238. Redefining Leadership: From Classroom to Confidence with Lorraine Connell
Description
In this powerful episode, I sit down with Lorraine Connell—former chemistry teacher turned teen leadership coach, author, and founder of Peers Not Fears. Lorraine shares the story of her transformation from teaching formulas to fostering confidence, and how she discovered her true calling: helping teens believe in their own ability tolead.
We explore how traditional models of studentleadership often send the wrong message—that only a select few are “born to lead,” and that leadership means perfection. Lorraine challenges this narrative with real stories from her work, including the heartbreaking experience of astudent leader punished for making a mistake, and the long-lasting impact it had.
Together, we unpack the difference between performative leadership and authentic leadership, and why every single one of us—whether in school, at home, or at work—is capable of leading with intention, compassion, and courage.
What You'll Learn:
*Why Lorraine left teaching to start Peers Not Fears
*The hidden pressures of performative leadership
*What authentic leadership really looks like (and how we can model it)
*Why leadership is not about being mistake-free, but about being human
*How to help your child or teen grow confidencefrom the inside out
About the Guest:
Lorraine Connell is a teen leadership coach, educator, and the founder of Peers Not Fears, LLC. With more than 20years in education, Lorraine brings research-based leadership development to high school students, helping them grow into resilient, authentic leaders. Sheis the author of Your Voice Matters: Uncovering Your Unique Leadership, a workbook designed to empower youngpeople to lead with confidence and purpose.
Connectwith Lorraine:
·Website: Peers Not Fears
· Instagram: @peersnotfears
· Book: Your Voice Matters: Uncovering Your Unique Leadership
Connect with me on Instagram or send me a message through my website:
Website: https://www.dianesorensen.net/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dianesorensen.bb/
Email: dsorensen@dianesorensen.net
SUMMER OF CONNECTION BREAKTHROUGH SESSION: https://www.dianesorensen.net/offers/2AnzahKj/checkout
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