Author Lisa Kathryn Pitino recently joined host Benji Cole on People of Distinction, part of CBS Radio, for a thoughtful and empowering conversation centered on self-expression, resilience, and personal growth. The discussion closely reflects the message of her book, Finding Your Voice, A Teen Girl’s Survival Guide: Embrace Your Strengths, Discover True Belonging and Navigate Life with Confidence, which focuses on helping young individuals navigate life’s challenges while developing confidence and identity.
People of Distinction, hosted by Benji Cole, provides authors with a platform to explore the deeper purpose behind their work in a reflective and conversational format. During the interview, Pitino spoke about the intention behind her book as a guide designed to support girls in understanding themselves and the world around them. Rather than presenting abstract ideas, her work emphasizes practical reflection and emotional awareness as essential tools for growth.
Lisa Kathryn Pitino writes life skills books that teens actually want to read. A former teacher turned full-time author, she’s on a mission to help young people build confidence, character, and the real-world tools they won’t find in most textbooks.
Her books blend practical advice, emotional support, and just enough humor to keep things real guided by Mateo, a fictional big brother who shows up with heart, honesty, and the occasional reality check. Lisa lives in California and draws daily inspiration from her own family, especially her nephews and the teens she’s mentored over the years. She believes that when teens feel seen and supported, they don’t just survive—they thrive.
A central theme of the conversation was the importance of finding and using one’s voice. Pitino explained that this process involves learning to express thoughts, feelings, and boundaries with clarity and confidence. Her perspective aligns with the purpose of her book, which encourages readers to recognize their worth and to develop the courage to speak up in situations that shape their lives.
Throughout the interview, Pitino highlighted the role of challenges in personal development. She described how difficult experiences can become opportunities for learning when approached with awareness and reflection. This message is consistent with the framework of Finding Your Voice, A Teen Girl’s Survival Guide: Embrace Your Strengths, Discover True Belonging and Navigate Life with Confidence, which presents growth as an ongoing process rather than a single moment of change.
Cole guided the discussion toward how these ideas apply in everyday life. Pitino shared that building confidence requires consistent effort, self-understanding, and the willingness to learn from both successes and setbacks. Her insights position personal development as something accessible and achievable, particularly for young readers seeking guidance.
The interview also underscored the broader purpose behind her book. Pitino aims to provide a supportive and encouraging resource that helps readers navigate social, emotional, and personal challenges. By offering guidance rooted in reflection and awareness, her work serves as both a companion and a practical tool for growth.
By the end of the conversation, it became clear that Finding My Voice: A Girl’s Survival Guide is not just a book, but a message of empowerment. The interview invites listeners to consider the importance of self-expression and confidence, reinforcing the idea that finding one’s voice is a continuous journey shaped by experience, reflection, and personal courage.
What makes this book compelling is its real-world relevance. It doesn’t rely on abstract motivation or overly simplified advice—instead, it tackles real challenges that teenage girls face today, from social pressure to self-esteem struggles. This makes it highly relatable and immediately useful.
Another strength is its practical and actionable approach. Readers are not just inspired—they are given tools they can apply right away. The focus on boundaries, communication, and self-worth provides lasting value that extends far beyond adolescence.
Ultimately, this book stands out as more than just a guide—it’s a supportive companion for young readers learning how to navigate life, build confidence, and become comfortable in their own identity.
Get to know more about the author and the work as you listen to the full interview below: