Guardians of Hope: Empowering Child Advocacy

In a society that claims "it takes a village to raise a child," why are so many mothers raising children without one? This episode explores the growing crisis of maternal isolation and the absence of traditional support networks that once sustained families. Dr. Shannon Weaver draws on her extensive research to discuss how the burden of childcare falls heavily on mothers both emotionally and finan...

From viral dance videos to professional child influencers, children navigate a digital landscape their parents never imagined. In this episode, cybersecurity expert Maria-Kristina Hayden, former Defense Intelligence Agency professional and founder of OUTFOXM, reveals the hidden risks facing both everyday kids and young social media stars. Through the lens of recent cases, including the complex jou...

Have you ever wondered why you struggle with organization, time management, or completing tasks – despite being a capable adult? Join us as we unravel the complexities of Adult ADHD with expert Billy Roberts. In this eye-opening episode, we explore how ADHD manifests differently in adults than in children, why many adults go undiagnosed for years, and what a proper diagnosis could mean for your li...

In this episode, we meet a leader who channeled her experience as a teen mom in foster care into creating real solutions for vulnerable youth. Through The L.I.V.E. Outreach , founded in 2014, Malika Williams is reshaping how support services connect with young people. What started as a program helping young women transition from foster care has grown into a dynamic youth support network, now launc...

When the year winds down and familiar routines dissolve, families often struggle to maintain balance and emotional well-being. Clinical psychologist Dr. Caroline Danda provides a compassionate roadmap for parents navigating the seasonal chaos. Drawing on her extensive expertise in cognitive behavioral therapy for children and adolescents, she offers practical strategies to help families stay groun...

When marriages end, the path forward isn't just about legal proceedings—it's about rebuilding lives and preserving family bonds.  Amy Armstrong , certified parent coach and co-founder of the Center for Family Resolution, shares how mediation can transform the challenging journey of separation and divorce into an opportunity for positive change. From protecting children's emotional well-being...

Romona Jackson, Founding President and CEO of The Women's Advocacy Center sheds light on the critical issue of domestic abuse. In this episode, we highlight the startling statistics of women incarcerated for homicide, many of whom may have been victims of abuse themselves. Learn about the importance of the Danger Assessment Instrument in identifying high-risk situations and potentially saving live...

The formative years of a child's life, from ages 0 to 8, are crucial for developing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social skills. But did you know that children also form their sense of identity during this time? Mark Papadis, founder of the I AM 4 KIDS Foundation , explores the critical role of identity formation in a child's early years, how children develop their sense of self during these...

As we approach the election and witness increased public recognition and scrutiny of people of color, especially women, it's more important than ever to address these issues head-on. In this episode, we explore the early development of racial awareness in children and discuss effective strategies for nurturing an inclusive mindset. Mijha Godfrey, founder of Jambo Books , shares her expertise on: T...

As if parenting alone wasn't challenging enough, intimate relationships are another complexity for parents.  Whether you're married, cohabiting, or dating as a single parent, uncertainty is bound to arise. Dr. Caroline Madden , a Los Angeles-based pro-marriage therapist and author, shares her expertise on infidelity, trust-building, and maintaining healthy relationships. Join us as we explore...

After a separation or divorce, co-parenting with an ex-partner can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience. In this episode,   Darlene Taylor, certified professional parenting and life transitions coach, therapist, and former clinical social worker, helps guide you through co-parenting and navigating differences. As the author of  "It's Not About Us,"  Darlene shares her...

In honor of Mother's Day, this special episode takes a personal turn as Romona Jackson, founding president and CEO of the Women's Advocacy Center, discusses the often stigmatized topic of domestic abuse. Despite the empowerment of women in modern society, the blame and shame surrounding domestic violence persist. Romona sheds light on the far-reaching impact of domestic abuse, which extends beyond...

Recent headlines have been devastatingly reporting children dying at the hands of their caregivers. Cases like Jailyn Candelario and Jalayah Eason paint pictures of distressed caregivers and gruesome deaths. Resources like the Parent Stress Line, 800-632-8188, and the National Parent Helpline, 855-427-2736 are unknown to many, and those in despair might be worried about their kids being taken away...

Death and dying are a natural part of life, but the grief that comes with it can feel overwhelming and disrupt our lives. If you are a parent who has suffered a deep loss, trying to keep normalcy in your life - especially for children - can be extremely difficult. Grief counselor, educator, and recognized grief expert Elizabeth Schandelmeier shares advice for parents juggling simultaneously grievi...

The opioid epidemic and fentanyl crisis are killing our children. According to the NY Times, opioids are the leading cause of child poisoning deaths.   Research from Yale University recently found that in 2021, fentanyl was responsible for 94% of pediatric opioid deaths. Why aren't more people talking about this? Brian Townsend, former Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent and founder a...

We live in a digital world. Our children have access to many devices such as gaming systems, cell phones, tablets and more - leaving them vulnerable to predators online. In this episode, Dr. Doak-Gebauer, Ambassador for Canada to the United States Presidential Service Center and online child protection expert, shares eye-opening information every parent needs to hear. Tune in to learn how you can...

Childhood trauma can affect all aspects of our well-being, particularly our relationships. Negative behaviors in our relationships often stem from unmet needs we had as children. Couples therapy can help partners examine where their conflicts come from and, in turn, break toxic cycles as parents. Dr. Hannah Yang, clinical psychologist and founder of Balanced Awakening , discusses one form of coupl...

Being a parent can cause us to re-evaluate our own childhood experiences. Because I grew up in a household where emotional neglect and physical/mental abuse were normalized, I find myself triggered at times when raising a son with oppositional defiance disorder. But we can break the cycle. Dr. Roseann Capanna-Hodge, an Integrative and Pediatric Mental Health Expert, provides insight on staying reg...

The news is flooded with information about obesity and weight loss drugs, like Ozempic. And it's no wonder - 2 out of 3 adults in the U.S. are obese. One in five children in the country are considered obese. In this episode, Dr. Dina Peralta-Reich , MD FAAP FOMA, Director of New York Weight Wellness Medicine, shares why an integrative approach to medical mindfulness in weight wellness is critical...

With all the responsibilities on our plate - caring for our children, working, household duties and more - it's no wonder most of us are burned out! Ana Vega, family coach, shares how we can battle burnout and her methods for staying mindful. She even offers a free guide for those who want to learn more about her Superpowers Academy. Sponsored by LiquidIV.  Be sure to get your 20% discount co...

It wasn't too long ago that married couples stayed together for the sake of their kids. But now more than ever, couples are inclined to splitting for the sake of their children and the effect staying together can do to everyone's mental health. Amy Colton, Family Law Mediator and Certified Divorce Financial Analyst, shares how she works closely with divorcing couples to negotiate assets, parenting...

The need for special educational support in school is more common than you think. How do you know if your child qualifies for services at school? What are your rights as a parent?  Jennifer Bernheim, Founder and Advocate of Right to Read Advocacy , shares her experience getting her son, a dyslexic learner, the help he needed to be successful in school. Listen and learn how to speak up for you...

Mental health treatment for children is on the rise. Now more than ever, kids struggle with strong emotions and undiagnosed issues. Dr. Caroline Danda, a clinical child psychologist with over 20 years of experience specializing in childhood anxiety, depression, ADHD, and behavioral issues, discusses the signs to look out for if your child needs therapy. Listen to learn how you can best support you...

In this first episode, Romona Jackson, founding president and CEO of The Women's Advocacy Center, discusses an important but often overlooked topic: Parentification. Learn how parentified children face life-long challenges as adults and what signs to look out for if you know a child being forced to take on adult-like roles and responsibilities.