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What does it mean to raise healthy, resilient kids in a world shaped by AI, social media, and constant digital connection?

In this episode of Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary Kirkendall is joined by Brina Tiemeyer, Wedgwood's  Senior Director of Behavioral Health and Community Services, and Chris McKenna, Founder & CEO of Protect Young Eyes and author of Five Habits of the Tech-Ready Family.

Together, they explore how artificial intelligence and social media are changing childhood, why today's technology presents unique challenges for developing minds, and what parents can do to help children build healthy digital habits without leading from fear.

From AI companions and media literacy to resilience, critical thinking, and the importance of real-life relationships, Chris and Brina offer practical guidance for parents, caregivers, educators, and anyone invested in helping young people thrive in an increasingly digital world.

Most importantly, they remind us that technology isn't the villain...passive use is. By leading with curiosity, modeling healthy habits, and prioritizing relationships over rules, families can navigate today's digital landscape with confidence and hope.

Whether you're parenting young children, raising teens, working with youth, or simply trying to develop healthier technology habits yourself, this conversation offers practical wisdom, encouragement, and a hopeful reminder that meaningful connection still matters most.

LINKS & INFO:

• Protect Young Eyes
• 5 Habits of the Tech-Ready Family by Chris McKenna
• Wedgwood's Website
• Learn More About Coffee Break Conversation

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What happens when faith becomes the heartbeat behind the music? 

In this episode of Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary Kirkendall sits down with Grand Rapids recording artist Steven Malcolm to talk about his journey from a traumatic, fatherless childhood to becoming an award-nominated Christian hip-hop artist whose music has reached millions around the world.

Together, they explore how faith, vulnerability, and authentic storytelling have shaped Steven's music, why community and accountability have been essential to his growth, and what it means to use his platform to bring hope to others while staying true to his calling.

Drawing from his own experiences with trauma, redemption, fatherhood, and the music industry, Steven shares powerful encouragement for anyone navigating pain, depression, or uncertainty. He reminds listeners that no story is beyond God's ability to redeem.

Whether you're a fan of hip-hop, passionate about mental health, raising the next generation, or simply looking for hope in the middle of life's challenges, this conversation offers honesty, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that brokenness doesn't have to be the end of the story.

LINKS & INFO:

• Steven Malcolm's Website
• Steven Malcolm's Instagram
• Listen to Steven Malcolm on Spotify
• Wedgwood's Website
• Learn More about This Podcast

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What does human trafficking actually look like? What does it mean?

In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary Kirkendall sits down with Andrea Keller, Wedgwood’s Anti-Human Trafficking Coordinator, and Katie Green, a nationally recognized advocate and therapist, and survivor of human trafficking.

Together, they unpack the myths and misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, explore the vulnerabilities that traffickers exploit, and explain why trafficking is far more relational and complex than many people realize. 

Drawing from first-hand experience and professional expertise, Andrea & Katie share insights on prevention, trauma-informed care, and what survivors truly need to heal and rebuild stability.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, faith leader, healthcare professional, or simply someone who wants to better understand this issue, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical ways to be part of the solution.

LINKS & INFO:

• Wedgwood's Manasseh Project
• Human Trafficking Commission
• National Survivor Study
• National Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or Text the word "INFO" to 233733
• Katie Green's Email: [email protected]

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Sometimes one coffee isn’t enough. Join us for a second cup in this special bonus episode!

In this bonus episode, Hillary continues the discussion with Marie Brown and Kimber Decker about what it truly means to create safe, healing environments for kids when home doesn’t feel like home. 

Together, they explore how trust is built over time, why therapy doesn’t have to feel clinical or intense, and how hope can begin with a small spark when kids are given space to step out of survival mode and imagine a different future.

LINKS & INFO:

• For more Info on this Podcast
• Learn more about Wedgwood
• Wedgwood & Podcast Merch

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What happens when “home” doesn’t feel like home?

In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary talks with Marie Brown, Supervisor of Wedgwood’s Human Trafficking residential treatment home, and Kimber Decker, clinical facilitator in Wedgwood’s Intensive Outpatient Program.

They unpack how instability, trauma, and unsafe environments affect a child’s sense of safety and identity—and how consistent care, healthy boundaries, and supportive relationships can begin rebuilding belonging.

Drawing from decades of combined experience, Marie and Kimber share powerful stories that highlight the impact of trust, autonomy, and connection in healing.

Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, mentor, or someone who simply cares about kids, this conversation offers practical insight and hopeful reminders that nurturing, “home-like” spaces can be created in small, meaningful ways.

LINKS & INFO:

• For more Info on this Podcast
• Learn more about Wedgwood
• Wedgwood & Podcast Merch

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In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary sits down with LeRae Kuperus, Director of Spiritual Formation, and Maranda Johnson, Aftercare Supervisor, to explore how kids and adults can begin the hard but healing work of unlearning false beliefs about themselves.

Together, they discuss how safe environments, consistent relationships, and faith-filled guidance help replace harmful narratives with truth, confidence, and belonging. This encouraging conversation offers wisdom and hope for anyone seeking healing, growth, and a renewed sense of identity.

LINKS & INFO:

• For more Info on this Podcast
• Learn more about Wedgwood
• Wedgwood & Podcast Merch

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In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary sits down with Pastor Arlan Palmer, Wedgwood’s long-time chaplain and diversity coordinator, and Katolo Mendamenda, a residential home supervisor. Together, they explore how kids -especially those who have faced trauma—struggle with honesty, rejection, and self-worth, and how caregivers can walk alongside them in these challenges.

Arlan and Katolo share insights from decades of combined experience, offering practical wisdom for guiding kids through disappointment, helping them build confidence, and teaching the difference between honesty and cruelty. They also reflect on how adults can model receiving feedback well and demonstrate that mistakes do not define us.

This hopeful and down-to-earth conversation highlights the power of empathy, community, and consistency in helping young people find healing and resilience. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who values growth, this episode will remind you of the importance of both truth and grace.

LINKS & INFO:

• For more Info on this Podcast
• Learn more about Wedgwood
• Wedgwood & Podcast Merch

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In this episode, Hillary sits down with Dr. Dan Gowdy (President & CEO of Wedgwood Christian Services) and Jessica Knoth (Principal of Zeeland East High School) to discuss the latest research on child well-being in Michigan and what it means for kids and families.

They unpack the mental health challenges youth are facing, the crucial role schools play in support, and why listening and mentoring can make all the difference. Together, they highlight the power of community collaboration and share reasons to stay hopeful about the future.

If you care about supporting kids and want a deeper understanding of both the needs and the possibilities ahead, this conversation offers insight and encouragement!

LINKS & INFO:

• Wedgwood's State of the Child Conference
• The Annie E. Casey 2025 Kids Count Data Book
• For more Info on this Podcast
• Learn more about Wedgwood
• Wedgwood & Podcast Merch

Use code "BREWCREW" for 15% off registration for State of the Child 2026 (February 26th at Frederik Meijer Gardens)

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Is it anxiety or just stress?

In this episode, Hillary sits down with Hannah (Wedgwood Outpatient Clinician) and Brooke Davis (Director of Mental Health at Kenowa Hills Public Schools) to talk about the growing trend of self-diagnosis among teens and why understanding mental health requires more than just a label.

They explore the impact of social media, the difference between stress and anxiety, and why person-first language matters. Together, they offer insight into how parents, educators, and communities can support kids with compassion, clarity, and proactive care.

If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about mental health in a healthier, more accurate way, this conversation is full of thoughtful guidance and hope.

For more information on the podcast, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/podcast/

To get connected to mental health support and counseling, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/counseling/

To learn more about Wedgwood, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/

For Wedgwood & Podcast merch, please visit: https://wcb.myprostores.com/

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What helps a kid feel like they truly belong? 

In this episode, Judge Kathleen Feeney and Abish Israde (Wedgwood Wraparound Program) join Hillary to explore how one trusted adult can make all the difference in a child’s life—and why a sense of belonging is essential for emotional and social well-being.

Hear stories from the courtroom and the community, along with practical strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators to help kids feel seen, supported, and connected.

Whether you're guiding a child through tough seasons or just looking to build stronger relationships, this episode is filled with hope, encouragement, and action steps to help kids find their place.

For more information on the podcast, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/podcast/

For information on counseling, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/counseling/

To learn more about Wedgwood, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/

For podcast and/or Wedgwood merch, please visit: https://wcb.myprostores.com/

Support the show

Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!