Episode 6: But My Friend Said... With Dr. Ayanna Towers

Episode Title: “But My Friend Said”

Host Dr. Ayanna Towers and Guest Kailey Nix and Kylie Reed. 

Have you ever had a friend who made you feel small, controlled, or manipulated? In this episode of The Light of Youth, we’re talking about a real issue many teens face—when bullies disguise themselves as friends. Not all friendships are healthy, and sometimes, the people closest to us can be the ones tearing us down. True friends don’t hurt you, but toxic ones might use guilt, control, or peer pressure to keep you in their grip.

So how do you handle fake friends? We break it down with real talk on setting boundaries, limiting access to people who don’t respect you, and knowing when to walk away. Sometimes, that means answering a call with a text instead, gradually pulling back, or even ghosting when necessary to protect your peace. It’s not about being mean—it’s about valuing yourself enough to step away from what isn’t good for you.

We also dive into ways to stop bullying and take back your power. The first step is recognizing that you deserve respect—if someone constantly puts you down or manipulates you, they are not a real friend. Establish firm boundaries, stand up for yourself, and don’t be afraid to cut ties with people who mistreat you. Reduce how accessible you are by limiting calls and messages, and surround yourself with true friends who support you. If you ever feel mistreated, step away, because your mental and emotional well-being matter.

Bullying doesn’t just happen at school; it can happen in group chats, social media, and even within your own friend circle. If you’ve ever felt stuck in a toxic friendship, this episode is for you. Tune in as we share practical ways to recognize fake friends, protect your peace, and build healthy, uplifting relationships.

Strategies Stop Bullying

Stopping bullying starts with each of us. Be the kind of friend who uplifts others, not one who tears them down. If you see someone being mistreated, stand up for them or offer support. Speak up, whether it’s confronting the situation directly, reporting it to a trusted adult, or simply letting someone know they’re not alone. And if you’re the one experiencing bullying, remember: you don’t have to go through it alone. Seek help from supportive friends, family, teachers, or counselors. You are worth so much more than someone else’s negativity. Choose kindness, choose respect, and most importantly, choose yourself. Let’s work together to create friendships and spaces where everyone feels valued and safe.