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In this inspiring Middle School Walk & Talk episode, hosts Phyllis Fagell and Jessica McGuire chat with educator and author Chris Balme, founder of Millennium School and Hakuba International School. Balme shares how understanding adolescent development—and viewing puberty as the ultimate “hero’s journey”—can transform the middle school experience from something to survive into something to celebrate. He discusses the power of advisory, the importance of seeing teachers as guides rather than instructors, and practical ways schools can help students feel seen, connected, and in charge of their own stories.

Middle School Walk & Talk is a production of the Association for Middle Level Education. Learn more at amle.org.