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In this transformative episode of the ANEW Insight Podcast, Dr. Supatra Tovar sits down with nonprofit leader, executive director, and lifelong youth mentor Dr. JC Montenegro for a moving and deeply insightful conversation about mentorship, mental health, and building compassionate, empowering environments for disadvantaged youth. This second half of their discussion continues to explore how Dr. JC's decades-long dedication to youth development has helped shape lives, strengthen communities, and challenge cultural taboos surrounding mental health—especially in underserved populations.

Dr. JC shares powerful personal stories from his work at the Salesian Family Center, including mentoring teens navigating religious identity conflicts, emotional trauma, and housing insecurity in Los Angeles. He introduces the concept of "environmental accompaniment," where healing and growth happen not just one-on-one, but in carefully cultivated, community-driven spaces. Together, Dr. JC and Dr. Tovar unpack the real meaning of mentorship—not as telling youth what to do, but as guiding them to discover their own voice through listening, asking questions, and simply showing up.

From firsthand accounts of teens overcoming adversity to actionable insights for educators, therapists, and community leaders, this episode explores:

• The link between anxiety, fear, and panic attacks in adolescents—and how to support them.
• How Latino communities can address mental health stigma with openness and empathy.
• Creating safe spaces that foster leadership, responsibility, and resilience in youth.
• Bridging generational gaps through dialogue and collaborative service.
• Why systemic change requires youth voices at the decision-making table.
  

Dr. JC’s stories are not only inspirational—they’re a call to action. Whether he’s discussing outreach on Skid Row, summer programs that teach grounding techniques, or his vision to open more youth centers across underserved neighborhoods, his message is clear: we must invest in the next generation, not just with resources, but with presence, love, and purpose.

This episode is a must-listen for parents, therapists, educators, policymakers, and anyone passionate about youth development and emotional wellness. Tune in to be reminded that transformation often starts with a single supportive relationship.

🎧 Listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube (@my.anew.insight), or visit us at anew-insight.com under the ANEW Insight Podcast tab.

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Want to Know more about Dr. Jc Montenegro here are her social media platform links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jc-montenegro-phd, https://www.instagram.com/jcmontenegro1/?hl=en, https://jcmontenegro.me/,

Thank you for joining us on this journey to wellness. Remember, the insights and advice shared on the ANEW Body Insight Podcast are for educational and informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before making any changes to your health routine. To learn more about the podcast and stay updated on new episodes, visit ANEW Body Insight Podcast at anew-insight.com. To watch this episode on YouTube, visit @my.anew.insight. Follow us on social media at @my.anew.insight on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Threads for more updates and insights. Thank you for tuning in! Stay connected with us for more empowering stories and expert guidance. Until next time, stay well and keep evolving with ANEW Body Insight!