Creating Positive Social Change with PRA

This episode features Gina Vincent, PhD, and Spencer Lawson, PhD, and discusses their research evaluating the disparate impact of risk assessments. Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Read the research brief for more information: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Risk-Assessment-Instrument-Brief-Final.pdf Episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/DataPoints-DIRA-Transcript-508.pdf The research and this episode were made possible by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. The content and opinions expressed are solely the responsibility of the authors.

Conversations on Leadership is a series highlighting the leaders within Policy Research. In this series, guests share their thoughts on Policy Research's work and culture and highlight how they are using the firm's strategic plan to guide their work and advance the field. In this episode, Kristin Lupfer, Vice President for Housing and Income Supports at Policy Research discusses her tenure at Policy Research, her path as a remote employee, and her approach to leadership. Transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/CoL-KL-Transcript-508.pdf

This episode features Violette Cloud, Liz Hassett, and Samantha Zottola, and discusses their research evaluating the application of a pretrial risk assessment instrument in a Native American population. Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/DataPoints-ValidatedPRA-Transcript-508.pdf Read the research paper: https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/lhb0000562 The research and this episode were made possible by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation. The content and opinions expressed are solely the responsibility of the authors.

This episode features Drs. Elan Hope, Lindsay Hoyt, and Sara Suzuki, and discusses their paper, Trajectories of Sociopolitical Stress During the 2020 United States Presidential Election Season: Associations with Psychological Wellbeing, Civic Action, and Social Identities. Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Read the open-access research paper: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2666497623000528 View the graphical abstract: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Sociopolitical-Stress-Graphical-Abstract.jpg Read the transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/DataPoints-Sociopolitical-Stress-Transcript-508.pdf

This episode features Isolynn Massey, Brandon Morrissey, and Samantha Zottola, and discusses the process, findings, and future of their publication, "A National Compendium of Court Navigation Programs." Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/DataPoints-CourtNavigators-Transcript-508.pdf Court Navigator Compendium: https://www.prainc.com/resources/compendium-court-navigation-programs/ The research in this episode was made possible by the State Justice Institute. The points of view expressed are those of the authors and do not necessarily represent the official position or policies of the State Justice Institute.

Conversations on Leadership is a series highlighting the leaders within Policy Research. In this series, guests share their thoughts on Policy Research's work and culture and highlight how they are using the firm's strategic plan to guide their work and advance the field. In this 21-minute episode, Dr. Hope shares her approach to building and expanding Policy Research's Research and Evaluation area, the internal and external collaborations the area has developed, and her strategies for leading a remote-first team and ensuring life-work integration for staff members. Transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/CoL5-Transcript-508.pdf

Conversations on Leadership is a series highlighting the leaders within Policy Research. In this series, guests share their thoughts on Policy Research's work and culture and highlight how they are using the firm's strategic plan to guide their work and advance the field. In this episode, President/CEO Sarah Desmarais, PhD, and Vice President Elan Hope, PhD, delve into Policy Research's dedication to DEI. They share the company's vision for an inclusive, representative workplace and the steps that the organization is taking to get there. Transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/03/CoL6-Transcript-508.pdf

This episode features Senior Project Associate Don Harris, MBA, and discusses key takeaways from his recently published paper, “Exploring the Association Between Suicide Prevention Public Service Announcements and User Comments on YouTube: A Computational Text Analysis Approach.” Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/DataPoints-Suicide-Prevention-PSAs-Transcript-508.pdf Research paper: https://doi.org/10.1080/10810730.2023.2203077 If you're thinking about suicide, are worried about a friend or loved one, or would like emotional support, the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available 24/7 across the United States. Call 988 or visit https://suicidepreventionlifeline.org/.

Conversations on Leadership is a series highlighting the leaders within Policy Research. In this series, guests share their thoughts on Policy Research's work and culture and highlight how they are using the firm's strategic plan to guide their work and advance the field. In this episode, Sarah Desmarais, PhD, reflects on her first year as President of Policy Research, shares the highlights from her first year, how Policy Research's strategic plan guides her work, the expansion of the firm's research portfolio, and what's next for her and the firm. Read the transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/CoL4-Transcript-508.pdf

This episode features two team members at Policy Research. Senior Research Associate Samantha Zottola, PhD, and Senior Research Associate Lisa Callahan, PhD, discuss key takeaways from their recently finished project, “Understanding and Preventing Frequent Jail Contact.” Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/DataPoints-Frequent-Utilizers-Transcript-508.pdf Project findings: https://www.prainc.com/resources/population-people-frequent-jail-contact/ This research was supported by the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation through the Safety and Justice Challenge Research Consortium, which is managed by the CUNY Institute for State & Local Governance. The Safety and Justice Challenge seeks to reduce over-incarceration and racial disparities by changing the way America thinks about and uses jails. The research consortium advances criminal justice research grounded in the efforts and data of safety and justice challenge sites. The authors are solely responsible for the content of this podcast. Special thanks to the research team and participating sites for their work and engagement in this project. This episode was co-produced and hosted by Holley Davis and co-produced, engineered, and edited by Elianne Paley.

