Serene Podcast

In the final episode of this season of Serene Pod, Selin, Head of Wellbeing at Serenity Welfare and a registered Dramatherapist, sits down with Mark, mentor, music producer, former Serenity team member, and now full-time content creator, for a reflective conversation on the journey so far. Together, they revisit some of the standout moments from the season and the powerful stories shared by guests...

In our latest episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Shannon; a care leaver, advocate, and the brilliant mind behind My Life, My Rights. Shannon entered the care system as a young teenager and was living independently by the age of 16. In this honest and deeply moving conversation, she reflects on what it felt like to navigate a system that was rarely explained to her; the loneliness, the uncerta...

In this episode of Serene Pod, Chris Baker shares his story the challenges he faced, the turning points along the way, and the lessons that shaped who he is today. Through honest reflection, he opens up about the moments that tested him, the experiences that changed his perspective, and what he learned about navigating pressure, uncertainty, and growth. During a police chase, he was involved in a...

In this episode of Serene Pod, we explore the evolving understanding of Special Educational Needs (SEN) both in schools and in everyday life. We reflect on how things used to be, when many children were misunderstood, overlooked or simply expected to fit into rigid systems and compare that to the growing awareness and support available today. The conversation highlights the importance of recognisi...

In this episode, we dive into some of the most controversial and troubling stories affecting young people today. We explore the Red Vs Blue controversy in schools, where an adult set up young people against each other, promoting conflict and violence. We also discuss the shocking story of a teenager who was bullied anonymously online for years only to discover it was her own mother behind it. We u...

n this episode of the Serene Pod, Selin is joined with the sisters behind BelEve UK to talk about the work they do supporting and empowering young girls. We explore why guidance and mentorship are so important for girls growing up today, and how pressures from social media, peer comparison and online culture can shape confidence, identity and self-worth. We also talk on how experiences like grief...

In this episode of the Serene Pod, Selin and Mark dive into the growing debate around a possible social media ban for under-16s. Is it a necessary step to protect young people’s mental health, or could it create more harm than good? We explore the impact social media has on children and teenagers today from anxiety, self-esteem and online safety, to peer pressure, exposure to harmful content and t...

In Episode 2 of Season 3, the conversation turns to a topic that has sparked widespread public debate the recent Beckham controversy and what it reveals about parenting, boundaries and up bringing having a voice within family dynamics. Selin and Mark explore the pressures placed on young people, the complexities of parent-child relationships and the importance of listening rather than assuming. Dr...

Welcome back to Serene Pod! Season 3 begins with our first episode of 2026 a moment to pause, reset and step into the year ahead. The conversations are rooted in honesty, reflection and the continued belief that young people deserve to be heard, understood and taken seriously. As we begin a new year and a new chapter for the podcast, this episode offers a thoughtful reintroduction to the values at...

Join us for the Season 2 finale of The Serene Pod as we take a reflective look back at the conversations, insights and standout moments that shaped this season. In this round up episode, we revisit the themes that resonated most with our listeners, highlight key discussions on supporting children and young people and share behind-the-scenes reflections from the team. Whether you’ve been with us fr...

In this episode of Serene Pod, Mark and Selin sit down for a powerful and honest conversation centred around men’s mental health in recognition of Men’s Mental Health Month. Together, they unpack the realities that many men face but often struggle to voice: the pressures to “stay strong,” the silence around emotional wellbeing and the challenges that come with navigating mental health in a world w...

In this episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Jared, a dedicated mentor from Spark2Life, an organisation empowering young people to break cycles of offending, build resilience and rediscover purpose. Jared shares his powerful story - from navigating his own challenges growing up, to now guiding others through some of the toughest moments in their lives. With honesty and warmth, he talks about wh...

n this episode of Serene Pod, producer Theo takes the host seat and turns the spotlight back onto Mark and Selin the familiar voices behind the conversations you’ve been hearing. This time, we dive even deeper. Theo asks the questions that bring out honest reflections on growth, purpose and the realities of leading a platform dedicated to giving young people a voice. From their personal experience...

