Empowered to Connect Podcast

[E237] When You’re New to Supporting a Foster or Adoptive Family

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 May 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Episode 237 is live! ️

If someone you love is in the middle of a new placement (whether that's a newborn, a toddler, or a teenager), this one is for the people standing beside them.

Tona, Becca, and Jesse get practical about what it actually looks like to show up well for foster and adoptive families. Not just in the first week, but in the long haul.

What's the most meaningful thing someone did for you (or that you did for someone else) during a new placement?

[E236] When You're New to Walking Together as Adoptive/Foster Parents

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Community can feel different when your parenting journey looks different. Sometimes your circle shifts. Sometimes it shrinks. And sometimes it stretches you in ways you didn’t expect.

But here’s what’s true: you are not the only one figuring it out as you go. Ask for help. Say the honest thing. Find people who truly get it, and hold onto the ones who love you even when they don’t fully understand.

Your community might not look how you imagined, but it can still show up for you, support you, and grow with you.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E235] When You’re New to Parenting through Adoption & Foster Care

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Apr 2026 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode Becca, Jesse, and Tona walk us through what it looked like for them at the beginning of their parenting journey. Starting foster care, adoption, or any new parenting role can feel disorienting and overwhelming. It won’t always feel natural or easy, and you may not feel an instant connection. That’s normal! There will be stress, uncertainty, and moments where you question yourself, but that doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong. What matters most is showing up consistently, being willing to learn, and creating a sense of felt safety over time. You don’t have to be perfect to make a real difference. Your steadiness and presence is what builds trust.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E234] When Protection Becomes a Prison: Breaking Down the Wall Between Us with Sherry Varughese

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

Let’s talk about the “Wall Between Us”, the invisible, protective bricks we build from past hurt that quietly block connection with the people we love most. Our snapping, withdrawing, overreacting, and people-pleasing once protected us. But what if they’re now keeping us stuck? Healing doesn’t start with fixing our kids. It starts with noticing our own “shark music;” noticing what is keeping us from connection.

This conversation is about compassion over shame. Curiosity over judgment. And small, daily shifts that break generational cycles. Every brick you take down builds something better for the next generation.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E233] Why the Best Teachers Lead with Connection with Marti Smith & Amie Huggins

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Mar 2026 05:00:00 +0000

What if connection is one of the most powerful tools in the classroom?

In this episode, Marti Smith and Amie Huggins join us to share about their new book The Connected Classroom and what they’ve learned working with educators inside real school systems. They talk about why building trust with students matters so much—and how connection creates the safety kids need to engage, learn, and grow.

If you’re a teacher, caregiver, or anyone who cares about helping kids thrive at school, this conversation offers practical encouragement and hope for creating classrooms where students feel safe, seen, and ready to learn.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

Suppoort Amie and Marti by ordering their book. https://a.co/d/098ZnA1F

To reach Amie, check out the information below.

Website: www.amiehugginsconsulting.com

Email: Amie.arhllc@gmail.com

Instagram: teacher_amie49

To reach out to Marti, check out the information below.

Website: www.creativetherapies.com

[E232] When You're Tired Of Trying with Melissa Corkum

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

Does your nervous system feel like it’s been in survival mode for a long time?

This episode is for you.

We sat down in person with Melissa Corkum to talk about burnout, blocked care, and why connection can start to feel like a shock instead of a reward.

A few takeaways:

✨ Emotional pain and physical pain activate the same parts of the brain.
✨ Blocked care isn’t a character flaw — it’s a protective response.
✨ You don’t heal it by trying harder. You start by caring for your own nervous system.

If you’ve felt resentful, numb, exhausted, or ashamed for not feeling the joy you “should,” you are not alone.

It won’t always feel this way.
Keep hope. Carry on. We’re with you.

For the Blocked Care Assessment, click here.

[E231] When You're Tired in Your Heart with Dr. Archandria Owens

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Feb 2026 06:00:00 +0000

On this next part of our mini-series “When You’re Tired”, we reflect on being emotionally tired. It is the quiet exhaustion that comes from caring deeply, showing up consistently, and holding space for others. Dr. Archandria Owens and Jesse discuss naming and expressing emotions, unmet expectations, and explore gentle ways to care for ourselves when we are exhausted in this particular way.

[E230] When You're Tired in Your Body with Jill Stockburger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

On today’s episode, Jesse and Jill Stockburger dive into a big question: What do we do when we’re living in chronic stress? They talk about how stress, adversity, and trauma impact us on a deeper level, and what it actually feels like to carry these experiences in our bodies. If you’re feeling tired in your body, you are not alone.

[E229] Connection Over Compliance: What We’re Really Teaching Kids in Hard Moments

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 06:00:00 +0000

In today’s episode, Jesse and Tona take a deep dive into the tension between connection and compliance in everyday parenting moments. Through real-life stories (yes, even dishes), we explore how prioritizing relationship doesn’t mean abandoning expectations and structure. Instead, it creates the foundation for lasting responsibility and trust. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about playing the long game, responding instead of reacting, and why connection is often the fastest path to meaningful compliance.

[E228] The Midyear Reset: Supporting Kids in the Second Half of the School Year

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

New semester! Same kids, different needs.

As the second half of the school year begins, routines may get messy, expectations may shift, and those old pain points may resurface. In this episode Jesse, Becca, and Dr. Rachel talk about pausing, noticing what’s not working, and making small, doable adjustments (at home and at school). From the kiddos to adults, we can all find ways to revamp our expectations by staying curious and starting small.

Here’s to a second semester filled with grace, flexibility, and hope!

[E227] Rupture is Inevitable; Repair is a Choice

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

A quote that we posted, “Your willingness to come back and repair matters more than getting it right the first time” went viral. On this week’s episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast, we dig into why rupture shows up so often in our families and why it’s completely normal. Rupture happens because we get tired, distracted, overwhelmed, or just out of sync. In our homes, we’re our most unfiltered, exhausted, and real selves, and that means disconnection is bound to happen. But repair is where trust grows, safety forms, and connection deepens. Our kids don’t need perfect parents; they need repairing parents. And honestly? We’re all learning how to come back together, one moment at a time.

[E226] Replay Let's Talk About the Holidays!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 Dec 2025 06:00:00 +0000

It's that time of year again - time to take a deep breath and spend hours and hours with family members you may or may not want to see, eat foods that may or may not be easy for your kids to eat and spend the next month or so with the dull hum of presents and high expectations accompanying your every move. Happy Holidays everyone! In all seriousness, whether you live for this season or loathe this season, it can be a bear to navigate with all of the out of the ordinary that it brings. Have no fear! On this replay episode, Jesse Faris, Becca McKay, and JD talk through all of these things and more with some practical tips and reminders to help get you through what can be a really tricky season to navigate with your family!

[E225] Kids Should Be Grateful! (And What If They're Not?)

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 Nov 2025 06:00:00 +0000

In this episode, Becca, Jesse, and Tona dive into a timely topic: gratitude. With the holiday season in full swing, we can’t help but ask, should children be grateful? If not, how do we scaffold gratitude for our kiddos?

Tune in for an honest conversation about expectations, empathy, and what gratitude really means. We share personal stories, a few laughs, and some surprising insights about how gratitude shows up in everyday life. It’s a heartfelt reminder that gratitude isn’t something we demand. It’s something we model and grow in together.

[E224] Replay From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment with Cam Lee Small

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

Enjoy this replay of From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment with Cam Lee Small. One of our favorite Therapists/Adoptee Voices joins us on the pod to talk about lots of things including his book The Adoptees Journey: From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment. We talk with Cam about everything from how identities are formed in adoptees to things he wishes adoptive parents knew to his own experiences filled with pain and beauty. This is an episode every adoptee and adoptive parent NEEDS to hear.

Find Cam’s work at therapyredeemed.wordpress.com and follow him @‌therapyredeemed on Instagram and YouTube.

[E223] Sensory Processing 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Ever wonder why certain behaviors leave us scratching our heads? On today’s Empowered to Connect Podcast, we’re diving into sensory processing. What it is, why it matters, and how it impacts our ability (and our kids’ ability) to regulate and move through the day. We all know the basic 5 senses, right? But did you know there are actually EIGHT sensory systems your brain is managing?

We're breaking it all down:
✅ What is sensory processing?
✅ What happens when our systems get overwhelmed?
✅ How can we support ourselves and our kids when things feel "off"?

We're not Occupational Therapists. Just parents sharing what we've learned. This is a conversation you don’t want to miss!

[E222] Introduction to Cultivate Connection

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Oct 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Parenting takes heart and strategy—and finding the right balance can be tough! In this episode, Becca, Jesse, and Tona dive into how Cultivate Connection, ETC’s peer-to-peer parenting course, helps caregivers strengthen both. You’ll hear insights on parenting styles, nurture, and structure—and how to bring it all together at home.

Interested in taking the course? Find a Cultivate Connection Facilitator near you or hop on the waitlist for Cultivate Connection Online, coming early 2026 on the Empowered to Connect Institute.

[E221] Parenting as a Second Language

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In this episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast, Jesse, Tona and Becca unpack a powerful analogy from Dr. Becky (@drbeckyatgoodinside), the idea that parenting differently than how we were parented isn’t instinctual, it’s intentional.⁣ We explore what it means to rewire our responses, embrace connection when it feels unnatural, and do the deep, courageous work of parenting with awareness and healing.⁣ If it’s ever felt like you’re “doing it wrong” because it doesn’t come naturally, take a listen.

Learn more about Dr. Becky here.

[E220]Welcome Home: Support For A New Placement

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Sep 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Welcoming a child through adoption, foster care, or kinship is beautiful AND complex. Tona, Jesse, and Becca share candid stories from NICU stays to international travel, name the emotional “roller coaster” of early days, unpack “cocooning,” and offer concrete ways families and their people can prepare, communicate, and support attachment. If you’re a waiting family, a new parent, a grandparent, or a friend who wants to help, this one’s for you.

[E219] Replay What School Psychologists Want You to Know

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

In today's episode, we are joined by school psychologists Rachel Peterman, PhD and Teressa Davis, PhD with special guest host (and former Dean of Students and School Social Worker) Becca McKay who unveil insights for parents, especially as it pertains to getting to know the special education system. Hear these experts as they share what they wish every parent knew about supporting their child's emotional and academic growth. From nurturing mental well-being to navigating learning challenges, IEP's and 504 plans, this conversation is a valuable starting point for parents seeking to empower their children's success!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E218] Replay Back to School w Mona Delahooke

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Aug 2025 05:00:00 +0000

It's August, so kids are going back to school all over the place! Join us today as we throw it back to one of our favorite conversations! We delve into a crucial Back to School conversation with author of Beyond Behaviors, Brain Body Parenting and acclaimed pediatric psychologist, Mona Delahooke! The ETC Team join Mona as this episode delves into effective strategies grounded in neuroscience to navigate the upcoming school year, focusing on emotional well-being, academic success, and social adjustment. Tune in for a concise yet impactful dialogue that empowers parents and caregivers with actionable insights for fostering resilience, positive connections, and overall growth as children transition back to school.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E217] Fawn: Stress Responses 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The Fawn Response! The least known of all the stress responses! We relied on the work of Pete Walker from his incredible book: PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving as we crafted this episode. Stela Sinanaj, Clinical Therapist, and Becca McKay, Program Manager of the ETC Institute join us to explain the ins and outs of the fawn response as well as how to better support the loved ones in your life who identify with this stress response!

[E216] Freeze: Stress Responses 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Jul 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The Stress Responses - you know - Fight, Flight and Freeze...well, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually 4 stress responses ("Fawn" is the fourth - don't worry, we'll cover it in great detail in a few weeks). We'll look at how you can support both yourself and those you love IN those responses! Today, we dive into the "Freeze" Response.

I'm OUT and you can't thaw me - the Freeze Response is one of the toughest to handle as a parent, friend or caregiver. It can disguise itself in lots of ways, but don't worry, we're here to help! Expressive Arts Therapist Jill Stockberger and ETC Staffer Becca McKay join us to discuss how we can support ourselves and those we love when they freeze.

[E215] Flight: Stress Responses 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 10:30:00 +0000

Those who experience a flight stress response have learned to avoid conflict to protect themselves. They may physically run away, attempt to change the subject, deflect with humor, or lie. The flight stress response can also be associated with over-achieving or obsessive compulsive tendencies.

This instinctive reaction makes people want to flee to escape danger (real or perceived). The flight response is a helpful automatic reaction for self preservation and fleeing harm.

How do we support ourselves or our people when they're in flight mode? You'll have to listen in to find out! JD, Becca and Dr. Rachel Peterman explore the ins and outs of the flight response with a unique twist that you do not wanna miss.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E214] Fight: Stress Responses 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000

The Stress Responses - chances are, you've heard of them - Fight, Flight and Freeze...well, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually 4 stress responses ("Fawn" is the fourth - don't worry, we'll cover it in great detail in a few weeks) and we are taking the next several weeks to do deep dives into each of them! We'll look at how you can support both yourself and those you love IN those responses! Today, we dive into the "Fight" Response.

Those who identify with a fight stress response have learned to step up to the plate to protect themselves. This instinctive reaction often sends them into an aggressive, sometimes attack mode to fend off the danger they face - real or perceived. What's the best way to support someone with a fight response? You'll have to listen in to find out! JD, Becca and Tona walk through everything from what a stress response is to how to support those you love in the middle of those 'fight' responses.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E213] How Stories Change The World with Kaycee Stanley

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 03 Jun 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Today, we’re joined by Kaycee Stanley, Executive Director and Founder of The Reel Hope Project — an organization using powerful, strengths-based videos to connect kids in foster care with their forever families.

Kaycee shares the heart behind their mission, the balance of holding onto hope while honoring each child’s story, and how their videos capture what makes each child come alive.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about storytelling, connection, and making a lasting impact!

To learn more about The Reel Hope Project, click here!

[E212] Three Friends You Need in Your Life

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Friendships Matter More Than You Think!

Whether you’re surrounded by a solid circle of friends or navigating a season of loneliness, connection matters. This week on the podcast, we’re breaking down the three types of friends everyone needs — those walking alongside you, those a step ahead, and those just a bit behind.

Join us as we share personal stories and practical insights on how to build a rich, meaningful community. Whether you’re feeling connected or craving deeper connections, this episode is for you.

[E211] Self Regulation 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 May 2025 05:00:00 +0000

What is regulation anyway—and why does it matter for our kids (and us)?

This week we’re diving into the basics of self-regulation—what it really means to be balanced and steady, why deep breaths aren't always enough, and how our kids move from needing our help (co-regulation) to doing it on their own.

We talk about:
✨ What dysregulation actually looks like (hint: it's not always a meltdown)
How attachment plays into emotional regulation
Why one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work
And how compassion—for our kids and ourselves—is the real game-changer

Whether your child is bouncing off the walls or shutting down completely, this episode is for you. And remember, you are not alone!

Head to YouTube to watch our short video on What is Self Regulation!

[E210] More than Cake & Balloons: How We Show Kids They Matter

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

It’s more than cake and balloons.

What does it really mean to celebrate someone — especially our kids? Is it about big parties and perfect gifts? Or is it something deeper?

This week on the podcast, we’re talking about the heart behind celebration: the power of being seen, known, and cherished. We’ll share stories of moments we felt celebrated, and explore how simple, intentional gestures can speak louder than any party ever could.

Because at the end of the day, celebration says:
✨ I see you.
✨ You matter to me.
✨ Your needs and wants are important.

Let’s raise kids who feel this kind of celebration — every day.

[E209] Marriage in the Midst

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Apr 2025 05:00:00 +0000

Marriage is hard. And if you’re in a tough season, you are not alone!

On today’s episode, we sit down with Empowered to Connect's very own Mo and Tona Ottinger, as they share their marriage journey with honesty and wisdom.

What happens when you and your spouse aren’t on the same page? When you realize marriage isn’t as simple as A + B = C? Your marriage doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—but growth happens when we extend the same compassion to our spouse that we do to our kids.

As Mo shares on the episode:
"This is harder than I thought… and there is a gift in the growing."

Join us for this powerful conversation about love, struggle, and the beauty of learning together.

Show notes:
Stress capacity window downloadable

[E208] Attachment 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

If you’ve been around here for even a minute, chances are you’ve heard us mention the word “attachment.” Attachment isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of how our kids feel safe, loved, and connected. But what is attachment really, and why does it matter so much?

In this episode, we’re covering:

- What attachment is (and what it’s not!)
- How it’s built over time through everyday moments
- Why it’s about patterns of connection, not perfection

When we do our best to tune in and meet our child’s needs, we help create secure attachment, which in turn deepens our connection with our kids.

#parentingpodcast #empoweredtoconnect #connectedparenting #attachment101 #attachment #parenting

[E207] The Healing Power of Art with Jill Stockburger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Mar 2025 05:00:00 +0000

This week on the podcast, Jill Stockburger joins us to explore how art, music, and movement provide powerful ways to express, heal, and connect—at any age!

Art isn't just about creativity; it's a language of healing that reaches us when words fall short. From little kids to teens and adults, anyone can use artistic expression to process emotions, find meaning, and even rewire the brain for resilience.

We’re diving into the neuroscience behind why art and play help, and how they’ve been used throughout history as a way to communicate, cope, and create beauty in hard times.

If you or your child struggle to express emotions, this episode is for you!

#parentingpodcast #empoweredtoconnect #connectedparenting #expressiveartstherapy #arttherapy #thepowerofplay

[E206] Hey You: It's Ok To Be You

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

We’re all on a journey of growth—learning, evolving, and discovering new parts of ourselves. Each of us brings unique personalities, gifts, passions, and stories to the table. And guess what? There’s room for all of us!

You’re allowed to change your mind. You’re allowed to grow at your own pace. You’re allowed to be exactly who you are, right where you are.

This week, we’re sitting down as friends and coworkers to talk about how we’ve grown—as people, as spouses, as parents! Join us for an honest conversation about the beauty of evolving and the freedom in embracing who you are today.

[E205] Stress & Trauma 101

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Feb 2025 06:00:00 +0000

Join us this week as we go back to the basics! What is stress? Did you know that there are multiple types of stress, and not all of it is bad?! What is trauma? How do stress, trauma, and adversity impact us and our kids?

In this episode, we’re breaking down:
- The different types of stress + trauma
- How trauma affects brain development, the body, and the spirit
- The difference between everyday stress and life-altering trauma

Let’s get back to the basics and build a better understanding together!

Click here for a list of resources, including printables, podcast episodes, videos, and more!

[E204] The Worthy Conversation: Courtney Tierra on Empowering Your Child

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

On this week’s podcast episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of worthiness with the incredible Courtney Tierra! Courtney reminds us of a powerful truth: Our worth exists simply because we do. It’s not tied to grades, appearance, or accomplishments— just by being here, we are worthy and hold inherent value.

Today, we will discuss:
- How knowing your worth can empower better decisions
- The importance of affirming your child and building them up
- Why grace and kindness—toward yourself and the kids in your life—are game-changers
- The impact of language, especially around adoption, on a child’s sense of self

This conversation is packed with practical wisdom for parents who want to instill confidence, self-love, and resilience in their children while continuing their own lifelong journey of embracing worthiness.

If you want to learn more about Courtney and her story, you can find her website by clicking here.

You can buy purchase book on Amazon or by visiting her website.

If you'd like some Worthy merchansise, you can find it here!

Finally, follow Courtney on Instagram @theworthyreminders.

[E203] Wintering is The Gift We Really Need

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Jan 2025 06:00:00 +0000

What if we embraced the slower pace of winter instead of resisting it? In this episode, we’re talking about “wintering”—not just as a season, but as a state of being. We’ll explore why rest and recovery are essential, even when they feel hard to prioritize; and in doing this, we are actually modeling for our kids that it is okay to have needs!

We are human and limited, and being able to name our needs and have them met within our family structure is a beautoful picture of connection. Join us this week as we talk through what it could look like to embrace the slowness of this next season!

[E202] Why Re-Adjusting is The Answer To Your Resolution Nightmares

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 31 Dec 2024 15:30:00 +0000

It’s that time of year again….New Year’s Resolutions! Some of us love them, some of us… not so much. But no matter how you feel about resolutions, RE-ADJUSTING can give moments to reflect.

Seasons change, jobs change, responsibilities change— what if, instead of looking for more ways to perform, we took the time to ask ourselves:
- What do I want more of this year?
- What do I want less of?

Instead of resolutions that feel rigid or overwhelming, what if we focused on creating checkpoints? Little moments to check in with ourselves, reflect, and adjust.

This week on the podcast, we’re diving into how resolutions (or the freedom to skip them!) can actually bring freedom and rest in 2025.

Let’s explore how this year can be more about progress than perfection.

[E201] Why Cultivate Connection is Woven Through The Wooley's World

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you aren’t familiar, Cultivate Connection is our “flagship” parenting course. In it, you'll learn helpful parenting practices and strategies for kids of all ages! These practical skills are rooted in research on brain-based parenting, attachment, trauma, sensory processing, and more. You can participate in Cultivate Connection through a local Facilitator in your area. If you lead, support, or encourage parents, consider joining our Facilitator Training!

This week, the Wooley’s tell us why they decided to become Cultivate Connection Facilitators, how it impacted their relationship and their family, and they mention some of their favorite parenting tools they’ve learned along the way!

If you have ever considered becoming a Facilitator, this is the episode for you! Learn how Cultivate Connection and Facilitator training works, details about the class, and how you can apply for our next cohort which starts in January!

Are you a parent who wants to learn more? You can apply to be a Cultivate Connection Facilitator by clicking here! The new cohort begins January 7th, 2025!

[E200] Help! My Kid & I Aren't On The Same Radio Frequency!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 03 Dec 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Do you ever feel like there’s a wall between you and your kids? Like no matter how hard you try, you're just... missing each other--or tuning into completely different stations? This week on the podcast, we are diving into what it looks like to "tune in" to your child.

From personality clashes to communication styles and even attachment patterns, we’ll explore:

Why we often “miss” each other in conversations.
How our own experiences shape the way we interact.
The power of slowing down, turning the dial, and tuning into their wavelength.

Connection starts with understanding, and as parents, it’s up to us to take the lead. Your relationship with your kids doesn’t have to feel like static. Let’s figure out how to meet our kids right where they are and create space where everyone feels seen and heard.

To find out more about us, check out our website here.

Are you a parent who wants to learn more? Our Cultivate Connection class begins January 7!

