Keeping Your Cool When Things Heat Up: De-escalation, Boundaries, and Support for Communities Impacted by Violence

July 28, 2026

This episode of Podcasts+ with The Dash, Keeping Your Cool When Things Heat Up: De-escalation, Boundaries, and Support for Communities Impacted by Violence, focuses on practical, real-world tools for preventing escalation, responding safely, and setting clear boundaries when situations get tough. We’ll break down what de-escalation actually looks like in OST settings, how staff can regulate their own emotions in the moment, and when it’s time to pause, get support, or step back.

Collective Care: Connecting Families, Community, and Practice to Support Youth Success

July 3, 2026

Strong summer programs are built with intention—through inclusive practices, supportive routines, and time to reflect and adjust. In this episode of Podcasts+ with The Dash, OST professionals share real‑world strategies for increasing youth participation, strengthening community partnerships, and building simple wellness routines that support safety and energy during busy summer days. Grounded in the National Afterschool Association Core Competencies, the conversation highlights how reflection and shared leadership help create summer programs where both youth and staff can thrive.

Intentional Connection: Bringing SEL to Life Through Environment, Relationships, and Youth Voice

June 26, 2026

Summer programming comes with its own rhythm—big energy, changing routines, and young people looking for connection, movement, and choice. In this episode of Podcasts+ with The Dash, OST professionals share practical, SEL‑informed strategies—like flexibility, emotional awareness, relationship‑building, and youth voice—to create engaging summer experiences that truly meet youth where they are. Grounded in the National Afterschool Association Core Competencies, the conversation highlights how small, intentional shifts in mindset and practice can strengthen belonging, regulation, and meaningful engagement all summer long.

After School, After Stress: Mental Health in Today’s OST World

June 4, 2026

This episode of Podcasts+ with The Dash, After School, After Stress, explores the shifting mental health landscape impacting both youth and OST staff. From rising anxiety and emotional overload to the daily reality of creating safe, stable environments, we unpack what’s really happening in out-of-school-time spaces today.

Pause. Breathe. Lead. Self-Care for OST Professionals

March 5, 2026

This episode of Podcasts+ explores self-care as a foundational practice for OST professionals. Through real-life stories and expert insights, we unpack strategies for setting boundaries, building sustainable routines, and engaging in reflective venting. Listeners will learn how to integrate self-care into their daily work and personal lives in ways that are both practical and preventative. This episode offers tools to help OST professionals stay grounded, energized, and resilient. 

A Catalyst for Growth: Redefining Communication During Conflict

October 28, 2025

It’s no secret that having hard conversations is never easy, especially with your colleagues. Expanding on elements from our Quarter 1 Supervisor Series, this Podcasts+ episode will evaluate some key communication strategies when dealing with conflict. Listeners will hear from local proponents of restorative practices and learn how to navigate workplace conflicts with clarity, empathy, and professionalism.

Youth as Partners: Building Programs Where Youth Voice Drives Engagement

July 29, 2025

Today's most successful out-of-school time programs recognize that meaningful youth engagement requires moving beyond typical involvement to authentic partnership and shared leadership. In this Podcasts+, we examine the fundamental shift from viewing youth as program recipients to embracing them as collaborators who shape programming. Listeners will discover strategies for building youth-adult partnerships, hear inspiring stories of programs that have successfully centered youth voice, and gain access to resources that help create conditions where young people's perspectives genuinely influence program direction and design.