The Cub Club

As October comes to a close, The Cub Club takes a closer look at student mental health and the introduction of the Bear D.E.N., a new wellness space at John Burroughs High School. Hosts Scarlett Shand, Emma Hernandez, and Cardonna Akins are joined by Student Mental Health Board Co-President Alessi Umali and JBHS counselor Fabiana Jimenez to explore the everyday pressures of high school, the importance of mental wellness, and the challenges students face when seeking support. From balancing academics and personal life to discovering the resources available through the Bear D.E.N., this episode highlights how Burroughs is working to create a more supportive school community. A reminder that taking care of your mental health matters every day, not just when things get tough!

The Cub Club is back for a new school year! Hosts, Emma Hernandez, Cardonna Akins, and Scarlett Shand explore what it’s like to experience high school from two different ends with freshman Lilly Jade McDonald and senior Keira Sydney Simon. From first-year expectations and nerves to senior-year reflection and advice, they compare how perspectives can change over four years. Plus, JBHS Principal, Kenny Knoop, joins them for the “Knoop Scoop”, sharing his advice for making the most of your time at Burroughs. Whether it’s your first year or your last, this episode is all about embracing where you are and making the year count! Skit Cast: Charlotte Boyke, Abby Hernandez, and Karter Payton

As finals week approaches, The Cub Club closes out the school year with “The Pressure to Be Perfect.” Hosts Scarlett Shand, Emma Hernandez, and Cardonna Akins talk with JBHS junior Tess Doty, school psychologist Anita Kostas, and college student, psychology major, mental health creator, and TikToker Ali Gildea (@iluvlipgloss03) about academic pressure, perfectionism, mental health, and what success really means. From AP classes and leadership roles to recovery and self-growth, this episode is a reminder that nobody really has everything figured out, even if it looks like they do.

Recorded during the Student Television Network National Convention, Cub Club host, Scarlett Shand is joined by guest host, Kyra Svab, as they take to the streets of Tampa to explore how different generations experienced defining moments in history. From the moon landing to 9/11 to COVID-19, this episode features conversations with people across generations, reflecting on what these moments felt like in real time and what they want us to remember moving forward. A reminder that history isn’t just something we learn, it’s something people live.    

In this mini-episode, our hosts discuss their thoughts on what makes a good podcast.  We provide tips and tricks based on our start in the podcast universe.  Our hosts also interview a current college level podcasting and broadcasting teacher about his thoughts on the industry. 

From college commitments to the Upside Down, The Cub Club features Noah Duffield (Stanford volleyball commit), Kyra Svab (NYU Early Decision), and JBHS alum Luca Diaz, the voice of Mike Wheeler in the upcoming Stranger Things animated series: Tales from ’85. Proof that the Bears aren’t just dreaming big, they’re already living it.

The Cub Club gets Bearly Scary for Halloween! Your hosts Scarlett Shand and Emma Hernandez, with guest host Cardonna Akins, celebrate Halloween with a round of “Trick or Truth” and all things JBHS Halloween. Then, Scarlett takes us inside the “Kids Aren’t Alright” panel at Creep I.E. Con, featuring M3GAN stars Jenna Davis and Violet McGraw, and The Black Phone 2 star Madeleine McGraw. Plus, listener questions, their first Cub Club voicemail, and plenty of fall chaos.

The Cub Club is back! Join hosts Scarlett Shand and Emma Hernandez as they kick off a brand-new school year. From summer recaps to fresh advice, they’ve got you covered for the year ahead. Plus, they sit down with our very own principal, Mr. Knoop, who shares his goals and wisdom for 2025. Welcome back, Bears — let’s make it the best year yet! 🐻

In this episode of The Cub Club, hosts Emma Hernandez and Scarlett Shand unpack the topic of FOMO—Fear of Missing Out—and how it impacts the lives of high school students. They’re joined by John Burroughs High School senior Evan Baker and former school psychologist Victor Ledesma for an honest and insightful conversation. Together, they discuss how social media and school culture fuel FOMO, the emotional effects it can have, and healthy ways to cope. It’s a must-listen for anyone who’s ever felt like they’re missing out. Featuring the voices of: Finn Robinson, Isabelle Ng, Kailey Husted, Rasienna Orozco Willars, Mia Arias, Olivia Kapriellian, as the students in our open.

In this episode of The Cub Club, hosts Scarlett Shand and Emma Hernandez dive into the ups and downs of high school life, while featuring insights from student leader Lucia Grajales, PTSA parent Ashley Erikson, and Assistant Principal Tori Cuseo. Explore how to manage stress, balance academics and extracurriculars, and find support from friends, family, and teachers. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or just looking for motivation, this episode is here to remind you—you’ve got this!