Podcasts about familiesthe

Send us Fan MailThis episode dives into Rhode Island's latest child well-being report, revealing critical insights into the state's progress and ongoing challenges. Paige Parks discusses with Rhode Island Kids Count Executive Director, Paige Parks, about systemic issues affecting children—covering poverty, education gaps, healthcare access, and immigrant family experiences.In this episode:The significance of data-driven advocacy for children's issuesOver 15% of Rhode Island children live in poverty, amidst soaring housing costsTrends in education: declining absenteeism but persistent challenges in early childhood accessImpact of federal policy changes on health insurance and social servicesThe rising number of children in immigrant families—nearly 30%—and the importance of multilingual education programsHow COVID-19 and inflation are magnifying disparities and stressors on familiesThe need for more investments in childcare, social safety nets, and community-based supportThe threat and potential rollback of critical federal and state programs due to policy shiftsStrategies for advocacy and coalition-building at the state levelTimestamps:00:00 - Introduction to Rhode Island Kids Count and their mission02:06 - The importance of putting children at the top of the policy agenda03:43 - Key findings from the 2026 Rhode Island Kids Count Factbook04:10 - Child poverty and housing affordability crisis in Rhode Island05:13 - Ripple effects of unstable housing on children's well-being06:42 - The true cost of living in Rhode Island—almost 100k needed to stay afloat07:33 - Education insights: progress vs. persistent gaps in early childhood and K-1208:46 - Supporting the whole child: addressing food insecurity and school readiness09:57 - Chronic absenteeism: causes, challenges, and the importance of data11:20 - Health coverage: progress, disparities, and threats from federal policy changes13:20 - Exposure to violence, domestic situations, and their impact on children14:06 - The state of maternal and infant health care; disparities by race15:31 - The vulnerability of immigrant children and families amid federal immigration policies16:48 - The importance of local data amid federal funding cuts18:41 - Strategies for advocacy and policy impact amidst political changes20:15 - Federal data reductions: implications for statewide policy and program planning22:54 - The rising needs of immigrant families for services like dual-language education and workforce support24:11 - Addressing data gaps and community engagement for better child outcomes25:37 - The recent legislative session and how coalitions influence policy for children27:33 - Upcoming challenges: the impact of federal policies like HR 1 on families29:16 - The importance of economic investments to sustain child benefit programsSupport the showFollow Bill on Instagram and YouTube

Feeling like an outsider in your own home as a stepmom? You're not alone. In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia explores why so many stepmoms struggle with belonging in blended families. She shares why outsider syndrome happens, the common traps stepmoms fall into, and practical ways to stop trying to earn your place and start feeling more secure in your role.Key takeaways:Why feeling left out is normal in blended familiesThe hidden cost of overfunctioning and people-pleasingWhy belonging can't be earned through doing moreHow to build meaningful relationships with your partner and stepchildrenSimple ways to create your own place within your familyJoin The Stepmom Side Community:https://aliciakrasko.com/communityExplore Coaching:https://aliciakrasko.com/coachingSupport the showWant a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

So many of us worry we're not doing enough when it comes to homeschooling—but what if simply choosing this path is already a powerful step in the right direction? In this encouraging conversation, I talk with Ginny Yurich of 1000 Hours Outside about her newest book and the deep confidence that can come from stepping outside the system. We explore how real learning often looks like play, boredom, creativity, and curiosity—how our kids naturally fill in the gaps over time, and how the freedom to pursue their own interests can lead to unexpected and incredible outcomes. If you've ever doubted your ability to homeschool well, this episode will remind you that you're doing more right than you think.In this episode, we cover:How Ginny accidentally started a global movement—and why it resonates so deeply with familiesThe heart behind her new book Homeschooling: You're Doing It Right Just by Doing ItWhat we miss when we follow the standard school model—and the surprising freedom of unlearning itThe one message every anxious or burnt-out homeschool parent needs to hearWhat if the thing you're worried is a “deficit” is actually your child's biggest advantage?Why qualities like creativity and empathy will matter more than grades in the world our kids are growing up inWhat boredom, unstructured time, and “doing nothing” are actually teaching your childWhat's lost when childhood is spent only with same-age peers—and what kids gain from growing up alongside babies and toddlersWhy your kids need to see you building, learning, trying—and even failingEveryone has educational gaps... so what really matters in the long run?When you trust the process, learning shows up in the most beautiful and unexpected waysThe amazing story of how Ginny's daughter became a certified personal trainer at just 15Why homeschooling doesn't have to look like anyone else's—and that's the pointView full show notes on the blog + watch this episode on YouTube.RESOURCES MENTIONEDUntil the Streetlights Come On by Ginny YurichHomeschooling: You're Doing It Right By Just Doing It by Ginny YurichLearning All the Time by John Holt UnSelfie: Why Empathetic Kids Succeed in Our All-About-Me-World by Michelle BorbaGenerative Artificial Intelligence: What Everyone Needs to Know by Jerry Kaplan Listen to my two episodes with Julie Kreke about delight directed learning:- Give Your Children the Gift of Lifelong Learning (Episode 270)- Transform Your Homeschool Days with Delight Directed Learning (Episode 184)Join my FREE masterclass to learn my 4-step framework for making money on YouTubeMaster the rhythm of sourdough with confidence in my Simple Sourdough courseGain the sewing knowledge and skills every homemaker needs in my Simple Sewing seriesTurn your content creation dreams into a profitable business with my YouTube Success AcademyKeep all my favorite sourdough recipes at your fingertips in my Daily Sourdough cookbookCONNECTGinny Yurich of 1000 Hours Outside | Website | Instagram | Facebook | X | Youtube | PodcastLisa Bass of Farmhouse on Boone | Blog | YouTube | Instagram | TikTok | Facebook | PinterestDo you have a question you'd like me to answer on the podcast? A guest you'd like me to interview? Submit your questions and ideas here: bit.ly/SFLquestions.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Blended families are often portrayed as heartwarming success stories—but what happens when the reality feels far more complicated?In this deeply honest episode, Erica shares the challenges of step-parenting in a blended family.She opens up about the grief, triggers, expectations, and personal growth that come with choosing a life that looks very different than what she originally imagined.Rather than offering a polished "everything works out" narrative, Erica explores what it means to choose love anyway—and how grace, self-awareness, and intentional support can help you navigate the hardest parts of blended family life.Key Themes & TakeawaysWhy blended families are fundamentally different from first familiesThe hidden grief of letting go of what you thought family life would look likeHow step-parenting can trigger unresolved wounds, expectations, and "mama bear" instinctsThe reality of parenting children with complex medical needsWhy love in step-parenting is often a conscious choice, not an automatic feelingThe importance of proactive communication with your partnerHow to stop focusing on what you can't control and start influencing what you canWhy self-care isn't optional in blended family dynamicsThe power of measuring progress instead of perfectionWhat it means to truly choose your partner—and everything that comes with themWhat You'll LearnHow to recognize when you're emotionally bracing for conflict before it even happensWhy resentment grows when expectations go unexaminedThe three questions Erica asks herself before reacting to difficult situationsHow blended families can create meaningful connections even when relationships don't look the way you imaginedPractical ways to support yourself during challenging parenting and co-parenting seasonsResources & LinksJoin The Club for weekly support, coaching, and community with women navigating divorce, co-parenting, blended families, and rebuilding themselves after heartbreak.Read the BlogYou Can't Pick the ConditionsStop hoping and start creating your next chapter with The Wild Woman. Set intentions, regulate your system and clear the ish that is holding you back from the life you want. Connect with Ericahttps://www.thecrazyexwivesclub.comInstagramFacebook

Kevin Brunner explains why your CPA may be costing you money, how to cut your effective tax rate, and what most real estate investors get wrong about wealth preservation.In this episode of RealDealChat, Jack Hoss sits down with Kevin Brunner of The Q Companies to talk about what happens to a real estate portfolio when the wrong advisors are in place, and what it looks like to actually protect the wealth you've built.Kevin breaks down:Why CPAs advise investors to "just pay the tax" and how that costs you money every yearHow high-earning investors can stay at a 10% effective federal tax rateThe installment sale trust strategy and how it avoids capital gains on a saleWhy a 1031 exchange alone is not a complete exit strategyHow to reset depreciation through a trust structureWhat "hold till you die, swap till you drop" really means for your portfolioWhy the financial services industry is set up against the investorHow to prepare your heirs to actually manage what you leave themWhy wealth transferred without preparation destroys familiesThe "quadrant" framework for thinking about all your assets, not just financial onesThis episode is for:Real estate investors with significant equity who haven't updated their estate planInvestors approaching a sale or 1031 exchangeAnyone who suspects their advisor isn't giving them the full picturePortfolio holders who haven't thought about succession and heir preparation

