S.H.E.L.L. We Talk About It Podcast: Episode 3

Feb. 14, 2026
In this episode of S.H.E.L.L., we’re kicking off a five-part series spotlighting the student leaders in our peer mentoring program.
Part 1: Kai Gillis & Annie Thornett
Salem High School seniors Kai Gillis and Annie Thornett join us to reflect on their journeys as student leaders and peer mentors. They talk about the challenges and rewards of mentoring, and the clubs and extracurriculars that have shaped their high school experience. Annie shares how teachers in her AP courses have supported her literacy growth across content areas, while Kai explains how Salem High educators use rubrics, reflection, and reteaching to support every student.
Part 2: Charlie Feldman-Connors
Charlie Feldman-Connors stops by the studio to talk about how getting involved at Salem High School shaped her journey. She shares what she’s learned along the way — and why saying “yes” to extracurriculars can open doors to growth, leadership, and connection.
Video TBA
Part 3: Ellie O’Connell & Liv Loux
Seniors Liv Loux and Ellie O’Connell share how they’ve developed the skills to lead and support younger members of the Salem High School community. They reflect on their experiences as mentors, the clubs and sports that have shaped their leadership journeys, and how student feedback and reflection help strengthen school culture.
Video TBA
Part 4: Alex Maiolino-Reynoso & Mia Silva
Junior Alex Maiolino-Reynoso and senior Mia Silva talk about what it’s really like mentoring freshmen students. They share how teachers support and challenge them, how they’re getting ready for life after high school, and which experiences outside the classroom made the biggest impact along the way.
Part 5: Lily Navins & Madeleine Finamore
Seniors Lily Navins and Madeleine Finamore explore how feedback fuels their learning and growth at Salem High School. They share how students support one another in the classroom and beyond, and reflect on the powerful role mentoring, sports, and clubs play in building confidence, connection, and community.
Previous Episodes
WATCH | Episode 3 (Feb. 14, 2026): In this episode, we’re kicking off a five-part series spotlighting the student leaders in our peer mentoring program.
- Part 1: Part 1: Kai Gillis & Annie Thornett
- Part 2: Charlie Feldman-Connors
- Part 3: Ellie O’Connell & Liv Loux
- Part 4: Alex Maiolino-Reynoso & Mia Silva
- Part 5: Lily Navins & Madeleine Finamore
WATCH | Episode 2 (Jan. 30, 2026): In this episode of S.H.E.L.L. We Talk About It, Senior Guywintz Jules takes listeners aboard the SSV Corwith Cramer for a two-week sailing expedition from Cape Cod Bay through the Gulf of Maine. Video TBA
WATCH | Episode 1 (Jan. 8, 2026): Join Senior Rylan Workman as he takes us aboard the SSV Corwith Cramer for a two-week sailing expedition through Cape Cod Bay and the Gulf of Maine. Video TBA