If you want to see the "Be Attuned" downloadable that was discussed in this episode, click here for this free resource.

[E199] Why Won't They Act Their Age?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

If you’re a parent, or you work with kids in some capacity, chances are that you've noticed how kids can seemingly change from day to day! They can go from being able to clean their room 18 times, to a complete meltdown from simply being asked.. If you have had the thought of, “Ugh! Why can’t my kid just______.”, you are not alone!

On today’s episode, Tona, Jesse, and Becca talk about a helpful framework for looking at kids through a nuanced perspective. It all goes back to a phrase we say often: “Parent the child in front of you.” Kids' ability to handle challenges changes from moment to moment, so don’t be surprised if they can’t do what they did yesterday. Today’s stressors might be different—whether it's school, social pressures, or just life itself.

This week, we're diving into how to tune into your child's current state and gauge what they can handle right now. Because sometimes, it's not about what they should do, but what they can do in that moment.

To find out more about us, check out our website here.

Are you a parent who wants to learn more? Our Cultivate Connection class begins January 7!

If you want to see a visual of the stress capcity that was discussed in this episode, click here for this free resource.

[E198] Why Dr. Deborah MacNamara Says You Need to Feel Empty In Order to Feel Full

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On today’s episode we had the biggest honor of sitting down with clinical counselor and developmental scientist, Dr. Deborah MacNamara! Trust us when we tell you that you do NOT want to miss this episode! Why?? Jesse and Dr. Deborah dive into some deep and pressing issues such as how attachment and food are related, what happens when behavior becomes bigger than connection, recipes for relationships, and even de-constructing the idea of “picky eaters”. You’ll learn, you’ll find encouragement, and you might even shed a few tears in this really informative and life-giving episode of the Empowered to Connect podcast. LISTEN TO THE EPISDE AND DROP THE SECRET WORD IN THE COMMENTS FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A COPY OF DR. MACNAMARA’S “NOURISHED.”

Find Dr. Deborah MacNamara on...

Facebook: Dr. Deborah MacNamara

X: @debmacnamara

Instagram: @drdeborahmacnamara

Subscribe to Dr. Deborah MacNamara’s Kid's Best Bet NewsletterWebsite is here!

Buy her newest book Nourished

[E197] Crying, and foot stomps, and glares, oh my!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Oct 2024 06:00:00 +0000

On today’s episode Jesse, Tona, and Becca open a big can of worms… When I set a boundary, I get “Crying and foot stomps and glares, OH MY!” Why is this happening?? What do I do about it?? Listen in as we unpack BIG reactions that we encounter with the kids that we love.

Subscribe to the Empowered to Connect Podcast, follow us on socials, and let us know what you want to hear more about!

[E196] Help! We're Not On The Same Parenting Page

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Oct 2024 04:59:00 +0000

Listen to today’s episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast: Help! We’re not on the same parenting page! One of the number one parent questions we get is “HOW can I get my spouse on the same page with parenting???” It makes sense - we each bring SO much of our own history into the equation, so it takes work to get on the same page! Listen in as Jesse, Becca, and Tona share lessons they’ve learned along the way at different points in the parenting (and pre-parenting!) journey.

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, so you don’t miss any of our bi-weekly episodes!

[E195] How Jamie Finn Found (and Created) Community

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 Sep 2024 04:59:00 +0000

YOU DO NOT WANT TO MISS TODAY’S ETC PODCAST EPISODE! Jamie Finn shares some incredible truths including: what should a foster/adoptive parent do when they are lonely? Where do YOU find your hope? Why should we be thoughtful about the language we use? Hear this and more with a delightful guest and huge voice for supporting adoptive and foster communities. PS: TODAY her new book Filled is being released!

Foster the Family blog

Filled Conference

Filled Book

Filled Book Tour

Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts, so you don’t miss any of our bi-weekly episodes!

[E194] This is Us: Unlock the Power of Rituals

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Sep 2024 04:59:00 +0000

This is us: unlock the power of rituals. What's a ritual? Nothing fancy... this includes pizza nights, class cheers, inside jokes, the “first day of school pics,” traditions around holidays. Jump into today’s episode to hear how you can create meaningful moments of connection in your everyday routines and throughout the seasons of life!

Pro tip: look for opportunities to create a ritual to build connection with the kids in your care.

[E193] Rhythm and Blues: Unlock the power of routines

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Aug 2024 04:59:00 +0000

Rhythm and Blues: unlock the power of routines. In our Fall Launch episode, friends Becca, Jesse, and Tona talk about how ROUTINES can change everything for your family! Whether you are “type A organized” or “go-with-the -low” - you’ll hear us dig into the many different ways routines can look and feel.

Hear how routines can solve pain points, create felt safety, and allow some calm to enter your home.

[E192] Myths Pt. 2: Connected Parenting Doesn't Work for Teens

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

You may believe that this approach is for little kids, or you may know someone else who thinks that way! Today we are joined by the Davaults, who share their extensive experiencing of walking alongside teens for years in different contexts! They are here to debunk the myth that this approach is only for the littles! Listen for wisdom and practical insights on how we can use Connected Parenting principles to lovingly walk alongside our teens as they grow in independence and autonomy.

A quick note from us at ETC! We will be taking a Summer Pause from the ETC Podcast! We're excited about what's coming up next in the Fall, and hope you'll go back and re-listen to your favorite episodes! Stay tuned!

[E191] Myths Pt. 1: Connected Parenting Means No Rules, Limits, or Structure

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 May 2024 05:00:00 +0000

There are a TON of myths about what Connected Parenting is and isn’t. Today Cultivate Connection Facilitators Julie and Jess talk about the idea that you have to give up ALL STRUCTURE to parent from a Connection based approach. Spoiler alert: that’s a myth! Listen in to hear tips and mindsets about how to increase both your structure and your nurture to care for the child in front of you!

[E190] Taking Care of the Whole Family

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

In our Memphis-based clinic we serve families and their first point of contact is our Family Care Team. Today members of that team talk to us about HOW and WHY taking care of the WHOLE family is so very important! If you’re a parent who has wondered why you can’t just drop your child off at counseling to make them “all better” - listen in! If you’re a professional who feels like you’re missing a puzzle piece or ten - listen in!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect here!

Help us out - SUBSCRIBE to the Podcast and leave us a review to let us know how we're doing!

[E189] Stress Capacity with Rico and Becca McKay

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

We've talked about stress capacity before, but this week we had SO much fun hearing from BOTH of the McKays about how understanding their own stress capacity was a game-changer! Listen for Rico’s raw and authentic take on how reflecting on his own stress capacity has made him a better elementary school teacher, friend, and husband.

How do you know when your stress capacity is running low? What can you to about it?? What “fills your tires” as you navigate “life’s potholes”? We'll get into that and more on today's episode.

Head to our website for a free downloadable about Stress Capacity!

[E188] TBRI® in Staff Culture

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

TBRI® is an attachment-based, trauma-informed intervention that is designed to meet the complex needs of vulnerable children. TBRI® uses Empowering Principles to address physical needs, Connecting Principles for attachment needs, and Correcting Principles to disarm fear-based behaviors. While the intervention is based on years of attachment, sensory processing, and neuroscience research, the heartbeat of TBRI® is connection.

On today’s episode, our Safe and Secure Tennessee Program Team talks about how you can use these VERY principles to promote a healthy staff culture! Listen for WHAT a healthy staff culture looks like, HOW to take steps to build that, and WHERE to reach out for help!

Learn more about KPICD and Safe and Secure TN here!

[E187] Labels, Language, and Dignity

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 05:00:00 +0000

Today we sit down as a team to talk about…. how we talk about things! What is the impact of our labels? What can we keep in mind about our language? How can we speak to and about people in a way that honors their dignity?

Listen for reflections on times we’ve said things and regretted them and how we’re moving forward!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E186] A TBRI® Journey with Sarah Mercado

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 Apr 2024 12:04:00 +0000

Today we host the host of the TBRI® podcast to talk about her journey with Trust-Based Relational Intervention! Sarah is one of the most thoughtful and down-to-earth people that we know, and we loved getting a behind-the-scenes look at her story!

Listen for insights and inspiration on how to keep going in your parenting journey and supporting those in your community. You'll hear both personal and professional reflections from Sarah's experience.

For more from Sarah Mercado, listen to the TBRI® Podcast or follow @child_tcu on socials!

[E185] Hope for the Journey with Mary Beth Chapman and Emily Chapman Richards

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Mar 2024 13:21:25 +0000

When Mary Beth Chapman and her husband Steven, the highest selling Christian Music artist of all time, were starting Show Hope, they knew they were in for a life long mission. Today, Mary Beth and her daughter Emily join us to talk about the origins of Show Hope, the early connection to Empowered to Connect and why they believe, even in the darkest moments, that we can all find Hope for the Journey.

You can learn more about Show Hope and find out how to watch the Hope for the Journey Conference by following @showhope !

Carpool Q&A FINALE! Why it's All About the Journey, not the Destination

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 22 Mar 2024 14:43:37 +0000

In today's FINAL episode of Carpool Q&A we wrap up by discussing why in parenting (and in life) it's about the journey - not the destination.

You can find EVERY episode of Carpool Q&A and the Empowered to Connect Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

[E184] Becoming Adoption Wise and Overcoming Blocked Care with Lisa C. Qualls and Melissa Corkum

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 14:37:56 +0000

Today on the show, friends of the program and prolific authors, Melissa Corkum and Lisa C. Qualls join us to talk about some exciting news! They cover their decision to re-brand their organization (formerly The Adoption Connection) to "Adoption Wise" and their newest resource "Foundations for Overcoming and Preventing Blocked Care" - a course you can take in community to begin working through the healing process and learning how to reclaim compassion in your parenting journey.

As always, Lisa and Melissa meet us right where we are with compassion and empathy and SO much practical wisdom to help you walk out of those tough seasons of parenting when you feel stuck. It's a fantastic episode that is sure to encourage and bring life to everyone who listens.

Make SURE to follow them on Instagram here - you'll know why that's so important after listening to the episode!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website, by following us on social media or checking out the hundreds of video resources on our YouTube page!

Carpool Q&A [E17] Does Connected Parenting Work with Multiple Kids?

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 15 Mar 2024 11:43:08 +0000

Today on Carpool Q&A we tackle a question that at least two of our hosts know all too well - "How do I do connected parenting when there's multiple kids?" It's a great question - we advocate for lots of time spent with your kids when you're attempting to parent in this way and sometimes it may feel like practically there are just too few parents and too many kids to actually do this thing. If this is you - rest easy - we got you! Today JD (who has 4 kids), Tona (who has 6 kids) and Becca (who is used to managing classrooms and behavior offices of 20-30 kids) talk us through how to stay connected, build connection and maximize every moment on Carpool Q&A!

You can find every episode of Carpool Q&A on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

[E183] Nurturing Through the Ages and Stages: Young Adults with Michael and Amy Monroe

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Mar 2024 15:17:32 +0000

Today on the show we have VERY special guests - the founders of Empowered to Connect, Michael and Amy Monroe join us to tell the story of Empowered to Connect AND to talk with us about nurturing young adults. If you've never heard Michael and Amy share the ETC story or talk about parenting, you are in for a treat! We talk about the origins of ETC, early Dr. Purvis stories and the Ottingers' introduction into ETC during the early days.

We also talk to Michael and Amy about how to think through nurturing our kids into the young adult stage - this can be a wildly challenging and wildly rewarding time of parenting, but as Michael and Amy share with us, the difference between those two things is often a shift in mindset for parents. The Monroes share some incredible stories and give practical tips for you as you parent toward the young adult season - but if we're honest, a lot of the advice given today works in any season of parenting - you do not want to miss this episode!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website, by following us on social media or checking out the hundreds of video resources on our YouTube page!

Carpool Q&A [E16] Can I Tell My Child No??

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 07 Mar 2024 15:14:13 +0000

Within the framework of Connected Parenting lie some fundamental beliefs - not the least of which is that we want to attempt, whenever possible, to give our children 'yeses' as often as possible. To "say yes when we can and no when we have to" - but if you've been around this world long enough, you've inevitably seen or heard the criticism that people practicing parenting in the way we do "can't" tell our children no. As in, we're incapable of it because we're too soft (or insert any other criticism of connected parenting). We're here today to debunk that myth and to do it we've got Becca McKay and Tona Ottinger with us again on an episode you don't want to miss!

You can find Carpool Q&A every week right here in the Empowered to Connect Podcast feed as well as on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

[E182] Nurturing Through the Ages and Stages: Parenting Teens with Jacque Rowe Fields

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Mar 2024 13:55:24 +0000

Today one of our favorite recurring guests joins us to talk about nurturing teens! If you're parenting in this stage, you know this is an absolute must listen because whew boy - teenagers can be a CHALLENGE to nurture. Thankfully, Jacque gives us perspective, practical wisdom about how to navigate this season and some stories to help us remember HOW important it is to lean into these stages and give our babies what they need, even when they are acting like they don't want us around.

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website, by following us on social media or checking out the hundreds of video resources on our YouTube page!

Carpool Q&A [E15] What is the Goal of Connected Parenting?

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 29 Feb 2024 14:17:57 +0000

Critics of connected parenting, attachment-based parenting, gentle parenting, trauma-informed parenting - whatever you want to label it - often attack this style of parenting as permissive and soft. The goal isn't to be your kid's friend, they remind you. That got one of our listeners thinking - well I know THAT, but...what IS the goal of connected parenting? What's the main point? What are we striving toward here and what can I lay down as a standard for my parenting partner and I to hold to?

Today Becca, JD and Tona talk through that exact question on another edition of Carpool Q&A!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website, by following us on social media or by checking out our YouTube Channel!

[E181] Nurturing Through the Ages & Stages: School age Kids, Grief and the Incredible Journey of the Gregory Family

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:41:50 +0000

Today we welcome onto the show very dear friends of ours, whom you've met in separate iterations - Larissa Gregory has joined the pod several times to talk about her professional work and her husband Dee was a key contributor in our "Investing in Hope" video talking about his work as a mental health professional and school nurse. Today, they join us together to tell the story of their family. Walking through some of the most unimaginable tragedy as a family, Dee and Larissa talk about losing their third child, Houston Lamar, nurturing the relationships with their middle school and elementary aged boys Jackson and Lennox and how the journey they have been on as a family is one where they have learned to pull each other in close, give each other what they need and savor absolutely every moment together as a family. It is a powerful story you do NOT want to miss.

To learn more about the Gregory family you can follow their journey here - to learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit our website, follow us on social media or exlore the hundreds of video resources on our YouTube Channel!

Carpool Q&A [E14] How Do I Create My "Village?"

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 23 Feb 2024 12:41:06 +0000

We've all heard the saying that it takes a village to raise a child - and no doubt if you've listened to this podcast for one episode or all 200+, you know, we advocate heavily for having community support on your parenting journey. Today's Carpool Q&A Question was "I hear you talking about finding your village - but what if I don't HAVE a village?"

Join Tona, Becca and JD as they explore together how to create your village around you when one doesn't exist yet!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our Website or on Social Media!

[E180] Nurturing Through the Ages and Stages: Toddler Years!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

We've all heard talks of the terrible (insert toddler's age here) years. Insert trauma, adversity or loss into the equation and the challenge multiplies. Advice for this stage of parenting is all over the map, especially when it comes to connected/attachment-based/gentle parenting. So what's a parent to do to navigate this season? Have no fear, we've got two phenomenal Cultivate Connection Facilitators, Shane and Mindy, to talk you through it!

Shane and Mindy share their family story, how they came to Empowered to Connect and why they believe so deeply in this way of parenting (especially in the toddler years). Come for the wisdom shared, stay to hear JD start talking on mute at one point, it's all here in today's episode of the ETC Podcast!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website or by following us on social media! New episodes of the ETC Podcast drop every Tuesday and can be found on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

Carpool Q&A [E13] Am I a Helicopter Parent??

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 15 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Am I a helicopter parent, or am I just involved in my children's lives? Helicopter parenting is a term for parents who are overly involved in their children's lives, trying to control and monitor every aspect. They might be well-intentioned, but it can lead to an environment where the kids feel smothered or have limited opportunities to learn from their own experiences. Today we talk about that fine line between being involved and supportive vs hovering - and how to set up some simple boundaries to ensure the lines don't blur!

New episodes of Carpool Q&A drop every Thursday! in 15 (ish) minutes, we cover one topic to get you from point A to point B. Short enough to listen during a carpool commute, you can find every episode of Carpool Q&A on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube or wherever you find your podcasts!

[E179] Nurture: Infant Massage & Early Intervention with OT Jodi Haugen

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Feb 2024 14:05:36 +0000

You may have heard about infant massage before, but is it a real thing? And what part does infant massage and early intervention play in a baby's journey? Today Occupational Therapist and TBRI Practitioner Jodi Haugen joins us to talk all about it! Jodi has been in OT for 20 years, specializing in early intervention and helping parents and kiddos begin their healing journeys together. She explains the neurological side of infant massage, what so many parents of infants miss and one mind-blowing stat that will change how every infant parent views time with their baby!

One disclaimer from Jodi: Infant massage is good for babies…barring any medical condition that may preclude it (and there are some). Premature babies or any baby/child who is medically unstable, for instance. Also be careful with children who may get easily overstimulated…you need to go slow. As with any method of early intervention, we advise walking into these practices hand in hand with a therapeutic professional who can guide this process!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, you can follow us on social media or head to our YouTube Channel with hundreds of hours of content just like this!

Carpool Q&A [E12] HELP! We're Going Stir Crazy!

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 08 Feb 2024 18:05:34 +0000

Have you ever had one of those weeks where for one reason or another, you're stuck inside THE WHOLE TIME?? Maybe kids are out of school and there's inclement weather - maybe you live in the Southern US and it snows, sending the entire town into shutdown (too soon?)...no matter the circumstances, we're here to help! The team chats about practical ways to build connection, get everyone's needs met and even...find some time to read a book?? All that and more today on Carpool Q&A!

You can find EVERY episode of Carpool Q&A and the Empowered to Connect Podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Youtube and wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

[E178] From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment with Cam Lee Small

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Feb 2024 06:00:00 +0000

We have an incredible episode for you today! One of our favorite Therapists/Adoptee Voices, Cam Lee Small, joins us on the pod to talk about lots of things including his forthcoming book: The Adoptee's Journey: From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment. We talk with Cam about everything from how identities are formed in adoptees to things he wishes adoptive parents knew to his own experiences filled with pain and beauty. This is an episode every adoptee and adoptive parent NEED to hear.

You can find Cam's work and latest offerings at therapyredeemed.wordpress.com and you can find him on Instagram AND on YouTube @therapyredeemed .

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website or by following us @EmpoweredtoConnect !

Carpool Q&A [E11] Will Connected Parenting Prepare My Kid for the Real World?

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 02 Feb 2024 16:58:39 +0000

One of the most common questions we get - what happens when my child from a connected home steps foot into the "real world"? It is a valid question and a completely rational deduction to make until you dive a little deeper into what connected parenting really entails - join us as we talk all about this question today on Carpool Q&A!

Carpool Q&A can be found on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube and everywhere you find your favorite podcasts!

[E177] The Power of Saying Yes!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Jan 2024 16:07:50 +0000

Today we throw it way way back to one of our favorite episodes talking about the power of giving your 'yes' to your children.

As any parent with Netflix has probably seen, there's a famous ETC Principle in the newest Jennifer Garner movie "Yes Day." No, ETC didn't make a movie, but there is lots to learn from it! JD, Tona and Mo sit down to talk about one of the most foundational principles in the ETC world - the power of saying yes.

"Isn't that just permissive parenting!?" "If you give these kids an inch, they're ALWAYS going to take a mile." "We aren't trying to spoil our kids." All very common responses to the principle of giving our kids 'yes' often. Yet research and experience from 15 years of ETC Parent Training will tell you otherwise. Join JD, Mo and Tona and learn why 'Yes' is a superpower in your parenting arsenal!

During the interview we reference several different resources on this topic - below we've linked those articles as well as some other resources from ETC on the Power of YES:

https://empoweredtoconnect.org/the-privilege-of-saying-yes/
https://empoweredtoconnect.org/building-trust-by-saying-yes/
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4SF6GmV7zg0
https://www.mindful.org/dr-dan-siegel-hearing-yes-childs-brain/

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

Carpool Q&A [E10] Can I Motivate My Kids to do their Best Without Breaking Connection??

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 25 Jan 2024 14:33:38 +0000

Where is the line!? That's the common question in LOTS of parenting relationships when trying to decipher how to teach your kids excellence and effort without becoming THAT over the top parent who pushes their kids too hard and breaks relationship. Well. We've found the line and we're going to share it this morning!

Actually, sorry, that is false advertising. We ARE, however, here to help guide you to finding that line for you and your family and giving a few practical tools to help you navigate teaching a really essential life skill (trying your best and striving for excellence). It's not easy, but we're here to help!

New episodes of Carpool Q&A drop every Thursday in the Empowered to Connect Podcast Network feed and are 15(ish) minute conversations about one topic to get you from point A to point B! You can find every episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

[E176] Discipline: How Changing your Mindset Changes EVERYTHING!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Jan 2024 11:40:28 +0000

Sometimes all we need is a simple mindset shift to unlock a new level of life. Today on the show we talk with Becca McKay and Jesse Faris about doing just that in our discipline mindset as parents. It's easy to fall into the trap of becoming solely a reactive parent, but what happens when we shift from a reactive to a proactive mindset? Spoiler alert - it changes everything!

Becca and Jesse give us practical ways to change our mindset while sharing stories of how this shift changes dynamics in ourselves and our kids. You don't want to miss this one!

You can catch every episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you get your favorite podcasts!

Carpool Q&A [E9] How Do I Shift My Parenting in the Young Adult Phase?

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 18 Jan 2024 06:07:09 +0000

You've made it! Or so you thought - your kids have begun that final ascent into adulthood! Congratulations! No more parenting?? HA! Yeah Right!

Hear Becca, Tona and JD Discuss the shifts that must inevetibally be made as we go from parenting children to parenting young adults - how do we handle independence? What can we do to ensure they're remaining connected and at the same time, finding their place in the world? Today's episode is aimed directly at that question!

Each week, Carpool Q&A Tackles one question from JD Wilson, Becca McKay and Tona Ottinger discuss one topic in 15 minutes or less to help you get from point A to point B!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website, Instagram or YouTube!

[E175] Discipline: How to Set Loving Limits with Lauren Wantz

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Jan 2024 14:19:12 +0000

Boundaries are talked about a LOT within relationships, particularly within the parenting realm. We all recognize that humans need boundaries - we can't do everything we want all the time without it costing us dearly...if you're a parent, OR you work with children, you see evidence of that on the daily! Boundaries can be hard to set and often the act of "setting boundaries" or "holding boundaries" can place us oppositionally from our children and create an unwanted "us vs. them" mentality which can jeopardize connection, so how do we navigate this? GLAD YOU ASKED!

We asked therapist Lauren Wantz that very question and she joined us recently to talk about how not to set "boundaries", but "loving limits" - hear Lauren explain how a simple mindset shift and some practical applications of that mindset can transform discipline in your home on today's episode!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, you can visit us on our website or follow us on social media! You can also catch every episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast and Carpool Q&A, as well as hundreds of hours of additional video content on our YouTube Channel!

Carpool Q&A [E8]: What About When I Lose it on my Kids (Again)??

Empowered to Connect — Thu, 11 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Oh boy. Buckle up for this one, the question that we all ask as we cover our faces in shame. What about when it's not just a kid, it's ME losing it? Again!? Don't worry - it happens to all of us. Something triggers us again and before we can catch ourselves and regulate, there we go, flying off the handle again. What do we do in those circumstances and HOW DO WE DO IT!? Tona Ottinger, Becca McKay and JD Wilson from ETC have you covered. Buckle your seatbelt and come along for the ride with us on today's Carpool Q&A!

Carpool Q&A Episodes are one-topic episodes about 15 minutes long, designed to get you from point A to point B and drop every week right here on YouTube and in the Empowered to Connect Podcast feed.

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect at empoweredtoconnect.org!

[E174] Discipline: The 3 C's and 3 D's of Discipline with Dr. Matt Smith

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Jan 2024 06:00:00 +0000

Continuing our series on discipline this new year, we've got a good one for you! Today on the show we have Dr. Matt Smith from the Memphis Family Connection Center here to walk us through the 3 C's and 3 D's of discipline when connected parenting. I cannot stress enough how valuable this episode is in its' practicality - if you are struggling with discipline in your home, this is the episode to help you bounce back! Hear practical steps and advice for why connected parenting and discipline is so vital for our kids growing in healthy attachment and how you can help heal and give predictability to your kids and your home.

You can find every episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast as well as Carpool Q&A, our 15 minute, one-topic episodes that drop weekly, here on youTube or on Apple Podcasts or Spotify!

Carpool Q&A [E7] Why do my kids struggle with hearing "no"?

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 05 Jan 2024 15:08:12 +0000

Do your kids struggle with hearing "no"? Great, neither do ours!

Ok, but seriously: for all of us poor souls (aka nearly every parent ever) who DO have kids that struggle to hear us answer "no" to a question or request, we've got you covered! Tona, Becca and JD talk about how to help our kids (and ourselves) sit with disappointment and learn to work through it without exploding.

Carpool Q&A episodes are around 15 minutes and center on ONE topic to get you from point A to point B. You can catch them each week on the Empowered to Connect Podcast feed!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our YouTube Channel, our website, or follow us on social media!

[E173] Discipline: Connecting while Correcting with Dr. Rachel Peterman

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 03 Jan 2024 11:58:10 +0000

Happy New Year! We wanted to start off 2024 with a series on discipline. As the year begins and routines and rhythms kick back into place, it can be difficult for all of us. Holidays often bring less structure, more junk food, different sleeping habits and lots of excitement...which can mean a tougher return to regular life. Have no fear, though, our series on discipline kicks off with the brilliant Dr. Rachel Peterman walking us through the importance of understanding one of the most fundamental connected parenting principles: Connecting while Correcting.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, you can check us out on YouTube, follow us on social media or explore our website!

Carpool Q&A [E6] Why is Competition So Hard for my Kiddo!?

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 22 Dec 2023 16:52:27 +0000

Sometimes family game night doesn't go as planned - a night that seems set up for success goes sideways in a heartbeat, but why!? Today Becca, JD and Tona join us to discuss why competition can be so difficult and how to give your kids the support they need to thrive! You can find every episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast AND Carpool Q&A on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

[E172 Dads Talk About: Parenting Wins and Losses

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Dec 2023 17:23:16 +0000

On today's episode, Cultivate Connection Facilitator David Davault joins us to talk about how defining wins and losses changed for him when he started learning about attachment and connection. As the holidays approach, definitely take today's episode and soak it in - when we redefine our expectations for ourselves and those around us, it can lead to the best version of us as parents, friends, partners, spouses, etc.

Today's episode and all of our episodes can be found on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

Carpool Q&A [E5]: Take Care of Yourself!

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 15 Dec 2023 19:09:45 +0000

It's the holiday season here at ETC and we are here to remind you not to run yourself into the ground! Now, before you respond with the reasons you must run yourself into the ground (no one else is going to do this stuff if I don't, for example), may we look to our phones for a gentle reminder that our batteries HAVE TO charge periodically to keep going. Today the team talks through why recharging is so vital and some ideas of how YOU can recharge yourself during busy seasons to make sure you're able to keep going!

You can find every episode of Carpool Q&A and the Empowered to Connect Podcast on video on YouTube and on audio on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

[E171] Dads Talk About: Fear

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Dec 2023 14:46:15 +0000

Today one of our Cultivate Connection Facilitators, Todd Maino, joins Mo and JD to talk about fear. What did we fear as dads early on? What did we fear as dads early on? What settled out and what persisted? How do we process fear and how can we use what we've learned in our parenting journeys to help our kids learn to process their fears in a way that will lead to healing and growth?? All that and more today as 3 Dads Talk About Fear.

You can find every episode of the ETC podcast on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite podcast!

Carpool Q&A [E4] Oh the Disrespect!!

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 08 Dec 2023 16:30:35 +0000

Disrespect - the age old identifier of younger generations, punk teenagers and people that cut us off in traffic. The single most outraging thing you did to your parents growing up is now something you find yourself being mad about with your kids? How did this come to be!? Today we tackle the topic of disrespect and attempt to define it, talk about why it's so triggering for us and put some filters in place to help us decode what our kids are ACTUALLY trying to communicate when the disrespect clouds that communication. Thankfully, Becca, Tona and JD are here to talk us through it! Catch up with them and learn what to do when you don't know what to do on another episode of Carpool Q&A!

You can find all of our episodes in video now on our YouTube Channel and in audio via Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you find your favorite podcasts!

[E170] Dads Talk About: Guilt and Shame

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Dec 2023 12:19:48 +0000

Today on the show we talk about guilt and shame - something no parent ever deals with...right?? Well, for those who know OTHER PARENTS who may struggle in this area, have no fear, we ask friend of the program and CEO of Kardia Collective Shad Berry and ETC Executive Director Mo Ottinger all about guilt and shame on the show today.

As parents (and as people) guilt and shame can invade every area of our lives and wellbeing. Shad, Mo and JD talk about how to define guilt and shame, how they're different, when they can be helpful and when they can be toxic and why it can be so powerful for us to learn the difference. Please know that while this episode talks a TON about challenges unique to the Dad experience, this episode IS NOT just for dads - it is for anyone who wrestles with navigating the guilt and shame that can so easily paralyze us as parents and people. You do not want to miss it!

Shad is a husband and dad to 4 kiddos and is the CEO of Kardia Collective, a counseling, training and coaching collective in Memphis, TN. He is also the author of Next Level Leadership: Navigating the Dramatic Changes Coming in the 2020s. You can find out more about Shad and his work here! To learn more about Empowered to Connect and our global impact, check out our website, our YouTube Channel or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E169] Processing Grief and Loss with Rocky Anthony

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Nov 2023 16:02:20 +0000

Today we revisit one of our most commented on episodes of last year, our conversation about grief and loss with Therapist Rocky Anthony. Rocky tells his own story of going from a career in church ministry to opening his own private counseling practice and walks through how to process grief and loss when we don't see a way forward. This conversation is powerful, practical and full of hope - you are going to LOVE hearing from Rocky.

Did you know you can now catch every episode of the ETC Podcast and our NEW show, Carpool Q&A on our YouTube Channel? With nearly every episode in video and hours upon hours of content from the ETC Team, Dr. Karyn Purvis and more, our YouTube Channel is a one-stop-shop for support in your journey caring for yourself and your people. Check it out at youtube.com/empoweredtoconnect today!

[E168] Let's Talk About the Holidays!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Nov 2023 12:24:31 +0000

It's that time of year again - time to take a deep breath and spend hours and hours with family members you may or may not want to see, eat foods that may or may not be easy for your kids to eat and spend the next month or so with the dull hum of presents and high expectations accompanying your every move. Happy Holidays everyone! In all seriousness, whether you live for this season or loathe this season, it can be a bear to navigate with all of the out of the ordinary that it brings. Have no fear, though, Jesse Faris, Becca McKay and JD talk through all of these things and more with some practical tips and reminders to help get you through what can be a really tricky season to navigate with your family!

Remember! You can catch every episode on YouTube, Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts!

Carpool Q&A [E3] Perpetual Lying

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 17 Nov 2023 15:48:29 +0000

It's Friday and you know what that means - it's time for Carpool Q&A with JD, Tona and Becca! Each week, one of us brings a topic for the group to talk through and today JD asked the question: What do you do when you encounter perpetual lying with one of your kiddos? The group talks it over and gives some explanation as to what could be happening underneath the surface as well as some practical tips to address the issue while continuing to build connection.

You can find every episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast as well as Carpool Q&A on our YouTube Channel, Apple Podcasts, Spotify or wherever you listen to your favorite Podcasts!

[E167] How Understanding Stress Capacity Changes the Conversation

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Nov 2023 15:21:32 +0000

Today on the show we talk about knowing and understanding our stress capacity - this is a skill that is beneficial to every person on earth! Yes, absolutely essential for parents, but also for human beings who endeavor to be in ANY kind of relationship with another human being, knowing ourselves and our stress capacity helps us manage our humanity and help the humans around us manage theirs. Becca McKay joins us to break down what stress capacity is and why it's so vital for everyone.

What can we do to mitigate meltdowns in our home? How can we better understand ourselves and predict what might set us off and handle it before that point? All of that and more in today's episode of the ETC Podcast!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect you can check out our website, our YouTube Channel with hours of teaching and conversations to help you take care of the children and other adults in your life and as always, follow us on social media for parenting content and the latest news on what we're up to as an organization!

Carpool Q&A [E2] Picky Eaters!

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 10 Nov 2023 21:27:42 +0000

Welcome to episode 2 of Carpool Q&A - quick episodes about one topic designed to be listened to as you go to or from your carpool responsibilities!

This week we cover a topic that affects so many of us today - how to handle picky eaters! Now - before we launch off into the episode, a few caveats - there is not, unfortunately, a 15 - 20 minute conversation that can cure picky eaters or teach you all you need to know about food, trauma and how they affect the brain. We wish there was - but there's not. Today's episode is an attempt to answer some questions and give a few strategies/solutions that can help you on that journey!

You can watch brand new episodes of Carpool Q&A on YouTube and listen to Carpool Q&A anywhere you listen to your favorite podcasts! To learn more about Empowered to Connect, head on over to our website or follow us on social media!

[E166] Robyn Gobbel on Raising Kids with Big Baffling Behaviors

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:49:05 +0000

On today's episode, one of our faorite guests is BACK to talk about her incredible new book. It's our friend Robyn Gobbel and her book, Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Brain, Body, Sensory Strategies that Really Work, is one of our favorite parenting books ever. Robyn talks about why she wrote this book, the thought behind her creative approach of weaving narrative and instruction together and why she felt so strongly to approach the book in a non-traditional way. We also dive deep into some of the strategies and practical advice in the book including what an Owl Brain is and why we need to grow it!

You will love this episode and you should go buy Robyn's book immediately - IF YOU DON'T WIN ONE FROM US FIRST! To find out how to win a FREE copy of Robyn's book, listen to the whole episode - we're giving away two copies this week!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website or from following us on social media and don't forget to check out our YouTube Channel for more content!

SURPRISE! Introducing Carpool Q&A! [E1] Homework

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 03 Nov 2023 21:42:41 +0000

Surprise!! We have a brand new show launching today!

We're calling it Carpool Q&A - a one-topic show to get you from point A to point B with practical tips and advice to help you parent today. New Episodes drop on Fridays where JD, Becca and Tona will take turns throwing out a topic and discussing it. These will be shorter, more direct episodes than our long form Tuesday episodes and we'd love to know what you think!

Today Tona throws out Homework as the topic of the day - tune in to hear Becca, JD and Tona discuss how to support your kiddos through the homework struggles and successes in today's episode of Carpool Q&A!

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect on our website or by following us on social media!

[E165] Reclaiming Your Life with Dr. Maureen Michele

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 16:51:49 +0000

Happy Tuesday and I hope you're ready for an uplifting episode today! We've got a special guest, Dr. Maureen Michele with us today and she's going to talk about how to reclaim your life. Dr. Maureen Michele is a mom, Pediatrician, author, life coach and more - she's here today to talk about how parenting a daughter through a cancer diagnosis changed her life - and how she nearly missed the opportunity to reclaim a life that had become filled with bitterness and frustration.

You will not want to miss this episode! After you've listened, please go buy her book here! You can learn more about Dr. Maureen Michele and all of the offerings she has right here.

If you've been following along with ETC for a while now, you have no doubt heard about our upcoming fundraising event with Grammy-Nominated Comedian and this past week's Saturday Night Live Host, Nate Bargatze! We are UNDER 2 WEEKS AWAY from our event and would LOVE to have you join! There are a handful of tickets still available, so if you want to join us, act now before they're all gone!

[E164] How to Talk to Your Kids About Tragedy

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 Oct 2023 14:50:33 +0000

In this episode of the Empowered to Connect podcast, our ETCI Program Manager, Becca McKay, joins host JD Wilson to delve into the challenging topic of "How to Talk to Your Kids About Tragedy."

With the horrific news coming out of the middle east right now as the war between Israel and Hamas rages on, we thought it pertinent to have an episode where we talk about how to talk about hard things. We will say off of the jump - this isn't an episode explaining how to make this task easy. It isn't an episode to take the guesswork out of a hard conversation like this. Talking to our kids about tragedy is hard. "Tragedy" is a subjective term - some of the topics that may fall into a tragic category for one family are not as uniquely challenging to others and vice versa - that's why we wanted to talk through a simple framework for how to have these conversations in as healthy of a manner as possible.

On a lighter note, we are less than a month away from our first ever global connection event here in Memphis, TN with Grammy-Nominated Comedian and this week's Saturday Night Live Host, Nate Bargatze! Join us November 12th in Memphis for a night to remember as ETC hosts our first ever fundraising event to share about the incredibly dire need for our work right now and the exciting future ahead of us! To purchase tickets or have your company sponsor the event, just head to empoweredtoconnect.org/investinginhope TODAY!

[E163] Dads Talk About: Getting on the Same Page

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 Oct 2023 10:09:00 +0000

Today's the day to hear from the dads! We've been talking lately at ETC about how important it is to get on the same parenting page as your spouse. It's difficult - it can be contentious - but it's necessary. We had Cultivate Connection Facilitator dads Evan Dyson and recurring guest Todd Baumann join us to talk through that important process - how did they do it? What were the challenges and hurdles and how can YOU avoid those same challenges as you and your spouse work to get on the same parenting page? Glad you asked! Todd, Evan and JD talk through all of it on a special Dads-only episode of the ETC Podcast!

Also, don't miss the opportunity to see world renowned, Grammy Nominated comedian Nate Bargatze at the first annual Investing in Hope event this November! Sunday night, November 12th in Memphis, Tennessee, come hear a brand new hour of Nate Bargatze stand up comedy, have dinner and drinks on us and support the global impact of Empowered to Connect all in one night! Details can be found at empoweredtoconnect.org/investinginhope - but hurry, a limited number of tickets are available!

[E162] Navigating Nuance: Transracial Adoption with Rhonda Mae Roorda

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Oct 2023 13:58:21 +0000

In today's episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast, we're joined by a recurring guest, the wonderful Rhonda Roorda. Rhonda joined us early in our show's history, if you never listened to that episode, you can (and should) find it right here!

She's not only an award-winning author but also a transracial adoptee, bringing a unique perspective to the table. Apart from her work as an author, Rhonda has been a contributor and consultant in a litany of settings from CNN to People Magazine and the Emmy Award Winning NBC TV Series "This is Us". You're going to love hearing from her!

Rhonda dives into the real, sometimes tough, and always important aspects of transracial adoption. From identity to embracing cultural diversity, this chat is a down-to-earth conversation about the sometimes beautiful, sometimes ugly, but always messy nuances of transracial adoption.

Rhonda shares practical tips for adoptive families and parents. Her experiences and insights are a roadmap for navigating the unique challenges and and opportunities that come with transracial adoption.

Don't miss this eye-opening conversation that goes straight to the heart of transracial adoption.

[E161] Let's Talk About Screen Time/Technology with Jesse Faris

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 03 Oct 2023 09:55:00 +0000

In today's episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast, we're joined by ETC Training Specialist Jesse Faris, along with host JD Wilson and ETC Institute Program Manager Becca McKay, to explore the complex world of parenting in the digital age. As technology continues to play an integral role in our lives, it's crucial to strike a balance between maintaining a strong connection with our children and ensuring their safety online.

Jesse, JD and becca bring their expertise to the forefront, guiding us through practical strategies for approaching technology with our kids. Whether you're a seasoned parent or just beginning to navigate the digital landscape, you'll find valuable insights on fostering healthy digital habits, open communication, and setting boundaries that empower both parents and children.

Also - BREAKING NEWS - Today we announce the mystery guest we've been hinting at for the last several weeks. Joining us at our first ever global connection event is none other than Grammy-Nominated comedian Nate Bargatze!

You heard right, November 12 in Memphis, Tennessee at Investing in Hope, our first ever global connection event fundraiser, catch the one and only Nate Bargatze live and in person! Seats are going fast, so if you want to join us for a night of laughter and hope, head to empoweredtoconnect.org/investinginhope to reserve your seat now and invest in hope for the next generation of world-changing work happening here at Empowered to Connect!

[E160] How to Advocate for your Child at Church

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Sep 2023 14:34:35 +0000

If you are or have been a part of a church, you know childcare can be a minefield for parents whose children have experienced early trauma, adversity or loss. Well-meaning volunteers can become frazzled not knowing how to help, kids become unsure of what to expect and parents wonder "Is it safe for my child to be here the whole service?"

Obviously this isn't everyone's experience, but for those who have or might experience some of these factors, we want everyone to be equipped to know how to make church a safe environment for your kids where you can know they're being taken care of well. That's why we brought Anteelah Love into the mix today to help us learn how to advocate for our kids at church! Anteelah talks through everything from an ideal setup, some ideas of how to help your church get started thinking through these issues, ideas to scaffold care as your church becomes equipped - all of this and more is in today's episode with Becca McKay, JD Wilson and our guest, Anteelah Love!

Also - to find out who our HILARIOUS special guest is at our upcoming Global Connection Event: Investing in Hope, to find out how to get tickets and learn all the details about this incredible night, check out our website here!

[E159] How to Advocate for your Kids in Youth Sports

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Sep 2023 10:15:00 +0000

Today Josh and Ava Conley join us to discuss the intersection of youth sports and parenting. When choosing to parent through lenses of attachment and connection, sports can be one of the toughest activities to figure out. How should you approach a coach when there's a complaint or a request to serve your child in a different way? How do we prepare our kids for these environments, how do we prepare coaches and those teams to embrace families whose skin colors or ethnic backgrounds don't match? We're glad you asked!

As you can imagine, because this world is so broad with so many different nuances based on sport, age, etc, we tried to fly above the clouds on this episode! Josh has an extensive sports background, having played and coached at nearly every level of sport from pee wee leagues to collegiate athletics - combine that with Ava's black belt martial arts background and you've got a recipe for great conversation!

**SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENT**!!

We would like to extend a special invitation for you to join us at our FIRST EVER Global Connection Event in Memphis Tennessee Sunday night, November 12th from 6-8:30pm at the historic Peabody Hotel! Join our special Grammy Nominated guest (whose name we cannot reveal in this promo, but CAN reveal on the event page right here) for a night of laughter and hope! For more information and to buy tickets for what is sure to be an unforgettable night, click here!

[E158] How to Advocate for your Kids in the Medical World

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Sep 2023 19:01:00 +0000

Today we've got a very special guest - Dr. Lauren Chipman, a Pediatrician in Memphis, TN joins us to help us learn how to navigate the tricky world of advocating for your kids in the medical sector. Lauren joins Tona Ottinger and host JD Wilson and brings hear years of experience as a Physician and as a Mom to the table to help us understand how to navigate the world of Pediatricians/hospitals/medical care and you do not want to miss it! Lauren shares everything from a powerful story of her connection to the Ottinger family to the encouragement EVERY parent needs to know, to her own story of realizing how much information about trauma, the brain, attachment and behaviors she DIDN'T learn through Med School, but DID learn about through Empowered to Connect Parenting courses.

You can learn more about Empowered to Connect here!

We also make reference in the intro and outro to a special event coming up that you'll want to know about - and we are confident you do want to know more about this one - to learn more about that event, check it out on our website here!

Also, to snag one of the 15 remaining spots in our beta test group for individualized parent coaching from ETC, send an email to equip@empoweredtoconnect.org and let them know you'd like to join the beta test group - make sure to mention that you heard about it on the podcast to get 25% off of the cost of this course!

[E157] How to Advocate for your Children with Family and Friends

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Sep 2023 16:54:32 +0000

In today's Empowered to Connect Podcast episode, we're sitting down with MO and Tona Ottinger from ETC and diving into a crucial topic: how to be an advocate for your children within your own family and friends circle! Parenting comes with its own set of challenges, but you don't have to face them alone. MO and Tona are here to help you understand how to communicate your child's needs effectively and seek support from the people who matter most.

Learn the ropes of advocating for your kids. From sharing trauma-informed parenting principles to setting boundaries and creating a strong support system, MO and Tona offer practical tips to help you speak up confidently.

[E156] Advocating for your Children in the School System with Anna Marie Penn

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Aug 2023 15:14:26 +0000

In today's episode, we are joined by Anna Marie Penn, a former reading specialist and expert in educational advocacy. Anna Marie and her husband, Jonathan, both spent years working in under-resourced schools in Memphis, TN. Now parents to two awesome kids and advocates for many, Anna Marie takes us on a deep dive into the intricate art of advocating for your children within the school system.

With a wealth of experience, Anna Marie delves into the often complex world of 504 plans and Individualized Education Plans (IEP's), offering invaluable insights on how to navigate these processes effectively. Through Anna Marie's guidance, you'll gain a comprehensive understanding of how to ensure your child receives the support they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

Join us for an empowering conversation that equips parents and caregivers with the tools to champion their child's educational journey, ensuring they receive the tailored assistance that sets them up for success!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E155] What School Psychologists Want Every Parent to Know

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Aug 2023 19:06:55 +0000

In today's episode, we are joined by school psychologists Rachel Peterman, PhD and Teressa Davis, PhD with special guest host (and former Dean of Students and School Social Worker) Becca McKay who unveil a treasure trove of insights for parents, especially as it pertains to getting to know the special education system. Delve into the minds of these experts as they share what they wish every parent knew about supporting their child's emotional and academic growth. From nurturing mental well-being to navigating learning challenges, IEP's and 504 plans, this conversation is a valuable guide for parents seeking to empower their children's success!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E154] Back to School with Brain Body Parenting and Mona Delahooke!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Aug 2023 13:52:27 +0000

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E153] Mastering Transitions with Becca and Jesse (Replay E56)

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Aug 2023 15:57:34 +0000

In today's episode, we're excited to bring you a masterclass on the art of transitions, led by none other than Becca McKay and Jesse Faris! Becca and Jesse bring a wise and compassionate approach, guiding us through the intricate world of transitions, offering essential insights and practical strategies to navigate your child's (and your own) life's shifts with grace and resilience. Whether it's moving homes, starting a new school year, or even daily transitions, their wisdom shines a light on how these moments can be powerful opportunities for connection, growth, and building a strong foundation of trust.

Tune in as Becca and Jesse delve into the nuances of understanding the impact transitions have on children and adults alike. Drawing from their rich experiences as educators and advocates, they share stories that exemplify the transformative potential of intentional transitions. This episode equips parents, caregivers, and professionals with valuable tools to ease anxieties, embrace change, and create environments where both young and old can thrive during life's many transitions.

[E152] Connecting Practice: Repair, Reflect, Readjust with Anteelah Love

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Aug 2023 11:40:35 +0000

In today's episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast, we are thrilled to welcome recurring guest, Anteelah Love, Cultivate Connection Facilitator and ETC Training Specialist! Join us as Anteelah talks us through the art of "Repair, Reflect, Readjust" - our last, but certainly not least important Connecting Practice. We talk about how Anteelah and her husband Matthew are using this practice this summer, how much of a game changer it was in their parenting and how it's NOT just for kids...Anteelah shares how this transformative approach fosters healing connections and nurtures resilience in both children and adults.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or professional working with children, this conversation is brimming with invaluable tools to strengthen relationships, promote emotional well-being, and empower individuals on their journey of connection.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E151] Connecting Practice: Respond Thoughtfully with Mark and Kelly Raudenbush!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Jul 2023 12:11:06 +0000

Today we're joined by Mark and Kelly Raudenbush, Cultivate Connection Facilitators in Philadelphia, PA. Mark and Kelly, among lots of things, head up the Sparrow Fund and are very active advocates in the foster care and adoptive communities. We couldn't think of anyone better to join us to talk about this week's Connecting Practice: 'Respond Thoughtfully.'

Discover the transformative power of thoughtful responses in your parenting journey, fostering deeper connections and understanding with your children. Learn practical strategies to respond with empathy, intention, and compassion, creating a positive and nurturing environment for your family.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E150] Connecting Practice: Meet Needs with Nyasha and Regina Chari

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 Jul 2023 14:10:54 +0000

It's our 150th episode and who better to join us for the this special occasion than our good friends Nyasha and Regina Chari!? Nyasha and Regina are cultivate connection Facilitators in Zimbabwe and have been ETC Parent Trainers for almost 10 years now! They join us today to talk about the vast importance of understanding how to meet needs for our kids. Sounds basic, right?

Well, Becca McKay, the Charis and JD Wilson join us to tell us why this is actually one of the more overlooked and complicated processes as a parent - and one that we absolutely cannot avoid doing for ourselves as well.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E149] Connecting Practice: Give Voice with Matt and Carissa Davis

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Jul 2023 14:34:18 +0000

This week on the ETC Podcast we bring in Cultivate Connection Facilitators Matt and Carissa Davis from Memphis, TN to talk with us about a foundational Connecting Practice: Giving Voice. This idea has long been critiqued as 'permissive' parenting due to children being taught to advocate for their needs. Giving your child a voice, however, is far from permissive - on the contrary, it is imperative to connected parenting. Why? Well, you'll just have to tune in today to find out!

Hear Matt and Carissa share their story as well as share practical insights and strategies to help your child (and your spouse, relatives, friends and everyone you interact with daily!) learn to have their voice heard and needs met. We cannot understate the importance of this episode enough and the Davises are an absolute delight to hear from!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E148] Connecting Practice: The Power of Play with Tom Jordi

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 Jul 2023 15:48:57 +0000

Today on the Empowered to Connect Podcast we delve into a pivotal connecting practice: the power of play in parenting with one of our favorite guests, Tom Jordi. Hailing from Johannesburg, South Africa, Tom is not only a TBRI Practitioner but also a Cultivate Connection Facilitator, bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience to our conversation. He and his wife Dawn have 4 kiddos and are an absolute joy to be around, if this is your first time hearing an episode with the Jordis, you're gonna love it!

In this episode, Tom engages in a captivating discussion with our host, JD Wilson, and ETC Executive Director, Mo Ottinger, about the profound impact that play can have on the parent-child relationship. Together, they explore how play serves as a transformative tool for fostering connection, building trust, and nurturing healthy attachments.

With a refreshing perspective, they discuss various playful strategies that parents can incorporate into their everyday interactions with their children. From imaginative play to sensory experiences, he shares practical insights on how these approaches can cultivate emotional resilience, enhance communication, and create joy-filled moments within the parent-child dynamic.

Throughout the episode, our guests share personal anecdotes and real-life examples that illustrate the transformative power of play, highlighting its ability to bridge gaps, facilitate healing, and strengthen the parent-child bond. Tom's expertise and passion shine through as he emphasizes the importance of creating safe and secure spaces where children can express themselves freely and experience the power of unconditional love and acceptance.

Whether you're a parent, caregiver, or professional working with children, this episode offers a wealth of valuable strategies and insights that can revolutionize your approach to parenting and caregiving. Tune in as we explore the profound impact of play and its ability to empower parents and children alike on the journey of connection and growth.

[E147] Connecting Practice: Use Scaffolding with Angie Grant

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Jun 2023 14:35:21 +0000

Join us for an enlightening episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast as we welcome Cultivate Connection Facilitator Angie Grant and talk about utilizing scaffolding as a fundamental parenting principle. In this episode, we explore the profound impact of scaffolding on our children's growth and development.

Scaffolding is a transformative approach that empowers parents to provide the necessary support and guidance to their children as they navigate various challenges and tasks. Becca and Angie, with their wealth of knowledge and expertise, delve into the intricacies of this powerful concept, sharing practical strategies and insights on how to implement scaffolding in our everyday parenting journeys.

Through heartfelt discussions and real-life examples, Becca and Angie reveal how scaffolding promotes independence, resilience, and confidence in our children. They guide us through the process of tailoring our support to match our child's unique needs and abilities, creating a solid foundation for their success. With their compassionate and empowering approach, Becca and Angie inspire us to embrace the power of scaffolding as a transformative parenting principle.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on social media and YouTube!

[E146] Connecting Practice: How to "Be Present" with Nick and Jesse Faris

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Jun 2023 13:51:25 +0000

In Today's episode we dive deep into the art of being fully present. Joining us today are Nick and Jesse Faris, cultivate connection facilitators based in Memphis, TN, who bring a wealth of wisdom and experience to the topic.

Jesse, who serves on staff at Empowered to Connect as a Program and Training Specialist, and Nick have 2 kiddos through adoption and have been Empowered to Connect trainers for years. Today they share profound insights on the transformative power of presence and its impact on our relationships, creativity, and overall well-being.

Together with ETC Institute Program Manager Becca McKay, we explore practical strategies and mindset shifts that can help us cultivate presence in our daily lives. From the art of deep listening to the beauty of embracing stillness, Nick and Jesse guide us on a journey to reconnect with the present moment and uncover its transformative potential.

Join us as we delve into the art of being fully present today with a couple that's been making presence a priority for years now!

Reminder - if you haven't already purchased your Connecting Practices Handbook, you can do so from our website today! You can also learn more about Empowered to Connect and all that we've got going on across the globe!

[E145] Connecting Practice: How to Balance Nurture and Structure

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Jun 2023 13:11:24 +0000

Today on the Empowered to Connect Podcast, we are joined by Todd and Brandy Baumann, two remarkable people who bring a unique blend of expertise and compassion to the world of parenting and caregiving. Todd, an engineer, and Brandy, the coordinator for True Vine Ministries, serving foster and adoptive families at their church, share their insights on on why balancing nurture and structure quickly became their favorite connecting practice in our Cultivate Connection Parenting Course!

If you've ever approached the worlds of connected parenting, gentle parenting, attachment-based parenting, etc you'll know this is an absolutely foundational skill to learn. One common misnomer in our way of parenting is that it's all nurture - that discipline and structure go out the window. Well, we're here today to remind you that's not true at all!

Todd's analytical approach as an engineer, combined with Brandy's deep understanding of the needs of foster and adoptive families, creates a powerful synergy that informs their insights on finding the right balance. Together, they share what they've learned about providing the right balance of nurture and structure - we believe it will empower you to connect with your children on a deeper level and promote healthy growth!

Reminder - if you haven't already purchased your Connecting Practices Handbook, you can do that as well as check out thousands of other resources and ways to connect to ETC from our website today!

[E144] Connecting Practice: Be Curious with Matt and Laurel Smith

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Jun 2023 13:20:25 +0000

Today, we are thrilled to have special guests Matt and Laurel Smith, Memphis, TN facilitators of ETC Cultivate Connection (ETC's own parenting curriculum). Join us as we delve into the heart of our summer series and explore the very first connecting practice: "Be Curious."

Curiosity is a powerful tool that holds the key to deepening connections and fostering healthy relationships. Matt and Laurel guide us through the transformative potential of curiosity in parenting, teaching us how to unlock the doors to understanding and empathy. Both Matt and Laurel are brilliant professionals and veteran parents and they share practical insights and strategies that empower us to cultivate a genuine curiosity in our interactions with our children, friends, family and beyond! You'll recognize Matt's voice as a frequent guest, he currently serves as the Clinical Director of the Memphis Family Connection Center, one of ETC's 3 main programs. Laurel has been in the educational system as a teacher in every age range and has worked to incorporate attachment based, connection-centered practices into her classroom for years.

Throughout this conversation, we uncover the profound impact of curiosity on our children's emotional well-being and development. Matt and Laurel share their personal stories and wisdom, leaving us inspired to embrace the beauty of curiosity as a foundational pillar in our parenting journeys.

Reminder - if you haven't already purchased your Connecting Practices Handbook, you can do so from our website today! Get ready to embrace the power of curiosity and cultivate deeper, more meaningful relationships with your children.

[E143] Introducing The Connecting Practices Handbook!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 May 2023 14:51:43 +0000

Join Tona Ottinger, Becca McKay, and host JD Wilson in today's episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast as we delve into the exciting new resource available at empoweredtoconnect.org/store — the Connecting Practices Handbook! This handbook is a comprehensive guide designed to empower individuals, families, and professionals with an overview of the 9 Connecting Practices found in our parenting curriculum course, Cultivate Connection.

During this episode, Tona, Becca, and JD highlight the significance of the Connecting Practices Handbook and how it can positively impact the lives of children and families. They discuss the various chapters and sections of the handbook, exploring its rich content and actionable insights.

In addition to exploring the handbook itself, we share some exciting news! Throughout the summer, the Empowered to Connect team will embark on a special journey, walking through the nine connecting practices with facilitators from all over the world. Listeners will have the opportunity to learn from these experienced practitioners as they dive deep into each practice, sharing their wisdom, stories, and practical application tips.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website, follow us on Facebook and Instagram and Subscribe to our YouTube channel for hundreds of hours of valuable teaching content from renowned experts like Dr. Karyn Purvis, Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, Mona Delahooke, The Empowered to Connect Team and more!

[E142] What We Wish All Parents Knew with Mike and Kristin Berry from The Honestly Adoption Company

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 May 2023 13:45:21 +0000

On today's episode of the Empowered to Connect podcast, we delve into the inspiring parenting journey of Mike and Kristin Berry, the founders of The Honestly Adoption Company.In this heartfelt conversation, Mike and Kristin share their personal experiences as adoptive parents, opening up about the challenges, joys, and transformative moments they encountered along the way.

With their unique blend of vulnerability, wisdom, and humor, they provide invaluable insights into the world of adoption and foster care, offering encouragement and practical strategies for families navigating similar paths. Hear Mike and Kristin tell the story of the origins of The Honestly Adoption Company, a caregiving resource creator and community dedicated to equipping and empowering adoptive and foster parents. Hear how Mike and Kristin's own journey inspired them to create this powerful platform, providing a wealth of resources, training, and support to families worldwide.

No matter where you are in your parenting journey, this episode will leave you inspired and equipped to walk the road to connection and attachment with the kiddos in your life. Mike and Kristin share their hard-earned wisdom, reminding us that love, connection, and resilience can truly transform lives.Don't miss out on this incredible conversation! Join us and listen to Mike and Kristin Berry on the Empowered to Connect podcast. For more information about how to follow the Berry's, their work and resources, visit honestlyadoption.com. To check out the link Mike referenced, check it out here: http://honestlyadoption.com/gettrauma101

[E141] How to be Strong Like Water with Aundi Kolber

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 May 2023 11:47:40 +0000

Prepare for a remarkable episode of the Empowered to Connect podcast as we explore the transformative pages of Aundi Kolber's book, "Strong Like Water." This captivating work not only acknowledges the courage it takes to survive but also equips readers with practical tools to transition from mere coping to embodying true strength.In "Strong Like Water," Aundi Kolber's voice rises like a wise and gentle guide, resonating with those navigating their own deep waters. With profound insight and compassion, she calls forth your inner strength and resilience.

Join us as we dive into "Strong Like Water" and uncover the transformative wisdom it holds. Aundi's practical tools and heartfelt guidance will empower you to rise above, embracing your own resilience and gaining the embodied strength needed to navigate life's journey. Don't miss this inspiring conversation as we explore the transformative power of Aundi Kolber's "Strong Like Water."

You can find Aundi online @AundiKolber on Instagram and you can buy her book on any major platform (though a local bookstore would be preferable)!

[E140] "Why I Hate Mother's Day" with Tori Hope Petersen and Becca McKay

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 May 2023 13:33:34 +0000

Today on the Empowered to Connect podcast, we are joined by Becca McKay and Tori Hope Petersen as they share their personal stories of how Mother's Day can be a difficult and painful experience for them. Both Becca and Tori have experienced significant grief and loss related to their childhood mothers, and in this conversation, they courageously open up about the complexities of navigating this holiday as adults who have been impacted by trauma, adversity, grief and loss - some of which has occurred ON Mother's Day for them.

Tori, who is the author of the book "Fostered," shares her journey of growing up in the foster care system and the many ways in which this has shaped her understanding of motherhood. Becca, who is also an advocate for foster care and adoption, speaks candidly about her own experiences of loss and how these have impacted her and the way she interacts with everyone in her life.

Together, Becca and Tori offer a unique perspective on the challenges that come with Mother's Day, and they provide valuable insights into how individuals and communities can support those who may be struggling during this time. Whether you have a personal connection to grief and loss, the foster care system or are simply looking to gain a deeper understanding of the complexities of Mother's Day, this episode is a must-listen. Join us as we explore this important topic with two incredible women who have truly lived it.

[E139] Transforming Juvenile Justice Systems with TBRI

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 May 2023 13:52:32 +0000

We've got a great one for you today! In today's episode, we are thrilled to have Lucinda Miles as our guest. Lucinda a TBRI Practitioner with Volunteers for Youth Justice in Shreveport, LA, where she is bringing life-changing TBRI training to the juvenile justice system and incarcerated individuals.

Lucinda's work is focused on bringing hope and healing to those who have experienced trauma and adversity. Through her innovative approach, she is empowering families involved in the juvenile justice system and incarcerated individuals to heal from their past and build a better future. Her work is not only transforming the lives of those she serves, but it's also changing the face of the criminal justice system in Shreveport. Hear Lucinda tell the story of Judge David Matlock, who, after learning about trauma and the brain completely transformed his courtroom to be trauma-responsive and the stories are astounding.

Join us as we hear from Lucinda about her work with Volunteers for Youth Justice, the impact of TBRI training, and the inspiring stories of transformation she has witnessed. This is a must-listen episode for anyone who is passionate about making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children and families. So, grab a cup of coffee, sit back, and get ready to be inspired!

To learn more about Volunteers for Youth Justice, check out their work here! To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E138] What to do When Parenting Feels Impossible

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 13:20:37 +0000

Well. In some seasons of parenting, staying in the good work feels impossible. Maybe impossible is the wrong word, maybe hopeless or 'not worth it' is a better way of expressing it. In all reality, we believe every hard season hits in different ways for different people and their contexts.

So what do we do when we reach one of those places? How do we muster up the strength to continue? I have great news - you don't have to figure it out alone. Today Mo and Tona Ottinger join us to share some wisdom they've gained and experiences they've had in their 20+ years of parenting. Please just know that this road was NOT intended to be walked alone - more details today in a brand new episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E137] Dr. Karyn Purvis Teaches How to Keep Your Anger from Breaking Trust

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 Apr 2023 14:30:00 +0000

Today we take an exclusive look at one of Dr. Karyn Purvis' most helpful parenting strategies with Jesse Faris and Becca McKay. In this episode, we delve into a never-before-seen clip with the late Dr. Karyn Purvis, where she shares invaluable insights on how to manage anger and build trust with our kids. Join us for a deep dive conversation on the power of trust-based parenting and its potential to transform children AND adults.

To watch the video before listening, check it out on our YouTube Channel!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E136] The Danger of Over-Responding: New Content from Dr. Karyn Purvis

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Apr 2023 17:10:57 +0000

We are so excited to share a never-before-seen clip of Dr. Karyn Purvis teaching today. Our team has been on pins and needles waiting to release several new videos of Karyn, so we wanted to hop on an episode today to take the content she shares with us in the video deeper!

We've all experienced moments of over-responding as parents. How do we ensure that we aren't going to send our children further into dysregulation when conflict arises? What is the ultimate goal of parenting in moments when children are dysregulated? Dr. Karyn Purvis helps us find the answers in this clip, ETC's own Jesse Faris and Becca McKay help break down how we apply it in our daily lives in the podcast.

To watch the video before listening to the show today, check it out here!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E135] Reclaim Compassion: Overcoming Blocked Care with Lisa Qualls and Melissa Corkum

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 Apr 2023 10:50:07 +0000

Recurring guests Lisa Qualls and Melissa Corkum, whom you may know from their work at The Adoption Connection, are no stranger to blocked care. They joined us in episode 100 to talk Compassion Fatigue and introduce the idea of blocked care and are back today to tell us about their new book: Compassion Fatigue: Overcoming Blocked Care with Neuroscience and Faith. Melissa and Lisa explain what blocked care is and how to reclaim compassion and hope in your parenting when it feels impossible. You can access the assessment they mention on their website here as well as checking out the adoption connection podcast and the litany of resources available there.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E134] Why Your Child Can't Self Regulate without YOU

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Mar 2023 14:35:49 +0000

As our good friend Robyn Gobbel shared with us back in episode 25, there really is no such thing as self regulation (without co regulation as a precursor)...so forgive us for the double meaning in the title, but today we talk about the role parents play in their child's self regulation learning process. Spoiler alert - it's a big role and it hinges on parents being fully present AND aware of how to self regulate on their own. Have no fear, though, Jesse Faris and Becca McKay joined us to talk all about that process, share some stories of triumph AND failure as well as leave with some practical steps that can help you in that process no matter where you are in it. If you've been having a tough time with meltdowns and "you're too old for this" kind of behaviors, this is your episode (and none of us are ever too old for big emotions, by the way)!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E133] What Do I Do When I Meet Resistance to this Style of Parenting?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Mar 2023 10:13:58 +0000

What do I do when I meet resistance to this style of parenting? For many of us, when we make the change to parent in a more connected, attachment-centered way, it can be a jarring change to those around us. For many people, there is never a second thought about continuing in the parenting style and practices they were raised in. For lots of us, however, parenting in the style we were raised in presented major complications, especially when met with kiddos who have experienced early trauma, stress or adversity in life.

Becca McKay and host JD Wilson sat down to talk about how to navigate the resistance many of us face in this way of parenting. We address everything from "Isn't it permissive parenting?" to "that's not how we raise our kids" to "I'm trauma informed, I watched a slideshow on trauma the other day." If you're needing a reminder of why we do things the way we do, or you just need to know how to handle the questions that come as a result, today's your episode!

Lastly - Big News! Applications to become a Cultivate Connection Facilitator CLOSE ON THURSDAY, MARCH 23rd!! We are taking applications now for our May - July Facilitator training and we'd love for YOU to be a part of it. We deeply believe that this content, taught peer-to-peer, in communities, transforms those communities. Want to help nurture and build a supportive community of trauma-informed parents? Here is your chance. Head to empoweredtoconnect.org and apply NOW for our next round of Facilitator training. Training begins online in May and wraps up with 3 incredible days in Memphis, Tennessee with the ETC Team. If you, or someone you know, needs to be bringing this content to your community, apply now on our website!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E132] War and Resilience: How Ukrainians are Teaching the World Pt 3

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:26:24 +0000

As the War in Ukraine passes the one year anniversary of its' bloody start, we sat down with 3 very special individuals who have been on the front lines of caring for the Ukrainian people.

Part 3 of our series features our friend Raya Shelashska. Raya is a Ukrainian, a PhD Student at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) and a mom working to begin bringing hope and healing to her country's people. She talks with us about life in Ukraine, what family and friends are facing in major cities like Kiev as well as small villages being targeted by Russian shells daily. Raya also shares her vision for helping bring therapeutic, trauma-informed care to families and individuals in post-war Ukraine and her thoughts on why Ukrainians are SO inherently resilient.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E131] War and Resilience: How Ukrainians are Teaching the World Pt 2

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:23:16 +0000

As the War in Ukraine passes the one year anniversary of its' bloody start, we sat down with 3 very special individuals who have been on the front lines of caring for the Ukrainian people.

Madison and Yuriy Perekotiy, missionaries to Ukraine, are stateside at the moment helping bring awareness to the acute needs on the ground of families and individuals in crisis. As a Ukrainian national, Yuriy explains the history of Ukraine and why its' people are so resilient. He and his wife, Madison, an American, share their stories of relief efforts in the war and why Ukrainian people are so resilient here in part 2.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E130] War and Resilience: How Ukrainians are Teaching the World Pt 1

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Mar 2023 10:19:09 +0000

As the War in Ukraine passes the one year anniversary of its' bloody start, we sat down with 3 very special individuals who have been on the front lines of caring for the Ukrainian people.

Madison and Yuriy Perekotiy, missionaries to Ukraine, are stateside at the moment helping bring awareness to the acute needs on the ground of families and individuals in crisis. As a Ukrainian national, Yuriy explains the history of Ukraine and why its' people are so resilient. He and his wife, Madison, an American, share their story of foster care, mission work and war relief efforts in part 1 of our series here.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E129] Transracial Adoptive Family Support with Teressa Davis and Anteelah Love

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Mar 2023 18:42:41 +0000

Today we bring on two therapists we love dearly to talk about transracial adoption. Why did we bring these two therapists to talk about this topic? Glad you asked! Anteelah and Teressa currently lead a therapeutic support group for transracial adoptive parents at the Memphis Family Connection Center. As we've caught wind of what is happening in that group, we wanted to give their work and their wisdom a broader audience.

Teressa and Anteelah talk about everything from what has been the most common themes emerging from their group, how they advocate for parents talking about race with their kids and so much more - don't miss this episode!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E128] How Do I Handle Food Issues?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Feb 2023 11:06:31 +0000

Is meal time a source of constant stress in your house? Have you wondered why your kids just can't bring themselves to try a certain food or texture? This can seem small on the surface, but often we forget that eating is one of the very few activities in life that involves all five senses. Today we wanted to bring in an Occupational Therapist and Speech Pathologist to walk us through an intro into the world of feeding and food issues. Courtney Mitchell and Katherine Byrd work at the Memphis Family Connection Center and walk us through not just WHY kids sometimes struggle but also how to begin walking through this struggle with them.

Also - WE HAVE SOME BIG NEWS!

As you know if you're a regular listener, we empower Facilitators to take our parenting course, Cultivate Connection to their local communities. We are so grateful and proud of the work our Facilitators are doing to provide life on life support for parents near them.

Over the years, MANY of you have reached out asking for a course online, especially those of you who do not have a Facilitator near you. First, a reminder: We've currently got an opportunity to sign up to become a Cultivate Connection Facilitator, so check our website for those details if YOU want to become part of our growing network! We'd love to consider your application! If you are wanting to take the class, however, and for whatever reason the opportunities available haven't worked out for you - WE ARE OFFERING CULTIVATE CONNECTION ONLINE for the first time ever!!!!!

As a special limited time offer, YOU as an ETC Podcast Listener get 20% off with the Code ETCPOD-23 . SIGN UP FOR OUR ONLINE COURSE TODAY if the dates and times line up with your schedule! This class will be LIVE not recorded, and it starts Sunday, March 12th! Again, that's ETCPOD-23 for 20% off the parenting course! We'd love to see you there!

[E127] How Do I Handle Sibling Conflict in My Home?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Feb 2023 11:31:00 +0000

Do you have siblings who seem to be in conflict constantly in your home? Good, none of us do either! For the people who DO have sibling conflict happening often, this episode is for you! While we joke, the reality is, when dealing with consistent sibling fighting/conflict, it can feel like there's no end in sight. That's why we brought Dr. Matt Smith and Therapist Lauren Wantz on to discuss how to approach this type of issue.

While there's no quick fix or instant solution, the great news is that there is a lot to examine and try when it comes to addressing sibling issues. Dr. Smith and Lauren give us an inside look at what could be happening philosophically as well as some very practical tips and tools for you to have at your disposal as you address these issues going forward!

Also - WE HAVE SOME BIG NEWS!

[E126] A Deep Dive into Dr. Karyn Purvis' 'How Do I Handle Manipulation and Control?'

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Feb 2023 14:11:00 +0000

It's a problem. My child is constantly using manipulation and control to get whatever they want and I don't know how to stop it. In our most watched YouTube video in our channel's HISTORY, Dr. Karyn Purvis reminds us that this narrative is WRONG. What if your child is not a 'bad kid' who is manipulative and controlling? What if your child has endured some early trauma, stress and adversity and these strategies are survival strategies, not problematic patterns? Join Tona Ottinger, Becca McKay and host JD Wilson as we take a deep dive into Dr. Purvis' framework for how to handle manipulation and control. You'll leave with some practical philosophies and practices to transform your view of your child and help them negotiate their needs in a healthy, connected way!

Also - WE HAVE SOME BIG NEWS!

[E125] A Deep Dive into Sleep Issues with Annie Cornell and Luz Wolf

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Feb 2023 12:07:00 +0000

It's time to talk about sleep issues. Admittedly, this is one of the toughest aspects of parenting to tackle. There are SO many variables and SO few universal practices, it can be hard to know where to start when you or a kiddo are struggling to sleep. We brought in speech therapist Annie Cornell and occupational therapist Luz Wolf for just that reason today! Annie is a single foster mama and Speech Therapist at the Memphis Family Connection Center and Luz Wolf is an Occupational Therapist with 20+ years of experience. They talk with us about why sleep can be so difficult to tackle and what may be happening emotionally and in the body at bedtime, preventing sleep. Tona Ottinger also joins us to talk about the complications that enter the picture when your babies have experienced trauma, adversity and early stress in life.

The CDC Sleep Stage Chart that Luz references can be found here and the American Academy of Pediatrics Resource page she listed can be found here.

Lastly - Big News! Applications to become a Cultivate Connection Facilitator are open now! We are taking applications now for our May - July Facilitator training and we'd love for YOU to be a part of it. We deeply believe that this content, taught peer-to-peer, in communities, transforms those communities. Want to help nurture and build a supportive community of trauma-informed parents? Here is your chance. Head to empoweredtoconnect.org and apply NOW for our next round of Facilitator training. Training begins online in May and wraps up with 3 incredible days in Memphis, Tennessee with the ETC Team. If you, or someone you know, needs to be bringing this content to your community, apply now on our website!

[E124] A Deep Dive into Dr. Karyn Purvis' How Do I Handle Lying?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 31 Jan 2023 13:14:00 +0000

Part of the late Dr. Karyn Purvis' brilliance was teaching people to see beyond what was right in front of them. What's going on behind these behaviors? Today, we take a deep dive into one of our most watched teaching clips on our YouTube Channel from Dr. Purvis. In this video, she asks 'How Do I Handle Lying?' and with the help of ETC Co-Founder Michael Monroe, helps us to understand the issue while giving some practical supports as we address lying in our homes. Tona Ottinger and Becca McKay join us to do some group therapy and go beyond the video to unpack the strategies and supports given by Dr. Purvis and Michael.

Want more on the topic? Check out our episode with Robyn Gobbel on lying here: https://youtu.be/5Mx2Ye7J508

[E123] A Deep Dive Into Anxiety with Jill Stockburger and Teressa Davis

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 Jan 2023 14:23:00 +0000

Anxiety is a hot button issue these days - but what is it, really? Glad you asked - we brought two amazing therapists, Jill Stockburger and Teressa Davis, to dive into all things anxiety and share how you can support your kids, your peers and yourself when you feel anxiety creeping in. We talk about when to think about professional help, practical tools for battling anxiety and so much more in today's episode!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E122] A Deep Dive into ADHD with Dr. Matt Smith

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 Jan 2023 12:03:00 +0000

ADHD has been a hot button topic in the parenting world for years - what is it? How do we support our kids living with ADHD and how do I know if we should use medication? Are there ways I can support my kids with ADHD outside of medication? All of these questions are hard to navigate as parents. That's why we decided to bring in Dr. Matt Smith, Clinical Director of Counseling at Memphis Family Connection Center to help us walk through all of these questions.

Check out one of the resources Matt mentioned here: https://www.additudemag.com/

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E121] The Connected Therapist: OT Marti Smith's Journey

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Jan 2023 10:30:00 +0000

Occupational Therapist Marti Smith didn't set out to be what she is today. In fact, all she was trying to do was help kids - but mentors Bruce Perry and Karyn Purvis had other plans! In today's episode hear how Marti's professional work and personal passions collided and formed an opportunity she wouldn't have dreamed of. Marti is an occupational therapist, author, speaker and so much more! She joins us to tell the story of first getting connected to Bruce Perry and Karyn Purvis, how her work with the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development has transformed her private practice and what she's working on now to help therapists everywhere collaborate in trauma informed work.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E120] Why Making Memories Matters More Than You Think [Replay E62]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 16:36:00 +0000

In case you didn't know, for nearly all of us reading this, the holiday season is in full swing. For those of you who feel the fearful holiday twitch coming on, don't worry - we're here to help you out! Mo and Tona Ottinger join us today to talk about the imporance of making memories and the role the brain and our sensory systems have to play in that process. It is a fascinating conversation and one that is a necessity for all parents!

To read the article that Mo referenced in the podcast, click here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E119] How to Prepare Your Family for Your Family [Replay of E22]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Dec 2022 17:25:00 +0000

Well it's THAT time of year again - traveling, decorating, celebrating and freaking out because you're not sure how Aunt so and so will do when one of your kids needs a minute to calm down. Fear not! We've talked about this before and are replaying one of our most helpful holiday episodes to help you navigate this season!

Today we joined forces with ETC Parent Trainer Jesse Faris and Tona Ottinger to talk about how to prepare for the holidays before, during and after your interactions with family. Have no idea how to prep for meltdowns? Wondering how your kids are processing their time together? We've got you covered.

We've also linked a blog here below that was written a few years ago (pre-Covid) that could be some help as well - check it out!

https://empoweredtoconnect.org/tis-the-season/

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E118] A Late Discovery: A Texas Sized Story of Family Secrets and Jailhouse Redemption Pt 5 - Life Without Parole?

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:35:00 +0000

We have a special gift for you today as we head into December - our first ever ETC Podcast Mini-Series!

A surprising connection to ETC's own Tona Ottinger led us to booking Brad Ewell as a podcast guest. When we sat down to talk, his story was so unbelievable, we decided the only way to capture it all was in the form of a five-part series.

A Texas Police Officer minding his own business, Brad got a Facebook message at age 48 that completely changed his life. As he pulled the threads of his own life story, even he couldn't have predicted the twists and turns that emerged.

This Episode is the finale, Part 5: Life Without Parole?

Wanna talk more about this series and all things parenting? Want to find a community of likeminded peers with no judgment or shame? Join our new, free online ETC Podcast Community here!

#family #familysecrets #adoption #podcast #empoweredtoconnect #latediscoveryadoptee #nonpaternityevent #mpe #npe #ancestrydna #domesticadoption #adoptionjourney

[E117] A Late Discovery: A Texas Sized Story of Family Secrets and Jailhouse Redemption Pt 4 - Pop

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:34:00 +0000

We have a special gift for you today as we head into December - our first ever ETC Podcast Mini-Series!

This Episode is Part 4: Pop

Wanna talk more about this series and all things parenting? Want to find a community of likeminded peers with no judgment or shame? Join our new, free online ETC Podcast Community here!

#family #familysecrets #adoption #podcast #empoweredtoconnect #latediscoveryadoptee #nonpaternityevent #mpe #npe #ancestrydna #domesticadoption #adoptionjourney

[E116] A Late Discovery: A Texas Sized Story of Family Secrets and Jailhouse Redemption Pt 3 - Family Ties

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:32:00 +0000

We have a special gift for you today as we head into December - our first ever ETC Podcast Mini-Series!

This Episode is Part 3: Family Ties

Wanna talk more about this series and all things parenting? Want to find a community of likeminded peers with no judgment or shame? Join our new, free online ETC Podcast Community here!

#family #familysecrets #adoption #podcast #empoweredtoconnect #latediscoveryadoptee #nonpaternityevent #mpe #npe #ancestrydna #domesticadoption #adoptionjourney

[E115] A Late Discovery: A Texas Sized Story of Family Secrets and Jailhouse Redemption Pt 2 - Family Lies

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:25:00 +0000

We have a special gift for you today as we head into December - our first ever ETC Podcast Mini-Series!

This Episode is Part 2: Family Lies

Wanna talk more about this series and all things parenting? Want to find a community of likeminded peers with no judgment or shame? Join our new, free online ETC Podcast Community here!

#family #familysecrets #adoption #podcast #empoweredtoconnect #latediscoveryadoptee #nonpaternityevent #mpe #npe #ancestrydna #domesticadoption #adoptionjourney

[E114] A Late Discovery: A Texas Sized Story of Family Secrets and Jailhouse Redemption Pt 1 - Ancestry.com

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Dec 2022 14:15:00 +0000

We have a special gift for you today as we head into December - our first ever ETC Podcast Mini-Series!

This Episode is Part 1: Ancestry.com

Wanna talk more about this series and all things parenting? Want to find a community of likeminded peers with no judgment or shame? Join our new, free online ETC Podcast Community here!

#family #familysecrets #adoption #podcast #empoweredtoconnect #latediscoveryadoptee #nonpaternityevent #mpe #npe #ancestrydna #domesticadoption #adoptionjourney

[E113] From Inside the System to Changing the System: Natalie Bergstrasser Shares Her Story

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Nov 2022 14:15:00 +0000

Natalie Bergstrasser is a Cultivate Connection Facilitator, Social Worker, Mom and more. She experienced the foster care system from the inside as a biological child in a foster family and then later as a child in the foster care system. She now is working from multiple angles to affect change in the system and make sure that children and families have what they need to thrive and you're going to love hearing from her! Natalie is brilliant, thoughtful and the kind of person everybody wants on their team - tune in to hear why!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E112] Then and Now - A Decade Long Conversation about Adoption with Carissa Woodwyk

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:57:00 +0000

We're joined today by one of our favorite guests of all time - Carissa Woodwyk is a licensed professional therapist, mom, adoptee advocate and adult adoptee herself (among lots of other things). 10 years ago Carissa took the stage at the Created for Care Conference and sparked a complex conversation about the many nuanced sides of the adoption conversation. Carissa speaks often of the "both and" within adoption and unpacks that thought and so many more with us today.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E111] Together: A Conversation with the Adoption Triad [E59 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Nov 2022 17:54:00 +0000

We are throwing it back to one of our most impactful episodes of the year for this moment. It's National Adoption Awareness Month and the perfect time to revisit this conversation between a Birth Mother (Ashley Mitchell), Adoptee (Carissa Woodwyk) and Adoptive Mother (Tona Ottinger).

What if instead of being separated into our corners of the triad focusing on what makes us different we found ourselves drawn together through our similarities? Join us on this episode where Tona is joined by her dear friends Carissa Woodwyk and Ashley Mitchell. Together they represent the three parts of the adoption triad in all of its brokenness, beauty, pain and possibility. This conversation is courageous, bold, heartfelt, and raw as it invites us to reimagine moving TOGETHER towards connection, hope, healing and wholeness.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E110] Expanding our Understanding with Birth Mother Ashley Mitchell

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Nov 2022 17:41:00 +0000

Remember that social media post you made years ago? The one that just popped up in your timehop or Facebook memories and reminded you of just how ignorant you USED TO be? We all have those posts and today on the show we have a brilliant guest to remind us that we can celebrate the gift of growing, learning and changing perspectives.

Ashley Mitchell, or @bigtoughgirl as she's known on Instagram, is a leader in the adoption advocacy space and a fierce defender of birth mothers in the adoption constellation (or 'triad' - more on that in today's episode), of which she is one herself. Today, Ashley joins us to share about the incredible work being done in a variety of sectors in the adoption world, how she's working to bring an end to human trafficking of adoptees and so, so much more.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E109] How to Parent Tweens and Teens without Losing Your Mind with Scott Watters

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Nov 2022 14:53:00 +0000

Ok we admit - the title is a little 'click-baity', but don't we all want the secrets to caring for our tweens and teens without losing our minds!? We brought Scott Watters from Arms of Hope in today to tell us how we can do that and let me tell you - he did not disappoint! Over the years Scott has worked with Arms of Hope but also with our great friends at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development as a TBRI mentor and he brings a refreshing, thoughtful and experienced voice to the show to help us all have hope that we can parent through these teen years while still building connection with our kids.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E108] Sheila Wise Rowe on Healing Racial Trauma

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 13:51:00 +0000

Sheila Wise Rowe is a brilliant author, speaker, thinker and guest on today's episode! She is the author of two incredible books: Healing Racial Trauma: The Road to Resilience and Young, Gifted and Black, a Journey of Lament and Celebration (both incredible books that you should add to your library right now). Sheila joins us to define racial trauma and speaks to how we need to understand racial trauma in our own history as parents before we can lead our children to healing.

We cover a LOT in this episode and whether it's talking about her own experience being part of bussing integration efforts in Boston or giving advice to transracial adoptive families, you won't want to miss what Sheila brings to the episode today!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E107] How to do the Work of Becoming Emotionally Available

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 Oct 2022 11:43:00 +0000

We hear people talk about doing 'the work' all the time. In different contexts, it holds different meanings, but generally, this phrase refers to the work needed that cannot be substituted. Today, we add to our conversation about attachment from a parenting standpoint to discuss what it means and how to begin doing 'the work' as parents.

To hear our episode on Attachment with Dr. Jamie DeLuna, listen here, To hear our episode on Attachment and Attachment Styles with Dr. Casey Call, listen here and as always, to check us out on YouTube, head to our channel!

[E106] How Knowing About Attachment Styles Changed Our Lives

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Oct 2022 11:47:00 +0000

Our latest animated video helping explain attachment cycles is live on YouTube and it got us thinking about something. For all of us here at ETC, learning about attachment theory and the attachment styles was a game changer. We all know that when it comes to parenting, there's no miracle button that makes everything easy - there are, however, pieces of information that make a radical difference in how we parent. This is one of those topics. Becca McKay, Tona Ottinger and JD Wilson discuss the personal and parenting implications for their own lives once they began learning about the attachment cycle and attachment styles.

[E105] Don't Make Your Child's Race a Field Trip with Jocelyn Lee

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 Oct 2022 11:11:00 +0000

Today we hear from one of our favorite people and recurring guests, Jocelyn Lee. Jocelyn is a Licensed School Social Worker and joins us today to elaborate on a statement she made at an ETC event years ago. We'd invited Jocelyn to give her perspective as part of a panel discussion on Transracial Adoption and she shared this thought: Don't make your child's race a field trip. Hear the reason Jocelyn said this, ways she suggests transracial adoptive parents take steps toward embracing their child's culture and so, so much more in today's episode!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E104] We're All Human: How to Surround Your Family with the Community You Need

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Sep 2022 15:27:00 +0000

Today we welcome on Angie Grant and Jess Aaron, two of our newest ETC Cultivate Connection Facilitators! Angie and Jess join us to talk about the absolute non-negotiable importance of finding people to have community with as parents. They share personal stories of the moment they knew they needed help, how they began finding people to walk with and even the importance of seeking out therapeutic/professional help as you navigate parenting challenges. Necessary listening - we hope you enjoy it!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E103] Daren Jones on Dr. Karyn Purvis' Big, Audacious Goal

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Sep 2022 14:15:00 +0000

Dr. Karyn Purvis had a goal. A big, audacious goal. A goal so big, the staff at TCU repeatedly attempted to convince her to pare it down - and we've all benefited because she didn't. Daren Jones, the Associate Director of Training and Consultations at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development joins us to talk about WHAT that big audacious goal was and why we should all care about it.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E102] We're All Human: Understanding Generational Trauma

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Sep 2022 13:18:00 +0000

We all hear stories growing up of who we're like: 'oh, you've got your grandfather's charm', 'you're tall just like your mom', etc. We tend to understand those sorts of generational traits being passed down, but for some reason, the idea of generational trauma has escaped the public consciousness until recently. We wanted to know more about generational trauma and how to mindfully begin to break those cycles, so we brought friend of the program Ms. Jacque Rowe Fields back in! Jacque talks with JD and Becca about what generational trauma is, how to understand it and how to begin healing from it on today's episode of the ETC Podcast!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E101] We're All Human: Being Kind to Ourselves with Christy Edwards

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 07 Sep 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Our guest today may be one of the kindest humans on the face of the planet. It seemed fitting, of course, that we would have her on to talk about being kind to ourselves. Christy Edwards has spent the vast majority of her professional life as a Counselor. She joins us today to discuss the reasons it is so vitally important to our wellbeing (and to those we're in relationship with) to learn how to show ourselves kindness. This conversation spans a wide array of situations and perspectives, so grab a notebook and join us for a powerful conversation with our good friend Christy Edwards!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E100] We're All Human: Compassion Fatigue and Blocked Care

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Aug 2022 10:40:00 +0000

Our guests today have been caring for parents for years through their organization called "The Adoption Connection". Lisa Qualls and Melissa Corkum together represent all sides of the adoption triad and join us today to talk about what happens when our compassion runs low. Lisa, Melissa, Tona and JD talk about compassion fatigue, blocked care and share their own experiences in both.

Lisa and Melissa have a ton of amazing resources on their website that you should check out here. You can also follow them on social media @onethankfulmom and @melissacorkum_ and you can follow the adoption connection @postadoptionresources. Listen to their podcast, The Adoption Connection, here.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E99] We're all Human: Rethinking How Trauma Impacts Us All

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Aug 2022 10:18:00 +0000

We talk about the effects of trauma a lot on the ETC Podcast - in fact - it's woven into almost everything we talk about at Empowered to Connect. One question, though: what IS trauma? How and why does it infiltrate humanity the way it does? We brought Becca McKay and Tona Ottinger on the show today to discuss that very thing and you're going to love this episode. An introduction to trauma and all that goes with it, today on the ETC Podcast.

We also recently launched our monthly donor program at Empowered to Connect - listen to the intro to the show to hear all about it and head over to our donate page to become a monthly donor and score our super soft new ETC Tee for your monthly gift of $20 or more!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E98] Fostered: Tori Hope Petersen's Journey to Hope and Healing

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Aug 2022 11:16:00 +0000

Our guest today has lived a life that is nothing short of miraculous.Tori Hope Petersen grew up in the foster care system, a bi-racial child in a confusing and volatile world. Growing up with a mentally ill mother and living in twelve different foster homes, nothing was in her favor. And yet, even with a minuscule chance of graduating college and a great risk of being homeless, jobless, and on drugs, Tori overcame every negative stereotype and assumption that attacked her identity.

Tori joins us today to talk about everything from her story, how she learned to navigate the foster care system and how now, as an adult, she's trying to open all the doors she can that were closed to her as she grew up. Her new book, 'Fostered: One Woman's Powerful Story of Finding Faith and Family Through Foster Care' releases August 30th and we could not be more excited to read it. Listen to the end of the episode to hear how you can win a pre-order of Tori's book and be sure you're following her and her initiatives on social media:
- @torihopepetersen on Instagram
- @fthefile on Instagram
- @belovedinitiative on Instagram
- Pre-Order her book here
- Learn more about Tori and book her to speak at your next event here

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E97] Implementing Strategies, Transforming Communities with Tom and Dawn Jordi

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Aug 2022 11:50:00 +0000

Today two of our favorite people on earth join us - ETC parent trainers Tom and Dawn Jordi from Johannesburg, South Africa! They join us to talk about Tom's work in schools as a trauma informed school counselor and Dawn's homeschooling of their 4 kiddos during Covid, their journey into connected parenting and how the strategies and tools they learned in ETC classes and TBRI training over the years have helped them to build up and support the adoptive community in Johannesburg. They also tell us about unique opportunities that emerged during the pandemic as their ETC Parent Classes began expanding not just throughout South Africa, but throughout Africa and as far out as Hawaii and the Philippines! They're two of the most enjoyable people you'll ever talk to, follow their podcast here, Tom's work as a Trauma Practitioner here and their community work in adoption here !

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E96] Connecting Practice: Repair, Reflect, Readjust

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 03 Aug 2022 16:50:00 +0000

When it comes to parenting (and being in any kind of human relationship) - one of the most insanely humbling and difficult practices is repairing a rupture in the relationship. Maybe you've wronged the other person - maybe you were the one wronged - either way, the process of repairing often requires more than an 'I'm sorry'. Compound this difficulty with previous experiences with trauma, adversity and stress and you've got yourself a recipe for...well...being a human in this world. It's difficult. It's complicated. It's absolutely essential if you want to build or maintain a trusting, real relationship in this world.

That's why we brought ETC training specialist Jesse Faris and co-writer of Cultivate Connection Becca McKay in to talk about how we repair relational ruptures with our kids and each other. There are some invaluable practical stories of how this plays out as well as a road map for a process to begin those repairs.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E95] Connecting Practice: Give Voice

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Jul 2022 13:12:00 +0000

Today we talk about the importance of giving our kids voice. For all humans, knowing how to negotiate to get needs met, to express to others what we need and when is a VITAL skill for survival as a human being. That is a learned skill - one that takes time, nurture and lots of practice with a trusted adult. For those of us and those of our kids who have experienced trauma, adversity and toxic stress at a young age, it can be insanely challenging and today Stela Sinanaj and Tona Ottinger join us to explain why that is and walk through exactly how to do this with our kids.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E94] Connecting Practice: Respond Thoughtfully

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Jul 2022 10:41:00 +0000

Today's connecting practice will make you think - or at least that's our goal. So often we respond or react to situations in our home without filtering the situation to figure out what's REALLY going on. Dr. Rachel Peterman, Clinical Therapist and Program Manager of Safe and Secure Tennessee, joins Becca McKay and JD to discuss the importance of slowing down and thoughtfully responding to situations and the massive positive implications of doing so!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E93] Connecting Practice: Be Present!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Jul 2022 14:31:00 +0000

'Being there' matters as a parent. It's a principle that transcends parenting styles and advice - 'showing up for your kids' is on everybody's list of important things to do as a parent. What if just 'showing up' isn't enough, though? What we know as humans is that it is possible to be physically with someone without feeling like they're emotionally present. THIS is what we're talking about today when we talk about 'being present'. We brought ETC's own Anteelah Love and Becca McKay in to talk about being physically present, emotionally present and what it means to be 'attuned' to your child. This episode will give you life!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E92] SPECIAL EPISODE - Celebrating Hope!

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 06 Jul 2022 11:00:00 +0000

We've got big news and we recorded a SPECIAL episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast to tell you all about it! Tune in to hear about our holistic integrated therapeutic clinic, our partnership as an Ambassador Organization for the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, the NEW PARENTING CURRICULUM called 'Cultivate Connection' and how you can partner with us at Empowered to Connect to help us continue to support hope and healing for families!

To learn more head to youtube.com/empoweredtoconnect !

[E91] Connecting Practice: Take Play Seriously!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Jul 2022 09:30:00 +0000

As former doubters, we'll admit - this was a tough principle for some of us to learn. How can your kids respect you if you play too much? We're so glad you asked! This episode reveals all the things traditional parenting DIDN'T teach you about play - how it can be used as a tool to help your kids regulate, to help build connection and attachment, how play can become a tool to help de-escalate unwanted behaviors before they get to "that" point. The science backs up play as a serious parenting tool, it's time we find out why!

Tune in for a SPECIAL announcement about how to apply to be a facilitator for our latest parenting curriculum called "Cultivate Connection" - head to empoweredtoconnect.org and apply today for a training coming up and learn how you can help support hope and healing for families in YOUR community today!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E90] Connecting Practice: Use Scaffolding in Your Parenting

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Jun 2022 14:25:00 +0000

Our latest Connecting Practice is one that can be applied to a ton of different parenting scenarios. How do we help our kids grow? It's certainly not by just telling them 'they should act their age' or by shaming them in comparison to other kids who can do x, y, or z things at their age, we know that. There must be a method we can use as parents to help them (and us) grow and develop skills, right??

There is and it is the subject of today's ETC Podcast episode! You can - and should - listen to today's episode and ALL of the episodes of the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and wherever else you listen to podcasts!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E89] Connecting Practice: Meet Sensory, Emotional and Physical Needs

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Jun 2022 11:51:00 +0000

Has it ever felt to you like you just couldn't figure out what your kid needs in a moment? If this is you, today is your episode. We gathered some brilliant therapeutic minds to ask them what we need to know about meeting our child's physical, emotional and sensory processing needs! Hear from Speech Pathologist Annie Cornell, Occupational Therapist Luz Wolfe and Clinical Therapist Stela Sinanaj why this is so important and how to meet these needs in our kids (and just as importantly - ourselves).

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E88] Connecting Practice: Balance Nurture & Structure

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Jun 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Today's episode is a foundational one. In the world of connected parenting, one of the primary ways we give our kids what they need is to balance the amount of nurture and structure given. Stereotypically, 'traditional' parenting tends to rely on an intense amount of structure, but can lack on nurture - while 'new age' parenting tends to rely on very high nurture, but lacks boundaries and structure in place to help give kids predictability.

We all tend to go to one side or another naturally, so today we asked Jesse Faris and Becca McKay from the ETC Team to help us with some practical strategies and ideas for how to balance giving structure when needed and nurture when needed.

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E87] Connecting Practice: Be Curious!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Jun 2022 14:07:00 +0000

Today we begin walking through all of the connecting practices from our new parenting curriculum called Cultivate Connection! We begin with one of the most foundational practices in this form of parenting: Being Curious. SO often we jump immediately to assigning blame or emotionally reacting to situations or behaviors we encounter as parents...when sometimes what's needed is to put on the detective hat first. What could be behind this behavior? Have we eaten enough today? Has this child been couped up all day without an outlet to move their bodies? Could this be a product of their history - or mine??

All questions that are imperative to begin asking if we are going to parent our children through the lens of connection and attachment. Dr. Rachel Peterman and Becca McKay join us to walk through just how to begin changing our courses of action in today's episode!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E86] Connected Parenting: Why We Believe In It

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 31 May 2022 11:38:00 +0000

If you're choosing to parent differently - you're going to hear about it. Friends and family have questions, onlookers give you free advice - it can be overwhelming to say the least. It's helpful, therefore, to pause every now and then and ask yourself: Why do I do this?

After over 3 years of research, writing and editing, the ETC Team has completed a re-write of our 9 week Parenting Course and we can't wait to tell you all about it. We thought we'd take some time, however, and re-establish the 'why' behind this way of parenting.

Tona Ottinger, Becca McKay and JD Wilson pause to talk about they 'why' in connected parenting. Join us as we examine the paths that brought us here and the connecting practices that guide us in parenting in this episode of the ETC Podcast!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E85] The Link Between Eating Disorders, Body Image and Trauma with Whitney Trotter

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 24 May 2022 14:05:00 +0000

Did you know that between 62%-92% of people with eating disorders have experienced trauma in their past? The research is alarming and for those of us with kids who may have experienced some kind of food insecurity or have what we might see as 'out of the ordinary' food habits, it can be paralyzing. That's why we wanted to have our friend Whitney Trotter on the show. Whitney is a registered nurse, mother and advocate and is a part of the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous and People of Color) Eating Disorders conference happening July 20-22 virtually. You can learn more about the conference and register here

Whitney teaches us about eating disorders, their origins in trauma, body image issues and what to watch for in our kids when it comes to issues of food. We talk about how marginalized people groups are at higher risk for disordered eating and how transracial adoptive parents can be better prepared and informed as their kids get older. She also gives some helpful tips and advice for helping set healthy foundations with your kids and ways to be more mindful and preventative about how we engage with them around these issues

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E84] Brain-Body Parenting with Mona Delahooke!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 May 2022 18:11:00 +0000

Long time friend of the program Mona Delahooke is a Pediatric Psychologist and the author of her NEW book Brain-Body Parenting as well as the groundbreaking Beyond Behaviors and several other books. If you've ever read Beyond Behaviors, you know how brilliant she is! Mona joins us today to talk about the Brain - Body - Behavior connection and why it is absolutely essential for parents and caregivers to understand. Struggling with perplexing behavior in your home? This may be the episode you've been waiting for.

Wanna learn more from Mona? Buy her book Beyond Behaviors here, sign up for the Beyond Behaviors course Mona teaches here or head on over to her website to learn more about her there!

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E83] Seeing the Need Behind the Behavior with Mo and Tona Ottinger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 May 2022 16:04:00 +0000

Today, we go back to an episode from Season 1 of the show that can be particularly helpful in the throes of Spring parenting.

Lets face it…sometimes our kids' behavior is perplexing.

We have no idea why they are doing what they are doing. We have no idea how to make them stop and we can walk away feeling confused, defeated and even like a failure.

We have behavioral expectations and if we're not careful we can allow our children's behavior to determine whether we see ourselves as a good parent or not. We can measure our success by their behavior…

Why do we do that? How do we get to the root of what's ACTUALLY happening?

Glad you asked - tune in today to hear how we look to see the needs being expressed behind the behavior and meet those needs to build trust and attachment.

In this episode we reference several fantastic books (you should buy them all immediately): The Whole Brain Child, and Beyond Behaviors

To learn more about ETC, follow our Youtube Channel, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E82] Trauma Informed Parenting with Mo and Tona Ottinger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 03 May 2022 15:12:00 +0000

We've talked for weeks now on the show about how Trauma Informed Care and a Trauma Informed Approach is changing systems and societies across the globe. Today, we return to where it all started for us - Trauma Informed Parenting. We asked Mo and Tona Ottinger to share their story of moving from traditional parenting to a Trauma Informed Approach and what they shared will blow you away. Spoiler alert: it changed everything.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E81] Changing Systems: Trauma Informed Youth Outreach with Philip Walkley and Ally Velderman

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Apr 2022 14:05:00 +0000

One of the toughest things to do in the midst of running a youth outreach program is to change course - especially when it means re-training everyone involved. Despite the intense level of difficulty, however, Philip Walkley and Ally Velderman of Service Over Self in Memphis, TN knew they needed to make a change. They weren't equipped to walk with the kids they were working with through life. Hear how they made the jump to a trauma informed approach, the transformation that happened and the changes on staff on today's episode!

Also don't forget to check out our friends Ryan & Rose! The team at Ryan & Rose have been big supporters of our work at Empowered to Connect for years. They make beautiful products for everyone in the family including pacifiers, pacifier clips, bottle holders, bags, journals and so much more and they've got an exclusive discount JUST FOR LISTENERS OF THE SHOW! Use code 'ETC20' at checkout to save 20% off your entire order with Ryan & Rose and help support an amazing company making a huge difference in the world!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E80] Changing Systems: The Fight Against Human Trafficking with Coasy Hale

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Apr 2022 10:59:00 +0000

Our guest today works with an incredible organization leading the charge to end human trafficking and care for survivors of it. Coasy Hale is the Director of Survivor Services at Restore Corps - a non-profit organization in Memphis, TN doing everything from working to introduce new legislation to therapeutically receiving survivors into care to begin the road to recovery. We talked with Coasy about how Restore Corps has transformed their care for survivors as they've learned about trauma and the brain and how that knowledge has also affected how their team cares for each other. DO - NOT - MISS this episode, you're going to love hearing from Coasy!

We are also THRILLED to announce our first ETC Podcast advertising partnership! The team at Ryan & Rose have been big supporters of our work at Empowered to Connect for years. They make beautiful products for everyone in the family including pacifiers, pacifier clips, bottle holders, bags, journals and so much more and they've got an exclusive discount JUST FOR LISTENERS OF THE SHOW! Use code 'ETC20' at checkout to save 20% off your entire order with Ryan & Rose and help support an amazing company making a huge difference in the world!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E79] Changing Systems: Trauma Informed Children's Ministry with Paula Powell

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Apr 2022 09:45:00 +0000

We continue our conversation about trauma informed systems today with a look at children's ministry. Mo Ottinger and Paula Powell served together on staff at a church for years and we asked them to tell the story of transforming the child care system at their church into a trauma informed environment where every child could feel safe. You won't want to miss this episode - listen for practical applications for those working in the children's ministry field and encouragement for those who may feel the challenge is too daunting to begin!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E78] Changing Systems: Trauma Informed Education with Becca McKay

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Apr 2022 09:15:00 +0000

How do educational systems change? How can educators, administrators and parents/caregivers partner together to help meet the unique needs of every child in school? We've asked Becca McKay, long time school social worker and Dean to come help us begin to unpack some big picture and practical ways to start the trauma informed journey in your school.

Tune in to hear some practical advice for anyone working in education and stay tuned in as we turn the conversation toward parents and caregivers to share how they can effectively advocate for their children's needs to be met in appropriate and compassionate ways

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E77] Throwback Episode: Repairing What We've Ruptured with Carissa Woodwyk [E30 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Mar 2022 09:40:00 +0000

We've all done it. We've lost our temper, checked out, popped off, said something we shouldn't have or didn't say something we should have in a moment of weakness. If you're like us, you've probably already had a moment (or several) moments like this today - it's ok. Take a deep breath and let Marriage and Family Therapist Carissa Woodwyk and ETC's Tona Ottinger walk you through how to repair when you've ruptured something with yourself, your partner or a kiddo. Special heads up - be sure to listen all the way to the end to hear Carissa's perspective on this as an adoptee when she shares an intimate moment of self discovery related to her own story - you don't want to miss it.

To learn more about Carissa and her work, be sure to check out her first appearance on the show here or follow her on Instagram or Facebook!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E76] Attachment: A Two Way Street in Relationships

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Mar 2022 09:30:00 +0000

Mo & Tona Ottinger join JD to talk about the huge shock we all felt as new parents learning that attachment is a two way street, not a finite 'start and finish' interaction. Why do our own histories and patterns of attachment matter in parenting children? How does that affect our kids and their attachment patterns and styles and what if it's too late to form a strong attachment with my child??

(Spoiler: it's never too late)

Hear Mo and Tona share powerful stories from their early parenting journey, marriage and relationships in this episode of the ETC Podcast!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E75] Why Attachment is So Important with Dr. Jamie DeLuna

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Mar 2022 09:37:00 +0000

We're beginning a brand new series on building attachment and as we prepared for the series with our team we just couldn't think of a better way to lay the foundation of understanding than to throw it back to one of our favorite episodes with Dr. Jamie DeLuna from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) at TCU.

In today's episode, one of the best researchers in her field, Dr. Jamie DeLuna from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, explains why understanding your own attachment style may be the most important thing you can do for your parenting. We talk about the neuroscience behind attachment, the different adult attachment styles, how they form and how you can 'earn' secure attachment, no matter what your childhood was like.

To check out the book Jamie recommended ('How We Love') and more resources like it, you can click here.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E74] Brain-Body Parenting with Mona Delahooke!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Mar 2022 10:45:00 +0000

In case you've missed the exciting news, one of our favorite authors on planet Earth, Mona Delahooke, has a new book that comes out NEXT WEEK (March 15th, 2022)! Mona joined us to tell us all about the new book and walk us through what she calls the 'bottom-up' approach to understanding the nervous system-brain connection. We talk about behaviors as indicators of needs being expressed and how when we (along with our kids) understand these dynamics, we can help them to thrive in life.

Mona is one of the most brilliant, engaging and compassionate voices in the parenting world and you will LOVE listening to her talk about this stuff.

To preorder 'Brain-Body Parenting' click here - to check out all of the other incredible work she's done, check out her website here!

You can learn more about ETC by checking out empoweredtoconnect.org, following @empoweredtoconnect on Instagram or liking our page on Facebook!

[E73] Breaking Cycles and Raising Babies with Lisa Jean-Francois!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Mar 2022 10:30:00 +0000

We step back from our earlier series today for a conversation with a young mom we've admired from a distance for a while now! Lisa Jean-Francois, better known to 61,000+ Instagram followers as @lisaalamode joins us today to tell the story of her journey from experiencing trauma as a child to now parenting her kids based on knowledge of connection and attachment, something she often refers to as "gentle parenting" or "conscious parenting." Lisa is fascinating and has an incredible story to tell - you're going to love getting to know her!

A Heads Up: Lisa's story contains some honest and real moments of abuse battling suicidal thoughts, so this is an episode to use discretion on before turning it on with kids around.

To learn more about all that Lisa's got going on check out her website - to follow her on Instagram, you can do that here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E72] Let's Talk About Lying with Robyn Gobbel

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Feb 2022 11:55:00 +0000

Let's talk about lying. It's time. Every time we mention lying there are exponentially more shares of content, comments, questions, dm's - all of it - so it's time to talk about it!

And who better for us to talk about it with than our good friend Robyn Gobbel??

Robyn joins us to talk about ALL OF IT - why do our kids (and you and I, let's be honest) lie, how do we deal with it, what are we missing here and how can we restore connection after a break in trust due to lying? We cover all of it and more in this week's episode of the Empowered to Connect Podcast!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E71] The Fawn Response: I Will and You Can't Stop Me!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Feb 2022 10:07:00 +0000

The Fawn Response! The least known of all the stress responses! We relied on the work of Pete Walker from his incredible book: PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving as we crafted this episode. Stela Sinanaj, Clinical Therapist from the Memphis Family Connection Center and Becca McKay, Program Director of the ETC Institute join us to explain the ins and outs of the fawn response as well as how to better support the loved ones in your life who identify with this stress response!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E70] The Freeze Response: I'm Out and You Can't Thaw Me!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Feb 2022 13:28:00 +0000

[E69] The Flight Stress Response: "I'm Out and You Can't Stop Me!"

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Feb 2022 12:13:00 +0000

This instinctive reaction makes people want to flee to escape danger (real or perceived). The flight response is a helpful automatic reaction for self preservation and fleeing harm.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E68] The Fight Stress Response: “I Won't - And You Can't Make Me!"

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 Jan 2022 11:30:00 +0000

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E67] Special MLK Day Throwback Episode: How We Got Here with Dr. Charles McKinney [E2 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 17 Jan 2022 15:18:00 +0000

Today, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr Day, we felt it would be appropriate to bring back one of our favorite episodes, our episode with Dr. Charles McKinney from Season One. How did we get here? College Professor, Author and Civil Rights Historian Dr. Charles McKinney joins us to discuss the history of the civil rights struggle in America, being a black parent in 2020 and advice for transracial adoptive parents with their children of color. A word to our majority culture (white) listeners: as many have noted over the past few years, there is a deep need for listening and learning about the plight of our black and brown brothers and sisters. This conversation with Dr. McKinney is not the end all be all - rather a starting point for many of us as we journey together to bring healing and peace to our families, our communities and the systems that govern them.

To connect further with our guest today, the brilliant Dr. Charles McKinney, find him on Twitter @CharlesWMcKinn2 and buy his books here!

Love the podcast? Hate it? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook or Instagram!

[E66] Throwback Episode: Therapy Redeemed with Cam Lee Small [E55 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 Jan 2022 10:27:00 +0000

One of the most highly commented on episodes of the year featured a guest we admire greatly. That person is therapist, speaker, teacher, advocate and so much more - Cam Lee Small. We've long admired his work on social media (@TherapyRedeemed on Instagram) and after meeting him for this conversation our respect and admiration of him has skyrocketed. Cam takes us into the world of mental health and adoptees and how his work both counseling and advocating for adoptees has shone light on his own story. You won't want to miss his candor and insight!

You can learn more about Cam's work on his website, Instagram or Facebook page!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E65] Throwback Episode: How to Change Social Systems with Daren Jones [E54 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 Jan 2022 15:27:00 +0000

Happy New Year! We're so excited to bring you one of our favorite episodes of 2021 with one of our favorite humans on earth, Daren Jones! Daren works with the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) at TCU and is passionate about seeing the systems that are INTENDED to keep our children safe - actually do so. For YEARS now, he's worked in, on and around systems that care for/protect society's most vulnerable children and has been a pivotal part of TCU's work helping bring trauma informed, compassionate, brain-science based practices into use in these systems.

Hear Daren talk about everything from working in group homes to seeing infamous lockup-first family court judges become trauma-informed allies on today's episode!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E64] Throwback Episode: Self-Awareness is the Key to Empowered Families [E27 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Dec 2021 13:41:00 +0000

We spend a lot of time on this show talking about examining self - looking at adult attachment styles, considering how to offer ourselves as co-regulators to our children, even talking about self-compassion as the true and better version of self care. Why, then, do we now look at self awareness!? We're glad you asked! Earlier this year, we asked Larissa Gregory to come join us to explain. Larissa is the head of LG Educational Consulting and works with individuals, teachers, administrations and families helping create safe, empowered spaces for children and families. After years in academic leadership, she joined us to talk about why she believes that Authentic Self Awareness is the Key to Empowered Families. Larissa gave several concrete, practical tools for us to walk away with to help restore relationship after conflict, to help restore our own mental spaces as self doubt and stress invade and more!

