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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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The Risk of Education; How Risk-Taking shows up (or doesn't) in Education
Risk-taking in education reveals how trust, leadership, and learning grow—or stall—when students and teachers fear losing more than they gain.
Lorraine Connell
6 days ago3 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


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


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


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


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


How to Create a Youth Leadership Program
Empower teens with leadership skills that last a lifetime. Learn how to create a sustainable, impactful youth leadership program today!
Lorraine Connell
Apr 2, 20256 min read


Breaking the Mold: Redefining Leadership for Every Teen
Leadership is for everyone! 🌟 When teens see themselves represented, they step up with confidence. Let’s break the mold together! 🚀
Lorraine Connell
Feb 26, 20253 min read


Is Making Friends a Skill? Exploring the Role of Leadership Coaching in Social Connections
Friendship is a skill, not an innate ability. Leadership coaching helps teens develop confidence, empathy, and communication to make friends
Lorraine Connell
Jan 29, 20253 min read


Belonging and Authenticity As a Teenager: Belonging vs. Fitting In
Belonging means being your true self, not just fitting in. Help your teen explore their identity with insights from leadership coaches.
Lorraine Connell
Dec 23, 20243 min read


Fostering Leadership in the Classroom: Reflection Prompts and Exercises for Growth
Foster leadership in the classroom by reflecting on growth zones, relationships, and empowering student voices to inspire confident leaders
Lorraine Connell
Dec 3, 20244 min read


Stories of Teen Leadership Transformation—Seeing Leadership in Every Teen
Unlock your teen’s leadership potential! Peers Not Fears helps build confidence, resilience, and essential leadership skills for success.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 20, 20245 min read


Creating a Classroom of Student Vulnerability and Growth
Creating a classroom of vulnerability & empathy empowers students to take risks, embrace growth, & feel safe sharing their authentic selves.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 12, 20244 min read


Embracing Biases: The Hidden Roadblocks to Seeing True Leadership in Youth
Confronting biases transforms classrooms and leaders. Challenge assumptions, embrace diverse strengths, and see every student's potential.
Lorraine Connell
Nov 1, 20244 min read


Unlocking Leadership Potential in Unseen Teens: How to Support Every Child's Growth
Uncover the potential of unseen students by challenging biases and creating opportunities for all to grow into leaders.
Lorraine Connell
Oct 17, 20244 min read


Seeing Every Student as a Leader: A Fresh Perspective for Educators to Use Classroom Leadership Strategies
Every student has leadership potential. When we stop reserving leadership for a few, we empower all students to grow and lead themselves.
Lorraine Connell
Oct 9, 20243 min read


From Overlooked to Empowered: How Being a Student Shaped My Journey as a Teacher and Coach
Being overlooked as a student shaped how I see leadership potential in others. Here's how I encourage quiet students to step into leadership
Lorraine Connell
Oct 8, 20243 min read
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