114: Joshua Apparicio: Shameless Kid of Be Strong to Stop Bullying

Today’s episode is an extremely special one.  We have our first Shameless Kid joining the show!  Joshua Apparicio is a 12-year-old seventh grader who has partnered with Be Strong, an anti-bullying organization.  Joshua works with Be Strong to share his story of being bullied regularly for 6 years.  

In addition to working with Be Strong to help other kids impacted by bullying, Joshua is a published poet (he was first published at age 7) and he recently took his SATs – yes, the ones you’re supposed to take when you’re 16.  You could say Joshua has a very bright future…

I recently saw Joshua do an interview with my friend Scott Colby (from our Say It With Gratitude SMA episode) and I was blown away.  Joshua is wise and insightful well beyond his years.  He is sweet and compassionate and brilliant.  I knew I had to have him join us in the SMA. 

I am so excited to have such a dynamic young gentleman on our show as our first Shameless Kid.  I am also extremely grateful to Joshua and his mother, Shirmin, who were so enthusiastic and thoughtful about this interview.  

I was fortunate enough to be able to talk to Joshua’s mom, Shirmin, after we stopped recording, and I was so touched by her grace and strength, qualities she has clearly passed down to her son. 

Joshua, wherever you go in life you will make a positive difference.  You already are. 

Please listen in to hear Joshua share:

• What it was like for Joshua to be bullied on a regular basis for 6 years
• How Joshua and his mom were finally able to put an end to the bullying
• How his Mayor became his mentor when his school district failed to protect him
• How his mom coached him every night to help his mindset around his situation
• His advice to other kids who are being bullied
• The surprisingly kind and compassionate thoughts he has about kids who demonstrate bullying behaviors
• Why being a victim of bullying actually positively impacted his life

Links Mentioned:

Be Strong: BeStrong.global

SMA Episode 102: Scott Colby – Say It With Gratitude