
Empowered to Connect Podcast
255 episodes — Page 1 of 6
[E237] When You’re New to Supporting a Foster or Adoptive Family
[E236] When You're New to Walking Together as Adoptive/Foster Parents
[E235] When You’re New to Parenting through Adoption & Foster Care

Ep 234[E234] When Protection Becomes a Prison: Breaking Down the Wall Between Us with Sherry Varughese
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!

Ep 233[E233] Why the Best Teachers Lead with Connection with Marti Smith & Amie Huggins
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: [email protected] Instagram: teacher_amie49 To reach out to Marti, check out the information below. Website: www.creativetherapies.com

Ep 232[E232] When You're Tired Of Trying with Melissa Corkum
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.

Ep 231[E231] When You're Tired in Your Heart with Dr. Archandria Owens
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.

Ep 230[E230] When You're Tired in Your Body with Jill Stockburger
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.

Ep 229[E229] Connection Over Compliance: What We’re Really Teaching Kids in Hard Moments
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.

Ep 228[E228] The Midyear Reset: Supporting Kids in the Second Half of the School Year
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!

Ep 227[E227] Rupture is Inevitable; Repair is a Choice
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.

Ep 226[E226] Replay Let's Talk About the Holidays!
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!

Ep 225[E225] Kids Should Be Grateful! (And What If They're Not?)
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.

Ep 224[E224] Replay From Trauma and Loss to Healing and Empowerment with Cam Lee Small
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.

Ep 223[E223] Sensory Processing 101
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!

Ep 222[E222] Introduction to Cultivate Connection
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.

Ep 221[E221] Parenting as a Second Language
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.

Ep 220[E220]Welcome Home: Support For A New Placement
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.

Ep 219[E219] Replay What School Psychologists Want You to Know
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!

Ep 218[E218] Replay Back to School w Mona Delahooke
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!

Ep 217[E217] Fawn: Stress Responses 101
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!

Ep 216[E216] Freeze: Stress Responses 101
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.

Ep 215[E215] Flight: Stress Responses 101
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 "Flight" Response. 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!

Ep 214[E214] Fight: Stress Responses 101
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!

Ep 213[E213] How Stories Change The World with Kaycee Stanley
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!

Ep 212[E212] Three Friends You Need in Your Life
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.

Ep 211[E211] Self Regulation 101
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!

Ep 210[E210] More than Cake & Balloons: How We Show Kids They Matter
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.

Ep 209[E209] Marriage in the Midst
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

Ep 208[E208] Attachment 101
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

Ep 207[E207] The Healing Power of Art with Jill Stockburger
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

Ep 206[E206] Hey You: It's Ok To Be You
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.

Ep 205[E205] Stress & Trauma 101
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!

Ep 204[E204] The Worthy Conversation: Courtney Tierra on Empowering Your Child
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.

Ep 203[E203] Wintering is The Gift We Really Need
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!

Ep 202[E202] Why Re-Adjusting is The Answer To Your Resolution Nightmares
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.

Ep 201[E201] Why Cultivate Connection is Woven Through The Wooley's World
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!

Ep 200[E200] Help! My Kid & I Aren't On The Same Radio Frequency!
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.

Ep 199[E199] Why Won't They Act Their Age?
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.

Ep 198[E198] Why Dr. Deborah MacNamara Says You Need to Feel Empty In Order to Feel Full
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

Ep 197[E197] Crying, and foot stomps, and glares, oh my!
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!

Ep 196[E196] Help! We're Not On The Same Parenting Page
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!

Ep 195[E195] How Jamie Finn Found (and Created) Community
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!

Ep 194[E194] This is Us: Unlock the Power of Rituals
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.

Ep 193[E193] Rhythm and Blues: Unlock the power of routines
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.

Ep 192[E192] Myths Pt. 2: Connected Parenting Doesn't Work for Teens
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!

Ep 191[E191] Myths Pt. 1: Connected Parenting Means No Rules, Limits, or Structure
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!

Ep 190[E190] Taking Care of the Whole Family
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!

Ep 189[E189] Stress Capacity with Rico and Becca McKay
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!

Ep 188[E188] TBRI® in Staff Culture
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!