When I was 17, my mom brought home a book: The Princess Bitchface Syndrome: Surviving Adolescent Girls.

I was outraged. Everything I was going through—real, confusing, painful, normal—reduced to a “syndrome?”

I was furious, and in true teenage form, I made sure Mom knew it. So she said: “Well Lex, why don’t you do something about it?”

Challenge accepted.

I spent the next 7 years writing a book of my own: Dealing with Mother: A Survival Guide for Teenage Girls.

It was filled with:

• Real stories from my own life

• Communication tools to help teens talk to their parents

• A big dose of “you’re not alone”

I had it reviewed by therapists and educators. Their verdict?

Please publish this asap. Kids need it.

But when I came down to it, I couldn't publish it. It felt too vulnerable—too risky for my relationship with Mom.

It did clarify three things for me:

• There’s power in sharing your story

• Support must be relatable and shame-free

• Supporting adolescents would be my life’s work

By this time, I had a thriving career in adult learning focused on behavior change and high-impact habits. So...

Back to school!

I became a counselor and specialized in trauma and adolescent development.

I reconnected with my purpose: Live Big

Evidence-based, story-driven programs to help adolescents:

• Build confidence

• Develop resilience

• Practice self-leadership

And the mindset that they have the power to live BIG lives, no matter what.

Thanks for being here. I’m so glad you’re part of this community.

Lex