Mending Families

In this conversation, Lauren discusses her professional background, focusing on her work with trauma-informed practices. She explores various aspects of trauma, including compassion fatigue, secondary trauma, and the challenges of parenting children who have experienced trauma. The discussion concluded with strategies for managing stress and trauma, emphasizing the importance of self-care, understanding the nervous system, and finding small, intentional ways to prioritize personal well-being.Lauren Auer is a trauma therapist and Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor who helps people understand their nervous system and find their way back to themselves. Through her writing and clinical work, she creates spaces for authentic healing while sharing honest conversations about mental health, trauma recovery, and the messy beauty of being human.You can find Lauren on Instagram, Facebook, or at her website www.steadfastcounseling.com A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Where to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

Mending Families is hosted by Melissa Pemberton and she brings you weekly content that is a mix of trauma aware interviews, parenting tips for those caring for kids from adversity, and stories from people just like you as they share their beautiful messy moments. Melissa hopes that when you listen each week, you will feel encouraged, inspired and take a little something away to help you and your family move from broken to mended.On today's episode, Melissa brings you a Mindful Monday with a guided meditation to help you let go of the stress in your body. Give yourself just five minutes and breathe your way through this stress relief meditation, which will be sure to help you start your day off right! Enjoy!A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Music credit: Leigh Robinson from Pixabay**As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive a small commission when you purchase any of the products I have linked in this post**Where to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

On today's episode, Michael discusses his experience as a parent of a child with autism, sharing insights on diagnosis, therapy, education, and daily challenges. He explored various strategies for supporting children with autism, including diet modifications, behavioral therapies, and educational accommodations. The conversation also touched on the importance of financial planning, self-care, and resources for families navigating the autism journey.Michael Pereira, founder of The Autism Voyage, helps parents of special needs children navigate financial and life-planning challenges. As a financial professional and autism dad, he knows firsthand the importance of proactive planning. His mission is to bridge the gap between insurance strategies and real-life challenges, empowering families to secure their future with confidence. Today, he's here to share his journey and practical steps every family should consider.A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Where to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

On today's episode, Melissa brings you a Mindful Monday all about connection with nature through breathwork, mindfulness, and being outside. With Earth day just around the corner on April 22 (I was wrong in the episode…whoops!), now is the perfect time to reconnect with nature. Take a quick 5 minute break, step outside or open a window, and breath in this relaxing nature connection meditation. A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Music credit: Leigh Robinson from Pixabay**As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive a small commission when you purchase any of the products I have linked in this post**Where to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

In this episode, Nicole shares about her journey into foster care and adoption, and her experiences as a foster parent and foster parent trainer. She also discussed the importance of self-care and trauma-informed practices for foster and adoptive parents, with Nicole emphasizing the need for parents to prioritize their well-being to better support their children. Nicole Barlow is a mom to six kids—five of whom she adopted as a sibling group through foster care. She is a parent trainer who encourages and equips foster and adoptive parents and a certified wellness coach who helps parents be at their best so they can parent well. Her foundation for all her work is her faith and love for Jesus, which she believes is essential for navigating the challenges of foster care and adoption.You can find Nicole on Instagram or check out her website nicolebarlow.comA big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Where to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

On today's episode, Melissa brings you a Mindful Monday all about grounding ourselves for just a few moments. In the spirit of grounding ourselves, today's guided meditation is called “Grounding Breath”. Find a comfy, quiet place and 7 minutes while Melissa guides you through a grounding breath exercise. A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Music credit: Leigh Robinson from PixabayFor FULL SHOW NOTES go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcastWhere to find Mending Families:Instagram - @mendingfamilieswaTikTok - @mendingfamilieswaFacebook - @mendingfamilieswaYouTube - @mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

In today's episode, Kelly, a life coach for teens with ADHD, talks about ways to help teenagers boost their confidence and deals with common challenges they face, such as managing emotions, time, and schoolwork. She discusses how ADHD can be managed through diagnosis, medication, and other methods, highlighting the need for a supportive lifestyle that includes good sleep, nutrition, exercise, and community support. Kelly gives parents strategies to assist their teens and stresses the importance of understanding neurodivergence, along with sharing resources for additional help.Kelly Biltz helps teens reduce stress and increase confidence by learning Executive Function Life Skills for managing their ADHD. You can find Kelly onInstagram or on her website,www.teenswithadhd.comA big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays!Where to find Mending Families:Instagram -@mendingfamilieswaTikTok -@mendingfamilieswaFacebook -@mendingfamilieswaYouTube -@mendingfamilies1594https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

On today's episode, Melissa brings you a new monthly series, Mindful Mondays. Because it is the month of love, today's guided mindful meditation is called “Loving Kindness”. Find a comfy, quiet place and 10 minutes while Melissa guides you through a loving kindness exercise. Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com

TW - Today we talk about abusive relationships and domestic violence so please know that if you are in a DV situation or know someone who is, there is help. Go to www.thehotline.org or call 1-800-799-7233 Mending Families is hosted by Melissa Pemberton and she brings you weekly content that is a mix of trauma aware interviews, parenting tips for those caring for kids from adversity, and stories from people just like you as they share their beautiful messy moments. Melissa hopes that when you listen each week, you will feel encouraged, inspired and take a little something away to help you and your family move from broken to mended. On today's episode, Robyn talks about her healing journey and how she went from being a behavioral analyst to now a self-compassion coach on her path to being certified as a Reiki practitioner. She goes back to share about her childhood trauma, an unhealthy marriage, and how she got to where she is today. From hiring her own nutrition coach and career coach, to now coaching others using self-compassion, breathwork, energy, and Reiki she loves helping others find their way through healing. Robyn Gutierrez is a behavior analyst turned embodiment and self-compassion coach. She helps heart-centered humans release the weight of trauma, stress, and anxiety so they can discover greater clarity, confidence, and connection to their highest and best energy.  You can find Robyn on Instagram or on her website, reflectandrefine.net A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

In today's episode, Angela talks about what brought her to find Reiki and energy healing and shares with the audience how she uses these tools to help others find healing. Angela opens up about her trauma history and how she continues to do her healing. She gives us some good insight into Reiki and helps direct the audience to find more tools for their journey. Angela Masciulli is a recovering overachiever and people pleaser who had to embrace a massive identity shift to better care for herself and her family beginning in 2019. She knew there had to be more to life than her reality.  Through a spiritual awakening, she started coaching other moms on how to start a business and build confidence. She recently started embracing her gifts as a healer, empath, and energy sensitivity and completed her Reiki II certification. You can find Angela on her website, on Instagram, on Facebook, and on her podcast The Good Enough Mompreneur Podcast. Grab the 2024 Black Friday playful parenting bundle starting on Black Friday at 7amPST at https://mendingfamilieswa.thrivecart.com/play/ A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa talks about the Polyvagal Theory and the Safe and Sound Protocol. She goes through a brief overview of each and gives you a quick glimpse of what it looks like to participate in the Safe and Sound Protocol. If you are someone who struggles with anxiety, worry, or is healing from trauma, secondary trauma, or compassion fatigue, the SSP might be for you! Listen!  A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Allison shared about her journey into sleep consulting and the services she offers to families dealing with sleep issues. She talks about understanding sleep pressure and sleep onset associations as a crucial part of addressing sleep issues in children. Allison believes trauma-informed approaches are essential, as typical sleep training methods may not be effective for children with trauma backgrounds and she gives us examples of why this is and how we can start making minor adjustments today. If you have a kiddo who struggles with sleep, this episode is for you! Enjoy! Allison Ezell is a wife and mom to four kids through birth, foster care, and adoption. After years of searching and failing to find trauma-informed sleep advice, she founded Dwell Pediatric Sleep and became a Certified Pediatric Sleep Consultant in 2021. Since then, she has worked with thousands of families through 1:1 consultations, digital resources, and corporate speaking. You can find Allison on Instagram, Facebook, and at her website, www.dwellpediatricsleep.com  A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Erin opens up about mental health struggles within her immediate family and how this came to a head this past year. Erin's three boys all have their diagnosis and with their permission, Erin shares some of the hard and good about raising her three boys. Listen in as Erin gives us good things to consider, including encouragement for those of us on similar journeys. Erin Peterson grew up in Post Falls, Idaho, and became a professionally certified educator – earning the Provost's Award for academic achievement and community service from Lewis-Clark State College. Now she is an award-winning local influencer, podcaster, and digital strategy educator passionate about equity and inclusion. Erin has been published and featured in various regional publications including the Spokesman Review, and The Inlander, and has served as an editor at Spokane Coeur d'Alene Living magazine. You can find more about Erin on her Instagram, Facebook or the Trending Northwest website, www.trendingnorthwest.com You can also listen to Erin on her own podcast, Trending Northwest!  If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, contact the National Domestic Violence hotline either at 1-800-799-7233 or text BEGIN to 88788 A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! FOR FULL SHOW NOTES, go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Today Melissa gives us an update on what's been happening in her life and business over the past month. With hard changes that are still good, Mending Families is ever-evolving to ensure you all get the most support in the best ways possible! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Join the Mending Families email list for more details on the updates Melissa mentions today and biweekly content that you won't want to miss! Go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com to join the email list! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Madison first talks about her foster and adoption journey and how she and her husband grew their family this way. She then shares her heart about helping families struggling with nutrition with their kids who have come from hard. Madison is an adoptive mom herself and she not only shares from her expertise, but also from her own experiences. Madison has been a pediatric dietitian for over 10 years and first became a mom through foster care 7 years ago. It was then that she was introduced to TBRI. Now, her passion is helping parents take the stress out of mealtimes. She's been married for 10 years and has  2 daughters, 10 & 9 years old, both of whom joined their family through adoption (domestic and international).  You  can find Madison on Instagram, Facebook, and her website www.nourishwithconnection.com A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa shares three tips to help our kids feel like they have some control over what goes on in their daily lives. We often see behaviors escalate when our kids feel like they have no power or control. Instead of getting frustrated, let's take an approach of sharing power and giving them opportunities to have control. Enjoy! If you are looking for more support, check out the Let's Grow Membership at www.mendingfamilieswa.com/membership We would love to have you join!A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

In today's episode, Tracey shares with us how creativity and using art helped her on her journey of healing. She also opens up about the hard parts of her story that led to her writing her first book with the hopes of inspiring others. Grief and loss, along with mental health conditions, are difficult to navigate and lead us to feel alone at times so Tracey's memoir can lead to helping others find their healing. A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened to episodes of this past year! This was a special one for me as I had the privilege of interviewing my oldest daughter, Haley. Her original episode was #7 and is still as good as when it first aired! On today's episode, Haley shares her heart about the difficulties of growing up under some tough circumstances, how she felt when she first met Jon (my husband), what it was like when Jon and I started having our own kids, and when she realized she had her own stuff she needed to work through.  This conversation is very real, honest and raw. I think we all can take away something from what Haley shares, and she even has some great advice for those of you parenting kids who have experienced divorce, adoption, foster care, etc.  Enjoy! Find FULL SHOW NOTES at https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/haleypemberton Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened-to episodes of this past year! This episode was originally #28 and one of my favorites as we discussed the book I recommend the most, Parenting Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors, which you can now purchase anywhere books are sold! On today's episode, Robyn walks us through the parts of the brain (Owl, Watchdog, Possum) and how we can view our kids' big, baffling behaviors from a different perspective. She shares her thoughts on consequences and whether they are necessary to change our kids' behaviors. This conversation with Robyn was so easy because she makes parenting sound easy and doable!  If you are struggling with big, baffling behaviors from your kids, this episode will give you some great starting places to make positive changes within your home! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened-to episodes this past year! Today we will hear Claire share her encouraging story of surviving cancer which was originally episode #9. On today's episode, Claire shares with us about her journey of surviving cancer and how she learned so much about herself during that process.  She talks about the realization that she needed to truly slow down, ask for help with her son, and allow her body the space to heal. Claire gives us a brief run-down on Internal Family Systems and provides us with some great tips, resources and suggestions for our own healing that you won't want to miss out on! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/clairethompson Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened to episodes of this past year! This week we get to hear from Melissa Corkum again as she shares about Blocked Care and the Safe and Sound Protocol. I am happy to tell you that since this episode originally aired (it was episode #15), I have gone through the training and become a Safe and Sound Protocol Practitioner myself! On today's episode, Melissa shares about how she uses the Enneagram in her personal life, as well as her professional life and how she has found it to be so helpful. She also talks about Blocked Care and Compassion Fatigue, which you can read more about in her new book, Reclaim Compassion. Melissa also gives us some great insight into Polyvagal Theory (I promise it's not boring!) and how she uses the Safe and Sound Protocol to help families move into healing. For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/melissacorkum Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened to epsidoes of this past year! This episode is the only "Mondays with Melissa" to make it into the top 8 and it is an important one! On today's episode, Melissa gives a brief explanation of what Trust Based Relational Interventions are.  She breaks down TBRI's 3 principles for us (Connecting, Empowering and Correcting) and gives a few real-life examples of how to apply these principles in our everyday life.  For a more in-depth look at TBRI, reach out to Melissa to arrange a training or parent coaching session. She can be reached at melissa@mendingfamilieswa.com For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/tbri Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened-to episodes of this past year! Today we will get to hear Hannah McLeod's inspiring story again as she was originally episode #13. On today's episode, Hannah tells us about Beachbody and how she has been able to make her daily exercise a habit that she rarely even thinks about. She shares some of the hard things that she has been through in the past 8 years, including losing her mom and her son being diagnosed with cancer at just 5 months old. Hannah is an inspiration and has such encouraging things to say….enjoy! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/hannahmcleod Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened-to episodes of this past year! This week we will hear #7 in our countdown with Steve Lympus who was episode 50 back in early 2024. On today's episode, Melissa and Steve talk about trauma informed parenting, where we can be more trauma aware, and how you start to see trauma everywhere once you start to experience growth. Steve also shared ways that we can make more space for queer kids that he believes can help them feel seen and loved.  This is an important conversation that you won't want to miss! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