Canada's fertility rate has fallen to just 1.25 children per woman, one of the lowest in the developed world. But what's actually driving the decline? Are fewer Canadians having children, or are the ones having kids simply choosing to have fewer of them?In this episode of DemograFix, ⁠Mike Moffatt and ⁠Cara Stern break down the data behind Canada's collapsing birth rate. They explore why more women are remaining childless, why one-child families have become the norm, and how housing costs, delayed parenthood, childcare, culture, and changing lifestyles are reshaping family formation across the country.Topics discussed:Why Vancouver and Victoria have some of the world's lowest fertility ratesThe surprising link between housing affordability and birth ratesWhy millennials and Gen Z still say they want kidsHow family sizes changed from the 1980s to todayWhether education actually reduces fertilityWhy cities are losing young familiesThe growing gap between the number of children Canadians want and the number they actually haveIf Canada wants higher birth rates, what would it actually take to make raising children affordable again?#Canada #HousingCrisis #FertilityRate #BirthRate #Millennials #GenZ #Economy #Housing #Population #Parenting #Childcare #CanadianPolitics #Demographics #TheMissingMiddleChapters:00:00 Introduction: Canada's Ultra-Low Fertility Rate01:08 What Fertility Rates Measure — And Why Canada Is Different01:59 Housing Costs, Cities, and Why Young Families Are Leaving03:49 Are Fewer Women Having Children?04:32 Delayed Parenthood and The Rise In Childlessness06:01 Marriage, Religion, Immigration, and Fertility Trends08:03 Does Higher Education Actually Reduce Birth Rates?10:24 From Three-Child Families To One-Child Households12:26 Housing Costs, Bedrooms, and Raising Kids In Canada14:22 Canadians Still Want More Children17:28 From Overpopulation Fears To Population Collapse19:44 The Growing Gap Between Family Goals and Reality20:05 What Governments Could Do To Make Raising Kids EasierResearch/links:Proportion of women aged 20 to 49 without children, by age group and selected sociodemographic characteristics, 2024https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/daily-quotidien/260126/t001a-eng.htm‘One and Done' is the new norm: inside Canada's growing one-child family trendhttps://www.babycenter.ca/a25053886/one-and-done-is-the-new-norm-inside-Canadas-growing-one-child-family-trend Living arrangements of children in Canada: A century of changehttps://publications.gc.ca/collections/collection_2014/statcan/75-006-x/75-006-2014001-4-eng.pdfFertility in Canada, 1921 to 2022https://www150.statcan.gc.ca/n1/pub/91f0015m/91f0015m2024001-eng.htm Credits:Mike Moffatt https://twitter.com/MikePMoffatthttps://bsky.app/profile/mikepmoffatt.bsky.socialCara Stern https://x.com/carasternhttps://bsky.app/profile/carastern.bsky.socialMeredith Martin  https://twitter.com/meredithmartinhttps://bsky.app/profile/meredithmartin.bsky.socialSean Foreman @seanegertonforemanhttps://bsky.app/profile/seanforeman.bsky.socialUniversity of Ottawa Co-op Student,  Kelly HobanBrought to you by the Missing Middle Initiative https://www.missingmiddleinitiative.ca/Hosted by Mike Moffatt & Cara Stern & Sabrina MaddeauxProduced by Meredith MartinFunded by the Neptis Foundation https://neptis.org/

Join the Social Proof Circle communityTheSocialProofCircle.comAI is evolving faster than humanity can keep up…In this episode, David Shands & Donni Wiggins dive deep into the terrifying future of AI, social media propaganda, fake internet culture, surveillance, human connection, and what happens when technology starts controlling everything around us.From AI-generated families that fooled the internet…To autonomous vehicles, data centers, social media manipulation, and the loss of real human connection…This conversation gets DARK.Topics Covered:AI & human extinctionFake AI influencers and familiesThe internet becoming “fake”Social media propagandaAI controlling systems & infrastructureTechnology vs humanityRelationships in the digital agePolitics, power & manipulationWhy community matters more than everSUBSCRIBE for more conversations around entrepreneurship, culture, business, AI, mindset & personal growth.#AI #ArtificialIntelligence #SocialProofPodcast #DavidShands #Technology #Future #Podcast #entrepreneurshipOur Sponsors:* Check out Cash App and use my code CASHAPP10 for a great deal: https://cash.appAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Summer can feel terrifying when you're parenting a struggling teen or young adult. The routines disappear. Structure falls away. And suddenly you're left wondering how to support your child without slipping into control, conflict, or constant anxiety.And if your teen is coming home from treatment? The pressure can feel even heavier.Today, I sit down with Hilary Moses to talk about what parents often misunderstand about summer break, especially when supporting a struggling teen during summer break after treatment. Because summer isn't just “time off.” For many families, it's a major transition period filled with fear, guilt, uncertainty, and a loss of structure.We talk about the difference between healthy structure and control, why parents often panic when they see old behaviors resurface, and how to create support systems that actually help your teen build resilience instead of dependence.Hilary also shares practical ways parents can approach screens, friends, boredom, jobs, driving, boundaries, and expectations during the summer months without falling into exhausting power struggles.Most importantly, this episode is a reminder that you don't have to create a perfect summer. You're not trying to raise a perfectly compliant child. You are helping a young person slowly learn how to navigate real life with support, structure, and connection.In this episode on supporting your teen's transition home from treatment during summer break, we discuss:Why summer break can feel so destabilizing for struggling teens and familiesThe hidden challenges of bringing a teen home from treatment during summerHow to create healthy summer structure without micromanaging your teen or young adult childSupporting your child with jobs, responsibilities, and independenceWhat parents often misunderstand about motivation and accountabilityHow to approach “red flag” friendships with more nuanceWhy isolation and loneliness are major risks during summer breakHow fear pushes parents back into controlling patternsWhat healthy boundaries and expectations actually look like at homeWhy parents need resilience just as much as their kids doMore about Hilary MosesHilary Moses, MSW, LCSW, is a widely-esteemed therapist and parent coach who, throughout her career as a wilderness clinician and program clinical director was among the most highly regarded in the field. Hilary is a national public speaker and presenter, has written and developed parenting and transition curricula, facilitated hundreds of workshops and family seminars, and was an adjunct professor for the Masters in Social Work program at Arizona State University's Watts College of Public Service and Community Solutions. Hilary co-authored, “H.O.M.E: Strategies for Making home a SUCCESS during and after Treatment”.Looking for support?

What if students who seem “on track” are actually headed in the wrong direction?In this solo episode, Lisa Marker-Robbins challenges the traditional focus on grades, college acceptance, and achievement, revealing why these milestones often create a false sense of progress. She explains how families unintentionally prioritize the wrong finish line, leading students to graduate without clarity, confidence, or real-world readiness.Through powerful examples and practical insight, she outlines how early self-awareness, intentional career exploration, and real-world validation can help students build true momentum toward a successful and independent future.In this episode, you'll discover:Why students who appear successful can still feel lost after graduationHow common definitions of success in school can unintentionally mislead familiesThe hidden influence of expectations coming from parents and institutionsWhat it actually takes to build clarity and confidence before choosing a pathKey Takeaways: It is entirely possible for a student to follow the expected path, earn strong grades, and attend a great college, yet still reach graduation without a clear direction because none of those steps required them to truly understand themselves or their future.Many families feel reassured by steady progress through school milestones, but that sense of progress can be misleading when those achievements are not connected to a larger goal like long-term independence and career fit.Students often commit to majors or career paths based on what feels right in the moment, and only later realize the mismatch when they encounter real-world constraints or limitations that force them to reconsider.Clarity comes from doing the deeper work early, including understanding personal strengths and preferences, exploring options with intention, and testing those interests in real environments before making decisions that are harder to reverse later. “If we don't define the finish line early enough, young people will still move forward, but they'll just move forward with something that may not be a fit.” – Lisa Marker-RobbinsEpisode References:Turn confusion into career clarity—and give your teen direction and you peace of mind with Launch Career Clarity®: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/course/#221 The #1 Predictor of Your Child's Career Success (It's Not What You Think) https://flourishcoachingco.com/221 Get Lisa's Free on-demand video: THE CAREER IDENTIFICATION COMPASS: How To Be Certain Your 15 To 25 Year Old is On The Right Path to Launch With Confidence–Not Confusion: flourishcoachingco.com/video Connect with Lisa:Website: https://www.flourishcoachingco.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@flourishcoachingcoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/flourishcoachingco/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flourishcoachingco/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flourish-coaching-co

Most schools have wellbeing programs or initiatives. Very few have wellbeing embedded into the way they function and flourish. That is the difference between bolting something on and creating real, lasting change.In this episode, I am joined by Justin Robinson, co-founder of the Wellbeing Distillery and formerly the founding director of the Institute of Positive Education at Geelong Grammar School. Justin has worked with hundreds of schools across Australia and internationally, and his approach is built on the idea that wellbeing has to be embedded across the whole school community, not delivered as a series of disconnected initiatives.We unpack what it actually takes to move from add-on programs to embedded practice, and why so many schools get stuck in the cycle of doing more without seeing more results.In this episode:Why a collection of programs is not the same as embedded wellbeingThe four partners every school needs to engage: leaders, staff, students and familiesThe most common mistake schools make when rolling wellbeing out across the whole communityHow adopting the mindset that "wellbeing is a shared responsibility" changes the way you design your whole approachPractical starting points for schools that want to shift from doing wellbeing to being a wellbeing-led schoolLINKS AND RESOURCES7 Habits of Wellbeing-Wise Families: https://drive.google.com/file/d/18SmHYlVuY60XGq_g3b8bMYkUrmq5AdAE/view?usp=drive_link  Wellbeing Compass Brochure: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1L_GRARsSBWpkcTN3rrCaQJOS2qY-uZ8F/view?usp=drive_link Connect with Justin:Website: thewellbeingdistillery.comEmail: justin@thewellbeingdistillery.com LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jrobinson-wellbeingConnect with Adrienne:Website: adriennehornby.com.auLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrienne-hornby-a4126a205Email: hello@adriennehornby.com.au Staff Wellbeing Survey: adriennehornby.com.au/staff-surveyWell-Led Schools Partnership Program: adriennehornby.com.au/school-partnerships

Paying for college is one of the most stressful financial decisions a family will ever face — and most families are navigating it completely blind. This week on the Extreme Personal Finance Show, Chris sits down with Jack Wang, wealth advisor and host of the Smart College Buyer podcast, to pull back the curtain on how the college financial aid system actually works, and how families can stop leaving money on the table.Jack brings a refreshing and honest take right out of the gate, college is still worth it, but not just for the ROI reasons most people debate. The personal development, the friendships, the experience of figuring out who you are — those matter too. And yes, the numbers still have to make sense. Jack breaks down exactly how to make them work.In this episode you'll learn:Why "I make too much money to qualify for aid" is almost always wrong — and what high-income families are missingHow the FAFSA actually calculates your Student Aid Index and what that number really means for your familyThe NFL Draft analogy that perfectly explains how colleges decide who gets the big aid packagesWhy your kid's gender, major, and even home state can dramatically affect how much aid a school offersHow divorce changes the FAFSA equation — including the major rule change that tripped up a lot of familiesThe right way for grandparents to help pay for college without accidentally tanking financial aid eligibilityWhy Jack prefers financial flexibility over locking money into a 529 — and what accounts he recommends insteadThe one conversation most married couples haven't had about college that can derail the whole planJack also shares his two top strategies for families just getting started, explains why filling out the FAFSA matters even for high earners, and digs into how schools in different states treat out-of-state students very differently when it comes to aid.Whether your kid is a freshman in high school or heading into senior year, this episode will change the way you think about paying for college.Contact Chris:https://heavymetal.moneyhttps://www.facebook.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://x.com/MoneyHeavyMetalhttps://www.instagram.com/chrislugerhttps://www.tiktok.com/@heavymetalmoneyemail: chris at heavymetal.moneyConnect with Jack WangSmart College Buyer on YouTubehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGvxjS_uLUIPnHKelqSLaHgJack Wang on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fafsafred/Jack Wang on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/thejackwang/Resources and Links:Free Tuition in Minnesota: Unveiling the North Star Promisehttps://heavymetal.money/northstarpromise/Pay Less For Two-Year Degrees That Can Make You Bankhttps://heavymetal.money/twoyeardegree/High-Paying Trade Jobs and Careers That Don't Require a College Degreehttps://heavymetal.money/tradejobs/Die With Zero: Getting All You Can from Your Money and Your Life―A Revolutionary Approach to Maximizing Life Experiences Over Accumulating Wealth by Bill Perkinshttps://a.co/d/09JgROQc

On this episode of Fostering Change, Rob Scheer is joined by Katy Encalade, President and CEO of Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions, who has spent more than two decades helping to create and support families.Katy brings a unique and deeply personal perspective to this conversation. She has been a foster parent, an egg donor, and a surrogate — offering a rare view across multiple paths of supporting children and building families. Her experience as a foster mom serves as a meaningful bridge, grounding this conversation in the realities of child welfare while expanding the lens to include other ways people can step in to help.While Fostering Change often focuses on foster care, adoption, and permanency, this episode broadens that perspective. Katy encourages listeners to consider that there are many ways to support children and families — whether by opening your home, helping someone become a parent by choosing to be a surrogate or egg donor, or finding other ways to show up with compassion and responsibility.Episode HighlightsHow foster care, surrogacy, and egg donation connect through a shared purpose of supporting children and familiesThe importance of lived experience, including Katy's time as a foster parentWhy stability, care, and belonging remain central across all family-building pathsThe role of ethics, transparency, and trust in family-building workEncouraging people to explore different ways they can help support children and familiesAbout the GuestKaty Encalade is the President and CEO of Egg Donor & Surrogate Solutions, an organization that has helped create more than 2,000 families worldwide. A former foster parent, egg donor, and surrogate, she brings both personal experience and professional expertise to her work. Katy has spent more than two decades advocating for ethical, transparent, and relationship-driven approaches to family-building, previously served as Board Chair of the Society for Ethics in Egg Donation and Surrogacy, and now serves as Board Chair of Families Out Loud.Connect with Katy

In this episode of The Stepmom Side Podcast, Alicia is joined by Monica Tanner to talk about how to reignite connection and intimacy in blended families, why stepfamily myths can damage marriages, and what couples can do to create a stronger, healthier relationship.They dive into one of the most controversial but important ideas in blended family life: why the couple relationship has to be the priority. Monica explains what that actually looks like in real life, how to support your partner without making it a competition with the kids, and why children benefit from seeing a healthy relationship modeled in the home.One of the most powerful parts of this episode is Monica's explanation of repair in relationships. She breaks down what repair means, how couples can come back together after conflict, and why healthy relationships are not conflict-free—they are built through harmony, disharmony, and repair.If you are a stepmom feeling disconnected in your marriage, exhausted by blended family stress, or unsure how to rebuild closeness with your partner, this episode will remind you that healthy relationships are built, not found.In this episode:How to rebuild connection and intimacy in blended familiesThe myth that kids should always come before the marriageWhat it means to make the relationship the priority without neglecting the childrenWhy stepfamily structure and united parenting matterConnect with Monica:www.monicatanner.comOn InstagramOn YouTubeSupport the showRegister here for StepmomCon Want a specific topic covered? Let me know here.After you listen to this, tag me on Instagram @aliciakrasko and let me know what you think!Get all the FREE RESOURCES here.Want to learn more about The Stepmom Side community? Here's where you get all the info. Looking forward to connecting with you on the inside.All things Alicia visit www.aliciakrasko.comGet on the list,  get behind the scene info on Stepmom life, and tips delivered to your inbox.

The PS5 Pro just hit $900 and I've got a lot to say about it. This week I'm pulling the best clips from Kind of Funny's Xbox future breakdown and GamerTag Radio's conversation with industry analyst Mat Piscatella — then giving you my unfiltered take on what the industry is actually telling us right now about affordability, access, and who gaming is really being built for. Plus, I sat down with Whitson Gordon from ASUS ROG for a real behind-the-scenes look at how gaming hardware collaborations like the Xbox ROG Ally X and the Kojima Productions laptop actually get made.This episode covers:Mat Piscatella's data on gaming's affordability crisis and what it means for low-income familiesThe future of Xbox and PlayStation in an era of rising prices and geopolitical pressureAI's impact on the gaming industry and what it means going forwardA deep dive with ASUS ROG's Whitson Gordon on brand collaborations and the art of connecting hardware with cultureWhat a $900 console means for the length of this console generationWe are in year 13 out of Brookago and this conversation is more necessary now than ever. Subscribe, leave us 5 stars, and find us everywhere below.— FIND US EVERYWHERE —YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/SPAWNONMETwitch (Live Wed 6PM PST):https://www.twitch.tv/SPAWNONMEX / Twitter:https://x.com/SpawnOnMeInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/spawnonmepodcastTikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@SpawnOnMeSpotify:https://open.spotify.com/show/4q7gu7BteqvEnhZAP0MM2AApple Podcasts:https://apple.co/3wuJxYtMerch:https://spawnonme-1-shop.fourthwall.comBusiness / PR:spawnonmepodcast@gmail.com

Send us Fan MailWelcome to Season 4 of Sweet Insights with Alison and Amy.This season, we are talking about something so many moms feel but rarely say out loud: the experience of being the invisible mom.Not invisible in a dramatic way. In the quiet, daily way. The way it feels when you are the driver, the chef, the cheerleader, the emotional sounding board, and the one who keeps the whole household running, while somehow still ending up at the bottom of the list.In this first episode, Alison and Amy open up the conversation with honesty and a lot of warmth, sharing the everyday moments that have made them feel unseen, and the surprising realizations that came when they looked at those moments more closely.You will hear:Why teenagers have a way of making moms feel invisible without meaning toThe silent couch experiment Alison tried with her son (and why it worked)Why the car is one of the best places for real conversations with your kidsHow the stories we tell ourselves about being invisible can spiral if we are not carefulThe important distinction between feeling invisible and simply being less needed as your kids grow upWhy texting has become an unexpected bridge for emotional conversations in modern familiesThe beauty of modelling apologies to your childrenThis season, Alison and Amy will explore the deeper emotional layers underneath the invisible mom experience, from stress and resentment to identity loss and burnout. Because this is about more than just feeling taken for granted. It is about what it costs a woman to carry so much while still showing up with so little left for herself.We see you.Support the show@sweet_insights_Alison Willswellnesswithwisdom.com@alisonwillswisdomAmy Crowellthesweetestthings.ca@amy_crowell_@sweetestcandyboutique@trurorealtors

In this episode Jared Jones and Jean Crane explore the rapidly expanding world of artificial intelligence through the lens of faith and spiritual formation.As AI becomes more integrated into schools, workplaces, and everyday life, this conversation helps listeners think critically and spiritually about how to engage this technology with wisdom. Rather than reacting with fear or blind acceptance, Jean invites us into thoughtful awareness, asking how AI is shaping our minds, and relationships.This episode is not about rejecting AI. It is about learning how to use it responsibly, intentionally, and in alignment with our values.In This Episode We DiscussWhy AI has become such an urgent topic for familiesThe difference between using AI as a tool versus relying on it as a crutchInformational oversight and recognizing bias in AI-generated contentThe potential cognitive cost of outsourcing our thinkingRelational atrophy and the rise of emotional attachment to chatbotsSpiritual formation and the risk of replacing dependence on the Holy SpiritThe importance of preparing kids for long-term character formation, not short-term convenienceFour Areas of Reflection for AdultsInformational Oversight - Am I critically evaluating the information I receive, or accepting it without discernment?Opportunity Cost for the Brain - Am I outsourcing thinking that strengthens my cognitive and critical reasoning skills?Relational Atrophy - Is AI replacing meaningful connection with embodied human relationships?Spiritual Formation - Am I turning to technology before I turn to the Holy Spirit?Resources:Against the Machine by Paul Kingsnorth (link)Spiritual Formation and AI video (link)The Tech-Wise Family by Andy Crouch (link)Thank you for spending this time with us. We invite you to pause and reflect on one small step you can take toward greater health this week. Growth rarely happens all at once. It unfolds in steady, intentional choices.If you would like support in your own journey, our team at Care to Change is here to walk alongside you. You can learn more about our services, intensives, and resources at caretochange.org.Until next time, take care of your mind, tend to your relationships, and remember that meaningful change is possible. 

In this episode of the ADHD Women's Wellbeing Podcast, I'm joined by Hannah Saxe, a Legal Director specialising in family law and a recognised expert in modern family arrangements, including divorce, financial settlements, child arrangements, cohabitation agreements, and LGBTQ+ family services such as surrogacy, donor conception and co-parenting.Alongside her professional expertise, Hannah brings lived experience as a late-diagnosed AuDHD woman and mum to two neurodivergent boys. This dual perspective shapes her compassionate, practical approach to supporting families through some of life's most complex transitions.If you're currently going through a separation, supporting someone who is, or simply want to feel more informed and prepared, this episode offers reassurance, insight and practical guidance to help you feel less alone and more empowered.My new book, The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit, is now available, grab your copy here!In this episode, we explore:Hannah's journey to a late AuDHD diagnosis and how this shapes the way she supports clientsWhy neurodivergent individuals are often overrepresented in family and justice proceedingsThe new guidance from the Family Justice Council and how it aims to improve support for neurodivergent familiesThe common barriers which ADHD and autistic women may face when navigating legal processesWhat reasonable adjustments are, your right to ask for themThe power of understanding your neurodivergence to help with self-advocacy in the legal systemThe move to non-fault divorce and what this means in practiceThe emotional and practical impact of separation on childrenNeurodivergent-friendly alternatives to court, including mediation and arbitrationHow written communication and parenting apps can reduce overwhelm in co-parentingThe importance of building your support “tribe”, including legal, financial, emotional and practical supportTimestamps:01:03 - Navigating Neurodiversity in Family Law09:37 - Understanding Neurodivergence in Relationships17:03 - Navigating Divorce and Neurodiversity26:23 - Navigating Emotional Turmoil in Legal Processes30:29 - Navigating Neurodiversity in Family Law36:52 - Navigating Relationship Breakdowns42:32 - Transitioning to New ResourcesJoin the More Yourself Community - the doors are now open!More Yourself is a compassionate space for late-diagnosed ADHD women to connect, reflect, learn and come home to who they really are. Sign up here!Inside the More Yourself Membership, you'll be able to:Connect with like-minded women who understand youLearn from guest experts and practical toolsReceive compassionate prompts & gentle remindersEnjoy voice-note encouragement from KateJoin flexible meet-ups and mentoring sessionsAccess on-demand workshops and quarterly guest expert sessionsTo join for £26 a month, click here. To join for £286 for a year (a whole month free!), click here.We'll also be walking through The ADHD Women's Wellbeing Toolkit together, exploring nervous system regulation, burnout recovery, RSD, joy, hormones, and self-trust, so the book comes alive in a supportive community setting.Links and Resources:Find my popular ADHD workshops and resources on my website [here].Follow the podcast on Instagram: @adhd_womenswellbeing_podContact Hannah through Brabner's websiteFamily Mediation Voucher SchemeCafcass Parenting PlanOur Family Wizard AppApp CloseKate Moryoussef is a women's ADHD lifestyle and wellbeing coach and EFT practitioner who helps overwhelmed and unfulfilled newly diagnosed ADHD women find more calm, balance, hope, health, compassion, creativity and clarity.

Guest Bio: Maria Emmer-Aanes is the Executive Director of The Village Playspace and the Early Childhood Coalition of Beaverhead County, where she works alongside parents, partners, and neighbors to build strong, connected communities for kids and families in rural Montana. Her work is rooted in a simple belief: when families feel supported and connected, everyone does better.  Maria is the co-founder of the Beaverhead Brigade, a grassroots nonprofit created to restore after-school transportation for students, and the founder of the Good Food Network, a community-led effort focused on improving access to clean, nutritious food and food education across Beaverhead County. She also serves as a Rural Ambassador for the Montana Nonprofit Association, helping elevate rural voices and strengthen nonprofit leadership across the state.  A mom of two boys and married to a fly fishing guide, Maria brings both lived experience and professional insight to her work—balancing family life, community building, and a deep love for the place she calls home.  Episode Description:In this episode of the LIFTS Podcast, host Emily Freeman talks with Maria Emmer-Aanes, Executive Director of the Early Childhood Coalition of Beaverhead County and the Village Play Space in Dillon.Maria shares how her coalition works to build resilience and strengthen families in one of Montana's most rural regions — from innovative transportation solutions and intergenerational community programs to creative ways of addressing food insecurity and childcare gaps. Together, they explore what it means to raise kids, connect families, and grow community in a county where distances are vast but relationships run deep.Highlights include:How Early Childhood Coalitions collaborate statewide to share ideas and support familiesThe power of parent advisory councils and listening to families' lived experiencesInnovative rural models like pay-what-you-can thrift stores, diaper banks, and local food networksBuilding intergenerational community through shared meals, gardening, and life-skills educationMaria's message: “It really does take a village — and sometimes that village starts with just one conversation, one meal, or one connection.”Resources: Early Childhood Coalition of Beaverhead County: https://www.earlychildhood406.org/LIFTS Online Resource Guide Category Family Support & Education: https://hmhb-lifts.org/services?service_type=Family%20Support%20and%20EducationEnjoying the podcast? We'd love your feedback and ideas for future episodes! Take our LIFTS Podcast Listener Survey at hmhb-mt.org/survey. Connect with Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies Website Facebook Instagram For statewide resources to support Montana families in the 0-3 years of parenting, check out the LIFTS online resource guide athttps://hmhb-lifts.org/

Danielle is a mother, photographer and homeopath from Canada who found herself on a journey to discovering homeopathy when doctors could not help her child get better.  As many mothers do, she researched and eventually found that her child fit the description of PANS... this discovery led her to homeopathy.  Now a student homeopath in her final years, she is also working with Canadians for Homeopathy in helping spread the word to other families.  This episode is so deeply touching that both Sarah and Danielle were crying and laughing at moments.  canadiansforhomeopathy.comIn this episode, you will learn:Danielle's personal story and how she discovered homeopathyThe role of intuition in parenting and healingThe mission of Canadians for Homeopathy and its resources for familiesThe importance of addressing inherited health issues and family healing

In this urgent conversation, immigration attorney Allen Orr—the first Black president of the American Immigration Lawyers Association and founder of Orr Immigration Law Firm—breaks down what's really happening with ICE enforcement across the country.We discuss:The truth behind "Operation Metro Surge" and mass raidsWhy 75,000 people with NO criminal record were arrestedWhat happened to the 2 US citizens killed in MinneapolisChildren are being detained and separated from their familiesThe profit motive behind private detention centersDeaths in ICE custody (32 last year alone)Practical know-your-rights information everyone needs RIGHT NOWWhat to do if ICE shows up at your door, stops you on the street, or pulls you overResources for undocumented folks, DACA/TPS holders, green card holders, and US citizensWhy this affects ALL Black communities—not just immigrantsThe connection between immigration enforcement and voting rightsWhat the "self-deportation" program really meansThe bigger picture: what's the actual endgame?This is information your family needs. Your neighbors need. Your congregation needs.Listen. Share. Protect each other.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/teach-the-babies-w-dr-david-j-johns--6173854/support.

In this episode, Candice sits down with Joey Centanni, founder of C3 Recruits and the C3 Dugout Fund. Joey shares how his lifelong connection to baseball and an unexpected pivot during the pandemic led him to create a recruiting service and a nonprofit focused on integrity, service, and access. Through his work, Joey is helping families navigate the college recruiting process while ensuring young athletes from all backgrounds have the opportunity to play the game they love. In this episode, they discuss:How COVID sparked a career pivot and new opportunitiesWhy baseball recruiting feels overwhelming for many familiesThe importance of academics alongside athleticsHow youth sports are becoming inaccessible for some familiesWhy service brings fulfillment beyond financial successThe impact of gratitude and integrity in leadershipJoey's long-term vision for giving back through baseball This conversation is a powerful reminder that when passion and purpose align, the impact goes far beyond the game and creates lasting change for future generations. About Joey:Joey Centanni is the founder of C3 Recruits.C3 Recruits is dedicated to guiding players, parents, and coaches through every step of the baseball recruiting journey. Whether supporting one athlete or an entire program, C3 Recruiting makes the process easier and clearer.Joey lives in southern California with his wife and children. Website: www.c3recruits.comThe Dugout Fundhttps://c3recruits.com/c3-dugout-fund/Books:Stop Complaining!: Adjust Your Mindset & Live a Happier Lifehttps://a.co/d/3uuRB34UNCOMMITTED: College Baseball Recruiting Journeys (The Integrity Game®)https://a.co/d/6oKTBzDX: @c3recruitsIG: https://www.instagram.com/c3recruitsFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/c3recruitsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeycentanni/-----If you're struggling, consider therapy with our sponsor, BetterHelp.Visit https://betterhelp.com/candicesnyder for a 10% discount on your first month of therapy.*This is a paid promotionIf you are in the United States and in crisis, or any other person may be in danger -Suicide & Crisis Lifeline Dial 988-----Connect with Candice Snyder!Website: https://www.podpage.com/passion-purpose-and-possibilities-1/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candicebsnyder?_rdrPassion, Purpose, and Possibilities Community Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/passionpurposeandpossibilitiescommunity/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/passionpurposepossibilities/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candicesnyder/Shop For A Cause With Gifts That Give Back to Nonprofits: https://thekindnesscause.com/Fall In Love With Artists And Experience Joy And Calm: https://www.youtube.com/@movenartrelaxation

In this powerful and deeply moving episode of Book Spectrum, host Chris Cordani speaks with author Lucette Walters about her novel Light of the Desert—a harrowing, eye-opening story inspired by real events and lived experiences surrounding arranged marriages, honor violence, and the oppression of women across cultures and borders. Set between 1993 and 2001, Light of the Desert follows Nora, a young woman who flees an abusive arranged marriage and becomes the target of an honor killing, forcing her on a desperate journey across continents. Walters reveals how a childhood experience in Egypt—learning of a ten-year-old girl married to a much older man—haunted her for decades and ultimately compelled her to tell this story. Book Spectrum 12 12 3pm eastern… Throughout the conversation, Walters and Cordani explore the uncomfortable reality that honor violence is not a relic of the distant past, nor confined to far-off places. The episode addresses how these practices continue today—in parts of the Middle East, Europe, the UK, and even the United States—often hidden behind cultural silence, fear, and misplaced accusations of intolerance. Topics discussed in this episode include:The real-world inspiration behind Light of the DesertArranged marriages and honor killings in modern societyHow cultural traditions can be weaponized against womenWhy victims are often betrayed by their own familiesThe psychological complexity of abusers and enablersWhy these crimes are frequently ignored or silencedThe importance of awareness, vigilance, and interventionWalters' personal connection to the locations and characters in the novelHow the book is being developed into a feature filmWalters also explains why she chose to give every character—including perpetrators—a fully realized emotional perspective, allowing readers to understand how belief systems, jealousy, power, and fear intersect to create tragic outcomes.

In this deeply moving episode of Eternally, Amy, Amy sits down with author Alex Konicke to explore the unthinkable — loving a family member through severe mental illness, surviving devastating loss, and choosing truth over silence. Alex shares the story behind his memoir Evil Among Us, chronicling the events that led to his mother's death at the hands of his brother during a psychotic break, and the systemic failures that followed. Together, Amy and Alex discuss intuition, boundaries, grief, recovery, and the courage it takes to tell a story that could save lives.TakeawaysWhy trusting your intuition in crisis situations mattersThe difference between compassion and enablingHow systemic gaps in mental health care impact familiesThe role of storytelling in trauma recoveryWhat it means to survive — and still advocate for changeKey Timestamps00:01 – Introducing Alex Konicke and Evil Among Us00:06 – The warning signs and the hospital discharge00:15 – Trusting your gut when something feels wrong00:23 – Writing through trauma and grief00:34 – Advocacy, accountability, and systemic change00:44 – Alex's mission moving forwardNotable Resources & Guest LinksEvil Among Us by Alex Konicke (Amazon)Audible & Spotify Audiobook (launching January 19)CTAIf this episode moved you, please share it with someone navigating mental health challenges or recovery. Your share could save a life.Follow Alex: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/alexkonicke/⁠Buy Alex's Book: ⁠https://a.co/d/ibqqLsA⁠For more from Amy Liz Harrison, visit ⁠www.amylizharrison.com⁠ and follow along on social @amylizharrison.Be kind. Rewind. Thank you for the honor of your time. Take what you like and leave the rest behind.

The crew rings in the New Year with laughs, real talk, and a full reset for 2026. From Unkie's wild coin story (and the infamous “goats” detail) to a heartfelt moment of silence, this episode hits the perfect mix of firehouse humor and purposeful reflection. Then the guys revisit their 2025 “Word of the Year,” share what worked (and what didn't), and lay down their 2026 words with intentions they're ready to live out.Unkie breaks down the coin mishap and the ABH ship firefighter history behind the designNew Year's perspective check: “We're 25 years past Y2K…”

Today we're joined by Laura Fess, Registered Social Worker, Psychotherapist, mom of three, trauma survivor, and founder of VOX Mental Health.With 15+ years of experience, Laura supports healing through an attachment-focused, trauma-informed, and nervous system aware lens. What We Dive Into:What reclaiming your voice really means in healing and relationshipsUnderstanding attachment styles in a compassionate, human wayHow trauma gets stored in the body, not just the mindThe mind-body connection between emotions and physical patternsWhy modalities like EMDR & IFS can create deeper trauma processingHow motherhood has shaped her work with familiesThe biggest misconceptions about ADHD, and what's often misunderstoodHow trauma, attachment, and ADHD can overlapSigns your body is speaking what your voice hasn't said yetEmpowering words for anyone who feels scared to speak up or open upTakeaway Message:Your body remembers what your voice holds back, healing begins when you feel safe enough to express even one true sentence.Your voice is part of your freedom. Your body is part of your truth. Connect with Laura:IG VOX Mental HealthWebsite VOX Mental Health Connect with Elyse:Elyse's IGElyse's WebsiteIf this hit home, share it, rate it, or tag us on socials, we love cheering you on. 

As we enter the winter holiday season — a time filled with classroom parties, family gatherings, cultural traditions, and moments of both joy and complexity — this new series, The Culture of Celebration, invites educators to pause and ask a powerful question:What are we really celebrating?In this first episode, Jocelynn unpacks the deeper meaning behind celebration, explores the connection between culture and recognition, and models how cultural competence helps us design celebrations that are equitable, authentic, and inclusive for every student.Whether you love the holidays, find this season heavy, or fall somewhere in between, this episode offers grounding, compassion, and practical insight for educators navigating November and December with intention.In this episode we explore:Why this episode matters during Thanksgiving week and the National Day of MourningHow the holidays can bring both joy and tension for students and familiesThe difference between celebration as performance and celebration as meaningHow celebrations tell a story about what a community valuesA clear, accessible definitionWhy cultural competence is a mindset shift, not a checklistHow our own cultural lens shapes classroom celebrationsHow her approach to holiday travel and traditions transformedMoving from “this is how we've always done it” to “what do we actually need right now?”The role that grief, motherhood, and healing played in redefining celebrationHow to use the AnchorED principles (Agency, Norms, Community, Hope, Opportunity, Reflection, Empowerment, Data-Informed Practice) to evaluate classroom and school celebrations:Opportunity: Who gets seen?Agency: Who gets to choose how they are celebrated?Norms: What values guide recognition?Community: Whose stories are centered?Hope + Empowerment: Are we uplifting what is possible?Reflection: What messages are we sending?Themes inspired by Oriah Mountain Dreamer's “The Invitation”Why authentic celebration centers truth, humanity, and belongingHow to move beyond calendar-based celebrations to culture-based celebrationsReflection Questions:Use these alone, with a colleague, or in a team meeting:What do our current classroom or school celebrations communicate about what we value?Whose traditions, identities, or stories are highlighted? Whose are overlooked?How might we invite more student agency into celebration?What would celebration look like if it honored each student's story, comfort, and cultural lens?Where can we shift from performance to authenticity?Related Resources:If this episode inspires you to rethink celebration in your classroom, check out Jocelynn's Focus Word Reflection Kit — a set of worksheets and slides designed to help you and your students enter the new year with intention, authenticity, and joy.Available in the Virtual Learning Library and Teachers Pay Teachers store.Connect:Instagram: @customteachingsolutionsLinkedIn: Jocelynn HubbardWebsite: customteachingsolutions.com

This edWeb podcast is sponsored by Evidence Advocacy Center & CORE.The edLeader Panel recording can be accessed here.Berkeley Unified School District in California (BUSD), when faced with the need to improve reading achievement for their diverse student population, boldly took action to implement a comprehensive, districtwide literacy initiative aligned with research. Since launching their Literacy Improvement Program (LIP) in 2022, the district has undergone a profound transformation in how reading is taught.Listen to this in-depth edWeb podcsat to hear from key participants in BUSD's literacy improvement program about successes, challenges, and lessons learned from the past three years. The panelists share:How they leveraged implementation science to support systemic changeStrategies for building buy-in and engagement with key educational partners, including teachers and familiesThe role of professional learning and coaching to shift mindsets and instructional practicesBUSD's plans to sustain and build upon their progressThis is a valuable opportunity to learn firsthand from educators who have undertaken the work of implementing an evidence-based literacy program and fill your toolkit with free resources, including a comprehensive implementation guide. This edWeb podcast is of interest to K-12 school and district leaders.Evidence Advocacy CenterWe Know How to Improve Student Achievement and Well-BeingCORE LearningTransform teaching and learning so that every student thrives.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Learn more about viewing live edWeb presentations and on-demand recordings, earning CE certificates, and using accessibility features.

Welcome back to the Dr. Kinney Show!This week I'm joined by Jennifer Barnhill, an award-winning journalist, Navy spouse, and author of The Military Stories You've Been Told and the Ones You Need to Hear. We dive into the true meaning of resilience and the hidden emotional and physical costs of being expected to “bounce back” especially in military life.Jennifer shares her research and lived experience uncovering how military families navigate chronic stress, lack of support, and societal expectations to appear strong at all times. Together, we explore how resilience can both empower and harm, and why acknowledging vulnerability is a crucial part of healing and change.In this episode, we discuss:Jennifer's journey from journalist to author and advocate for military familiesThe story that inspired her to write her bookWhy “resilience” in the military has shifted from clinical support to cultural expectationHow “faking it till you make it” can mask real mental health needsThe difference between acute stress and chronic stress in both military and civilian lifeHow unprocessed emotions affect physical health and burnoutThe parallels between military resilience and modern societal pressuresWhy true healing begins with vulnerability and community supportThe importance of civilian communities showing up for military familiesUpcoming book launch events and how to connect with JenniferJennifer's message is powerful and universal, resilience should never mean suffering in silence. This conversation invites us to rethink what strength really looks like and how communities can better support one another.Connect with Jennifer Barnhill:The Military Stories You've Been Told and the Ones You Need to Hear is available now, with a local book signing at Old Fox Books in Annapolis on November 8.http://jenniferbarnhill.comBook - https://bit.ly/49fCWYc

Send us a textOn today's episode of the Well Hello Magic Podcast, we're talking all about one of the most popular Disney experiences for families — character dining at Walt Disney World Resort. ✨We'll go over every single character meal currently available, plus a few beloved experiences that are now part of Disney history (goodbye Bon Voyage Breakfast and Supercalifragilisticexpialidocious Breakfast). We'll also talk about what sets a true character meal apart from signature dining experiences like Be Our Guest Restaurant.Then we're ranking all 13 character dining experiences currently available at Walt Disney World:Chef Mickey's at Disney's Contemporary ResortCinderella's Royal Table at Magic Kingdom ParkThe Crystal Palace at Magic Kingdom ParkAkershus Royal Banquet Hall at EPCOTGarden Grill Restaurant at EPCOTHollywood & Vine at Disney's Hollywood StudiosTusker House Restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme ParkTopolino's Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera at Disney's Riviera Resort‘Ohana at Disney's Polynesian Village ResortCape May Cafe at Disney's Beach Club ResortStory Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney's Wilderness Lodge1900 Park Fare at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & SpaGarden Grove at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel✨ Why Disney Character Dining Is So Special: Character dining lets families meet beloved Disney characters without waiting in long lines in the parks. You can enjoy a full meal, get magical photos, and create unforgettable moments with your favorite characters. It's perfect for toddlers, first-time visitors, and anyone who wants a little extra pixie dust with their pancakes.We'll also talk about:Which character meals offer the best value for familiesThe most magical experiences for kidsHow to book Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR) for the most popular locationsFor a full breakdown of each character meal, detailed dining tips, and updated reviews, visit the blog at www.wellhellomagic.com. You can also find more character dining guides and videos on my YouTube channel, Well Hello Magic.

Are we just trying harder… or are we actually getting healthier?In this episode, Tom sits down with Tony Boer—husband, dad, speaker, and licensed therapist—for a raw and hope-filled conversation about faith, family, and the danger of just “doing” life without being transformed.Together they dive into:Why many men hide behind activity instead of pursuing real healingHow unresolved emotions and pain show up in our marriages and familiesThe difference between managing life and truly living in ChristPractical steps toward honesty, connection, and freedomThis is an honest conversation for anyone who feels stuck—trying to do all the right things but longing to experience more of the life Jesus offers.To connect more with Tony, check out his website - www.tonyboer.comThe Giving Life Podcast: Conversations about being a man whose life in Christ gives life to others.Watch the video version on YouTube - https://youtu.be/XY2rC---aNsMore info about Restoration Generation - www.resgen.org

Are you fighting for your family?In this Father's Day message, Jason Elsmore explores the battles families face—financial, relational, moral—and how to respond with faith, prayer, and Scripture. Drawing from Nehemiah 4 and Ephesians 6, Jason encourages us to fight on our knees, wield the sword of the Spirit, and never fight alone. Whether you're a parent, sibling, or grandparent, this message offers practical biblical insight into standing firm for your loved ones.Key themes:The spiritual battle for familiesThe power of prayer as a first responseUsing Scripture to combat lies and discouragementBuilding community support in times of struggleNehemiah 4:14"Don't be afraid of them. Remember the Lord, who is great and awesome, and fight for your families, your sons and your daughters, your wives and your homes."---- Gateway Baptist Church meets across six locations in South-East Queensland and online. For over 90 years, we've been committed to guiding people to become fully devoted followers of Jesus. Learn more about us at ⁠https://gatewaybaptist.com.au⁠ or join us on Sundays at ⁠gtwy.au/live#Healing #freedom #Gospel #Salvation #Jesus #Faith #Christian #Church #Churchonline #GatewayOnline #AwakenSeries #JasonElsmore #WakeUpChurch #SpiritualAwakening #PrayerLife #RevivalAustralia #prayer #committed #FathersDayMessage #FightForYourFamily #Nehemiah4 #PrayerFirst #SpiritualWarfare #ChristianParenting #GatewayChurch #BiblicalTeaching #FamilyRestoration

I sat down with Beatriz Rivera-Cruz, a former Spanish teacher turned entrepreneur who quit her job to start her own Spanish immersion daycare when she couldn't find what her family needed. As a Puerto Rican mami married to a non-Spanish speaker, Beatriz shares the real struggles of preserving her language and culture, and why perfectionism almost derailed her entire journey.For detailed show notes, visit vivalamami.com/episode135What You'll Hear:Why immigrant mothers carry an invisible burden that monolingual moms don't faceHow perfectionism and judgment kept her from supporting other bilingual familiesThe moment her son's relationship with Spanish completely changed through communityWhy "good enough" bilingual parenting is actually extraordinaryPractical ways to start your bilingual journey without moving mountainsWays to Follow Beatriz:Charla Collective: www.charlacollective.comFollow on Instagram and FacebookEmail: beatriz@charlacollective.comLove this episode? Subscribe wherever you are listening, share this episode with an amiga, and leave a review⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ on Apple podcasts. Watch this podcast episode on YouTube!Follow Viva la Mami on Instagram @vivalamamiJoin the ⁠⁠⁠⁠Viva la Mami newsletter⁠⁠⁠⁠ so you won't miss a thing!Have a suggestion for an episode topic? Click HEREHave a suggestion for a guest? Click HEREVisit the Viva la Mami Websitewww.vivalamami.comHave questions or want to connect? Email us at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠podcast@vivalamami.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

A physician dad shares how politics are disrupting research, parenting transgender kids, and the sports debate.In this episode, Diana sits down with her husband, Arthur, a physician researcher and parent, to talk about how today's shifting policies and headlines affect real families. Together, they cover three big themes:The ripple effects of political decisions on medical research and patient careWhat it means for parents of transgender kids to prepare and protect their familiesThe science, myths, and realities behind the transgender sports debateThis candid conversation sheds light on how systemic changes impact everyday lives, and what families and allies can keep in mind moving forward.If you're taking something away from our podcast, we'd appreciate it if you'd take a moment to provide us with a review; the more listeners and reviews, the more people we can reach and support. As always, feel free to reach out to us at transparentlyspeakingpodcast@gmail.com.

Could today's war in Gaza be part of a blood oath sworn thousands of years ago?In this explosive episode of Wake Up with Miya, returning guest Gary Wayne, author of The Genesis 6 Conspiracy Volumes 1 & 2, unpacks the spiritual roots of the Gaza conflict, the transgenerational hatred linked to Nephilim bloodlines, and how this ties into the Gog of Magog war prophecy in Ezekiel 38.We go deep into:The giants of Gaza: who the Philistines really were and how they merged with other hybrid tribesThe blood oath of the Amalekites and its spiritual legacy in modern geopoliticsWhy today's war isn't Gog & Magog yet—but is setting the stage for itHow Project Blue Beam and alien deception fit the Antichrist's playbookThe true power structure: bloodlines, Jesuits, secret societies, and the 33 invisible familiesThe coming false Armageddon that may deceive even the electWhy we're reliving the Days of Noah—and what that really meansGary breaks down the prophetic chessboard like no one else can—backed by deep scripture, ancient texts, elite bloodline records, and spiritual discernment.This isn't just history. It's the blueprint for what's happening now.

Send us a textFrom Maid to Latina Attorney: Rosa María Berdeja's Unstoppable Journey

There's no older shoe shop in the UK to have been passed down through 8 generations than a Southampton staple: the 222-year old W J French & Son!They remain faithful to tradition, but have moved with modern times to survive, thanks in no small part to Richard French and his daughter Caroline, who now heads up the business.Discover the heart, soul and magic behind this family's footwear legacy on this week's episode of It Runs In The Family!This episode covers:The story and legacy behind the eight generations who've been guardians of the businessThe 300+ years of combined experience between W J French's master shoe fittersBalancing traditional retail practices with modern technology, while preserving the shop's historic character.Personalised service at the heart of the business' connection with multiple generations of local familiesThe resilience of retail, and staying true to the French family's passion for exceptional customer serviceRichard Frenchhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-french-9817063b/Caroline Osmanhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/caroline-osman-a412a819/Liz Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/lizzielean/https://www.linkedin.com/in/liz-willingham-09273a3/Leila Willingham: https://www.instagram.com/leilawillingham/https://www.linkedin.com/in/leila-willingham-821530a1/

Are some stories too precious to fade into time?From boardrooms to bedside interviews, Andrew Hall's journey is a testament to the power of storytelling to heal, unite, and illuminate what matters most. In this heartfelt conversation, Irene and Andrew, co-founder of No Story Lost, discuss his deeply personal journey—from the corporate world to co-creating custom legacy books with his cousin. What began as a loving endeavor to capture their grandfather's voice grew into a mission to help families preserve the spirit and soul behind their most cherished memories by transforming laughter, love, and life lessons into beautifully crafted Memorial Books. Get ready for meaningful insights on legacy, purpose, and what it truly means to live a remarkable life. This isn't just about honoring the past—it's about giving voice to the stories that continue to shape us and echo across generations. WATCH ON YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FpV50Ibzb14&list=PL7judgDzhkAWmfyB5r5WgFD6ahombBvoh&index=6IN THIS EPISODE, YOU'LL HEAR ABOUT THINGS LIKE:The process of transforming raw audio into a beautifully designed legacy bookHow storytelling for legacy can bring healing, connection, and meaning to familiesThe surprising emotional benefits for people who didn't think they had “stories worth telling”The importance of preserving tone, personality, and voice, not just factsWhat happens when people revisit painful or private stories during interviewsThe three essential elements that make each book project a successHow design choices (like colors and photos) are customized to reflect the storyteller's identityThe value of audio memories alongside printed storiesHow storytelling can offer perspective, soften family dynamics, and even inspire forgivenessReflections on what matters most at the end of life—and how those themes show up again and again

Psychiatrist Carolyn Rodriguez studies hoarding disorder and says that all of us have attachments to our possessions. But for many, these attachments can disrupt daily life and even pose health risks. For those with loved ones who struggle with hoarding disorder, she says treatments exist, including cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). Lately, she's been studying how virtual reality can augment CBT through virtual discarding practice and ways brain stimulation may improve symptoms. But, Rodriguez says, never underestimate the value of empathy for those in need of help, as she tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering's The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your question. You can send questions to thefutureofeverything@stanford.edu.Episode Reference Links:Stanford Profile: Carolyn RodriguezConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces Carolyn Rodriguez, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral science at Stanford University.(00:02:47) Motivation to Study Hoarding DisorderWhy Carolyn chose to focus her research on hoarding disorder.(00:03:44) Collecting Versus HoardingDistinguishing between normal behavior and clinically significant hoarding.(00:05:47) Prevalence of Hoarding DisorderThe universality and pervasiveness of hoarding disorder.(00:07:11) The Brain Science Behind HoardingEarly neuroscience findings on attachment and discarding behavior.(00:08:47) Dopamine and Excessive AcquisitionThe connection between hoarding and potential dopamine reward pathways.(00:09:55) Risk Factors and Cognitive ChallengesPersonality traits, genetics, and processing difficulties involved in hoarding.(00:11:14) Gender Differences and Insight IssuesGender prevalence in treatment-seeking and the concept of anosognosia.(00:12:35) The “Why” Behind HoardingHow motivations and emotional attachments influence behavior.(00:13:50) Onset and Progression of DisorderTypical onset age, aging effects, and early warning signs.(00:15:05) Historical References to HoardingAccounts from ancient literature of hoarding-like behavior(00:17:16) Attachment to ObjectsThe emotional, aesthetic, and identity-based reasons people retain objects.(00:20:45) Current Treatment OptionsThe treatment landscape, including lack of medications and focus on CBT.(00:22:30) Chronic Nature of Hoarding DisorderFraming hoarding as a long-term condition with hopeful outcomes.(00:23:08) Virtual Reality for TreatmentA study on using VR to safely practice letting go of personal items.(00:25:58) Neuromodulation ResearchUsing non-invasive brain stimulation to reduce acquisition urges.(00:27:00) Advice for Individuals and FamiliesThe importance of empathy and self-care for individuals and caregivers.(00:28:47) Conclusion Connect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>>Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / Facebook

In this heart-centered episode, Tina Marie Gamble shares how she turned her passion for service into a thriving referral-based real estate business—fueled by her deep connection to the military community. From a one-way ticket to Hawaii to building a legacy rooted in relationships, Tina reveals the systems, mindset, and community-first approach that set her apart. She dives into the power of genuine connection, giving without expectation, and staying top of mind through unforgettable client experiences. If you're looking to grow your business by serving with purpose, this episode is a must-listen.Show Notes:How Tina Marie Gamble built a thriving referral-based business serving military familiesThe importance of legacy-building over chasing commission checksWhy genuine connection and client appreciation events are game-changersTransitioning from online leads to a relationship-based real estate modelTina's upcoming coaching program for agents who want to specialize in the military nicheFollow us on Instagram! Podcast: @‌momsinrealestateHost: @‌heykristencantrell @‌thehellocultureGuest: @tina_mariegamble Check out our amazing sponsors: Your Tax Coach // Professional Tax Accountants. We're not just saving you money, we're changing lives! @‌yourtaxcoach‌ Reel Social Agent // Social Media Mentors for Real Estate Pros Helping Real Estate Pros turn their social media into their best calling card! @‌reelsocialagent Colibri Real Estate // The online real estate school committed to flexibility. Click HERE to check out their amazing courses! Strategy Ninjas // Helping service-based entrepreneurs scale without burnout. Learn more HERE

"I became a forever parent caregiver." - Jesse RonneWhat happens when caregiving, loss, and love collide? Jess Ronnie, writer, speaker, podcaster, and founder of The Lucas Project, brings her powerful story to the mic, offering a moving look into parenting a child with special needs, enduring grief, and building a future rooted in compassion and advocacy.Jess opens up about the emotional and physical toll of raising her son Lucas, who has profound special needs, while managing life as a "forever caregiver" and navigating the heartbreak of losing her husband, Jason. She shares the raw realities of caregiving, the denial that can come with special needs diagnoses, and the heavy yet hopeful journey toward acceptance, remarriage, and healing.This episode is a powerful reminder that caregivers are not alone. Jess discusses:Surviving as a parent in crisis modeRebuilding identity after caregiving takes overBalancing love and loss in blended familiesThe critical importance of support systems and communityHow her nonprofit, The Lucas Project, is creating change for caregivers across the countryAbout Jesse:Jess Ronne is an author, speaker, podcast host at Coffee with Caregivers, associate producer of the Unseen Documentary, and caregiver advocate. She is founder and executive director of The Lucas Project, a non-profit dedicated to providing recognition, resources and respite support for special needs families. She and her husband Ryan live in Michigan with their 8 children, including their son Lucas who has profound disabilities. Her story of beauty from ashes has been shared on The Today Show, Daily Mail and Huffington Post and is detailed in her memoir Sunlight Burning at Midnight. To follow the ongoing saga she can be found at www.jessplusthemess.com or purchase her latest books Blended with Grit & Grace, Lovin' with Grit & Grace, and Caregiving with Grit & Grace.Social MediaFacebook: www.facebook.com/jessronneofficialWebsite: www.caregiverdoc.comWebsite: www.thelucasproject.orgWebsite: www.jessronne.comThank you to sponsor: CareScoutLearn more about Confessions of a Reluctant Caregiver** Caregiver Action Network Caregiver Help Desk offers free support to family caregivers via phone, chat, or email Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 7:00 pm Eastern. Get answersSupport the showConfessions of a Reluctant Caregiver Sisterhood of Care, LLC Website: www.confessionsofareluctantcaregiver.com Like us on Facebook! Tweet with us on Twitter! Follow us on Instagram! Watch us on Youtube! Pin us on Pinterest! Link us on LinkedIn!Tune in on Whole Care Network

What if the way we care for new mothers is all wrong?Not just lacking. Not just outdated. But built on a model that misses the heart and soul of what postpartum truly is — and what it could be.When I was a home birth midwife, postpartum care was the care. I'd visit mamas and babies at home five or six times in the first few weeks. We'd talk about everything — from latch to lochia, sleep deprivation to soul shifts. It wasn't "extra." It was essential.It's part of why I went into medicine, because as a midwife I saw too often, how in this precious, vulnerable, formative window for mothers and babies - care just disappeared for the mother after the baby was born. A first visit may have been 6 or 8 weeks after the birth, by which time mothers were struggling alone with overwhelm, breastfeeding challenges, or worse, anxiety, depression, isolation, and sometimes they'd given up breastfeeding because they had no support. And when they did get care, all too often they had to sit in waiting rooms, a baby and toddler often in tow, waiting for an appointment only to get 15 minutes with a doctor whose had no idea to support mothers postpartum. This week on On Health, I'm joined by my long-time colleague and kindred spirit Dr. Eva Zasloff — a fellow family physician, artist, mother, and fellow revolutionary in postpartum care — to talk about the radical simplicity and profound necessity of caring for mothers in their homes, in their own rhythm, and on their own terms. Inside the Episode We Talk About:The surprising (and heartbreaking) truth about conventional postpartum visitsWhy 20-minute clinic appointments can do more harm than goodEva's bold leap from family doctor to founder of Tova Health — a home-based, whole-person care model serving over 600 familiesThe “twilight zone” of early motherhood — and how we can hold space for itWhat home visits offer that clinic visits never canWhy postpartum depression and anxiety are often symptoms of a broken systemThe healing power of birth stories, coconut oil massages, and Zoom mama circles that make a differenceWhat Eva is doing with Tova Health, and what I'm doing with The Mama Pathway, are not just beautiful experiences for mothers— they're necessary for maternal health. It's a return to wisdom we've always known. And it's a model I dream of seeing in communities everywhere.If you're a doula, a midwife, a family doc, or a mama (or someone who loves one), this episode will touch you deeply — and perhaps inspire you to bring this care into your own community or at least raise your awareness about the importance of listening to, being with, and supporting new mothers. Loved this episode?Share it with a friend, sister, or doula. Leave a review. Join us on Instagram @DrAvivaRomm and let us know what postpartum care has meant for you. And if you're dreaming of a better way — whether you're a practitioner or a mama — I see you. And this episode is for you.The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn moreMentioned in this episode:The Mama Pathway is not your average childbirth education program. It's a powerful virtual membership community and online education experience where traditional midwifery wisdom and modern medicine meet to support you on your most empowered path through pregnancy, birth, and beyond. Go to https://avivaromm.com/mama-pathway to learn more

