In this episode Zack interviews Kayte Knower, the co-founder and executive director of Knower Academics. Kayte discusses the origins of her organization, which she started with her husband to fill gaps in traditional academic support systems. She emphasizes the importance of addressing academic anxiety with exposure-based approaches rather than over-accommodation, a method that aligns with the philosophy of Mountain Valley Treatment Center, where her team provides educational support. Kayte highlights the necessity of specialization in education to truly help students with learning differences and anxiety, noting that teachers are often overburdened and unable to provide the individualized support some students need.

Throughout the conversation, Kayte delves into the unique challenges today's students face, such as perfectionism, fear of making mistakes, and the anxiety surrounding academic performance and college admissions. She explains how Knower Academics tackles these issues by offering personalized support and gradually exposing students to their academic fears in a controlled and supportive environment. The discussion also touches on the broader implications of integrating mental health and educational strategies, illustrating how a collaborative approach can unlock students' potential and transform their academic experiences.

Zack’s Hack: Zack discusses Polyvagel Theory and how humming can make you Fear Less!

Fear Less is sponsored by Mountain Valley Treatment Center.