Hope Pieced Together

Seeing your children suffer is one of the most painful experiences you can go through as a parent. And when you have a child who is battling substance abuse issues, knowing how to intervene can be a harrowing process fraught with shame, guilt, and isolation. Joining us today to generously share their experiences are the Moms With Hair On Fire (MWHOF), a group of moms supporting not only their children, who are going through addiction but also one another. We talk with them about their experience navigating this difficult process before reflecting on the profound role that finding community has played in their children’s recovery, as well as their own healing journeys. Our conversation also delves into the shame and stigma surrounding these issues, how silence and isolation hamper the recovery process, and why sharing these types of stories is the only way to address the prejudices surrounding addiction. To learn more about their journeys, along with resources and advice to parents who suspect their children may be struggling with substance abuse, tune in for this important conversation.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing the Moms With Hair On Fire (MWHOF).
• Their support for one another as moms whose children are going through addiction.
• What they recognize, in retrospect, as the first telltale signs of addiction.
• Finding evidence of substance abuse, and their experience trying to confront the problem.
• The rapid changes they saw in their children’s behavior.
• Unpacking the grieving process and realizing the extent of your child’s addiction problem.
• Bargaining with their kids to help them get the treatment they needed.
• Navigating relapses, treatment, runaways, and multiple stays at rehab.
• An overview of the Archway Academy, a sober high school in Houston, Texas.
• The pivotal role that the Archway Academy played in their children’s recovery journey.
• Becoming part of a community of parents and children who share their experiences.
• Reflections on why this has been so impactful.
• Why they put together the Navigating Recovery support group.
• Their advice to parents who suspect their child may be hiding substance abuse from them.
• Resource recommendations and advice to parents on who to reach out to if you have a child who is struggling with addiction.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Chris Crawford 

LifeSpring Behavioral Health

Archway Academy

Moms With Hair On Fire (MWHOF) Emails Below:

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

[email protected]

Today we are honored to be joined by Jeff 'Gunny' Shilanski, the founder of FOB Rasor, a veteran-led peer support group in Montgomery County. In addition to being a support group for veterans, it is also open to first responders; like 911 dispatchers, law enforcement members, firefighters, and those who work in the prison system. Jeff is a retired Marine Gunnery Sergeant and spent 21 years in the infantry. Like many others, he used alcohol to help him cope with the immense stresses of his job and overwhelming PTSD. In today’s conversation, Jeff shares his vulnerable account of reaching his breaking point and how his service dog, Cupholder, saved his life. He shares how rehab helped him recover from his experiences and how he founded FOB Rasor in honor of his best friend. Tuning in, you’ll learn about FOB Rasor’s mission, their peer support model, the contents of their meetings, and how they make sure that everyone’s experience is validated. Jeff also reflects on the nature of addiction and PTSD, why recovery is a lifelong process, and what has been the most rewarding part of his experience with FOB Rasor. We hope you’ll join us for this humbling and hope-filled conversation with Jeff ‘Gunny’ Shilanski. Please note that today’s episode contains mention of suicide. We ask you to please listen with care.

Key Points From This Episode:

• A warm welcome to today’s guest, Jeff 'Gunny' Shilanski.
• Insight into Jeff’s 20 years with the Marine Corps.
• His experience with PTSD and alcoholism.
• Trigger Warning: For listeners who wish to avoid Jeff’s account of his suicide attempt, please skip audio between [03:14] and [04:43].
• How Jeff found recovery and met Korean war veteran, Bobby.
• The life-changing impact Bobby had on him.
• Why he founded the non-profit organization, FOB Rasor.
• The story behind the name FOB Rasor.
• FOB Rasor’s mission to support veterans and first responders. 
• Why they use the 12-step program as their model.
• How the COVID-19 pandemic influenced their virtual and in-person options.
• An overview of what happens in their meetings.
• General Hummer and the many ways he has supported FOB Rasor.
• The work that FOB Rasor does in the veterans’ portion of the local jail.
• Jeff’s definition of what it means to be a lifer for life.
• Two stories of hope from Jeff and the role that FOB Rasor played.
• Reflections on recovery and why it’s a lifelong process.
• The importance of their mandatory fun sessions at FOB Rasor.
• Find out how you can reach out to Jeff and FOB Rasor.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

FOB Rasor

Jeff's email

Hope Pieced Together

Mosaics of Mercy

Mosaics of Mercy | Resources

Jeff’s phone number: 281-573-7250

All of us have to deal with varying degrees of trauma from the day we are born but few are forced to sit with such unthinkable horrors as the women and men who are called to protect this country. Luckily, there is hope for veterans who are looking for ways to cope with their internal wounds and that hope is yoga. We are joined today by Yoga Alliance RYT-200 certified yoga teacher, Morgan Daugherty, who is here to spill the beans on the magic of using yoga to work through trauma. Morgan explains how she began working with veterans and why this work is so important to her before detailing the ins and outs of the Veterans Yoga Project. We learn about yoga being transformative, what Morgan teaches in her Mindful Resilience class, the impact and
reach of Warrior Church, and examples of when our guest has seen yoga do wonders for her veteran students. Please tune in as we discover how yoga gives us the capacity to endure the sufferings of life.