Sam Henneberg, co-founder of Select Generation, joins MoFutbol TV to share how he's helped 150+ players go from overlooked to recruited. From his college playing days to launching a global scouting agency, Sam breaks down what truly gets players noticed—and why being likable might just be your most underrated asset.

Support AND/BOTH: Help us offset production costs while we're growingIn this week's episode of The In Both Podcast, host Dr. Ashley welcomes journalist and twin mom Zara Hanawalt, whose bylines include Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Parents, The New York Times for Kids, and more. Zara's work dives deep into the intersections of motherhood, culture, and women's health—especially in a post-pandemic world where millions of moms were forced to reckon with impossible expectations and invisible labor.In this candid, thoughtful, and at times hilarious conversation, Ashley and Zara explore what it was like parenting toddlers during lockdown, why remote work offered a glimpse of something more sustainable, and how the culture has since regressed—leaving moms to quietly pick up the pieces. From putting the grocery cart back with four kids in tow to viral trad-wife aesthetics, this conversation peels back the layers on the “have it all” myth and asks: why are moms the only ones being asked to bend?Whether you're a stay-at-home parent, working mom, freelance warrior, or somewhere in between, this episode is full of validation, insight, and a reminder that no one is doing it wrong—it's just that the system wasn't built to support any of us.You'll learn: How the pandemic reshaped parenting roles—and revealed deep systemic flawsWhy freelance work can be a survival tactic for moms, not just a “girl boss” dreamThe emotional and logistical toll of caregiving without supportHow return-to-office culture is erasing hard-won flexibility for familiesThe difference between advocating for mothers and simply “complaining”Why stay-at-home parenting is labor, even if it's unpaidThe role of social media in promoting extreme (and unrealistic) portrayals of motherhoodHow gender bias shows up in everyday parenting expectationsWhat needs to change culturally and politically to better support mothersThat taking care of yourself doesn't have to look a certain way—quiet moments count tooConnect with Zara:Website: www.zaraalt.comInstagram: @zaraaltTikTok: @zaraaltConnect with Ashley:Website: https://dovetaildesigns.coPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/AND/BOTH Community: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/andboth-communityDovetail® App: https://airtable.com/appn6w6IWipJYIuA3/pagZys7UnECzM46iJ/formSocial:Instagram: @dovetailappFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dovetaildesigns.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

Support AND/BOTH: Help us offset production costs while we're growingIn this episode, Ashley is joined by Suzie Driscoll, a pediatric occupational therapist and founder of Tiny and Mighty Therapy, specializing in infant feeding. Together, they reflect on becoming first-time moms during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and how those experiences shaped their parenting, careers, and personal growth.Suzie shares her journey from working at Seattle Children's Hospital to launching her own private practice, motivated by the challenges she faced with feeding her newborn during lockdown. With deep empathy and clinical expertise, she now supports families through feeding difficulties and offers strategies rooted in prevention and early intervention.What you'll learn:The emotional and logistical realities of becoming a mom during the pandemicWhat pediatric feeding therapy looks like, especially for infantsHow Susie's own feeding challenges as a new mom inspired her to help other familiesThe importance of addressing feeding issues early—and how therapy before and after tongue-tie procedures can support better outcomesWhat it's like to run a solo private practice while navigating motherhood, loss, and another pregnancyThis episode is a powerful reminder that you're not alone in your motherhood journey—and that support, compassion, and clinical expertise can make a world of difference.Connect with Suzie: Website: https://www.tinyandmightytherapy.comInstgram: @tinyandmighty_otConnect with Ashley:Website: https://dovetaildesigns.coPodcast website: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/AND/BOTH Community: https://www.andbothpodcast.com/andboth-communityDovetail® App: https://airtable.com/appn6w6IWipJYIuA3/pagZys7UnECzM46iJ/formSocial:Instagram: @dovetailappFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/dovetaildesigns.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyblackington/

We've laid out the timeline. We've stepped into the story. Now, it's time to talk about what really happened—and why it was allowed to go on for so long.In this final episode on John Wayne Gacy, Brian and Dani sit down to unpack the case from every angle. What were the warning signs? Why weren't they taken seriously? And how did someone like Gacy, with a criminal record and a growing number of red flags, keep slipping through the cracks?In this conversation:The missed opportunities that let Gacy keep killingHow law enforcement failed the victims and their familiesThe role bias, image, and assumption played in the investigationAnd what this case still teaches us about accountability and powerIt's not just about understanding Gacy—it's about everything that let him hide in plain sight.This is the final episode in our three-part series on John Wayne Gacy.Missed one? Go back and listen:

Struggling with debt and worried about housing options? Discover how taking the first step towards financial wellness can change your life, as housing counselor Naomi Peden shares her insights on homeownership.Naomi talks about the impact of unmanageable debt on individuals' lives, emphasizing the emotional toll it can take, and highlights the significant importance of making an initial move, like contacting MMI for guidance. By understanding your own financial comfort zones, especially when aiming for goals such as homeownership, listeners can better navigate their financial journeys with the support of compassionate experts.Listeners will learn:The emotional and financial impact of debt on individuals and familiesThe significance of knowing your own financial bottom line in the pursuit of homeownershipThe supportive and judgment-free assistance MMI offers to clients on their path to financial wellness and debt management

Please note that this episode refers to fires in California...In this episode of Resilience Unravelled, Dr Russell Thackeray talks to Christy Warren, a retired fire captain from the Berkeley Fire Department in California who talks about her experiences as a firefighter and paramedic and the challenges and stressors associated with the profession. Christy had twenty-five years of service as a professional paramedic and eighteen years as a professional firefighter/paramedic but retired after being diagnosed with PTSD in 2014. In this podcast she shares her feelings of shame and personal struggles with PTSD and highlights the importance of accessing proper treatment and support. Since she retired from the fire service Christy has become a triathlete, completed the Escape from Alcatraz swim five times, and earned a bachelor's degree in business from Washington State University. She is also a volunteer Peer at the West Coast Post-trauma Retreat and is focused on raising awareness about the struggles faced by first responders and their families, the importance of mental health support and haring her story so others don't feel so alone. Main topicsThe challenges and stresses of being a firefighterHow dark humour acts as a coping mechanism for dealing with stressThe balance between safety and expedient decision-making in firefightingThe PTSD symptoms Christy suffered when her nervous system was overwhelmedThe importance of having a support system when dealing with PTSDRaising awareness about the struggles faced by first responders and their familiesThe importance of mental health support for first responders.You can find out more about them at christyewarren.com and at resilienceunravelled.com/episode/christy-warrenHer book is "Flashpoint" https://www.amazon.co.uk/Flash-Point-Firefighters-Journey-Through/dp/1647424488 and she also runs her own podcast "The Firefighter Deconstructed" which provides support and information for first responders.You can find out more about our podcasts and send us messages at https://resilienceunravelled.com/

Have you ever felt the weight of unspoken family pain? In this raw and deeply personal episode, I'll take you on an emotional journey from a lost phone to a profound family revelation. Discover how confronting generational trauma can lead to healing, and learn why sometimes, to move forward, we must first feel the pain of our past. This story reminds us that we all have the power to break cycles and become the healers our families need.Topics Covered:Generational trauma and the importance of confronting itThe impact of ignoring or suppressing family painDealing with unsupportive family membersBreaking the cycle of avoidance in familiesThe process of healing from long-buried emotional woundsThe role of individuals as healers within their familiesUsing spiritual practices to process difficult emotionsThe importance of feeling and acknowledging pain in the healing process____________________________________________GET STARTED FOR FREE:

Episode Highlights With Non-Toxic DadHow to navigate the balance between educating our kids/keeping them safe and respecting their agencyAddressing our own patterns of control and respecting our children as they grow upFree or inexpensive habits we can adopt in our family culture that benefit our whole familyHow gardening is helpful in many ways beyond just growing foodWays to model love and forgivenessHow to nurture creative problem-solving in kidsCreating more peace, grace, ease, and joy in our familiesThe importance of building community within our families and around usResources We MentionNon-Toxic Dad - websiteNon-Toxic Dad - InstagramCytoDetox