What the Friday Youth Podcast

Episode 24: The 'Male Insecurities' episode

Latifat and Tamara host a podcast discussing male insecurities with dermatology specialist Craig from Locala.
Craig defines male insecurities as doubts about appearance, confidence, relationships, and performance, often stemming from societal pressures and media portrayals. He notes that young men are often discouraged from expressing emotions, leading to internalised struggles.
Common insecurities include body image, social status, academic success, and emotional control. Social media exacerbates these issues by promoting unrealistic standards.
Craig advises seeking support, limiting social media, and focusing on strengths. He emphasizes that insecurities are common and not a sign of weakness, urging openness and self-compassion.
For more information visit: 
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 23: The 'Insecurities' episode

Latifat and Tamara host a podcast discussing insecurities with dermatology specialist Nurse Craig from Locala.
Craig highlights that 80% of teens worry about their appearance, exacerbated by social media, which can lead to self-esteem issues.
He notes that girls and LGBTQ+ teens face deeper struggles. Academic pressure and peer conflicts also contribute to insecurities. Craig emphasises the importance of self-compassion, setting social media boundaries, and seeking support from trusted individuals. He warns that insecurities can lead to serious mental health issues if unaddressed. Craig advises focusing on effort over perfection and maintaining a supportive home environment.
For more information visit: 
Locala: https://www.locala.org.uk
You can also find a range of useful links on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 22: The 'Different Types of Mental Health Therapies' episode

Tobias and Danny discuss various mental health therapies, emphasising their confidentiality and broad applicability.
Danny explains that therapy involves talking to trained professionals to address thoughts, feelings, and problems, including Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) for anxiety and depression, Dialectical Behaviour Therapy (DBT) for emotional regulation, and person-centred counselling for goal-based outcomes.
Creative therapies like art, music, and drama are also useful for those struggling to express themselves verbally. Trauma-focused therapy helps manage past traumas, and therapy can be done online or in-person, depending on the individual's comfort.
Danny encourages young people to seek therapy proactively, not just in crisis situations.
Thank you to Asda Foundation https://asdafoundation.org/ for funding this episode 
For more information visit: 
Invictus Wellbeing https://www.invictuswellbeing.com
You can also find a range of useful mental health support services on Destination https://destination.org.uk/app/section/useful-links (Sign in required)
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Asda Foundation and Invictus Wellbeing for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 21: The 'Consent' episode

On this episode, Bailey Grace and Courtney from the Locala Sexual Health Outreach Team discuss the concept of consent.
Courtney explains that real consent is clear, mutual, ongoing, and enthusiastic, emphasising that individuals can change their minds at any time. She advises prioritising personal safety and seeking support from trusted individuals or services if consent is not respected.
Courtney debunks common myths about consent, such as the belief that silence or body language alone indicates agreement. She also provides guidance on setting boundaries, responding to uncertainty or refusal, and seeking help after traumatic experiences.
 
For more information visit: 
Locala Sexual Health Team https://www.locala.org.uk/services/sexual-health/kirklees
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes or sign up to the Destination information & opportunities web-app for teens and young adults at www.destination.org.uk where you can find loads of useful life-benefiting content for young people.    
You can also follow up on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod)
Special thanks to Locala and Kirklees College for supporting this episode, Jimi for editing and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 20: The 'Healthy Relationships' episode

Ever caught feelings and then immediately overthought every interaction? 
Or found yourself in the talking stage that never actually goes anywhere? 
This week’s episode of What The Friday breaks down the messy, exciting, and sometimes confusing world of teen and young adult relationships. 
We’re joined by relationship expert Jodie, an Education Mental Health Practitioner from Northpoint https://northpoint.org.uk, who helps us unpack every stage of the relationship journey - from crush, to talking, to dating, to full-blown relationships - and even what happens after.
What’s the difference between healthy and unhealthy obsession?
How do you spot red flags early on?
What if you’re not ready - or just don’t want - a relationship?
How can you say ‘no’ confidently, without guilt?
We talk rejection, boundaries, love bombing, moving too fast, family pressure, and the role of social media in modern dating. 
If you've ever felt unsure about your relationship status (or lack of one), this episode’s for you.
This episode is supported by the Calderdale Relationships Matter https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/schools-and-learning/parental-support/early-intervention/relationships-matter
 
For more information visit: 
Open Minds: https://openmindscamhs.org.uk
Safeguarding Calderdale: https://safeguarding.calderdale.gov.uk/children-and-young-people/
Northpoint: https://northpoint.org.uk
Invictus Wellbeing: https://www.invictuswellbeing.com
Special thanks to the following organisations and groups of young people who helped co-produce this episode: 
Calderdale Young Carers: https://new.calderdale.gov.uk/health-and-social-care/young-people/young-carers
Edshift:  https://edshift.co.uk
What The Friday Youth Editorial group
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 19: The 'Fast Fashion' episode

Ever bought a £5 top you wore once? Or filled your 'basket' with clothes because they were 75% off?
In this episode, we dive headfirst into the world of fast fashion -what it is, why it's everywhere, and what it’s really costing us and the planet.
We’re joined by Julia, Founder of Upcycle Fashion and Thread Republic, who helps us unpack the truth behind those cheap outfits. From sweatshop labour and landfill waste to TikTok trends and “haul culture,” we break down how fast fashion affects the environment, garment workers, and your wardrobe.
What makes fashion “fast”?
How does social media fuel overconsumption?
Can we shop ethically without going broke?
Is fashion ever truly sustainable?
Whether you're a Shein regular or a secondhand Vintage superstar, this episode is packed with real talk, surprising facts, and practical tips on how to be a more conscious consumer - without ditching your style.
Find out more about Thread Republic here: https://www.threadrepublic.co.uk/
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 
 

