[11:00] Introduction and Discussing Resilience

• Host introduces Jake, highlighting his impressive qualities and background.
• Jake’s move from Santa Monica, California to Costa Rica, and his service work.
• Host creates an acronym for resilience: “Realizing Enthusiasm Spurs Insights, Leading Inner Energy, Nurturing Creative Expression.”
• Jake shares his perspective on resilience, emphasizing the importance of bouncing back from challenges.
• Discussion on how resilience developed for Jake during his 20s, including support from a community and coach.
• Emphasis on the belief that everyone has everything they need within themselves to overcome challenges.

[15:22] Teaching Resilience and Social-Emotional Learning

• Jake talks about his experiences in Costa Rica and the importance of maintaining values.
• Sharing an example of teaching problem-solving to a 9-year-old boy.
• Discussion on the importance of breathwork and managing needs.
• Introduction of the concept of social-emotional learning for kids and teens.
• Jake’s approach to teaching is through play and using toys to facilitate learning.
• Explanation of accessing happy hormones through simple actions.

[19:00] Experiential Learning and the Power of Play

• Jake emphasizes the use of play for experiential awareness and learning.
• Socrates’ wisdom of “know thyself” is highlighted as timeless.
• Discussion on the versatility of play, whether it’s a game of cards, basketball, or playing in the ocean waves.
• Jake’s nature is to give and help others, primarily through his involvement with “Swim With Heart.”
• Importance of water as a teacher and its role in Jake’s life and teaching methods.
• The acronym DOSE, representing Dopamine, Oxytocin, Serotonin, and Endorphins, is introduced, and it is described as a “dose of hope.”

 [29:37] Social-Emotional Learning Through Play 

• Jake’s mission to help children and adolescents become leaders of their own lives through play.
• Emphasis on teaching decision-making amidst external pressures.
• Jake’s approach to mindfulness and self-awareness exercises, such as breathwork and heart-space focus.
• The success story of a 13-year-old boy learning to trust his inner guidance.
• Discussion on the strengths-based approach, encouraging kids to leverage their strengths to solve problems and navigate challenges.
• Reinforcement of the concept that learning through play builds self-trust and resilience.

[50.23] Ripple Effect and Community Impact

• Discussing the ripple effect of positive actions and interactions.
• Shout out to Mikey from Swim With Heart for her work with challenged children.
• It is essential to achieve personal goals and the joy (Journey of You) it brings.
• Encouraging a growth mindset and family involvement in the learning process.
• Promoting the value of play and community rituals to strengthen family bonds.
• Highlighting the stability and family-oriented culture in Costa Rica.

Jake is a dedicated children’s advocate with over 15 years of professional experience in youth development. With a background in lifeguarding and aquatics, coupled with certification as a Kid’s Life Coach, Jake is committed to empowering children to thrive. Additionally, he brings expertise as a breathwork facilitator, enriching his approach to holistic child development.