This episode features two Research & Evaluation team members at Policy Research. Senior Research Associate Samantha Zottola, PhD, and Research Associate Kamiya Stewart, PhD, discuss key takeaways from their forthcoming paper, “Pretrial Risk Assessment, Risk Communication, and Racial Bias” Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/04/DataPoints-RiskAssessment-Transcript-508.pdf Study link: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/00938548231174908

This episode features two Research & Evaluation team members at Policy Research. Senior Research Associate Samantha Zottola, PhD, and Research Associate Kamiya Stewart, PhD, discuss key takeaways from Dr. Zottola's recently published paper, “Comparing the Relationships Between Money Bail, Pretrial Risk Scores, and Pretrial Outcomes.” Data Points is an ongoing podcast series produced by Policy Research that discusses research for social change. Link to research paper: https://psycnet.apa.org/doi/10.1037/lhb0000487 Link to episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/DP-MoneyBail-508.pdf

November is National Veterans and Military Families Month, a time to express our gratitude for the service of our nation's Veterans and military families. The theme for Veterans Day, November 11th is honor. In recognition of these observances, the Service Members, Veterans, and their Families Technical Assistance Center, commonly known as the SMVF TA Center, is reflecting on that theme of honor and the work that they do each day serving our nation's service members, Veterans, and their families. This episode features three members of the SMVF TA Center team, Co-Director, Duane France, Project Associate Tish Di Leo, and Project Associate Chantel Boudreau. They discuss their service, their family's service, and the work they do today as part of the SMVF TA Center. Duane and Tish are both retired Army non-commissioned officers and combat Veterans, and Chantel is a Navy Veteran. Transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/HonorServiceTranscript.pdf

This mini-series produced by Policy Research, titled Conversations on Leadership, explores the firm's upcoming leadership transition. In May 2022, Senior Vice President Sarah Desmarais, PhD, will become the firm's President; current President Pamela Clark Robbins will retire in December 2022. In three episodes, Conversations on Leadership explores the upcoming transition, the evolution of PRA over the past 35 years, and what the future holds for the two leaders and the organization. In “Episode 3: Pam's Reflection on 35 Years,” Ms. Robbins walks through some of the highlights from 35 years at Policy Research. The conversation covers the early days of Policy Research when the firm had one research grant, and how the work and culture have evolved over time.

A new podcast mini-series produced by Policy Research, titled Conversations on Leadership, explores the firm's upcoming leadership transition. In May 2022, Senior Vice President Sarah Desmarais, PhD, will become the firm's President; current President Pamela Clark Robbins will retire in December 2022. In three episodes, Conversations on Leadership explores the upcoming transition, the evolution of PRA over the past 35 years, and what the future holds for the two leaders and the organization. In “Episode 2: The Future of PRA,” Dr. Desmarais discusses her passion for research and evidence-based practices, how PRA's research and technical assistance work will inform one another under her leadership, and her reflections on her first year on the job. In addition, Ms. Robbins shares her reflections on Dr. Desmarais's first year at PRA. Transcript available: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/COL-Ep2-508.pdf

The Conversations on Leadership series explores PRA's 2022 leadership transition. In May 2022, Senior Vice President Sarah Desmarais, PhD, will become the firm's President; current President Pamela Clark Robbins will retire in December 2022. Conversations on Leadership explores the transition, the evolution of PRA over the past 35 years, and what the future holds for themselves and the organization. In “Episode 1: The Leadership Transition,” Ms. Robbins discusses her initial search for a successor, the early conversations between her and Dr. Desmarais, and what we should expect over the coming months. Dr. Desmarais shares her history with PRA during her graduate work, how she felt about transitioning from academia to the private sector, and the transition plan that the two have worked hand-in-hand on developing. Transcript available: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/COL-Ep1.pdf

This series focuses on topics that can help schools and communities successfully design and implement school responder models. This episode, Engaging Families, is a continuation of our School Responder Model Podcast Series. This discussion will feature Jeff Vanderploeg and Jeana Bracey from the Child Health and Development Institute of Connecticut as well as Susan Graham, an accomplished family engagement specialist. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_CHDI_EngagingFamilies-977140.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