Episode 18: The 'Politics' episode

Politics might seem boring, confusing, or just not your thing—but what if we told you it affects nearly everything in your life? From school to social justice, climate change to cost of living, your voice matters more than you think.
In this episode, the hosts sits down with Evie and Lewis, two former youth councillors, to break down why politics isn’t just for adults in suits. We cover what politics really is, how global events shape your day-to-day life, and how young people can influence change—locally and nationally.
No boring lectures. No political party bias. Just real talk about how you can get informed, get involved, and make a difference.
Why should you vote?
How can you spot political bias on social media?
What is the UK Youth Parliament and how do you get involved?
Whether you're already a young activist or someone who’s never voted, this episode is for you.
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 17: The 'Motivation' episode

Staying motivated isn’t easy – especially when you're juggling stress, self-doubt, distractions (we see you, TikTok), or just trying to get through the week.
In this episode, we’re joined by Georgina, a Wellbeing Practitioner & Engagement Lead at Invictus Wellbeing, to unpack the truth about motivation: what it is, how it works, and how you can build it.
From the science behind SMART goals and why routines matter, to the power of small wins and why "yet" is the most underrated word in your vocabulary — we’re serving up real talk, practical advice, and motivation tips that actually work.
Expect podcast team honesty, laughs, and plenty of relatable moments (like when spots appear at the worst time). Plus, we talk about supportive mates, productive playlists, and how to block out distractions when you need to get things DONE.
Topics include:
Is motivation a feeling or a skill?
The 5 key things that help you stay on track
Why social support might be your secret weapon
Positive thinking, progress tracking & cheesy but powerful quotes
If you’ve ever felt stuck, unmotivated, or like you’re failing - this episode is for you. Whether you’re chasing big dreams or just trying to finish that essay, remember: “You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose.” 
 
Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 16: The 'Confidence' episode

Join Smiruti, Sahitra, Sam, Verity, Ben and Brandon and they meet Jonathan from Loudspeaker - a youth speaker who helps teens and young adults boost their confidence.
Jonathan shares his honest experiences and discusses how even he gets nervous at times. He has a bag full of top tips and at a number of points, turns from interviewee to interviewer as he puts the hosts on the spot and asks them a number of difficult questions!
Questions discussed include: 
• What is confidence and why does it matter?
• Why does self-doubt hold people back from speaking up?
• and, how can you build confidence if you’re naturally shy?
 
🌟 Don't forget to subscribe for new episodes dropping every Friday, and follow us on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/whatthefridaypod/ or TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@whatthefridaypod(@WhatTheFridayPod) to stay in the loop!
Special thanks to C+K for hosting us www.ckcareers.co.uk and Youth Social www.youthsocial.co.uk for pulling everything together.
Finally special thanks for Paul A Jackson for the music. 

Episode 15: Apprenticeships + Youth Motivational Speaker

In this week's episode, Daryoush speaks to Tamara at Kirklees College about Apprenticeships and Josh speaks to Claire about becoming a motivational youth speaker. 
 
If you would like to become a youth speaker why not consider these steps:
1. Define Your Message
Think about:
What issue or experience do you care deeply about?
What do you want others to learn or feel?
What change do you want to inspire?
2. Develop Your Speaking Skills
Practice your story or talk out loud.
Join speaking groups like:
https://speakerstrust.org/
English Speaking Union https://www.esu.org 
Take part in school debates, assemblies, or talent shows.
Record yourself and reflect on tone, clarity, and confidence.
3. Get Involved in Youth Voice Opportunities
These organisations offer real platforms for youth to speak up:
British Youth CouncilOpportunities to join youth panels, campaigns, and UK Youth Parliament.https://nya.org.uk/byc/
UK Youth Parliament (Run by BYC)Stand for election or get involved in debates at the House of Commons.https://nya.org.uk/ukyp/
The Diana AwardYouth-led programmes and ambassador opportunities.https://diana-award.org.uk/
YoungMinds Activists ProgrammeBecome a youth mental health advocate and speak on national platforms.https://www.youngminds.org.uk/support-us/join-the-movement/become-a-youngminds-activist/
If you would like help finding out more and applying for an apprenticeship:
1. Search your local college such as Kirklees College, Calderdale College or a college near you. 
2. Visit the GOV.UK – Find an Apprenticeship site
This is the official government portal where you can search and apply for apprenticeships across England. You can filter opportunities by location, industry, and level. Creating an account allows you to save vacancies, set up alerts, and track your applications. https://www.gov.uk/apply-apprenticeship
2. UCAS – Apprenticeships
UCAS offers a platform to explore apprenticeship options alongside traditional university courses. You can compare different pathways and find the one that suits you best.
https://www.ucas.com/apprenticeships
3. Local Careers Services
Contact your local careers services such as C+K Careers or visit local apprenticeship events as these are usually attended by organisations that are looking to recruit young people
https://ck.mydirections.co.uk/
4. National Careers Service
Provides guidance on choosing the right apprenticeship, writing applications, and preparing for interviews. They also offer personalized advice through their helpline and webchat services.
https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk/