On this new episode of THRIVE: Building Resilient Families, we talk with Charlotte Caples, racial equity strategist and owner of Charlotte Caples Consulting, about the anti-racism movement that is ongoing and how we as a society can become the embodiment of anti-racism in our everyday life. Host, Kristen Pierce-Vreeke also talks with Charlotte on how parents can discuss racism with their children while covering topics such as microaggression and code-switching.

A young, ambitious woman with music in her heart that brings rhythm to her hometown. Grace Sorensen is a 19-year-old R&B Artist, who learned how to stay true to herself by building resilience in the entertainment industry. Grace will be performing at ACGC Family Fest as part of Austin Originals this year on April 2nd. Learn more and buy tickets at Austin Originals Benefit Concert (austinchildguidance.org)!

Please be warned that this episode contains topics related to addiction, drug use, and suicide. Please use your discretion to decide whether to listen. Douglas Rhodes joins us today to share with us the story of his son, who he lost to suicide 10 years ago. He talks about his struggle with the stigma surrounding mental health issues. His family also had difficulty finding treatment due to a lack of awareness and availability of mental health resources. Douglas' mission is to raise awareness about mental health issues, especially in teenagers. His message to families is that help is available. 

In this episode, Dr. DeAnna Harris-McKoy, couple and family therapist, joined us to discuss different perspectives on the mental health needs of women of color, addressed ways to overcome mental health stigmas within marginalized communities, and normalized how to ask for help. We also discussed the importance of parents finding ways to engage and connect with their children, especially in these very difficult times.

Nikki Lofton joins us today to discuss her parenting experiences with her 5-year-old twin boys. She talks not only the about unique challenges of raising twins but also about her experience with having children at a later age. Touching upon navigating simultaneous virtual classes during a pandemic, discovering her parenting style, and more, Nikki shares with us her unique parenting journey.

In Part 2 of our conversation with Taylor Nichols, we will delve deeper into her experience as a parent, sharing what she learned from her children and her hopes for how they can grow and thrive. Taylor provides a reminder that children have autonomy over how they feel, and challenges parents to ask, engage and learn from children as individuals in their own right.

In this episode, Taylor Nichols shares with us her daughter's adoption story, including her daughter's perspective of the story. Despite having a quick adoption process, the journey for their family is ongoing. From the joy of having a new family member to getting insensitive questions from other individuals, Taylor talks about it all, and what she and her family have learned together so far.

Dr. Roberto Rodriguez, a board member for ACGC, joins us today to talk about his various work experiences as a pediatrician. He shares his take on telemedicine usage to engage with children and its future in health services. Dr. Rodriguez also tells us his observations about the impact of COVID-19 on children's mental health and about the accessibility to mental health resources.

In this episode, Dr. Sanam Hafeez joins us from Comprehensive Consultation Psychological Services in New York. Dr. Hafeez shares with us her journey and experience working with families and advocacy for mental health as well as her take on how our understanding of mental health has changed over recent years thanks to the increased usage of social media and the emergence of COVID-19. As mental health becomes a more valued and discussed topic today, Dr. Hafeez reminds us that getting a psychological assessment is important and that mental health professionals can help you navigate how to take care of your mental well-being.

Author Tami Overhauser shares her passion for helping women thrive and be the best versions of themselves, especially mothers. Kristen talks with her about her book, The Strong-Willed Mama: Surviving and Thriving Raising Strong-Willed Children, and her work as a mentor and public speaker. Driven by her experience as a mother of four children and faith, Tami’s main message to parents is that life is tough, but so are you.