This series focuses on topics that can help schools and communities successfully design and implement school responder models. This discussion will feature Jeana Bracey and Jeff Vanderploeg from the Child Health and Development Institute in Connecticut, as well as two additional guests from Connecticut, Erika Treannie, with Bristol Public Schools, and Tiffany Hubrins, with Wheeler Clinic. The four will discuss the role of schools as responders in the school responder model, or the R in the SRM. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_CHDI_RinSRM-456309.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

This series focuses on topics that can help schools and communities successfully design and implement school responder models. This episode titled “Law Enforcement Engagement” is a part of our School Responder Model Podcast Series. Today, we'll be discussing positive relationships between school and law enforcement officials. We are joined by Dr. Jeff-Vanderploeg and Jeana Bracey from the Child Health and Development Institute of Connecticut, as well as Angela Powell-Medlock and Uteeya Whitaker from a high school in Michigan, implementing the School Responder Model. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_CHDI_LawEnforcement-841038.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

This series focuses on topics that can help schools and communities successfully design and implement school responder models. This podcast features Dr. Jeff Vanderploeg and Dr. Jeana Bracey from the Child Health and Development Institute of Connecticut as part of our School Responder Model podcast series to discuss school, family, community partnerships. NCYOJ's Dr. Crystal Brandow will be moderating this discussion. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_CHDI_SFCP-020975.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

This series focuses on topics that can help schools and communities successfully design and implement school responder models. This discussion, which centers around the impact of trauma, is moderated by NCYOJ's Dr. Crystal Brandow, and features special guests from Connecticut. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_CHDI_Trauma-204312.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

As part of the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ) school responder model podcast series, Dr. Crystal Brandow talks with Lauren Kazee, a consultant on the National Institute of Justice Comprehensive School Safety Initiative operated by NCYOJ, about self-care and wellness for educators. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SelfCare.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

Restorative approaches are processes and strategies used in schools, among other organizations, to repair harm and to build or strengthen relationships. In this podcast, Avery Irons, from the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ), continues her conversation with two special guests from New Orleans, Louisiana, about these approaches and how they relate to school responder models. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_RestApproach_ep2.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

Restorative approaches are processes and strategies used in schools, among other organizations, to repair harm and to build or strengthen relationships. In this podcast, Avery Irons, from the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ), talks with two special guests from New Orleans, Louisiana, about these approaches and how they relate to school responder models. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_RestApproach_ep1.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

This is part two of the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice's (NCYOJ) school responder model podcast series discussion on positive youth development, or PYD. In this podcast, NCYOJ's Darren Cosgrove and Catherine Kramer are back, talking with Dr. Crystal Brandow about challenges and barriers related to implementing PYD, those elements in schools and communities that can facilitate a strong PYD framework, and key principles of positive youth development. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_PYD_ep2.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

In this discussion, part of the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice's (NCYOJ) school responder model podcast series, NCYOJ's Darren Cosgrove and Catherine Kramer talk about the positive youth development framework and how this approach can be integrated into a school responder model. Moderated by Dr. Crystal Brandow, this is part one of a two-part conversation that explores strategies for enhancing opportunities for youth and for building collaborative relationships among youth and adults. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The NCYOJ originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_PYD_ep1.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

In this discussion, Dr. Crystal Brandow, from Policy Research Associates, Inc., and the National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ), talks with Jacqui Greene, NCYOJ senior advisor, about school responder models. This is part of a podcast series focused on topics that can help schools and communities successfully implement school responder models. The series was produced by NCYOJ with support from the National Institute of Justice. The National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ) originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. A transcript of this podcast is available at: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/NIJ_SRM_Overview.pdf. This transcript has not been made 508 compliant. If you would like a 508 compliant version of this podcast's transcript, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2021.

Learn about two successful strategies to engage youth in school attendance and achievement: the power of peers and the power of speaking their strengths out loud. Hear about ways that schools have bolstered support for students with mental health needs through peer education and action and the compelling story of one young person who was inspired to beat the odds and attain her diploma through one simple sentence spoken to her by a teacher. The National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ) originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. In addition, this podcast does not have a transcript. If you would like a transcript of this podcast, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2017.

This episode addresses the fear and power imbalances that can impact relationships between parents and system stakeholders such as school personnel and behavioral health providers. A parent and practitioners offer concrete suggestions about how these barriers can be overcome and explain the power of authentic family engagement rooted in strong relationships, humility, and understanding. The National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ) originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. In addition, this podcast does not have a transcript. If you would like a transcript of this podcast, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2017.