Key Points From This Episode:
• Welcoming Yoga Alliance RYT-200 certified yoga teacher, Morgan Daugherty.
• How Morgan began working with traumatized veterans.
• A detailed explanation of the Veterans Yoga Project.
• How yoga can be transformative.
• The ins and outs of Morgan’s Mindful Resilience class.
• Understanding Warrior Church and Morgan’s role in it.
• How she’s seen yoga impact veterans in the most profound and inspiring ways.
• Morgan’s parting words of hope.

Morgan Daugherty on LinkedIn
Morgan Daugherty Instagram
Morgan Daugherty on Yoga Alliance
Veterans Yoga Project
True Form Gym
The Woodlands Yoga Studio
Warrior Church
Stephanie Skipworth
Hope Pieced Together
Mosaics of Mercy
Mosaics of Mercy | Resources

Most of us have preconceived ideas of what addiction looks like. In reality, it is a nuanced and powerful disease. Not everyone has the same experience regarding addiction and the subsequent road to recovery. In today’s episode, CarrieRae Munson opens up about her own experiences with addiction and how she found the road to recovery. CarrieRae is the visionary behind Undersummers, a revolutionary women’s clothing brand. She is also the chairman of FOB Rasor, an organization providing support services to veterans suffering from PTSD, addiction, and mental health issues. Due to her own experiences, CarrieRae is a deeply passionate advocate for drug and alcohol recovery, dedicating her free time to this crucial cause. We discuss her rollercoaster relationship with alcohol, how prescribed medication sparked her initial addiction to pills, the moment she realized she had a problem with alcohol, and how she got onto the path of recovery. Hear how she was initially able to function and manage her addiction to alcohol and how it eventually came crashing down around her. Share shares her moment of clarity and how an unlikely person helped her accept her addiction. Gain valuable insights into the recovery process, common misconceptions about addiction, the role God plays in her recovery, and much more. We hope you join us for this inspirational conversation with CarrieRae Munson, tune in now!

Key Points From This Episode:
• Background about CarrieRae and her first experience with alcohol.
• Hear about her up-and-down relationship with drinking.
• How a medical diagnosis triggered her addiction later in life.
• Circumstances that escalated her substance abuse.
• Her long recovery journey from prescribed medication.
• Why she did not regard herself as an addict at the time.
• Discover how addiction manifests in high-functioning individuals.
• Examples of how her addiction to alcohol became unmanageable.
• She shares her story of how she found recovery.
• Moments of clarity and lessons from her recovery journey.
• Early sobriety and building new friendships.
• The role recovery plays in her marriage.
• Details about FOB Rasor and the incredible work she is doing.
• Words of advice for listeners struggling with addiction.

Links Mentioned in Today's Episode:
CarrieRae Munson on LinkedIn
CarrieRae Munson on X
Undersummers
FOB Rasor
Mosaics of Mercy
Mosaics of Mercy | Resources

We are all aware that life comes with its highs and lows, which can take a toll on our bodies. Substance abuse disorder can hinder us from fully realizing ourselves, potentially leading us away from our true selves and life's purpose. Joining us today is Dustin Weaver, the CEO of The 365 Concept and Co-owner of Restoration Recovery Group, here to share with us his story of recovery from substance abuse disorder and what his road to sobriety has looked like. He shares insights into The 365 Concept, what is daily program looks like, and more about The Texas 1000. To hear his story of resilience and hope, and much more, tune into this episode of Hope Pieced Together. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Dustin shares more about himself, giving us more details of his life path.
• He sheds light on circumstances in his life that encouraged him down the path of substance abuse.
• How he got to where he finds himself today: how the alcohol took his life from him.
• From the turning point to stepping onto the road of recovery: changing positions.
• Dustin talks about his love for fitness and how it cured his asthma. 
• He tells listeners about running his first mile.
• Insights into The 365 Concept: the story of resilience and hope at its finest. 
• His sobriety date and his belief in one day at a time. 
• What his program looks like on the daily and more about The Restoration Recovery Group.
• The evolution of his life following his choice to quit drinking. 
• Dustin talks about The Texas 1000: providing motivation for people to move. 
• His acronym: MMI and what it means to him. 
• How you can get involved in the Texas 1000. 
• He shares some of what he’s learned about himself, this side of addiction.
• Dustin leaves a heartfelt encouragement to listeners. 
• How to support: The 365 Concept (and Texas 1000).
• Where to learn more about The Restoration Recovery Group.
• Mosaics of Mercy: Saturday, October 28th Family Run.
• Final thoughts from Dustin: be open. 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dustin Weaver on LinkedIn

