
Hosted by The Teen Debater · EN
Welcome to Beyond the Gavel, the official podcast of The Teen Debater, an innovative community dedicated to revolutionizing debate education for students across India. At "Beyond the Gavel," we dive deep into the intricate world of debate and discourse. Each episode unpacks current world events with detailed analyses to enhance our listeners' understanding of global issues, preparing them for any debate stage.
We explore the myriad facets of debating, covering various formats and providing practical tips and strategies. Our podcast serves as a platform for expert interviews, featuring seasoned debaters, educators, and professionals who share their insights on everything from debate theory to practical career advice.
Beyond the Gavel transcends traditional debate topics, exploring a wide range of subjects that leverage debate skills for personal and academic growth. We discuss related areas such as college applications, essay writing, and broader topics like theater, public policy, and even philosophy.
Each episode is crafted to not only educate but also to entertain, blending discussions on serious topics with lighter, engaging content on current debate trends. Central to our mission is promoting a global debate culture, highlighting stories that showcase debate as a tool for social mobility and change, making it accessible to all, especially the underprivileged.
Join us at Beyond the Gavel as we explore, discuss, and unfold the dynamic world of debating, fostering a community that supports and inspires the next generation of global thinkers and leaders. Tune in to transform the way you think and speak, one argument at a time.

Welcome to the third episode of Season 1 of Beyond the Gavel, where we tackle the profound impact of societal expectations on mental health and personal growth. This week’s guest, Ms. Jaisshna, brings a wealth of experience and insight as a speaker and advocate for emotional resilience and well-being, making this episode a must-listen for students navigating stress and self-doubt.The conversation begins with an introduction to Ms. Jaisshna’s journey, highlighting her passion for empowering young minds through debates and public speaking. She shares her personal experiences with overcoming fears and building resilience, offering listeners a glimpse into the transformative power of these skills in facing life’s challenges.As the discussion unfolds, we dive into the common mental health challenges faced by students today, including the pressures of academic achievement, peer comparisons, and meeting societal expectations. Ms. Jaisshna provides practical strategies to foster confidence, emotional balance, and a growth-oriented mindset. Her relatable anecdotes and actionable tips offer a fresh perspective on how to approach hardships with courage and self-compassion.The episode also explores how engaging in debates and public speaking can help students confront their fears, develop a sense of agency, and build the resilience needed to thrive in a demanding world. From improving communication skills to enhancing self-awareness, Ms. Jaisshna explains how these tools can be instrumental in navigating stress and fostering emotional well-being.We wrap up the episode with a reflective and uplifting conversation, where Ms. Jaisshna shares her personal insights on staying grounded amidst external pressures. Her advice resonates deeply with students and young professionals alike, leaving listeners with a renewed sense of purpose and positivity.Join us for S1E3: Societal Expectations and Stress with Ms. Jaisshna, where we delve into the intersection of mental health, resilience, and the power of self-expression to navigate the complexities of modern life.

Welcome to the second episode of Season 1 of "Beyond the Gavel," where we dive into the challenges and joys of managing multiple interests while excelling in academics and extracurriculars. This week’s guest, Mr. Manan Mathur, brings his unique perspective as a passionate individual with a variety of pursuits, making this episode especially relatable to teenagers.The conversation begins with a brief introduction to Manan’s life, as he shares insights about his interests and aspirations for the future. From academics to extracurricular activities, we explore what drives his passion and how he manages to balance them effectively. Manan walks us through his weekly routine, offering practical advice on how to prioritize tasks, stay focused, and make the most out of every day.As the discussion progresses, we turn to Manan’s extensive experience with Model United Nations (MUNs), diving into his favorite memories and what makes MUNs such a transformative experience. He shares his strategies for preparing for MUNs, emphasizing the importance of research, confidence, and adaptability. For aspiring MUN delegates, Manan’s advice is both practical and motivating, with actionable tips on how to improve and stand out.The episode wraps up on a fun and casual note, with Manan recounting some of his most entertaining and memorable MUN experiences. These anecdotes provide a lighter perspective, showcasing the camaraderie and enjoyment that comes from participating in such events.Join us for "S1E2: Time, Interests, and MUNs with Mr. Manan Mathur," where we explore the art of balancing passions, excelling in MUNs, and making the most out of every opportunity in a way that’s both inspiring and practical.

Welcome to the premiere episode of Season 1 of "Beyond the Gavel," where we delve into the strategic role of Model United Nations (MUNs) and debates in college applications. Our guest today is Mr. Abhishek Gupta, a distinguished career counselor and the founder of High School Moms, who will share his extensive insights from his experiences at UCLA and his professional journey guiding students.In this under 30-minute episode, we introduce ourselves along with Mr. Gupta, who will discuss his career motivations and the driving passion behind his work. This sets the stage for an enlightening discussion on how MUNs and debates can significantly bolster a student's college application, reflecting on the evolving dynamics of college admissions and student expectations in India over the decades.We will explore what top universities seek in applicants across various fields, including STEM, commerce, and liberal arts, and discuss the importance of participating in prestigious MUNs like Harvard MUN or Oxford MUN. Mr. Gupta will also highlight how extracurricular activities like debates are valued by colleges, particularly for the skills they develop in leadership, critical thinking, and global perspective.The episode concludes with Mr. Gupta sharing memorable moments from his MUN experiences and offering actionable advice for students to stand out in their applications, regardless of the course or program they aim for. Tune in to "S1E1: College, Career, and Debating with Mr. Abhishek Gupta" for expert insights into making your extracurriculars work towards your academic and career goals.