It can be difficult for parents to engage with schools when trying to meet the educational and mental health needs of their children. Learn about successful strategies to help both parents and school personnel bridge the gap. The National Center for Youth Opportunity and Justice (NCYOJ) originally developed and maintained this podcast. The NCYOJ was operated by Policy Research, Inc. and operated from 2001 to 2022 and was formerly known as the National Center for Mental Health and Juvenile Justice. The NCYOJ improved life opportunities for youth through systems and practice improvement initiatives. This podcast should be viewed as a reference. It has not been updated since its publication. In addition, this podcast does not have a transcript. If you would like a transcript of this podcast, please email communications@prainc.com. This podcast was first shared in 2017.

This is one of a three-part wellness exercise series developed and led by Vanessa Marrufo of Solrise Wellness (https://solrisewellness.com/). In this exercise, Vanessa will help you process and release stress stored in your body through self-massage and stretching. Take 12 minutes to move to a place of calmness and ease with this exercise. If you haven't already, please listen to the other exercises in our series, Body Scan and Emotional Freedom Technique. This series was produced in association with Policy Research Associates. For more information about PRA Well-Being, please visit prainc.com. View the podcast transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/VagusNerveTranscript.pdf

This is one of a three-part wellness exercise series developed and led by Vanessa Marrufo of Solrise Wellness (https://solrisewellness.com/). This exercise is designed to help you alleviate stress, by tapping key acupressure points on the body. Spend 7 minutes to bring your body and mind into a state of balance. If you haven't already, please listen to the other exercises in our series, Body Scan and Vagus Nerve Reset. This series was produced in association with Policy Research Associates. For more information about PRA Well-Being, please visit prainc.com. View the episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/EmotionalFreedomTranscript.pdf

This is one of a three-part wellness exercise series developed and led by Vanessa Marrufo of Solrise Wellness (https://solrisewellness.com/). In this exercise, you will be guided through a full-body scan to become more present, relaxed, and curious. Take 6 minutes to connect with your breath and body. If you haven't already, please listen to the other exercises in our series, Emotional Freedom Technique and Vagus Nerve Reset. This series was produced in association with Policy Research Associates. For more information about PRA Well-Being, please visit prainc.com. View the episode transcript: https://www.prainc.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/01/BodyScanTranscript.pdf

PRA Well-Being is pleased to announce the final podcast in its four-part Mentally Healthy Workplaces series, developed in partnership with the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA). In this episode, Achieving Wellness Goals, WELCOA President Ryan Picarella gets down to the basics of wellness in a conversation with PRA's Dr. Crystal L. Brandow. Defining wellness and presenting WELCOA's definition of wellness, the two talk about the importance of wellness goals for employees and how organizations can support staff in achieving their wellness goals. Employers are uniquely positioned to help their staff overcome several barriers to wellness, and those opportunities are discussed in this podcast. To learn more about WELCOA, visit www.welcoa.org. For access to PRA's workplace wellness resources, visit www.prainc.com.

This podcast is the third in a four-part series on mentally healthy workplaces from PRA Well-Being and the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA). In New Horizons for Mental Health: Resiliency, Burnout and the Mind-Body Connection, PRA’s Dr. Crystal L. Brandow is back with WELCOA's Ryan Picarella to discuss the mind-body connection and impact of stress on our brains and our bodies. In a conversation about the signs and sources of stress and burnout, four preventative wellness strategies are detailed. This podcast dives into important topics for employers to understand related to mental health and resiliency.

This is the second podcast in a four-part series from PRA and the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) on mentally healthy workplaces. In Social Determinants of Health Part 2: The Unmentionables of Wellness, PRA's Dr. Crystal L. Brandow interviews WELCOA President Ryan Picarella about the nontraditional determinants of health. From adverse childhood experiences to caregiver stress, there are areas of research where we are just beginning to deepen our understanding. The two talk about roles organizations can play to address the nontraditional determinants. This is the second of two podcasts on this topic. To learn more about WELCOA, visit www.welcoa.org. For access to PRA's workplace wellness resources, visit www.prainc.com.