Welcome to the summer series top 8 most listened-to episodes of this past year! Let's start with #8, my interview with my husband, Jon Pemberton, which was the first episode of the podcast! On today's episode, Jon shares his feelings about becoming a dad “overnight” when he married Melissa. His perspective on how he thought he would parent shifted when he was able to learn more about how discipline affects kids and that there are other options to discipline that encourage healthier emotional intelligence. Jon touches on corporal punishment and how he came to a place that he realized he could never spank his children which then led him on a mission to help educate other families about the importance of connected parenting approaches. Listen to the very end as Jon gives us three great resources to tap into to help us learn parenting strategies that will help us raise our children to be emotionally intelligent adults. For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast/mfp1?rq=jon Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Becky shares about her journey to sobriety and how she has found her way to stretch therapy. She explains Fascial Stretching and how she has been able to use this strategy as a way to help others find healing and chronic pain relief. Finally, Becky gives us some simple stretches we can do from the comfort of our own home that can help our nervous system daily. Enjoy! Becky Kukucka is a stretch therapist and ultrasound technician who enjoys helping individuals find relief from chronic pain due to tight muscles. She is married with two boys and loves living in the Inland Northwest and all it has to offer. You can find more information about Becky on Instagram or her website, www.spokanestretch.com A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa gives you 5 tips to survive the summer months with your kids at home. With summer just beginning, this episode is sure to give you some good things to consider when planning for the next few months. If you have any tips you'd like to share, feel free to shoot Melissa a DM on her Instagram and she will share with the listeners!  For a FREEBIE Melissa that will reduce Chaos in your home, go HERE and enter your email to get the quicksheet sent directly to your inbox! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Mara shares about being a child advocate and how that led her and her husband to being a kinship care provider for a teenage girl. We talk briefly about group homes and the “wish list” Mara has for the future of group homes. She gives us good things to think about when it comes to being involved in the lives of children in  foster care, and provides us with resources, thoughts, and insights that are helpful to everyone! Mara Shorr is a highly regarded national consultant, speaker, and writer, as well as a former foster parent and current volunteer advocate for children through the guardian ad litem program in Orange County, FL.  You  can find more information about Mara on her Instagram or shoot her email if you just want someone to talk to about your own journey as a foster parent or kinship caregiver. A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa peels back the curtains of her online course and let's you experience one of the lessons. She created Mend, Heal, Grow when she realized that she could reach more families with the work she does by offering it online and not just in person! This course offers the ability to connect with other caregivers, meet weekly over zoom (not required) and grow as a person, parent and partner!  The next round of the course will begin Jul 1, 2024 and cart closes on Jun 21, 2024 so act now! Summer is the perfect time to mend, heal and grow as a family! Want to purchase the online course now? Click HERE and go directly to the sales page with all the details and ways to pay (yes there are payment plans!!) For the FREEBIE Melissa mentions with a discount offer for the course, go HERE and enter your email to get the quicksheet sent directly to your inbox! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa shares her thoughts and a few tips on potty training. It may seem like this is something that is pretty cut and dry, but Melissa gives us a few things to consider when starting (or restarting) potty training our toddlers, preschoolers and early elementary aged kiddos. As always, reach out with specific questions! For the FREEBIE Melissa mentions, go HERE and enter your email to get the quicksheet sent directly to your inbox! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! **As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive a small commission when you purchase any of the products I have linked in this post** Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Jake shares about what brought him to becoming a Somatic Experiencing and how he uses this approach to help his clients find healing and space for healing. He gives us some practical things to consider and also some strategies that you can do today to help bring your nervous system to a place of calm. Enjoy! Jake White practices somatic experiencing and he has been in private practice for the past ten years. He specializes in helping people recover from the symptoms of trauma through an approach that focuses on releasing stress through the body and nervous system. He works through individual coaching as well as through group programs.  He is a father of two boys Luke and Abel and he has a wife named Elli White. They live on a cattle farm in West Virginia where they raise their two boys and work to care for the land.  You  can find more information about Jake and his practice at his website, www.jakewhitehealing.com and also on Facebook and Instagram.  A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa starts by interviewing her 12 year old daughter about her thoughts on Mother's Day. Melissa then interviews her teenage daughter to hear from her perspective what it was like growing up with some fear based discipline before TBRI came into the mix. She has some good insight to share that will be helpful to anyone who has a teen in their life! You  can find Kayanna's music on her Instagram so go give her a follow! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! **As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive a small commission when you purchase any of the products I have linked in this post** Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Autumn talks about how she went from being a teacher in the school system to being a stay at home mom to now being a published author. Autumn and her husband are also foster parents and we chat briefly about what they have learned during their time as family parents. This is a good one if you are looking for activities to do with your kids this summer! Enjoy! Autumn is a mom to 3, teacher turned stay-at-home-mom turned author, who loves helping other moms thrive in their best version of themselves. Autumn and  her husband have been happily married for just under 14 years. They are currently loving on a 1 month old foster daughter and enjoy being outside, traveling to new places, and making frequent trips to the library. You  can find Autumn on Instagram, Facebook and all of her resources can be found on her website, www.bestmomideas.com  A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa answers a listener's question about toddlers and how to handle their tantrums. Melissa helps us reframe how to look at tantrums and meet our kids where they are at while also meeting the need behind the tantrum. Not parenting a toddler? That's okay! We all have kids in our lives and this episode is for everyone! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, ⁠West Plains Roasters⁠! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa shares about a recent panic attack that she experienced and how she has learned to get through them on her own. Melissa also believes in authenticity and so she gives the audience a sneak peek into the daily lives in the Pemberton household and how we all can learn from mistakes. Grab your coffee and let's have a chat! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, West Plains Roasters! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Sandra shares about her own experiences with FASD and how she came to the place she is now, which is speaking and advocating for those affected by FASD. We talk about the school systems and ways to support our kids in the educational setting. Finally, Sandra gives us a better understanding of FASD and ways that we, as a community, can do a better job of supporting our kids with invisible disabilities. This is a must-listen for everyone! Sandra is a mom of 8, 5 through adoption (2 with FASD). She is the Executive Director of Justice For Orphans, host of the Adoption & Foster Care Journey Podcast, and a certified facilitator of the FASCETS neurobehavioral model. She is passionate about serving adoptive & foster families. You can find her on Instagram or on Facebook. Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

