switching, and the personal journeys of Amea and Antonio.

Season 5 comes to a close with a conversation about youth who have been involved in the juvenile justice system, and how the right opportunities can help them reach potential they don't necessarily see themselves. We are joined by the Margaret Windham, Executive Director at Cafe Momentum in Dallas, for a conversation about the incredible impact they've had in their community, the importance of community partnerships, and the joy young people experience through their internships and externships. You can support Cafe Momentum through donations or partnerships by visiting their website, CafeMomentum.org. They also offer volunteer opportunities, which will be available in more locations soon as they plan to expand to 30 locations over the next 10 years. 

In our penultimate episode for season 5, we are joined by Nancy Mullen and Carolyn Wahlskog from Youth Outlook in Naperville, IL. Nancy and Carolyn share what it's like to be on the receiving end of violent threats while hosting events with the goal of uplifting LGBTQ+ youth, especially those who identify as Transgender. We also talk about the some safety precautions for parents who wish to openly support their young queer-identifying children.  Learn more about the Youth Outlook, an organization dedicated to the support of LGBTQ+ youth, by visiting their website -- www.youth-outlook.org. Access their resources, including the "Gender Unicorn" here.

For this week’s episode of the “Let’s Talk” podcast, we talk with Natalie White, a licensed professional counselor with Sally Kate Winters Family Services (SKW). We discuss SKW’s evolution and growth from an emergency shelter to a transitional living program, basic living program, and child advocacy center. We also dig into mental health stigma and how young people are trying to combat this stigma when addressing issues at home.  To learn more about Sally Kate Winters Family Services visit SallyKateWinters.org

We are excited to welcome Genoris Bridges from the Christopher Youth Center to the podcast! NRS was introduced to Genoris during the 2023 National Safe Place Network Conference in Louisville, KY! During an education session Genoris mentioned how it can sometimes be difficult to address issues related to family dynamics when all of the blame and expectations are being placed on the youth. Today, we revisit the topic and discuss the role hat parents should play when seeking behavioral health services for their children.  To learn more about the Christopher Youth Center, visit https://www.facebook.com/christopheryouthcenter/.

November is National Runaway Prevention Month (NRPM), an awareness campaign designed to "shine a light" on the issues facing youth who have experienced homeless or may be considering leaving home. In this special double-episode we are joined by Susan Frankel, Chief Executive Officer at the National Runaway Safeline (NRS), and Melanie Hill, Board Chair of the NRS Board of Directors. We discuss how NRS has grown over the past year, why we've invested so much in our Youth Advisory Board, and the value of corporate social responsibility. We also celebrate Melanie's historic appointment to the Board Chair role as the first person of color. It's never too late to get involved with NRPM! Visit 1800RUNAWAY.org/NRPM now to see just how easy it is to show support in your community and online.

Ajax is a NRS Youth Advisory Board member who experienced abandonment during his early teen years. In this episode Ajax shares his experience with Child Protective Services, seeking help from school counselors, and what led him to joining the NRS Youth Advisory Board. Ajax also shares how the McKinney-Vento act ultimately changed his trajectory and led to him feeling like his life had turned around.  Learn more about National Runaway Safeline's Youth Advisory Board at 1800RUNAWAY.org/YAB 

National Runaway Safeline Youth Advisory Board members EJ Velez & Rachel Litchman return to the Let's Talk Podcast to discuss invisible disabilities and navigating the healthcare system as a young person experiencing homelessness. Get involved by registering as an official 2023 National Runaway Prevention Month partner. Follow us on social media,  and consider donating to support crisis services and prevention programs benefiting vulnerable youth.