Simple Tips to Support Your Teen: Empowering Your Teen to Feel like a Leader with Lorraine Connell
When Lorraine Connell stepped into the classroom, she didn’t expect her most profound lessons on leadership to come from the very students she was there to guide. But over the years, it became clear: the traditional model of leadership—titles, hierarchy, perfection—wasn’t serving the teens she worked with. In this episode of A Fresh Story, Lorraine, a seasoned educator and Teen Leadership Coach, shares the powerful stories that led her to reimagine what leadership really looks like—and how one small act can change everything.
Through deeply personal reflections and moments that shaped her book, A Teacher’s Story: How One Act of Leadership Inspired Many, Lorraine invites us into the lives of teens who often felt invisible or uncertain, yet blossomed into leaders once someone believed in them. From a student who didn’t think she was “the leadership type” to another who quietly shaped her entire school culture, Lorraine recounts the subtle but seismic shifts that occurred when kids were empowered to lead on their own terms.
This is more than a conversation about education—it’s a wake-up call for parents, teachers, and anyone invested in today’s youth. Lorraine reminds us that leadership isn’t reserved for the loudest voice or the front row seat. It’s in the quiet confidence, the brave decisions, and the space we create for others to step into their power. If you've ever wondered how to truly support your teen or unlock their hidden potential, this episode will change the way you see the next generation.
Buy the book: A Teacher's Story: How One Act of Leadership Inspired Many by Lorraine Connell
Simple Tips to Support Your Teen with Leadership Coach Lorraine Connell
Featuring: Lorraine Connell, Author of A Teacher’s Story: How One Act of Leadership Inspired Many
Olivia Howell (00:00):
Welcome to Simple Tips to Support! Today’s episode is focused on supporting your teen—not just yourself. I’m thrilled to be joined by one of our Fresh Starts experts, Lorraine Connell, who has been inspiring from the moment I met her. Lorraine is passionate about empowering teens, so we’re calling this episode Simple Tips to Support Your Teen and Their Leadership & Empowerment.
Lorraine, can you tell us a little bit about who you are and what you do?
Lorraine Connell (01:29):
Hi! I’m Lorraine Connell, a Teen Leadership Coach. I work with teens ages 12 to 16 to help them find their voice, build confidence, and step into leadership—especially leadership that isn’t traditionally recognized as such.
Olivia Howell (01:51):
I love that. So, if I’m a parent listening and unsure whether my teen is a “leader,” what does that look like for families?
Lorraine Connell (01:59):
Great question. Most of us define leadership as holding a title—CEO, team captain, star athlete. But that makes leadership feel huge and out of reach. At its core, leadership is simply about making decisions. So, in families, leadership looks like helping our teens make thoughtful decisions that align with their goals and values.
Olivia Howell (02:51):
How can parents model leadership for their teens?
Lorraine Connell (02:57):
First, we need to recognize that we are the most important leaders in our children's lives. For a long time, I held various roles but never saw myself as a leader because I didn’t match the traditional mold. But our kids watch how we handle challenges—how we own our mistakes and show up. That’s leadership. We’re their heroes when they’re little, but as they grow and realize we’re not superheroes, it’s tough. Still, we have a chance to lead by being real, apologizing, and having honest conversations.
Olivia Howell (04:42):
That’s such a powerful reminder. Many of our listeners are educators too. Since your background is in teaching, and that’s what inspired your book, how can teachers bring this leadership model into the classroom?
Lorraine Connell (05:09):
In the classroom, we often assign leadership roles to the students we trust to do things “right.” But that sends a message to others that they’re not worthy of trying. My book encourages educators to rethink what leadership looks like—ask the class clown, the shy student, the one who usually gets overlooked. Give them a chance to lead. That’s where transformation happens.
Olivia Howell (06:21):
Speaking of your book, tell us more about it!
Lorraine Connell (06:24):
It’s called A Teacher's Story: How One Act of Leadership Inspired Many. While it’s my story, it’s really every teacher’s story. It includes lots of student stories and is super relatable. It’s a quick, accessible read for teachers and parents alike. The goal is to help readers recognize leadership in places—and people—they may have never seen it before.
Olivia Howell (07:12):
It’s a wonderful book. I have my own copy and highly recommend it for parents and educators. It’s beautifully written and filled with real-life stories that bring your work to life. You also offer incredible workshops and coaching to schools and students. For anyone listening who’s inspired, what’s one small action they can take this week to support teen leadership?
Lorraine Connell (08:05):
Start by noticing the little things. At its core, leadership is decision-making. If a teen makes a questionable decision, instead of reacting with punishment or judgment, ask them why. Be curious. Try to understand the thinking behind their choices. As adults, we make a lot of assumptions. Asking “Why did you make that choice?” opens up understanding and builds trust.
Olivia Howell (09:07):
And really listen, right? Put the phone down and just be present. My son is almost 12, and I’ve found walks are magic—he just talks and talks. Creating space for our kids to be heard is everything, especially in such a complicated world.
Lorraine Connell (09:40):
Exactly.
Olivia Howell (09:45):
Lorraine, can you remind us of the name of your book one more time?
Lorraine Connell (09:40):
It’s called A Teacher’s Story: How One Act of Leadership Inspired Many.
Olivia Howell (09:45):
Perfect—and it’s linked in the show notes and available on Amazon. We’ll also link to all of Lorraine’s offerings, including her coaching and workshops. Lorraine, thank you so much for sharing your wisdom and passion. We appreciate you deeply.
Lorraine Connell (10:05):
Thank you so much for having me.