In this episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Jonny, a Youth Justice Case Manager. Jonny opens up about his upbringing in Brixton, sharing how growing up in a tough environment shaped his resilience, perspective and drive to make a difference. From facing challenges in his own youth to now guiding others through theirs, his story is one of transformation, purpose and the power of giving back. Th...

In this episode of Serene Pod, our producer Theo takes charge and turns the spotlight onto Selin and Mark. Instead of hosting, they’re the ones answering questions opening up about their own experiences of burnout, resilience and the challenges they’ve faced along the way. From navigating adversity to finding strength in vulnerability, this conversation offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at the...

In this episode of Serene Pod, we welcome back Amani Simpson for part two of his incredible journey. Last time, Amani shared his powerful story of resilience and transformation and now he’s here to tell us what he’s been up to since. From the exciting projects he’s leading, to the positive impact he’s making in communities and the vision he’s building for the future, this conversation dives into h...

Welcome to Series 2 of Serene Pod! In our first episode back, we sit down with our hosts Selin and Mark to get to know them better. From lighthearted fun questions to deeper, thought-provoking discussions, this episode gives you a glimpse into the personalities, perspectives and passions that drive our hosts. Whether you’re here for laughs, insight or just a little inspiration, this episode is the...

In the final episode of Season 1, Selin and Mark take a step back to reflect on the journey so far. From inspiring conversations to powerful takeaways, they revisit their favourite moments and share the insights that resonated most deeply. Join them as they look back on the incredible guests who’ve shaped the series, the lessons they’ve learned along the way and what it has meant to hold space for...

In this powerful episode, we sit down with Amani Simpson, award-winning social entrepreneur, filmmaker and youth leader, to talk about resilience, purpose and the transformative power of storytelling. Amani is the founder of Aviard Inspires CIC, creator of the short film Amani, and a recognised voice in youth empowerment. His work has reached millions, sparking hope and conversation around persona...

In this powerful episode of Serene Pod, we sit down with Taylor, a young person whose journey through grief, bullying, systemic failure and inspiring musical journey led to an incredible personal transformation. Taylor opens up about the challenges of growing up feeling different, being failed by the systems meant to support her and how music became a vital tool in processing pain, expressing iden...

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Serene Pod, we sit down with trailblazing CEO Emily Aklan, a woman redefining leadership. Emily shares her journey, speaking candidly about the realities of being a woman at the helm in an industry often resistant to change. With warmth and authenticity, she opens up about her experiences of grief and personal loss, and how those moments of deep...

Every day, Child Transport Officers carry more than just responsibility — they carry lives, stories, and trust. Serene Pod takes you behind the scenes of one of the most critical and least understood roles in child welfare and safety. From early morning pickups to late-night drop-offs, Rachel, a dedicated Child Transport Officer, shares real experiences from the road — the challenges, quiet victor...

In this inspiring episode of The Serene Podcast, we sit down with Tom who we supported as a young person in care - now a young adult with a powerful voice, lived experience and wisdom to share. Tom reflects on his personal journey through the care system, the challenges he faced and the support that helped shape his path. This episode is a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the t...

In this episode, we reflect on our experiences working directly with young people, the challenges, the breakthroughs, and the powerful moments that have shaped our approach. Whether in schools, youth justice, or creative projects, every interaction has taught us something new about communication, trust, and what young people really need from the adults around them. We share insights, unexpected le...

🎙️ Welcome to the first episode of Serene Pod! Hosted by Selin, Head of Wellbeing at Serenity Welfare and a registered Dramatherapist working with vulnerable young people in care and the youth justice system — alongside Mark, mentor, music producer, former Serenity team member, and now full-time content creator. In this episode, Selin and Mark dive into open, honest, and thought-provoking conversa...