Mentor Moments

Why do so many people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) get told to slow down or stop working just when employment matters most? In this conversation, Leslie Quarles—direct service veteran, Employment First Missouri expert, and ICI Boston training associate—joins the show to unpack the intersection of ageism and ableism in disability services. Rather than treating work or reti...

When does AI support learning, and when does it quietly replace it? We explore that question through the realities of counseling education, supervision, and practicum training. We discuss the ethical challenges of using AI as a study aid, feedback tool, or role-play partner, alongside the pressures educators face when guiding new clinicians. The conversation also examines how AI affects writing an...

Elizabeth Perkins shares the career decisions, mentors, and experiences that shaped her 20-year journey in vocational rehabilitation—and the leadership lessons that keep her challenging the system to help more people thrive. From her early days supporting customers at UPS to becoming coordinator of programs for Missouri Vocational Rehabilitation, Elizabeth reflects on the moments that drew her tow...

Amy Turk reveals why talk therapy and EMDR can hit a wall, and how yoga, somatic work, and movement-based healing can unlock relief that insight alone sometimes can't. Amy opens up about the evolution of her practice, from private practice therapist to founder of a new Webster collective that blends counseling with yoga and somatic dance. She explains why she began looking beyond traditional thera...

Season six opens with a real conversation about the work, the weird, and the deeply human moments that shape both counseling and athletics. If you care about student mental health, grad school life, or the unexpected ethical questions that can change how you practice, this catch-up episode is for you. Dr. Kiener shares what it looks like to step back into the school year with a full slate of class...

Celebrating five years of Mentor Moments, this episode reflects on the journey, lessons learned, and future directions. We discuss the evolution of our podcast, the value of organic conversations, and the importance of learning styles, including informal and formal education, through personal stories and insights. Mentor Moments Reflection: Five Seasons in the RearviewIn this episode, hosts Brayto...

In this episode, we host two dynamic Maryville alumni, Rachel Elmore and Jessica Dickson, to share their journeys in community mental health, leadership styles, and insights into working at Compass. Their stories highlight their diverse pathways in mental health careers and the importance of growth, mentorship, and community impact. Key Topics: The advantages of starting in community mental health...

Most champions start by learning to have fun and letting go of the pressure—to truly unlock peak performance. Elijah and Jeremiah, two top-tier college wrestlers, share how shifting mindset from fear of failure to focus on the process transforms not just their season, but their entire approach to competition and life. In this episode, they reveal the power of treating every practice and match as a...

In this episode, we explore the journey of a Maryville University graduate student, Cadie Buschjost, as she navigates her transition from undergraduate studies to her master's in Clinical Mental Health Counseling. We discuss the importance of mentorship, involvement, and embracing new challenges in professional growth. Key Topics: Cadie academic and extracurricular journey at Maryville Univers...

Discover practical approaches to building mental toughness, understanding its components, and applying it in sports and life. We dive into how mental toughness is developed, the importance of emotional and cognitive control, and the role of self-compassion. In this episode: The difference between personality traits and trainable skills in mental toughness The four pillars of mental toughness: conf...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we explore the phenomenon of therapy speak, the misuse and misunderstanding of clinical language both within and outside the therapeutic community. We discuss how therapy terms are often misused on social media, their impact on society's understanding of mental health, and ways therapists can promote responsible language use. Key Topics Discussed: The origins...

Have you ever wondered how elite athletes tap into "flow"—that magical state where skills meet challenge—and how you can harness it in your own life? This episode dives deep into the science and psychology behind flow, revealing practical strategies to elevate your focus, reduce stress, and perform at your best when it matters most. You’ll discover: The four key characteristics that defi...

Dr. Nancy Foster, President of the National Rehabilitation Association, shares the compelling journey that propelled her into transformative roles—highlighting how self-assessment, strategic focus, and authentic engagement can elevate your career and community involvement. In this episode, we discover how pivotal moments and personal insights shaped Dr. Foster’s dedication to service, from her ins...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we discuss various topics ranging from personal updates to the historical and ethical implications of psychotherapy, particularly focusing on The Gloria Tapes. We explore the evolution of therapy techniques, the role of cultural values in counseling, and the importance of ethical considerations in the therapeutic process. Our conversation also touches on personal...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we engage in our usual light-hearted banter, then transition into deeper themes such as personal health challenges, the importance of pets, and the impact of current events on campus safety and open debate. We explore the nuances of media literacy in the age of AI, discuss the complexities of recommending therapists, and share insights from our own professional e...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we engage in a candid conversation with Alexis, a Child, Teen, and Family Therapist. Alexis shares her journey from aspiring occupational therapist to finding her passion in social work and therapy. She discusses the challenges and rewards of working with families, emphasizing the importance of understanding family dynamics and the transformative power of therapy...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we discuss a variety of topics ranging from personal updates to the implications of AI in mental health care. We explore the resurgence of Dungeons and Dragons, the recent regulation of AI in Illinois, and the ethical considerations surrounding AI chatbots. Our conversation also delves into the new study mode feature in ChatGPT and its potential impact on learnin...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we are joined by Jessica Doebber & Racheal Rehagen, previous students and current therapists! We discuss the importance of professional engagement in the counseling field, introducing the Professional Engagement Questionnaire (PEQ) as a tool for assessing engagement levels. We explore the four domains of professional engagement, emphasizing the significance o...

In this episode, Angela Skurtu, a licensed marriage and sex therapist, shares her journey into the field of sex therapy, the importance of media in therapy, and how to navigate the business side of being a therapist. She discusses the significance of inclusion in sexual health, the role of AI and technology, and the challenges of content creation and marketing. Angela emphasizes the need for netwo...

In this conversation, we explore various themes surrounding leadership, personal development, and the concept of awe. We discuss the importance of leadership training, the four frames of leadership, and how shared experiences of awe can strengthen relationships. Our conversation also delves into the role of rituals in community building, the therapeutic applications of awe, and the challenges of m...

In this episode, we explore the multifaceted concept of awe, discussing its significance in personal development and mental health. We share personal experiences and reflections on how awe can be both a positive and negative force in life. The conversation delves into cultural barriers that hinder young men from experiencing awe, the role of spirituality in fostering awe, and practical tips for th...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, we discuss various personal updates, including our 4th of July plans and recent life transitions. We delve into the concept of intellectual affluence, exploring how it relates to personal growth and the role of AI in enhancing learning experiences. Our conversation shifts to the quality of thoughts and the importance of novelty and awe in learning. We also touch...

Dr. Kiener and Brayton discuss the multifaceted relationship between AI and education, highlighting the varying perspectives on AI adoption among students and educators. They discuss the ethical implications of AI in creative fields, the importance of proactive education, and the role of educators in modeling appropriate AI use. This episode emphasizes the need for a thoughtful integration of AI i...

In this episode of Mentor Moments, Brayton and Dr. Michael Kiener dive into the world of generative AI, exploring its impact on education and everyday life. Dr. Kiener shares his excitement about his upcoming sabbatical, where he will focus on the role of AI in learning. The duo unpacks the concept of digital natives versus digital immigrants, using personal stories to highlight the generational d...

Mentor Moments Season Four Story Moments: Everyone has a story to tell. Welcome to Mentor Moments, the podcast where distinctive journeys shape the individuals we become. Join us for engaging counseling conversations that delve deep into personal journeys while focusing on pressing professional issues. In this season of Mentor Moments, we're honored to feature remarkable individuals who not only i...