154: Middle School Doesn't Have to Be an Isolating Experience — Laura Talmus with Beyond Differences

When young children are put in positive leadership positions, the entire grade benefits.

Laura Talmus is the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Beyond Differences. Beyond Differences was founded after the unexpected death of her daughter, Lili, in October 2009. Since then, Beyond Differences has blossomed into an organization that helps empower youth and helps them connect with their community (and school) on a deeper level. Middle school is a tough experience for everybody, but as Laura discusses on the show, it doesn’t have to be.

“If given the opportunity to become leaders and positive role models, children can change the culture of middle school.”

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Key Takeaways:

[4:55] Everybody remembers their experience in middle school and how isolating it felt.

[10:45] Children between the ages of 11 and 14 begin to develop independence and they look to their peers, instead of their parents, for guidance.

[12:55] This project was sparked after Laura’s young daughter passed away in her sleep.

[18:55] At the time, Laura was not trying to start a movement. She was just trying to honor her daughter.

[24:30] What does Beyond Differences do, and how does it help middle schoolers?

[32:50] Beyond Differences is about learning about other classmates’ traditions, faith, and family values.

[33:25] Beyond Differences’ next event will be focusing on social isolation online.

[40:20] Everybody knows what it’s like to be treated differently. Young Muslim-Americans are being bullied in school, and programs like Beyond Differences help children understand that we’re all human in the end.

[46:10] Is there a program like this for companies and adults, not just for young teens?

[50:30] Laura has been able to grow this organization so fast. What kind of leadership lessons has she learned?

“Everybody hurts when somebody gets hurts, and everybody feels great when everybody is lifted up.”

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