Dustin Weaver on Facebook

Dustin Weaver Email

The 365 Concept

The Restoration Recovery Group

The Texas 1000

Mosaics of Mercy Family Run

Mosaics of Mercy on Facebook

Today on Hope Pieced Together, we are joined by Jason Rocha, founder and CEO of The
Woodlands Pride to discuss his incredible organization, his journey as a gay man, struggles within the LGBTQ+ community and so much more! Tuning in, you’ll hear about Jason’s upbringing, his difficulties with coming out and opening himself up to love, and why he decided to create The Woodlands Pride. We delve into how each person’s coming out experience differs before discussing the importance of open allyship. Finally, Jason tells us about The Woodlands Pride, what it has achieved, and where he sees it going in the future. To hear all this and more, press play now!

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing today’s guest, Jason Rocha.
• Jason tells us about his background, being part of the LGBTQ+ community, and his husband.
• What The Woodlands Pride is all about and why Jason decided to create it.
• Jason speaks about the different ways people ‘come out’ and why each experience differs.
• The importance of being an open ally and supporting members of the community (out or not).
• Jason tells us about where The Woodlands Pride is right now and where he sees it in future.
• The Woodlands Pride summit and festival.

“I want people to feel comfortable to not let go of their partner’s hand when they walk in public and if they can do that for just a few hours here, then great.” — Jason Rocha [0:10:04]

“[Coming out] is the biggest weight off the shoulders.” — Jason Rocha [0:17:52]

“If anybody ever has questions or doubts about their sexuality or gender identity, – I hope you know that I am a safe space to talk to about that.” — Jason Rocha [0:23:26]

“Small actions that allies can take really do contribute to people's ability to live in sort of a healthier way in this community.” — Jason Rocha [0:23:31]

“[The Woodlands Pride wants] to be an organization that highlights people who will help see others as people.” — Jason Rocha [0:32:50]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Jason Rocha on LinkedIn

The Woodlands Pride

Nicole Suarez-Bronfman

Knowing how to show up for a loved one when they share their coming out journey with us can be challenging. Today’s guest is a licensed clinical social worker specializing in community mental health and offering mental health support to the LGBTQ+ community in the Woodlands. During this episode, she shares her expertise for those in the process of sharing their true identity with friends and family and their loved ones seeking to offer support. To kick off our conversation, Nicole distinguishes between clinical social work and psychotherapy and speaks to the social justice aspect of the former that made her fall in love with the field. She offers a window into her work, from how she has chosen to communicate her inclusive approach online and her work around shame, trauma, and depression to what it means to truly provide a safe space for those who need it most. Nicole explains why coming out is often something that a whole family will need to do and why that process is internal as well as forward-facing. Tune in today to hear all this and many more insights from today’s inspiring guest. Thanks for tuning in! 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Meet your host, coach, and counselor Carolyn Robistow. 
• Introducing licensed clinical social worker Nicole Suarez-Bronfman and her work in community mental health.
• Differentiating between clinical social work and psychotherapy.
• Nicole’s work with marginalized communities that led her to specialize in treating LGBTQ+ patients.
• How she has chosen to communicate her inclusive approach online.
• Effects of the current political climate on mental health difficulties.
• Her work around shame, trauma, and depression.
• What it means to truly provide a safe space.
• Subtle and small ways that people experience rejection and abandonment. 
• Why coming out often involves the whole family.
• The pivotal role of community and family in finding the necessary support. 
• Advice for those seeking to support an LGBTQ+ family member who has recently come out.
• Why coming out is a process and not a once-off conversation.
• Communicating acceptance by honoring someone’s pronouns. 
• Finding support as the person that is supporting a loved one. 
• Using the opportunity to connect with one another and grow together.
• Advice for those who are thinking about coming out.
• Risks around shame and isolation for the LGBTQ+ community.
• Warning signs that indicate people need extra support.
• Challenging practitioners to emphasize their inclusivity in public spaces.
• Supportive groups in Texas to seek out. 
• Nicole’s stories of hope: seeing people find connection in the midst of fear. 

