SEATTLE--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Following the success of the #1 teen mental health podcast worldwide, which drew millions of listeners, earned multiple awards, and led to conversations with iconic guests such as Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, Gael Aitor and Kayla Suarez are back with a brand new podcast tailored for Gen Z and the mentors who guide them, this time focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities of young adulthood. Their newest endeavor, “GrownKid” launches today, providing a much-needed space for 20-somethings—and their parents—to explore the complexities of growing up in today’s world. You can listen to the first episode with actress Bailey Bass, activists Deja Foxx and Cameron Kasky, best-selling author Dr. Meg Jay, and others, here.
Presented by the Schultz Family Foundation and Joy Coalition, ”GrownKid” is more than just a podcast; it’s an ecosystem of support and wisdom designed to equip young adults with the tools and community they need to navigate today’s changing world and the new realities of young adulthood. Bringing diverse perspectives from experts and leading voices across generations, “GrownKid” offers meaningful conversations around critical topics for Gen Z, including: building a career without a college degree, managing finances, mental health, and overcoming rejection. Gael and Kayla conceived the series in collaboration with narrative change producer and mental health advocate Joy Gorman Wettels, known for the hit TV series “13 Reasons Why” and “UnPrisoned”. Her company, Joy Coalition, is committed to bridging generations through storytelling and helping young creators retain true ownership of their stories. The Schultz Family Foundation provided financial support and nearly 30 years of expertise piloting new solutions to help young people from all walks of life figure out their next step and successfully navigate the transition to young adulthood through employment, education, training, and social networks.
“For over five years, Kayla and I documented our coming-of-age through ‘Teenager Therapy’ because life can get lonely and a comforting voice is often all you need to get through life’s biggest challenges. Helping young people feel less alone both online and offline is the north star that guides all of my and Kayla’s professional work under our youth-focused creative studio Astrolescence,” said Gael Aitor, co-host of “GrownKid”. “‘GrownKid’ is our latest creative project and it’s shaped by the belief that intentionally crafted media can support youth mental wellbeing if it unlocks access to the right resources and tools. I’m excited to grow up alongside our audience and learn how to make the most out of our 20s because I feel like a grown kid and I know it’s not just me feeling that way.”
“Sharing my life online since I was 15 has been one of the most fulfilling experiences I've had. Now at 21, I'm so grateful for the opportunity to grow alongside so many others and navigate life and adulthood together. By telling my journey, I've helped others feel less alone, and in doing so, I've found the same comfort for myself,” said Kayla Suarez, co-host of “GrownKid”. “Through ‘GrownKid’, I'm dedicated to helping young people find the guidance and support they need to succeed in life, discover their potential, and build a future they're proud of.”
Sheri Schultz, co-founder and chair of the Schultz Family Foundation, underscored the significance of Gael and Kayla’s work. “Young people today face so many challenges and opportunities as they figure out their next step on their journey to adulthood. Whether it’s managing their mental health, finding a job that leads to a career, deciding whether to go to college or to pursue other pathways such as national service, the military, or apprenticeship programs, it is critical that every young person understands all the options available. It’s equally important young people have a network of support and a community around them. Supporting a project like ‘GrownKid’ that offers quality advice and support from young leaders as smart as Gael and Kayla—as well as experts— is an exciting way to reach the next generation, particularly those who may not have as much access as their peers to the resources and support needed to realize their full potential,” said Schultz.
"Years ago, I was struck by Gael and Kayla’s honesty and wisdom on ‘Teenager Therapy’,” said Gorman Wettels. “As we collaborated on youth mental health initiatives with UCLA and the U.S. Surgeon General’s office, it became clear that Gen Z isn’t just facing the crises—they hold the solutions. GrownKid was created to bridge generations and center young voices, addressing the urgent issues they face. Our partners at the Schultz Family Foundation share our belief that it’s time for the rest of us to listen to Gen Z."
“GrownKid” releases weekly episodes each Thursday and is available on all major podcast platforms.
