Ep 295: Raising Teen Change-Makers

Kate Parker, author of Force of Nature, joins us to discuss how
to cultivate teen activism and empower them to raise their voices
about vital issues. We explore the impact of authenticity in
photography, the importance of encouraging teens to speak out,
and practical tips for capturing meaningful moments with your
camera.


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that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
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Full Show Notes





In today’s digital age, teenagers are constantly bombarded with
idealized images and messages on social media. Often, these
images are meticulously curated and edited, setting unrealistic
standards for beauty and success. For parents, this raises a
crucial question: how can we help our teens rise above these
false ideals and find their authentic voices?


This week, we’re speaking with Kate Parker, a renowned
photographer and author of several influential photo collections,
including Strong is the New Pretty and her latest, Force of
Nature. Kate’s work focuses on capturing the real, raw moments
that highlight the true strength and beauty of young girls. By
putting forward authentic and unpolished images, Kate encourages
both teens and adults to embrace their genuine selves and to
celebrate their unique voices.


In our discussion, Kate shares the insightful journey behind her
first book, inspired by her desire to present her daughters in a
true and unfiltered light. The project started with personal
portraits but grew into a celebrated movement as her authentic
representations resonated globally. Kate’s book, Strong is the
New Pretty, has been translated into multiple languages, proving
that the message of unyielding authenticity transcends cultural
boundaries.


Fostering Teen Activism


One key theme in Kate’s latest book, Force of Nature, is
empowering teens to raise their voices and advocate for change in
their communities. Divided into sections—Find Your Voice, Use
Your Voice, Sustain Your Voice, and Amplify Your Voice—the book
showcases young girls who have taken impactful actions, from
writing op-eds to suing the government, to advocate for causes
they believe in.


Kate underscores the importance of parents actively encouraging
their children to speak out. When kids come to us with complaints
or concerns, we should nudge them toward advocacy by asking how
they might change things and offering our support. Parents can
play a crucial role in providing the initial push that helps
teens realize their potential for making a difference.


Capturing Real Moments


Kate’s photography captures the essence of real experiences,
whether it’s a girl fully immersed in her sport or kids engaging
in community advocacy. To achieve this, she uses techniques that
facilitate authentic expressions, like giving kids fun tasks or
making them laugh naturally during a shoot. This approach not
only makes for compelling images but also reinforces the idea
that genuine, unfiltered moments are the most beautiful.


Speaking on giving advice for at-home photography, Kate
recommends avoiding posed and forced smiles. Instead, she
suggests crafting moments that elicit genuine joy and
interactions. She also shares technical tips, such as shooting
during the golden hour or using natural light from windows, to
elevate the quality of photos.


Encouraging Passion and Inclusivity


Throughout the episode, Kate offers insights into how diverse
backgrounds and experiences contribute to the rich tapestry of
voices showcased in her books. Stories of girls who faced
challenges—whether due to disabilities, societal norms, or
personal adversities—highlight the resilience and ingenuity
required to advocate for change. For parents, this serves as a
potent reminder to foster an inclusive environment where every
child feels valued and capable of making a difference.


In the Episode…


Our conversation with Kate Parker dives deep into multiple
aspects of raising confident, outspoken teens. Here’s a glimpse
of what we cover:


- How to encourage teens to find and use their voices


- The impact of authentic photography on self-esteem


- Practical tips for capturing meaningful photos at home


- Stories of girls making significant changes in their
communities


- The importance of passion and confidence in teens


If you’re looking to inspire your teen to become a proactive
changemaker or want to improve your family photography skills,
this episode is a goldmine of insights. For more from Kate Parker
and to follow her ongoing work, visit her Instagram at
@katetparker. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more
enlightening interviews and parenting tips. Thanks for tuning in!





Sponsored by Equip: Eating disorder treatment
that works—delivered at home. Visit equip.health/talking for more
information, and a free consultation.