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Nicole Suarez-Bronfman

Nicole Suarez-Bronfman Email

The Woodlands Pride

There’s Room At Our Table

The Trevor Project
Carolyn Robistow on LinkedIn

Carolyn Robistow

Mosaics of Mercy

Welcome to another episode of The Hope Pieced Together podcast, with today’s host, Stephanie Skipworth, the Operations Development Manager at Mosaics of Mercy. Today, Stephanie sits down with three of the Mosaics Summer Interns of 2023 as they wrap up their time at Mosaics. Tune in to hear about their experience over the summer as they share insider information about how they heard about Mosaics, where they’ve experienced the most growth, and their favorite moments or projects throughout the internship. They also talk about their future goals and dreams, give advice to other college students thinking about internships, and share some Hope with listeners! Join in to hear all about their summer internship at Mosaics of Mercy. 

Key Points From This Episode:

• The interns share how each of them heard about Mosaics of Mercy.
• The parts of life where they feel they've experienced the most growth during their internship.
• They express their favorite moments or projects they had over the summer. 
• The whole point of an internship: goals and dreams for the future!
• There is a space and place for everyone at a non-profit: a mosaic!
• The interns share advice with other college students.
• We each share our Hope with listeners!

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Stephanie Skipworth on LinkedIn

The mind-body connection is becoming more widely understood and accepted in modern society and joining us today to discuss the importance of integrating mental and physical health is interventional cardiologist, Dr. Paulraj Samuel of Samuel Family Cardiology. Dr. Samuel reveals the importance of offering patients access to mental health support alongside medical treatment, emphasizing that addressing both aspects is vital for maximizing overall health and quality of life. In this episode, we find out how Dr. Samuel's collaboration with Mosaics of Mercy aims to break down healthcare barriers, empowering providers to discuss mental health openly and bridge the gap between physical and mental well-being. Tune in for valuable advice for both patients and healthcare providers on initiating conversations about mental health and what it means to truly “cherish your life”.

Key Points From This Episode:

• Introducing interventional cardiologist, Dr. Paulraj Samuel.
• Dr. Samuel shares his background and insight into his expertise.
• How he feels additional training in mental health would have served him.
• What led him to connect with Mosaics of Mercy and how they work together.
• The benefits of offering patients access to mental health help.
• How partnering with Mosaics of Mercy aids Dr. Samuel’s mission to break down healthcare barriers.
• The barriers healthcare providers face when confronted with mental health issues.
• How mental health and physical health overlap.
• Dr. Samuel explains how the healthcare system typically operates in silos.
• Appreciation for the administrative population and the role they can play in bridging the gaps.
• Advice for those nervous about bringing up mental health with their physician.
• What physicians can do when confronted with patients’ mental health needs, and the benefits of checking in.
• Dr. Samuel shares the mantra that serves as his source of hope: Cherish your life.

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Dr. Paulraj Samuel

Samuel Family Cardiology

Carolyn Robistow

Mosaics of Mercy

In this day and age, it’s almost impossible to keep our children away from the online world. But what we can do is help them navigate it and put measures in place to protect them from its darker side. Today’s guest, Titania Jordan, is the Chief Parenting Officer at Bark Technologies, a company that uses AI to analyze children’s activity online and alert parents or caregivers of any red flags (e.g. a predator sending them inappropriate messages). In this episode, Titania highlights the potential dangers of online spaces and explains the importance of having honest conversations about them with your children from a young age as well as modeling appropriate social media use. Children are exposed to a lot more today than we were during our childhood and this conversation will help you feel better equipped to deal with the challenges of parenting in a tech-centered world! 

Key Points From This Episode:

• Titania explains the mission of Bark Technologies.
• Why parenting today is so different from parenting in the past. 
• Insight into the dangers of social media.
• The second leading cause of death of children in the United States.
• How parents can help their children to navigate the online world. 
• A valuable resource that will help you have discussions with your children about pornography.
• Advice for talking to your children about mental health issues.
• Red flags to make your children aware of in the online world.  
• A parenting mistake Titania made and how she corrected it. 
• The importance of giving yourself grace as a parent and finding a community to lean on.
• Examples of how to model appropriate online behavior for your children. 
• Tools you can use to protect your children from the darker sides of technology. 
• A summary of the key elements that will set your children up for success in the online world.
• Why “delay is the way.”

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Titania Jordan

Titania Jordan on LinkedIn

Titania Jordan on Instagram

Good Pictures Bad Pictures Jr.

Parenting in a Tech World

Bark Technologies

Marisa Hughes