I had Haley as a teen and we have been through so many ups and downs, but are on the side of healing past hurts, as well as our relationship. It's been so fun watching her grow and see her follow in my footsteps as a social worker. Haley has her Bachelors in Social Work and works for a local counseling agency as a crisis response counselor. She lives with her dog, Hank, and uses art as an outlet to help her get through the big and hard of life! On today's episode, Haley shares her heart about the difficulties of growing up under some tough circumstances, how she felt when she first met Jon (my husband), what it was like when Jon and I started having our own kids, and when she realized she had her own stuff she needed to work through.  This conversation is very real, honest and raw. I think we all can take away something from what Haley shares, and she even has some great advice for those of you parenting kids who have experienced divorce, adoption, foster care, etc.  Enjoy!  **If you or someone you know is dealing with suicidal thoughts, contact the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline or dial 988 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Mary Anne  shares about the ways that cancer has affected her family and what helped  her make it through.  She shares about not healing from grief but from growing through grief. Mary Anne also talks about how grief is not always related to death. This is a  heavy conversation, but a good one. Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa answers a listener's question about chores. She talks about how much is too much, thoughts on allowance, and what age should chores start.  Chores can be hard and cause disagreements in the home, so listen in to see if you can pick up some suggestions to make it easier on everyone! A big THANK YOU to our new sponsor, West Plains Roasters! If you have not stopped by to see them, pop in 7 days a week and get yourself some toast, coffee, or even cake on Fridays! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Jon Pemberton guest-hosts the podcast as the tables are turned on Melissa. He interviews her on all things podcasting and what she has learned over the past year. Jon is one of the funniest people, so you won't want to miss this one! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa shares how she got to the place of leaving her job in Child Welfare to start Mending Families. She also gives her thoughts on a few topics that came up in her conversation with Matt Anderson in last week's episode. Melissa believes that in order to do better, we have to be willing to listen and grow our compassion. Let's start here! For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Matt shares about his journey from running a foster care agency to leaving with no plan in the Fall of 2022. We talk about values fatigue, learning through relationships, and reflecting on how choices we make can effect an entire family system. Matt shares specific situations and experiences that have shaped how he views the child welfare system and “right relationship” with others. This is a heavy conversation and I encourage you to listen with open hearts and minds. Enjoy! Matt Anderson is the founder of Proximity Design Studio a media production and strategic consultation company whose mission is to invest in the wellbeing of parents to keep families together. Matt is a creative at heart who believes in the power of our imagination. When he's not working you can find Matt in the mountains or the ocean. You can find Matt on LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook and also listen to his weekly podcast, Proximity Process. For FULL SHOW NOTES go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa answers listener questions about how to co-regulate with their child. This is a common question and can be a hard one to answer because it is so specific to each child, so Melissa gives you several tools to try out with your kids! Sometimes parenting is trial and error so give these a try and see what helps! Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa gives you a sneak peek of the monthly membership, Let's Grow, and you can listen in on one of the monthly trainings! Each month, for a small fee, you can join a live monthly training, peer support and so many giveaways and freebies! If you are interested in learning more, go to https://www.mendingfamiliieswa.com/membership. Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa and Steve talk about trauma informed parenting, where we can be more trauma aware, and how you start to see trauma everywhere once you start to experience growth. Steve also shared ways that we can make more space for queer kids that he believes can help them feel seen and loved.  This is an important conversation that you won't want to miss! Steve Lympus and his wife, Laura,  are the House Parents at the Alpha Omega House next to the University of Montana in Missoula, where we live with our 4 adopted teens and 20-some 20-somethings. And one crazy dog. Steve also makes a lot of sourdough.  