Join Growing into You! author Melissa Pintor Carnagey, LBSW, Founder of Sex Positive Families, and Kristen Lilla, LCSW, for an inclusive, shame-busting discussion about puberty, Growing into You!, and Kristen's co-authored books (Vaginas and Periods 101: A Pop-Up Book and Colors of You).

Melissa Pintor Carnagey (she/they), LBSW, is the founder of the online education platform Sex Positive Families and the creator of the Growing Into You!™ virtual puberty workshops. Her work has been featured in news outlets such as CNN, HuffPost, Parents Magazine, and Buzzfeed. As a Black, Puerto Rican, and Mexican sexuality educator, social worker, and parent of three, she believes that all children deserve holistic, comprehensive, and shame-free sexuality education. Melissa lives in Austin, Texas, with their family.

Kristen Lilla (she/they) is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and an AASECT (American Association of Sex Educators, Counselors, and Therapists) Certified Sex Therapist and AASECT Certified Sexuality Educator. She has a private practice working with individuals and couples in IA, IL, NE, WA, and WI. In 2017 and 2019, Kristen was the Co-Chair for the National Sex Education Conference and has also been an active volunteer for AASECT from 2013-2025. Kristen has spoken at conferences worldwide, including World Association for Sexual Health Congress, AASECT, and private events. In addition to doing therapy, speaking events, and education, you can find them quoted in articles including with CNN and Refinery29. Kristen wrote a self-help book on sexuality for adults and has co-authored Vaginas and Periods 101: A Pop-Up Book, Colors of You, and the forthcoming book Penises 101: A Pop-Up Book.

About Growing into You!: An Inclusive, Shame-Busting, Get-Real Guide to Your Changing Body and Mind:

For tweens and young teens of all gender identities, a shame-busting, interactive guide to puberty!

Body hair. Changing friendships, feelings, and fluids. The tween years can be awkward and confusing—but with enough information and an open mind, you can thrive!

Growing into You! has all the puberty facts you’re looking for and more. For example, did you know that...

Voice changes happen to people of all genders?

Breast buds aren’t something only girls develop?

Sleep actually helps your bones and muscles grow?

Everyone has their own unique relationship to gender?

Packed with essential information, conversation starters, reflection exercises, surprising facts, and fun activities, the book contains plenty for you to take into the real world with you. After all, growing into you is a journey—so it’s time to embrace curiosity, ask questions, and treat your body with respect and care!

A Shame-Busting Conversation about Puberty with Growing into You! author Melissa Pintor Carnagey and Kristen Lilla