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Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders
At Peers Not Fears, we believe leadership is for everyone. It’s not about titles—it’s about action, influence, and showing up fully in your own life.
Dive into our posts and discover how to empower your teen to grow into the leader they’re meant to be.
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Why should we give students a voice?
#peersnotfears Today's schools are facing a diverse number of challenges when addressing social and emotional wellness, and as teachers...
Lorraine Connell
Jun 27, 20205 min read


The Leadership Ripple: How One “Hello” Redefined What Everyday Leadership Means
Leadership isn’t always about big speeches or grand gestures. Sometimes, it’s in the quiet moments — the choice to say hello, include someone new, or step toward discomfort. This story from a middle school leadership program reveals the true heart of leadership: leading ourselves first.
Lorraine Connell
Jan 73 min read


The Courage to Ask for Help: Redefining Strength in Leadership and Community
For too long, we’ve equated leadership with doing it all alone. But true leadership means asking for help, inviting others in, and building stronger communities together. Learn how redefining strength through collaboration can transform the way we lead, parent, and grow.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 27, 20253 min read


Leadership vs Personality: Let's Break it Down
Leadership isn’t a personality trait. Every student can lead when given the tools, guidance, and permission to step up.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 17, 20253 min read


Transforming Assessment: Unlocking Leadership Skills in Teens Through Authentic Learning
Traditional grades don’t always capture a teen’s growth or potential. Authentic assessments provide meaningful opportunities for students to build confidence, problem-solving skills, and leadership abilities that last a lifetime.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 3, 20252 min read


Women's Business League Member of the Year
Winning the Women’s Business League Member of the Year award isn’t just about me—it’s about the incredible network, mentorship, and connections that make growth and leadership possible. From hosting podcast guests to guiding new members, this journey has been a celebration of community and empowerment.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 1, 20254 min read


🌳 Growing Leaders: Lessons from Youth Leadership Programs
Our AMICA pilot program used the TREE framework to grow leadership skills in youth, from teamwork and respect to mentorship and empowerment.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 19, 20252 min read


Navigating the School System When Your Child Has Been Labeled a Troublemaker
Learn how to support your child when school labels them “troublemaker” or “class clown” and help them grow beyond the label.
Lorraine Connell
Oct 30, 20253 min read


How to Build a Classroom Culture Where Mistakes Are Learning Opportunities
Mistakes aren’t failures — they’re stepping stones to growth. When teachers model vulnerability and create space for students to learn from errors, classrooms become braver, safer places to try. By rethinking grading and shifting our language, we can turn mistakes into powerful opportunities for learning.
Lorraine Connell
Sep 22, 20254 min read


Rethinking Teen Curfews: Why Flexibility Builds Responsibility
Teen curfews aren't about control; they're about building communication, trust, and responsibility. In this post, I share how flexible curfews, curiosity-based conversations, and natural consequences can help teens learn to make thoughtful decisions while they're still under our roof. By shifting from fixed rules to shared agreements, we empower teens to grow into confident, independent leaders, one late-night conversation at a time.
Lorraine Connell
Jul 9, 20253 min read


The Secrets of Mistakes: Why Hiding Them Hurts More Than Making Them
Hiding mistakes isolates us and blocks growth. Real learning happens when we share, reflect, and grow from our missteps.
Lorraine Connell
Jul 2, 20252 min read


Leadership is a long game, and our children are worth every minute of it.
We’ve stopped investing in people and started investing in profits. Leadership is long-term, and our children are worth the time.
Lorraine Connell
Jun 25, 20252 min read


Learning Is a Risk – Are We Making It Safe to Build Student Confidence?
Learning is risky—and our classrooms must be safe enough for students to take those risks. Are you making space for that risk?
Lorraine Connell
May 28, 20253 min read


Words That Stick: How We Communicate Matters More Than We Think
The words we say stick—sometimes forever. What we think is small can shape how a child sees themselves for life.
Lorraine Connell
May 21, 20253 min read


Lessons from Leadership Coaching: What Middle Schoolers Teach Us About Growth
Leadership starts with discomfort. When we give students space to struggle, reflect, and grow, we unlock their true potential.
Lorraine Connell
May 14, 20254 min read


Leadership and Integrity Skills, and Giving Credit Where It's Due
Giving credit costs nothing—but not doing it can cost someone everything. Let’s teach students the power of honoring original work.
Lorraine Connell
May 7, 20253 min read


How to Truly Listen to Your Teen: Building Trust Through Open Conversations
Want a stronger connection with your teen? Learn how open conversations, trust, and listening can transform your relationship.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 29, 20253 min read


When “Bad Behavior” Is a Leadership Test—for Teens and Adults
To help teens lead, we must let them push back—without pushing them away. Growth starts when we respond with trust, not control.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 22, 20253 min read


The Leadership Crisis: Why Leadership Accountability and Taking Responsibility Matters at Every Level
Great leaders take responsibility. When leaders shift blame, they erode trust. Leadership starts with accountability—in school & beyond.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 15, 20253 min read


What is the Job of a Leadership Coach?
Teen leadership coaching builds confidence, communication, and decision-making skills, helping young leaders thrive in school and beyond.
Lorraine Connell
Apr 8, 20254 min read
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