If you want to learn more about Steve and his daily adventures on the University of Montana campus, you can find him on Instagram, Facebook or the website associated with the Alpha Omega house.  Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa shares her thoughts on the conversation she had with Leslie on last week's episode.  She expands on what we might think of as loss and gives tangible ideas on how we can help our kids process loss, but also how we can process our own losses as well. This episode is not just for parents as we all have kids in our lives that have experienced loss and have big feelings around that. Topics Melissa mentions: *Here are some past episodes that cover the topic of grief/loss - Episode 13 and  Episode 14  *Melissa breaks down some losses that we may not think of as a loss *She shares some thoughts on handling our grief from the many losses we might experience - don't hide your emotions, talk about it, and find a good therapist *Using rituals to help with the long term processing of grief and loss For FULL SHOW NOTES and access to all episodes, go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Leslie shares with us about what the Childhood Cancer Coalition is and how they support families touched by childhood cancer. She breaks down the different ways that they offer support and give us ideas on how we can come alongside the organization to help them continue to give back. We also touch on grief and ways that we can come alongside those we know who are facing grief in their lives. Leslie Woodfill is a passionate advocate for change and compassion. She is the Director of the Childhood Cancer Coalition and the former Regional Co-Director of  Make-A-Wish and Alzheimer's Association where she was able to participate in the profound impact of granting wishes. She is dedicated to service and philanthropy, striving to make a meaningful difference.   If you want to learn more about the Childhood Cancer Coalition and all that they are doing for families affected by childhood cancer, you can check them out on their website, Instagram or Facebook. You can get in touch with Leslie directly at leslie@cccnw.org Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa gives three things for you to think about when you are faced with the challenges of sibling relationships. We can't forget that siblings are unique individuals and need help navigating conflict, relationship, repair, and so much more with each other. I hope you enjoy! For FULL SHOW NOTES go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Eileen gives us more insight into Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders, what they are and how we can support those in our lives living with FASD. She talks about Brain First Parenting and explains how she uses this approach in her private practice to help support families affected by FASD.  If you want to learn more about Brain First Parenting and all that Eileen is involved in, you can go to her website www.eileendevine.com, her Instagram page or her Facebook page. Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa explains what Adverse Childhood Experiences are, where they came from, and why we need to be aware of them. Melissa also explores things to think about with ACES and building resilience in the kids in our lives. If you have never heard of ACEs, or even if you have, this is a good episode to better understand adversity in early childhood. For FULL SHOW NOTES, go to www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support

On today's episode, Melissa sits down with Breanne LaMoureaux as she shares about her own journey towards healing.  Breanne opens up about some of the hard moments in her life that ultimately led her to where she is today. She is excited about her future and being able to share healing with others in the same way she has been able to move into a place of wholeness. Breanne is a passionate human actively seeking a better version of herself. She is a current MSW student with a BA in Psychology and a minor in Social Emotional Learning. She has the expectation to gain independent licensure and provide trauma and grief support therapies, including art therapy as a focus. Breanne is blessed to be the momma to four babes, a daughter, a sister, a friend, a creative, a healer, and always learning.   Find Breanne on Instagram for now as she works on her website and expanding her business. For FULL SHOW NOTES go to https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com/mending-families-podcast Where to find Mending Families: Instagram - @mendingfamilieswa TikTok - @mendingfamilieswa Facebook - @mendingfamilieswa YouTube - @mendingfamilies1594 https://www.mendingfamilieswa.com --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/melissa-pemberton/support