You can learn more about Larissa and LG Educational Consulting here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us at empoweredtoconnect.org, on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube!

[E63] Throwback Episode: Understanding the body's Sensory Systems with OT Mistie Hanks [E39 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Dec 2021 11:46:00 +0000

Ah the sights and sounds of the holidays! Blaring music everywhere, lights and red stuff all around us - for people with heightened sensory systems, this time of year can be a lot. That's why we wanted to replay one of our favorite episodes of this past year - our episode with Occupational Therapist Mistie Hanks walking us through the body's sensory systems.

Mistie joins us as we take a deeper dive into why understanding sensory processing is an absolute game changer! Mistie walks us through everything from understanding ours and our kids' sensory systems to some practical ways you can support growth in these areas.

We also take a look at how trauma affects the senses and then what every parent needs to know if they're seeing perplexing behavior. Don't miss it!

For more on the brain, body and behavior connection and to read about hundreds of practical tips on a complete sensory diet for your kids, check out the book Mistie recommended in the interview: The Out of Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E62] Why Making Memories Matters More Than You Think

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Dec 2021 05:26:00 +0000

To read the article that Mo referenced in the podcast, click here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E61] Preparing Your Family for Your Family with the ETC Team

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

With Thanksgiving behind us, we're officially in full 'Holiday Season' mode. For some of us, it's the most wonderful time of the year - for others, it's very much not. The Holidays can be hard, especially if you throw kids (not to mention this pesky global pandemic) into the dynamic. As we prepare for a month of gatherings, get togethers and family traditions, we thought it'd be wise to share this episode again today.

Today's episode originally aired nearly one year ago, so you'll hear some '2020' language related to Covid protocols that were haappening at the time, but the message remains - we've got to prepare our family for our family this Holiday season. ETC Staff people Jesse Faris, Mo Ottinger and Tona Ottinger join us to talk about how to prepare for a season that can be challenging on our kids (and us) to say the least!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E60] When Grief Gets in the Way of Gratitude with Rocky Anthony

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Nov 2021 11:15:00 +0000

This Thanksgiving week, we wanted to recognize that sometimes grief gets in the way of gratitude - it comes uninvited into our lives all the time and we need to know how to walk through it when it comes.

Therapist Rocky Anthony discusses what grief is and how we begin to process it in our personal lives, relationships and with kids - Rocky lays out the big picture and some beautifully practical things we can begin doing to walk ourselves and our people through grief and loss. This is an incredibly helpful episode as we begin (at least here in the US) the gauntlet of family holiday gatherings.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E59] Together: A Conversation with the Adoption Triad

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Nov 2021 11:00:00 +0000

TOGETHER: The Adoption Triad; A Shared Redemptive Story of Love, Loss and Longing

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E58] Listening to Understand with Jacque Rowe-Fields

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Nov 2021 10:30:00 +0000

Have you ever had one of those 'foot in mouth' moments where you've realized you've said something wrong too late? Maybe you've held onto a particular view about a person and then found through conversation that view to be misguided? We'd all hope for the second, but we've often found ourselves in the first situation. According to our guest today, there's a simple remedy for this malady. Jacque Rowe-Fields has been leading conversations about sticky topics with mixed groups of people for decades. With National Adoption Awareness Month in full swing, we thought it'd be wise to have Jacque on to talk with us about how to listen to understand.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E57] Robyn Gobbel Crossover Episode!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 Nov 2021 14:29:00 +0000

It's a special episode of the ETC Podcast today! A few weeks ago, one of our favorite people, Robyn Gobbel, sat down with our host JD Wilson to talk about moving from correction-based parenting to connection-based parenting for her podcast. They talked about how hard the transition can be, the letdown of realizing you're not the parent you wanted to be and how to begin again by building trust and connection with your self and your kids. The conversation was so fun and encouraging that we wanted to share it here with our audience as well!

It's a must listen for all parents who have ever felt the despair of not knowing what to do or the hope of finding a new way to parent. Get to know our host, JD, from the OTHER side of the microphone in this special Crossover edition of the Empowered to Connect Podcast and the Parenting After Trauma Podcast!

To learn more about Robyn's work and to check out her podcast as well as the amazing collection of resources she's compiled, visit her website here and don't forget to follow her on Instagram and Facebook as well!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E56] Let's Talk About Transitions with the ETC Team

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 25 Oct 2021 09:44:00 +0000

Picture this: you're enjoying a beautiful day in your neighborhood park. Kids are running around having fun, adults are getting a rare moment to talk to each other - it's euphoric...and then it's time to leave. Cue the meltdown.

We all face them in life, so let's just talk about them - transitions. They might be daily, seasonal or major life transitions, but they're all capable of tripping us up in the right conditions. That goes for us - AND our children. We pulled ETC Staffers Becca McKay and Jesse Faris in to explain why transitions can be SO hard for some of us and our kids and to give us some practical, everyday advice for how to handle them a little smoother.

Check it out and let us know what you think!

#parentingpodcast #traumainformedparenting #parentingadvice #empoweredtoconnectpodcast #ETCPodcast #mentalhealth #gratitude #selfcare #inspiration #ETC #connectedparenting #empoweredtoconnect #attachmentbasedparenting #parenting #parentingtips #TBRI #family

[E55] Therapy Redeemed with Therapist Cam Lee Small

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 19 Oct 2021 12:39:00 +0000

Our guest today is a therapist, speaker, teacher, advocate and so much more - We've long admired his work on social media (@TherapyRedeemed on Instagram) and after meeting him for this conversation our respect and admiration of him has skyrocketed. Cam Lee Small takes us into the world of mental health and adoptees and how his work both counseling and advocating for adoptees has shone light on his own story. You won't want to miss his candor and insight!

You can learn more about Cam's work on his website, Instagram or Facebook page!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E54] Changing Systems with Daren Jones

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 12 Oct 2021 04:59:00 +0000

We've been waiting for this one
for a while - we're so excited to have the one and only Daren Jones from The Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development on the show today! If you are unfamiliar with his work, Daren is part of the team
that delivers Trust Based Relational Intervention (TBRI)
training literally across the globe. From his work in a
therapeutic day treatment program with children to
training judges and District Attorneys on the brain
science of trauma, Daren has a ton to talk about when
it comes to systems change.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E53] Let's Talk About Consequences with the ETC Team

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 05 Oct 2021 11:22:00 +0000

Let's talk about consequences.Spoiler alert: we want to encourage you to make consequences your last resort. You read that right, we at ETC think there are lots of other tools in the toolbelt to help you keep peace in your home and maintain connection with your kiddo and we want to talk about it today!

Becca McKay and Tona Ottinger from ETC join us as we talk about the the bigger picture of why we are so quick to want to hand out consequences and what we can do instead to address inappropriate behaviors.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E52] Build Bridges Instead of Walls with Dr. Jim Henry

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 28 Sep 2021 11:01:00 +0000

Dr. Jim Henry is one of the most fascinating people you will ever meet. He is a Professor at Western Michigan University and the Program Director of the Children's Trauma Assessment Center. For over 20 years, Dr. Henry has been sitting with and hearing the stories of precious children from across the country who have survived unimaginable things.

How, then, can Dr. Henry still be doing this work?? We asked Dr. Henry to be with us today to give some insight into what has allowed him to continue to be completely present with children and how he protects himself from burnout. Dr. Henry explains the importance of building bridges from our hearts to those around us instead of walls around our hearts that seal us off from the outside world in relationship. Trust us - this is not an episode you want to miss!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E51] There's No Relationship Without Attachment with Dr. Jamie DeLuna

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 21 Sep 2021 11:17:00 +0000

ANOTHER attachment episode, c'mon ETC! Isn't there more to parenting than attachment!? We're glad you asked. In today's episode, we have one of the best researchers in her field, Dr. Jamie DeLuna from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development, explain why understanding your own attachment style may be the most important thing you can do for your parenting. We talk about the neuroscience behind attachment, the different adult attachment styles, how they form and how you can 'earn' secure attachment, no matter what your childhood was like.

To check out the book Jamie recommended ('How We Love') and more resources like it, you can click here.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E50] Why Play Is So Important with Dr. Nicole West

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 14 Sep 2021 11:45:00 +0000

Season 2 rolls on, today with Dr. Nicole West! Dr. West is a therapist with the Memphis Family Connection Center in Memphis, TN and amongst lots of skills and certifications she holds, she is a certified Play Therapist. Dr. West joins us today to not only unpack the benefits of play therapy but also to walk us through WHY play is so important for the brain, for processing through hard things for kids and how we as parents can incorporate play (and healing) into our homes.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E49] Understanding the Brain Body Behavior Connection with Mona DeLaHooke

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 07 Sep 2021 09:58:00 +0000

It's here! The premiere of Season 2 - and who better to help us kick it off than the one and only Mona Delahooke?? Mona is a Pediatric Psychologist and the author of Beyond Behaviors among several other books. If you've ever read Beyond Behaviors, you know how brilliant she is! Mona joins us today to talk about the Brain - Body - Behavior connection and why it is absolutely essential for parents and caregivers to understand. Struggling with perplexing behavior in your home? This may be the episode you've been waiting for.

We also talk about Mona's NEW book coming out in early 2022 and at the end of the episode we reveal instructions for how YOU could win a pre-order of it! To enter, you must be following @empoweredtoconnect on Instagram or have Liked Empowered to Connect on Facebook and tag us in your Instagram or Facebook stories today telling us something you loved from the interview with Mona. That's it! We'll pick 5 winners at random and pre-order the book to come straight to your house!

Wanna learn more from Mona? Buy her book Beyond Behaviors here, sign up for the Beyond Behaviors course Mona teaches here or head on over to her website to learn more about her there!

[E48] Celebrate Your Children, Change Your Life

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Jul 2021 14:00:00 +0000

One of the most surprising things about parenting is the way we grow in the midst of trying to grow our children. Oftentimes, setting out to help them process through a trying emotional time or teach a life lesson reveals something about ourselves as well. Today on the show, Mo and Tona talk about the necessity of celebrating our children in several key ways and how they've grown in the process. This episode will make you laugh, make you cry and hopefully help you think about some of the ways we can celebrate our children in ways we haven't yet.

To learn more about ETC, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E47] How to Give Your Kids the Predictability They Need

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Jul 2021 12:23:00 +0000

For most of us Summer Break is in full swing. Kids are out of school and you might be out of patience! If that's you, rest easy, you're not alone. Today we take one of the principles discussed by Dr. Karyn Purvis in last week's episode and look at why predictability is such a big deal for our kids. Some of us have major scheduling needs - we need to know what's happening at every moment. Some of us can only handle knowing the big picture and letting the day flow freely where it will - and the same is true for our kids. Jesse Faris and Tona Ottinger join us today to talk about how and why making things predictable can breathe life and peace into our kids' lives.

To learn more about ETC, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E46] How Do I Handle Manipulation and Control? A Deep Dive

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Jun 2021 14:15:00 +0000

One of our most watched YouTube videos of all time features Dr. Karyn Purvis giving parents and caregivers some advice about how to handle manipulation and control from their kiddos. There's a reason 160,000 people have watched this video - the content is gold.

Today on the show, Tona Ottinger and JD Wilson from ETC sit down to do a deep dive on the ideas Dr. Purvis lays out in the video. How does this play out in everyday life? Tona and JD share practical tools and tips for understanding and redirecting our kids who may be using manipulation and control as an adaptive strategy for survival.

To watch the full video from Dr. Purvis, click here. To learn more about ETC, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E45] ETC - Where We've Been, Where We're Going

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Jun 2021 05:24:00 +0000

It's been a busy few weeks for us moving offices at ETC and we couldn't help but stop and think about our past and our future. Moving is funny that way - it helps us appreciate where we've been and look ahead to where we're going. If you've been listening to the show from the beginning, chances are, you know ETC's history - but for those of you who don't, we take the first few minutes of the show today to outline how Empowered to Connect came to be . We then shift gears to talk about what's happening now, what had been planned for 2020 and what you can expect to see in the second half of 2021 and beyond!

To learn more about ETC, check out our website, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E44] Dads Connected - Reflections on Fatherhood with JD Wilson and Mo Ottinger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Jun 2021 12:53:00 +0000

After a short break to get moved into our new office space here in Memphis, we are BACK this week! With Father's Day coming up this week, we thought we would share some reflections on what it's looked like to parent in a connected way from a Dad's point of view. JD Wilson and Mo Ottinger from ETC talk about some of the biggest things they've learned and stereotypes that had to be busted along the way to become dads connected. To learn more about ETC, check out our website, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E43] Throwback Episode: When Self Care Doesn't Cut It with Carissa Woodwyk [E26 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Jun 2021 13:58:00 +0000

As we finish moving into our new space, we wanted to hit you with one more throwback episode. We'll be jumping back in with a brand new episode which will air NEXT WEEK! We felt it appropriate to bring back our good friend Carissa Woodwyk talking about what to do when 'self care' doesn't cut it...

Self care is a hot topic these days - in fact, it's been a topic of conversation on our show several times. What happens, though, when your self care doesn't cut it? When you still find yourself empty and searching for what you need to care for your people well? Marriage and Family Therapist and longtime friend of ETC Carissa Woodwyk joins us to talk about how we have to move beyond self care to self compassion to be whole.

To learn more about Carissa's work and thoughts, follow her on Instagram @weneedoneanother or like her on Facebook !

To learn more about ETC, check out our website, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E42] Throwback Episode: There is No Such Thing as Self Regulation with Robyn Gobbel [E25 Replay]

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 02 Jun 2021 11:33:00 +0000

Today we bring you a throwback episode! Our whole ETC team is in the process of packing up to move into an amazing new space (that we can't wait to show you) here in Memphis, Tennessee, so we thought it'd be helpful to re-share one of our favorite episodes in case you missed it.

One of our favorite humans, Robyn Gobbel, joined us a few months back to talk about a blog post she wrote entitled "Self Regulation Doesn't Exist" (you should definitely read it)! Robyn Gobbel is a therapist, speaker, podcast host, webinar creator and more and she joins us today to do a deep dive into the topic of self regulation and what is actually happening in the brain when we are distressed and then brought back in to regulation. You'll also hear Robyn call this phrase by a different name that helps bring clarity to what is actually happening when we help our kids (or our grownups) learn to regulate.

To learn more about Robyn's work and to check out her podcast as well as the amazing collection of resources she's compiled, visit her website here and don't miss out on signing up for Parenting after Trauma: Minding the Heart and Brain. Registration opens on the 16^th for this powerful online, self-paced course www.robyngobbel.com/parentcourse

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube! Also, stay tuned to ETC social media in the coming month as we begin to unveil some exciting news about our new space!

[E41] Family Spotlight: Everyone is Watching You with Matthew and Anteelah Love

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 25 May 2021 05:06:00 +0000

Our Family Spotlight Series continues this week with ETC Parent Trainers Matthew and Anteelah Love! Matthew and Anteelah both work in education and have the unique viewpoints of having fostered, adopted and had biological kids.

They share personal testimony on how shifting their paradigm has not only impacted their nuclear family but also the perspective of their close community.

Listen in for their powerful insight on why it's vital for us to understand our surroundings and who is watching us as we parent our kiddos!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E40] Family Spotlight: The Power of Being a Reflective Parent with Dan and Terri Coley

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 May 2021 09:45:00 +0000

Today we start a new series on the ETC Podcast that we're calling our 'Family Spotlights' series! We'll talk to parents on the connected parenting journey and hear what they've learned, what they wish they'd known and any advice they've got for others on this journey!

Today we start off with two of our favorite people on earth, Dan and Terri Coley! You may know Dan and Terri from their time hosting the Empowered to Connect Conferences or you may have listened to Dan's episode of the ETC Podcast - whether you know Dan and Terri or not, by the end of the interview you will absolutely love them. Dan and Terri talk about the challenges they faced early on in their parenting journey, what it means to be reflective and to consider your past and what advice they've got for those parenting now.

The importance of their call for us to examine our hearts and always be willing to learn from your kids cannot be understated, please make time to listen now to Dan and Terri Coley!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E39] How Understanding the Sensory System Changes Everything with Occupational Therapist Mistie Hanks!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 11 May 2021 06:18:00 +0000

Last week Amanda Purvis introduced us to the brain, body and behavior connection. This week, OT Mistie Hanks joins us as we take a deeper dive into why understanding sensory processing is an absolute game changer! Mistie walks us through everything from understanding ours and our kids' sensory systems to some practical ways you can support growth in these areas.

We also take a look at how trauma affects the senses and then what every parent needs to know if they're seeing perplexing behavior. Don't miss it!

For more on the brain, body and behavior connection and to read about hundreds of practical tips on a complete sensory diet for your kids, check out the book Amanda recommended in the interview: The Out of Sync Child by Carol Kranowitz

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E38] The Brain, Body and Behavior Connection with Amanda Purvis

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 04 May 2021 05:22:00 +0000

Have you ever experienced behavior from your child that doesn't make any sense? Yeah, neither have we...but for everyone ELSE out there who has experienced perplexing behavior or tried to figure out why the same 'willfully disobedient' actions keep on happening - this episode is for you.

An immense amount of research has been published showing the connection between the body, the brain and behavior. Luckily for us, we've got Amanda Purvis from TCU's Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD) here to explain those connections and to help us explore what could actually be happening in situations where kids seem bent on disobedience. Amanda walks us through some very practical ways to see the connections between nutrition, hydration and our other senses and behaviors. We explore what it means to have a sensory profile and what that could mean for interactions between you and your kiddo.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E37] "We got this!" Building Resilience with Dr. Michele Borba

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Apr 2021 05:19:00 +0000

Dr. Michele Borba is an Educational Psychologist who has spent the last 4 decades studying resilience. In her latest book, "Thrivers", she shares the results of compiling years of resilience research from across the globe - resilience is built, not born. In the midst of so much stress, uncertainty and unplanned disruption to our everyday lives, we couldn't think of a better time to have Michele on to talk to us about building resilient kids.

We discuss the fascinating research from different people groups, historical time periods and geographical locations that led her to this discovery and what happened when she sat down to work with Navy SEALS that blew her mind.

She was generous enough to share lots of resources with us - before downloading these resources, be sure to buy Michele's book!

- To download the Parent Guide to Thrivers, click here!

- To download the child Character Strengths Assessment, click here and

- To download the 7 Essential Character Traits of Thrivers pdf, click here!

- To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out on our website or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E36] A Deep Dive into Dr. Karyn Purvis' 'IDEAL Response'

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Apr 2021 04:10:00 +0000

Are you struggling with challenging behaviors from your kiddos? The late Dr. Karyn Purvis developed the 'IDEAL Response' as an acronym to help parents remember how to connect with your kids while correcting inappropriate behavior.

In today's episode, Mo and Tona Ottinger join JD to take a deeper dive into the IDEAL Response and break down each component of the principle. The episode starts with audio from Dr. Purvis teaching the content - the original video she teaches in, as well as lots more connected parenting video content can be found on our YouTube channel here.

Learn what it means to be: Immediate, Direct, Efficient, Action-Based and Leveled at the Behavior with content from Dr. Karyn Purvis and analysis from JD and The Ottingers!

In the show, we mention the potential need for families/individuals dealing with level 4 behavior consistently to walk through deescalation training of some kind - to begin familiarizing yourself with that level of training, check out these resources below:

https://www.crisisprevention.com/Our-Programs

https://handlewithcare.com/who-we-train/parents/

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out at Empoweredtoconnect.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E35] The Power of Being Present with Dan Coley - Throwback Episode!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Apr 2021 12:23:00 +0000

If you attended Show Hope's 'Hope for the Journey' Conference, you were introduced to Dan and Terri Coley. Longtime friends of Empowered to Connect, Dan and Terri have built a legacy of parenting wisdom and mentorship in the connected parenting world. Episode 5 of the ETC Podcast featured Dan, Mo Ottinger and our host, JD Wilson talking about the power of being present and it still today is one of our most listened to episodes ever.

We thought it would be fitting today to throw back to that episode - if you've not yet listened, we're so excited for you to do so! Dan, Mo and JD discuss why it's often so difficult for dads to be present and their own stories of doing the heart work necessary to be able to really engage the hearts of the people they love.

Please enjoy this conversation with one of our favorite humans on earth, Dan Coley.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect or to find more of ETC's resources, check us out at Empoweredtoconnect.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E34] BONUS EPISODE! Connection Based Parenting: Stories of Hope

Empowered to Connect — Fri, 09 Apr 2021 14:24:00 +0000

That's right, it's a BONUS EPISODE of the ETC Podcast today! In light of Show Hope's Hope For the Journey Conference going live today, we at ETC wanted to share some stories of hope. Everyone on this connected parenting journey was inspired to begin parenting this way at some point - and at some point shortly after starting, probably failed miserably. That's the story at least for the 5 families who came together to discuss their connection based parenting journeys on the show today. Join our host JD Wilson and his wife Elizabeth, Mo and Tona Ottinger from ETC, Matthew and Anteelah Love, Chris and Paula Powell as well as Matt and Grace Terhune as they discuss how it started and how it's going.

If your parenting soul is struggling today and could use some stories of solidarity in the struggle, this episode is for you!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E33] Hope for the Journey with Emily Chapman Richards

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Apr 2021 04:36:00 +0000

As the team from Show Hope makes their final preparations for the Hope for the Journey Conference Streaming this Friday (April 9th, 2021), we sat down with Show Hope's Executive Director, Emily Chapman Richards! We first heard about Emily as the 10 year old adoption advocate in the back of her parents' car. We learn today what happened in the rest of the story as Emily went on to become the Executive Director of an organization advocating for and assisting in the care of vulnerable children literally around the world. Emily is a great interview and you'll want to hear her talk about everything from those early moments through the exciting work that Show Hope is doing now as well as an inside peek at the Hope for the Journey Conference!

