What if your darkest moment could lead to your greatest transformation?

In a powerful episode of The Resilient Kid Podcast, I sat down with the incredible Washington Ali, a coach, speaker, and transformational leader who helps people become more confident, more brave, and ultimately happier.

Creating Confidence: Washington’s Bold Philosophy

“I’m a creation, and I create myself every day,” Washington told me. It’s not just a statement. It’s his way of being. He encourages people to choose who they want to be, on purpose. That idea alone could change the way we teach kids about identity, confidence, and resilience.

For teens feeling lost or parents struggling to help their child navigate mental health challenges, Washington’s message is a lifeline. He teaches that each day offers a choice: to step into the version of ourselves we’re proud of, or stay stuck in the one we’ve outgrown.

A Mother’s Love, A Life Reimagined

Washington’s story of transformation begins with one extraordinary woman—his mum. After dropping out of college and falling into addiction, Washington found himself paranoid, anxious, and emotionally distant from his family.

What pulled him out wasn’t punishment. It was unconditional love.

His mum opened the back door of their home and, more importantly, her heart. She didn’t shame him. She gave him a choice. In a moment that would change his life, she held up two pairs of shoes: his battered old Vans and a fresh pair of Air Forces.

“These are who you are now,” she said. “But this—you could be something else.”

That moment was the beginning of Washington’s healing. His Air Forces became a symbol of new life. Of possibility. Of choice.

Why Teens Are Struggling—and What Adults Can Do

Washington and I talked deeply about the rise in anxiety among young people. From his work with schools through the Minded Student programme to coaching high achievers who feel lost inside, one truth kept surfacing:

Teens don’t feel safe.

Whether it’s school pressure, the impact of COVID-19 on social development, or the overwhelming noise of social media, many kids lack a sense of emotional safety and belonging. And as Washington says, “It only takes one significant adult to change a young person’s life.”

It could be a parent. A teacher. A coach. What matters most is showing up—consistently, gently, and with unconditional care.

The Four-Step Framework for Thriving

Washington shared the powerful model he uses with his coaching clients. It’s a framework that anyone—child or adult—can use to build resilience:

Internal Orbit:

• Grand Vision – Who do you want to be?

• Rewriting Your Code – Self-awareness and honest reflection (including how others see you)

External Orbit:

• Bold Move – One action that leads you forward, even if it’s just going for a walk or asking for help

• Anchoring Systems – Surrounding yourself with people who uplift, support, and hold you accountable

This framework is about owning your narrative and choosing to write a new chapter, no matter where you’re starting from.

Why This Story Matters Now

In a world that often praises performance over peace, Washington’s voice cuts through the noise. His story reminds us that being alive isn’t about perfection. It’s about possibility.

If you're a parent, teacher, therapist, or teen struggling to see the light, this is your sign. You don’t need all the answers. You just need to take one small, brave step in the right direction.

Listen Now: https://creators.spotify.com/pod/show/ashley-costello/episodes/Choosing-a-better-life-with-Washington-Ali-e33fs85 

Follow Washington Ali on Instagram: @‌BecomeAlive.Washington