193. Are we giving kids the emotional tools they actually need?

What if emotional health wasn’t something we “talked about” but something kids could actually practice—every single day? In this episode, Rafael McMaster of Indivisible Arts joins Caroline to share the 7 practical tools his nonprofit teaches Gen Z and Gen Alpha youth to build emotional strength, self-awareness, and authentic connection. They explore why most kids say “I’m fine” when they’re not, how screens and social pressure are rewiring the teen brain, and what it really takes to build emotional resilience from the inside out. You’ll hear how even young kids ae learning to recognize unhelpful thought loops, shift their mindset with tools like G-flipping, and create meaning through creativity and connection. Perfect for educators, parents, and mental health professionals ready to move beyond theory and give youth tools they’ll actually use Homework Ideas Learn and Practice the 7 Tools Yourself • Awareness: Notice recurring patterns of emotions. • Acceptance: Let go of needing things to be different right now. • Intention: Set a daily intention using feeling-based language. • G-Flip: Reframe a frustration into a gratitude-based statement. • Compassion: Show yourself the kindness you'd give your child. • Forgiveness: Write one letter to release resentment (even if you never send it). • Connection: Schedule a creative or awe-filled moment—walk in nature, make art, or sit in stillness. Start “Tool Talks” With Youth • Ask: “Which tool do you think we both need today?” • Practice one together for 5 minutes before bed or after school. About Rafael Rafael McMaster is a creative leader in youth mindfulness - teaching consciousness to the next Generation of students in a fresh way. He founded a youth creative laboratory - Resin, in Hermosa Beach, CA - as well as founding a 501c3 non-profit, Indivisible Arts that teaches fundamental life tools to youth. Rafael just published his first book, the “Fundamental Life Tools” this month, as well as the Emerging Consciousness Broadcast Center, and one destination where youth can begin learning about consciousness through tools being taught by fellow teens and youth. Check out his new book! Fundamental Life Tools: Self-Empowering Toolkit for Being Where to find Rafael Websites: https://www.indivisiblearts.org/ https://www.rafaelmcmaster.com/ https://www.theemergingc.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rafael-mcmaster-ba573531/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rafaelmcmasterart/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mcmaster.peace/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVP8eNYx58z Want to learn more about helping kids strengthen their emotion regulation skills and problem-solving brains while boosting their confidence, independence, and resilience? Check out my many training opportunities! https://drcarolinebuzanko.com/upcoming-events/