If you've not yet registered for the Hope for the Journey Conference you can do so at showhope.org!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E32] Set Appropriate Expectations

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 30 Mar 2021 13:40:00 +0000

It happens to the best of us - we have everything laid out the way it's supposed to go and it completely falls apart. The family vacation ends in disaster, the Target run ends with someone on the floor melting down, we sit at night and wonder how we were so wrong about what life would look like by now. Expectations - we all have them and when they're unrealistic or misguided in their formation, they can be detrimental. There's good news, though! By recognizing and identifying expectations we've had, we can begin to evaluate them and reset appropriate expectations - and maybe most importantly, begin to teach our kids the same skills. We cover all of this and more today as we unpack another foundational piece of one of our connecting practices: Setting Appropriate Expectations.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E31] The Power of Saying YES!

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Mar 2021 05:40:00 +0000

As anyone with Netflix has seen in the last week or two, there's a famous ETC Principle in the newest Jennifer Garner movie - The Yes Day. No, ETC didn't make a movie, but there is lots to learn from the movie! JD, Tona and Mo sit down to talk about one of the most foundational principles in the ETC world - the power of saying yes.

During the interview we reference several different resources on this topic - below we've linked those articles as well as some other resources from ETC on the Power of YES:

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E30] How to Repair what You've Ruptured with Your Kids with Carissa Woodwyk

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Mar 2021 04:45:00 +0000

To learn more about Carissa and her work, be sure to check out her first appearance on the show here or follow her on Instagram or Facebook!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org and follow us on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube!

[E29] What Kids Need Most From Their Parents with Dr. Tina Payne Bryson

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Mar 2021 05:18:00 +0000

Our guest today is quite literally one of the most influential figures in the work we do at Empowered to Connect! Dr. Tina Payne Bryson is the Author of Bottom Line for Baby and 4 other co-authored books including two New York Times Bestselling works, The Whole Brain Child and No Drama Discipline. She is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Center for Connection and the Play Strong Institute.

Tina joins us to talk about what kids need most from their parents and how we can create the felt safety in our homes to allow our children to heal and grow as whole people. Tina is a fantastic teacher and she walks us through everything from navigating meltdowns to creating felt safety in relationship with teens.

For more on Tina's work and her new parent group: Office Hours with Tina, click here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and now find all of our episodes on our YouTube channel!

[E28] The Road to Show Hope with Steven Curtis and Mary Beth Chapman

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 Mar 2021 06:00:00 +0000

Our guests today have bios too long to fit in this section, but many of you know their work. Steven Curtis Chapman is the most decorated Christian Music Artist of all time. With over 11 million albums sold, 49 #1 hits and 5 Grammys, Steven's been making music successfully for the better part of 3 decades. His wife, Mary Beth Chapman is a New York Times Bestselling Author for her book Choosing to See and the President of Show Hope - a non profit organization aimed at reducing the barriers to adoption.

While many of you may be familiar with Steven's music or the work of Show Hope, you may not be familiar with the story behind the Chapmans themselves or Show Hope's origin story (and we think you'll love it). Steven and Mary Beth join us to talk about everything from how they met to a 10 year old upending their lives, the founding of Show Hope and the transformation the organization has undergone since it began in 2003.

We also announce the exciting news about the Hope for the Journey Conference (formerly the Empowered to Connect Conference) and talk about the format for this year and some of the featured speakers - including our own Mo and Tona Ottinger! The one-day event is happening April 9th and will be viewable for two months after it premieres! You won't want to miss this opportunity, register today!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, like us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram and now find all of our episodes on our YouTube channel!

[E27] Why Authentic Self Awareness is the Key to Empowered Families with Larissa Gregory

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 14:59:00 +0000

We've spent a lot of time this year on the show talking about self - looking at adult attachment styles, considering what we need to offer ourselves as coregulators to our children, even talking about self-compassion as the true and better version of self care. Why, then, do we now look at self awareness!? We're glad you asked! Larissa Gregory is the head of LG Educational Consulting and works with individuals, teachers, administrations and families helping create safe, empowered spaces for children and families. After years in academic leadership, she joins us to talk about why she believes that Authentic Self Awareness is the Key to Empowered Families. Larissa gives several concrete, practical tools for us to walk away with to help restore relationship after conflict, to help restore our own mental spaces as self doubt and stress invade and more!

You can learn more about Larissa and LG Educational Consulting here!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us at empoweredtoconnect.org, on Facebook, Instagram or YouTube!

[E26] When Self Care Doesn't Cut It with Carissa Woodwyk

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 16 Feb 2021 05:29:00 +0000

To learn more about Carissa's work and thoughts, follow her on Instagram @weneedoneanother or like her on Facebook !

To learn more about ETC, check out our website, follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E25] There is No Such Thing as Self-Regulation with Robyn Gobbel

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 09 Feb 2021 14:58:00 +0000

Our guest today got our attention when she wrote a blog post entitled "Self Regulation Doesn't Exist" (you should definitely read it)! Robyn Gobbel is a therapist, speaker, podcast host, webinar creator and more and she joins us today to do a deep dive into the topic of self regulation and what is actually happening in the brain when we are distressed and then brought back in to regulation. You'll also hear Robyn call this phrase by a different name that helps bring clarity to what is actually happening when we help our kids (or our grownups) learn to regulate.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit us on our website, find us on Facebook, follow us on Instagram or check out all of our podcast episodes and video resources on YouTube!

[E24] The Power of Understanding Attachment Styles and Cycles with Dr. Casey Call

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 13:56:00 +0000

This week we continue our conversation with TCU's Dr. Casey Call about attachment by talking through attachment styles and cycles. If you missed our first episode with Dr. Call, you will definitely want to listen to it before listening to this one! Dr. Call walks us through attachment styles and cycles and discusses the healing potential of when attachment is disrupted. A huge thank you again to Dr. Call and the team from the KPICD for helping us through this conversation!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit our NEWLY BRANDED website empoweredtoconnect.org, find us on Facebook here, follow us on Instagram here or check out all of our video content as well as every podcast episode on here

[E23] The Power of Understanding Attachment with Dr. Casey Call

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 26 Jan 2021 05:50:00 +0000

2021 is here and it's not solved all of our problems (cue the sad horns). Have no fear though, because we are starting our new year with one of the leading experts in the field of Attachment Research and Theory, Dr. Casey Call from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development (KPICD). In today's episode Dr. Call walks us through what we need to know as caregivers about how human beings attach and why it's important. This is a critical piece of understanding when it comes to caring for ourselves and other humans and you don't want to miss it!

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, visit our NEWLY BRANDED WEBSITE at empoweredtoconnect.org and you can find us on Facebook @connectedchild, on Instagram @empoweredtoconnect AND NOW ALSO at YouTube.com/empoweredtoconnect !

[E22] Preparing your family for your family during the holidays

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Dec 2020 05:46:00 +0000

It's that time of year again - only this time - the 2020 version of 'that time of year' now involves Zoom, Covid Testing, quarantines and a whole host of other complications.

That's why we joined forces with ETC Parent Trainer Jesse Faris and Tona Ottinger to talk about how to prepare for the holidays before, during and after your interactions with family. Have no idea how to prep for meltdowns? Wondering how your kids are processing their time together? We've got you covered.

We've also linked a blog here below that was written a few years ago (pre-Covid) that could be some help as well - check it out!

https://empoweredtoconnect.org/tis-the-season/

We'll be taking a break for a few weeks as we celebrate the holiday season but we'll be back and better than ever in January!

Merry Christmas and Happy holidays!

[E21] Thriving Through the Holidays

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Dec 2020 05:00:00 +0000

It's the Holiday Season - time for spending too much, eating too much and reaching our wit's end as we attempt to 'just survive' this season with our kids! Just me?

This year, let's change our mindset as we go into the home stretch of the holiday season and talk about how we can thrive as families (and individuals). We've got ETC Parent Trainer Jesse Faris and Mo and Tona Ottinger on to talk about some simple practices, reminders and tips to help your family thrive through the holidays!

Prioritize Relationships
Adjust Expectations
Create Felt Safety
Keep it: Simple, Intentional, Even and Predictable

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E20] Transracial Adoption Pt 4 with Brett Carleton and Dave Overholser

Empowered to Connect — Wed, 25 Nov 2020 05:47:00 +0000

If you don't follow the YouTube channel 'Yes I'm Adopted, Don't Make it Weird' you'll want to do that right away after hearing from our guests today. Brett Carleton and Dave Overholser join us to talk about the creation of their popular YouTube channel and Facebook page, a common bond as adult Asian adoptees, some of the things you should never say to someone who's been adopted and some of the things their parents did that made a huge difference as they grew up.

Dave O and Brett also dive into the idea of neuroplasticity and the hope it brings. You're going to love this episode!

November is National Adoption Awareness Month (NAAM) -To read the history of NAAM, click here.

For those most impacted by adoption - adoptees - the month of November can be a time that brings up a wide array of emotions. So in staying true to our mission here at Empowered to Connect we are spending the month of November listening to the hearts and stories of adoptees who are part of transracial families.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E19] Transracial Adoption Pt 3 with Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 17 Nov 2020 05:49:00 +0000

This week we continue our series on transracial adoption with Psychologist and Adult Adoptee Dr. Chaitra Wirta-Leiker.

Dr. Wirta-Leiker is a Psychologist, Author, Speaker, Adoptee, Adoptive Parent and overall powerhouse voice in the conversation on transracial adoption worldwide. Her resource page, linked here, is one of the best collections you will find of research based resources on transracial adoption for adoptees and parents alike.

Dr. Wirta Leiker talks about everything from the Adoptee Hierarchy of Needs to advice she has as a professional, adoptee and adoptive parent for those in any seat at the table of conversation around adoption! You'll want to take notes (and budget to buy all of the resources she's got on her website), we hope you enjoy today's episode!

November is National Adoption Awareness Month (NAAM) -To read the history of NAAM, click here.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E18] Transracial Adoption Pt 2 with Rhonda M. Roorda

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 10 Nov 2020 05:14:00 +0000

As we continue our series on transracial adoption, we've got one of our favorite voices on the subject, Rhonda Mae Roorda!

Rhonda is a fund manager for an educational advocacy organization in Lansing MI, and the co-author of four landmark books on transracial adoption: In Their Own Voices, In Their Parents' Voices, In Their Siblings Voices, and In Their Voices: Black Americans on Transracial Adoption - the books are unequivocally essential reading on the topic of transracial adoption and you can buy them here.

Rhonda shares her story with us and walks us through the history of transracial adoption in America, her own experience as an adult adoptee and her hope for the future as a result of what she's learned (as well as her work consulting on the critically acclaimed TV show "This Is Us", no big deal). Trust us - you will want to make the time to listen through this entire episode!

November is National Adoption Awareness Month (NAAM) -To read the history of NAAM, click here.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E17] Transracial Adoption Pt 1 with Ramya Gruneisen and Dr. Chris and Leslie Hamm

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 03 Nov 2020 05:23:00 +0000

November is National Adoption Awareness Month (NAAM) -To read the history of NAAM, click here.

Today, Ramya Gruneisen and her dear friends the Hamms (who are ETC Parent Trainers in St. Louis, MO.) join us to talk about growing up in a white family as a person of color, the work needed to be done as white parents to create a safe environment in a transracial home and so much more.

To read Ramya's article on why adoption may not be for everyone, click here

To learn more about the Hamms and their work in St. Louis, click here

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E16] Cultivate a Growth Mindset

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 27 Oct 2020 05:18:00 +0000

Last week we talked about Chasing the Why - how to see the needs behind our kids' behavior and meet those needs in order to bring healing.

This episode is the needed followup to last week. If the conversation about Growth Mindsets vs Fixed Mindsets sounds familiar, it's because this phrase has become a buzz word/buzz phrase in recent years - especially in the world of academics.

In this episode we tilt the conversation a different way and look at what it means to parent with a growth mindset instead of a fixed mindset. JD, along with Mo and Tona Ottinger look at where this term came from and how we as parents/caregivers can embrace the patience, humility and curiosity needed to model this for our kids.

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E15] Chase The Why with Mo and Tona Ottinger

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 05:00:00 +0000

Lets face it…sometimes our kids' behavior is perplexing.

We have no idea why they are doing what they are doing. We have no idea how to make them stop and we can walk away feeling confused, defeated and even like a failure.

Why do we do that? How do we get to the root of what's ACTUALLY happening?

Glad you asked - tune in today to hear how we look to see the needs being expressed behind the behavior and meet those needs to build trust and attachment.

In this episode we reference several fantastic books (you should buy them all immediately): The Whole Brain Child, and Beyond Behaviors

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E14] Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Pt 2) with Dr. Katherine Blackney

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 13 Oct 2020 02:51:00 +0000

It's Part 2 of the conversation many of us dread. The sex talk, and for those of with kids who were adopted or are in foster care, the layers added into an already complicated conversation can feel like a bridge too far. Last week we aired Part 1 of our conversation with Dr. Katherine Blackney, a certified Clinical Sex Therapist who's been counseling for almost 20 years. She joined us and began walking us through the process of raising your kids with healthy conversations about their bodies and sex. In part one of our conversation with Dr. Blackney we learned that this is not a single conversation, but an ongoing process that weaves from preschool all the way to adulthood.

This week we cover puberty and the teenage years - how do we help our kids navigate these impossible years healthily while keeping the parent-child relationship in tact? Listen to Part 2 to find out!

To learn more about Dr. Blackney and her practice, check out her website here!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E13] Talking to Your Kids About Sex (Pt 1) with Dr. Katherine Blackney

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 06 Oct 2020 12:08:00 +0000

It's the conversation many of us dread. For those of with kids who were adopted or are in foster care, the layers added into an already complicated conversation can feel like a bridge too far. It's the sex talk and it's not easy! That's why we asked Dr. Katherine Blackney, a certified Clinical Sex Therapist who's been counseling for almost 20 years to join us and walk us through the process. In part one of our conversation with Dr. Blackney we learn that this is not a single conversation, but an ongoing process that weaves from preschool all the way to adulthood. We cover everything from potty training to self touch in part one of our conversation with the one and only Dr. Katherine Blackney!

To learn more about Dr. Blackney and her practice, check out her website here!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E12] The Power of Asking Why PART 2 with Tom and Dawn Jordi

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 29 Sep 2020 03:46:00 +0000

Today we share the second half of our interview with Tom and Dawn Jordi, our ETC Parent Trainers in Johannesburg, South Africa! In this episode, Tom and Dawn walk through their experiences as a transracially adoptive family in a post-apartheid South Africa and the work toward racial reconciliation they've done in schools there. You don't want to miss it! If you missed last episode make sure to check that out as well for the Jordi's story!

You can follow the Jordis via their blog here or listen to their podcast here!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E11] The Power of Asking Why with Tom and Dawn Jordi

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 22 Sep 2020 14:42:00 +0000

Our first intercontinental guests come to us from Johannesburg, South Africa! Tom and Dawn Jordi join us to talk about their family's adoption journey, Tom's work as a trauma certified counselor in schools and the power of asking why when we see concerning behavior in our kiddos. Tom and Dawn are two of the most likable human beings on the planet and you'll love hearing their story and the wisdom they've got to share as we all work build stronger connection with the kids we care for!

You can follow the Jordis via their blog here or listen to their podcast here!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E10] Exploring & Navigating Racial Trauma with LPC Britney Bryson

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 15 Sep 2020 05:27:00 +0000

Britney Bryson is an LPC at the University of Memphis and at her private practice working with teens and young adults. Doing so in 2020 is no easy task and Britney joins us to talk about the challenges that come with it. We talk through navigating racial trauma, a heated election season and how we move forward building unity and relationships across natural dividing lines. Britney ends the show by sharing a powerful story about a summer experience she had and what we can all learn from it.

Want to hear more from Britney? Follow her work on Facebook and Instagram!

To learn more about ETC, check out empoweredtoconnect.org, like us on Facebook or follow us on Instagram!

[E9] Catch it Low

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 08 Sep 2020 03:49:00 +0000

Episode 9 features one of our best parenting tools! ETC's Parent Training Courses happen all over the globe and we thought it the perfect time to share one of tools taught in the course! Mo and Tona Ottinger join us to talk about what it means to 'Catch it Low' - how to spot disregulation on the horizon and use some simple practices to help deescalate the situation and bring regulation back to the brain.

Mo talks for a few minutes about the 'upstairs and downstairs brain' - for one of the best explanations of how the brain works, check out Dan Siegel and Tina Payne Bryson's book The Whole Brain Child!

For more information about Empowered to Connect's resources and to find a Parent Trainer near you, check out empoweredtoconnect.org

[E8] Back to School with ETC

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 01 Sep 2020 05:18:00 +0000

As the world begins to ease back into schools (both virtual and in person), we have 3 brilliant professionals with us to talk about utilizing ETC principles in their work in schools! Becca Tarleton, Jocelyn Lee and returning guest Jacque Rowe-Fields talk about the importance of attachment as the foundation of the classroom, how parents can best advocate for their kids and what you need to know as you get ready for the school year.

[E7] Parenting in a Pandemic with Jesse Faris

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 24 Aug 2020 18:43:00 +0000

Have you been wondering what the secret to effective parenting is during a pandemic? We have too! Spoiler alert - we don't have THE answer, but we do have ETC Parent Trainer Jesse Faris as our guest to talk about some of the ways we can parent (and care for ourselves) more effectively during a historically hard time to parent and give nurturing care to our kids.

Jesse, Tona Ottinger and host JD Wilson talk about what's been working and discoveries that have been made in the quest to not lose our ever-loving minds in quarantine...

To purchase the Inner Game of Tennis by Timothy Gallwey, click here! **Life Hack - the audiobook is great and is available through Audible at the same link above...

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, the new Dads Connected Coaching offering as well as any other ETC resources, check us out at Empoweredtoconnect.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E6] Building Resilience Through the Power of Connection with Troy McPeak

Empowered to Connect — Tue, 18 Aug 2020 05:30:00 +0000

Episode 6 is here and we are so excited to share it with you. In the last few years, one of the most exciting developments in the non profit and juvenile justice worlds has been the integration of trauma informed, healing centered approaches to care. One of the men helping lead this charge in the Texas Juvenile Justice Department (TJJD) is Troy McPeak. Troy joins us today to talk about how a hard nosed former football player from Riverside County (outside of LA) is helping pioneer attachment rich, connection-centered, resilience building systems of care in the TJJD. Trust us - you do NOT want to miss this episode, Troy is a really fun guest with some amazing stories of transformation happening in a place so often overlooked or forgotten.

To learn more about Troy and the TJJD's work, the new Dads Connected Coaching offering as well as all of ETC's resources, check us out at Empoweredtoconnect.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E5] The Power of Being Present with Dan Coley

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 10 Aug 2020 11:54:00 +0000

Episode 5 features a conversation with one of our favorite people, Dan Coley! You've seen Dan on stage as the host of ETC Simulcasts in the past, now hear him on his back porch talking about the power of being present with our host, JD and ETC's Mo Ottinger. What are the keys to being present and why is it so important to 'do the work' in your own heart before you can ask your children and those you're in relationship with to open up and share theirs? Glad you asked - tune in and find out!

We also unveil an exciting new resource being offered soon at ETC especially for dads, so make sure to stick around until after the conversation with Dan to hear all about it! To learn more about the new Dads Connected Coaching offering as well as all of ETC's resources, check us out at Empoweredtoconnect.org or follow us on Facebook or Instagram!

[E4] The Valuable Process of Unlearning with Jacque Rowe Fields

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 03 Aug 2020 03:14:00 +0000

Episode 4 of the ETC Podcast is with one of our favorite friends of the program! Jacque Rowe Fields (aka Mrs. Jacque as most know her) has spent her professional life in the world of education. Mrs. Jacque has an incredible, diverse set of experiences to pull from everywhere from historically black neighborhoods in her hometown of Memphis to being the Dean of Students at a Norwegian Private College in Michigan.

Jacque talks to us about what the process of unlearning, parenting African-American children in diverse environments and what one of her children told her he wished she would have prepared him for - it's a really great conversation and we think you're going to love it!

As always, we'd love to know what you thought of the podcast! Visit us at empoweredtoconnect.org/podcast and let us know! Our show is mixed and engineered by the incomparable Kyle Wright and our music comes to us directly from the studio of the one and only Tad Jewett.

[E3] The Connected Parents with Emmelie Pickett and Lisa Qualls

Empowered to Connect — Mon, 27 Jul 2020 05:06:00 +0000

It's Episode 3 of the ETC Podcast and our guests are Emmelie Pickett and Lisa Qualls, co-authors with the late Dr. Karyn Purvis of the new book "The Connected Parent." In this episode JD and Tona talk about The Connected Parent book, but we also dive deep into the story behind the book - how Emmelie, Lisa and Dr. Purvis' lives intersected and what motivated each of them to conquer some major obstacles to bring the book into the world.

You'll also hear our conversation on attachment, our pasts and the need for self care routines for parents (and a story or two of what that looks like for dads as well). Emmelie talks about the work of The Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development in school districts and the judicial system and the free TBRI classes being offered right now!

Lastly, Lisa and Emmelie were kind enough to give 5 books away to our audience, so make sure to tune in all the way through this episode for details on how you can win a copy of The Connected Parent!

You can find out more about Emmelie's work at TCU here

You can follow Lisa @onethankfulmom on all the social platforms or check out her website onethankfulmom.com AND you can listen to her podcast here!

If you're new to the ETC Podcast, we're so glad you're here! Be sure to check out empoweredtoconnect.org for more about ETC or follow us on Facebook and Instagram!

[E2] How did we get here? America's racial history with Dr. Charles McKinney

Empowered to Connect — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 12:28:00 +0000

How did we get here? Civil Rights Historian Dr. Charles McKinney joins us to discuss the history of the civil rights struggle in America, being a black parent in 2020 and advice for transracial adoptive parents with their children of color. A word to our majority culture (white) listeners: as many have noted over the past few weeks, there is a deep need for listening and learning about the plight of our black and brown brothers and sisters. This conversation with Dr. McKinney is not the end all be all - rather it is a starting point for many of us as we journey together to bring healing and peace to our families, our communities and the systems that govern them.

To connect further with our guest today, the brilliant Dr. Charles McKinney, find him on Twitter @CharlesWMcKinn2 and buy his books here!

Love the podcast? Hate it? Let us know your thoughts on Facebook or Instagram!

[E1] What is ETC?

Empowered to Connect — Sat, 20 Jun 2020 12:21:00 +0000

In episode 1, we're joined by Mo and Tona Ottinger, who give leadership to Empowered to Connect! We talk about what Empowered to Connect is - how it started, the core ideas and one major shift - moving to 'healing centered engagement and what that means.

To learn more about ETC, visit us at our website, follow us on Instagram or find us on Facebook!