Podcast Summary: "How To Build Girls’ Confidence with Cyndi Roy Gonzalez | Episode 308"

Introduction

In Episode 308 of "This Is Woman's Work with Nicole Kalil," host Nicole Kalil engages in a profound discussion with Cyndi Roy Gonzalez, the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Greater Boston. Released on May 12, 2025, this episode delves into the pivotal role of building confidence in young girls and explores the transformative impact of the Girls on the Run program.

Understanding the Connection Between Running and Confidence
Timestamp: [04:44]

Nicole opens the conversation by highlighting the common struggles parents face in fostering confidence in their children. She states, “The most impactful thing any one of us can do is model it” ([01:41]).

Cyndi elaborates on her personal journey, mentioning, “I used to hate running. Now I literally run for fun, proving that running, like confidence, isn't something you're born with, it's something you build” ([04:44]). She emphasizes that running teaches girls essential life skills such as goal-setting, resilience, and self-motivation. Each run becomes a metaphor for overcoming challenges and building self-worth.

Targeting the Right Age Group
Timestamp: [07:05]

Nicole inquires about the specific age range targeted by Girls on the Run—third through eighth grade. Cyndi responds, “We have seen a decrease over the last decade in girl self-confidence and an increase in girls' sadness and loneliness” ([07:05]). She explains that early intervention is crucial as confidence often wanes during elementary school years, a decline exacerbated by the rise of social media. By focusing on this age group, the program aims to equip girls with tools to navigate personal and social challenges effectively.

Core Tools for Building Confidence

1. What Makes Me Me
   Timestamp: [09:48]

   Nicole draws parallels between the program’s "What Makes Me Me" exercise and her own "Things I Know to Be True About Me." Cyndi explains, “We ask them, what do you like to eat? What's your favorite food? ... Really trying to get them to both understand who they are, but also to remember the things that they can go to when they're having a hard time” ([09:48]). This exercise helps girls identify and appreciate their unique qualities, laying the foundation for robust self-esteem.

2. Happy Pace
   Timestamp: [12:32]

   The concept of "Happy Pace" is introduced as both a physical and mental tool. Cyndi describes, “Happy pace is moving at a physical pace that feels good for you... But there's also this idea of happy pace as just the way you approach life in general” ([12:32]). This encourages girls to set their own rhythms, free from societal comparisons, fostering individual growth and reducing the anxiety of competition.

3. Star Sparkler
   Timestamp: [15:02]

   Addressing the challenges of "mean girl syndrome," Nicole asks about the "Star Sparkler" tool. Cyndi clarifies, “Star sparkler means you're lifting other people up, you're seeing what makes other people shine, and you're being intentional about activating that in them” ([15:02]). This tool promotes positive peer interactions and teaches girls to support and uplift one another, counteracting negative social behaviors.

4. Stop and Take a Breather
   Timestamp: [19:31]

   Recognizing the importance of emotional regulation, Nicole introduces the "Stop and Take a Breather" tool. Cyndi elaborates, “We teach girls stop and take a breather... breathe, stop, breathe, think, and respond” ([19:31]). This practice empowers girls to pause and respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively, enhancing their decision-making and emotional resilience.

Community and Connection
Timestamp: [21:04]

Nicole highlights the significance of community support, particularly through the running buddy system. Cyndi explains, “We want them to create relationships with adults and also have the space to create relationships with one another” ([21:04]). This system not only strengthens the bonds between participants but also engages family members and community adults, fostering a supportive network that extends beyond the program.

Small Acts, Big Impact
Timestamp: [24:49]

Discussing the "Small Acts Make a Difference" tool, Nicole emphasizes, “Small acts make a huge difference” ([24:49]). Cyndi describes the Community Impact Project, where girls engage in simple yet meaningful activities like picking up trash or making appreciation cards for school staff. These projects teach girls the value of contributing positively to their communities, reinforcing their sense of purpose and agency.

Letting Your Star Power Shine
Timestamp: [27:40]

Capping off the discussion, Nicole introduces the "Letting Your Star Power Shine" tool. Cyndi explains, “They can go back and look at what have they learned, who are they, what are they reflecting on” ([27:40]). This final tool encourages girls to embrace their authentic selves and showcase their unique talents and strengths, solidifying the confidence they’ve built throughout the program.

Conclusion

Nicole wraps up the episode by reinforcing the critical message that confidence in girls is not about meeting external expectations but about embracing and owning their authentic selves. She states, “Confidence isn't about fitting into someone else's expectations. It's about showing up as your true, authentic self and owning your space in the world” ([29:04]).

Cyndi adds, “We hope that after eight weeks they're walking away... they truly believe and trust that the world needs them and wants them to show up as their true authentic selves” ([29:04]). The conversation underscores the transformative power of programs like Girls on the Run in shaping confident, resilient, and authentic young women.

For those interested in supporting or joining the initiative, Cindy provides information on how to get involved, highlighting the nationwide reach of Girls on the Run and the ongoing need for dedicated volunteers and coaches.

Key Takeaways

• Modeling Confidence: Adults play a crucial role in fostering confidence by exemplifying self-assurance and positive behavior.

• Targeted Intervention: Focusing on critical developmental stages can effectively bridge the confidence gap in young girls.

• Practical Tools: Structured exercises and tools like "Happy Pace" and "Star Sparkler" provide tangible methods for building and maintaining confidence.

• Community Support: Building a network of support through peers and adults enhances the overall impact of confidence-building efforts.

• Empowerment Through Action: Encouraging small acts of kindness and community involvement reinforces a sense of purpose and self-worth in young girls.

This episode of "This Is Woman's Work" serves as an inspiring exploration of how intentional programs and supportive communities can empower the next generation of confident and authentic women.