This is the first podcast in a four-part series from PRA and the Wellness Council of America (WELCOA) on mentally healthy workplaces. In "Social Determinants of Health Part 1: Can the Workplace Stand in the Gap?," PRA's Dr. Crystal L. Brandow interviews WELCOA President, Ryan Picarella, on topics related to the roles organizations can occupy to support health and wellness for employees, particularly in light of what we know about research on social determinants of health. This is the first of two podcasts on this topic. To learn more about WELCOA, visit www.welcoa.org. For access to PRA's workplace wellness resources, visit www.prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, members of PRA’s Leadership Team talk about what occupational wellness means to them, and how they foster this dimension of wellness for themselves and the staff they supervise. Suggestions are offered that can translate to any number of workplace environments, including discussions about work-life balance, professional development, employee recognition, and much more! This podcast features PRA President and CEO Pamela Clark Robbins, and Program Area Directors Terri Hay, Kristin Lupfer, Chan Noether, and Lisa Pellitteri. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, you’ll hear PRA employees discuss how social wellness plays an integral role in their lives and overall wellness. Featured in the podcast are Michael Foley, System Administrator; along with Senior Project Associates Abigail Kirkman, Ashley Krider, and Dazara Ware. Nicole Vincent-Roller, Communications Specialist at PRA, moderates the episode. In this episode, the presenters discuss different activities they take part in to enhance their social wellness, how those activities enhance other wellness dimensions, strategies they have used to connect with others, and much more! To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, you’ll hear from Dr. Crystal Lee Brandow, Senior Project Associate at PRA and Betty Vreeland, as they talk about the importance of emotional wellness. Betty has her Master’s of Science in Nursing and is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She’s also a registered yoga teacher, and practices yoga and meditation herself on a regular basis. On this podcast, Dr. Brandow questions Ms. Vreeland to get down to the basics of mindfulness. Ms. Vreeland details topics like Mindfulness Based Cognitive Therapy for adults with mental health conditions, and the connection between mindfulness and physical wellness. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, you’ll hear about environmental wellness from Dr. Crystal Lee Brandow, Senior Project Associate at PRA and Dr. Margaret Swarbrick, an expert at Collaborative Support Programs of New Jersey and Rutgers University Behavioral Health Care. Dr. Swarbrick has been a leader, author, and advocate within the mental health system and consumer survivor movement. She has published and lectured nationally and internationally on wellness, peer operated services, employment, and recovery. In this discussion, Dr. Brandow and Dr. Swarbrick identify personal health habits and routines that can support environmental wellness and improve physical health. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. This podcast features Allie Middleton, Founder and Principal of Integrative Leadership Practices. Allie is a leadership development coach and organizational team consultant, facilitating innovative body-mind practices. In this discussion, she talks with two individuals, Licensed Professional Counselor Associate, Missy Stancil, the Regional Director of Carenet Counseling Central Region, and Dr. Jana Spalding of Setup4Success, LLC, about the value of intellectual wellness in recovery and overall well-being. The three talk about a hero’s journey, a universal storytelling approach, and how it can be used to empower individuals with behavioral health conditions. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. On this podcast, Dr. Crystal Lee Brandow, Senior Project Associate at PRA, moderates a discussion with three guests about spiritual wellness: Jimi Kelley, Behavioral Health Consultant and Advocate for the Inclusion of Spiritual and Faith Practices in Health Care; Claudia Debs, yoga practitioner, teacher, and life artist, and Michael Miriello, an individual with lived experience. Science behind spirituality for positive health is cited, and the three guests share their personal experiences with spiritual wellness and recovery. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates, Inc. is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, you’ll hear from Dr. Crystal Lee Brandow, Senior Project Associate at PRA and Betty Vreeland, as Dr. Brandow questions Ms. Vreeland to get down to the basics of mindful eating. Ms. Vreeland details topics like the ways in which a mindful approach to eating can help with weight management, decreasing risk factors for diabetes or high blood pressure. Betty has her Master’s of Science in Nursing and is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She’s offered workshops on Mindful Eating at Rutgers and to the Society of Psychiatric Advanced Practice Nurses. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. In this podcast, we offer our listeners a guided meditation presented by Betty Vreeland. Betty has her Master’s of Science in Nursing and is an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse. She’s also a registered yoga teacher, and practices yoga and meditation herself on a regular basis. We ask that you please listen to this guided meditation at a time where it’s safe for you to relax, close your eyes, and be present. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.

Policy Research Associates, Inc. is committed to the well-being and wellness of individuals with behavioral health conditions. To help spread information about the importance of the Eight Dimensions of Wellness in recovery, we created a podcast series to address each pillar of wellness. This podcast on physical wellness features Dr. Marc Steinberg, a clinical psychologist and Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Rutgers Robert Wood Johnson Medical School. Dr. Steinberg is joined by two guests, Lisa and Diedre - both of whom are Consumer Tobacco Advocates. In this podcast, Dr. Steinberg provides statistics related to smoking among individuals with serious mental illness and Lisa and Diedre share their personal life experiences with smoking cessation. To learn more about PRA’s work on well-being and wellness, contact us at wellbeing@prainc.com.