Jim Monaghan: Welcome to WDHA’s Jersey Magazine. My guest today is Matt DeSantis, who is doing some incredible work with youth, particularly around the issue of mental health. Matt, thank you for joining us.

Matt DeSantis: Thanks for having me, Jim. I appreciate the opportunity to be here and talk about these important issues.

Jim Monaghan: You’re involved in a number of projects, but I want to start with something that’s really at the heart of what you do—the mental health crisis in America. What got you involved in addressing this issue?

Matt DeSantis: It’s something I’ve seen affect so many people—friends, family, students. The mental health system in this country is in real trouble, and it’s especially hard for young people. Many don’t have access to care because of costs, social stigmas, or the policies that are in place. So, I wanted to focus on that, particularly in terms of education and empowering youth to understand and engage with these issues.

Jim Monaghan: And this led to your work with high school students and the Teen Think Tank Project, right?

Matt DeSantis: Yes, exactly. We created the Teen Think Tank Project to give high school students a platform where they can work together on research and problem-solving around real-world issues—like the mental health crisis. The program isn’t just about academics, though. It’s about helping students develop important skills like critical thinking, intellectual humility, and a growth mindset while also giving them a sense of purpose in addressing these serious challenges.

Jim Monaghan: What’s the reaction been like from the students who participate?

Matt DeSantis: It’s been overwhelmingly positive. These young people are eager to tackle tough issues when given the tools and support they need. They want to make a difference, and the program gives them that opportunity. They learn about the root causes of these issues—whether it’s the economic barriers to care or the policies that limit access to treatment—and they develop solutions.

Jim Monaghan: It sounds like you’re helping to create the next generation of changemakers. What kind of projects have they worked on specifically?

Matt DeSantis: One of our recent cohorts focused on mental health legislation and the ways it could be improved. They did a deep dive into how certain policies either help or hinder access to mental health services, and they presented their findings to local lawmakers. We also had students work on a campaign to reduce the stigma surrounding mental health, which they shared within their schools and communities.

Jim Monaghan: That’s amazing. It must feel great to see them step up in such a big way. How do you think this program is shaping their future?

Matt DeSantis: I think it’s giving them the confidence and skills to lead. They’re not just learning facts—they’re learning how to apply what they know to make an impact. Whether they go into careers in mental health, law, policy, or other fields, they’re building the foundation to be thoughtful, proactive citizens.

Jim Monaghan: You’ve talked a lot about intellectual humility. Can you explain why that’s so important for young people today?

Matt DeSantis: Intellectual humility is crucial because it teaches students to listen, to challenge their assumptions, and to be open to new perspectives. In a world where we’re often quick to take sides or dismiss others, it’s a skill that will help them not only in their careers but in their personal lives as well. Being able to acknowledge when you don’t know something or when you’re wrong is just as important as being confident in what you do know.

Jim Monaghan: And that ties into the larger mission of what you’re doing—helping them grow academically, but also personally.

Matt DeSantis: Absolutely. We want to honor their academic achievements, but we also want them to grow as individuals. That’s why we focus on things like a growth mindset and social awareness, in addition to their academic work. We want them to be well-rounded and ready to face the world’s challenges.

Jim Monaghan: Matt, I think what you’re doing is incredible, and I’m sure our listeners will agree. If people want to learn more about your work or get involved, where can they go?

Matt DeSantis: They can visit the Teen Think Tank Project website or reach out to me directly through our platform. We’re always looking for partners, volunteers, and supporters to help expand the program.

Jim Monaghan: Thank you so much for being on the show, Matt. Keep up the great work. It’s inspiring.

Matt DeSantis: Thank you, Jim. I appreciate it.

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You can watch the full interview on YouTube at https://youtu.be/t_DgJBi4dbY?si=cVr7OPeXIhN3YkHQ.