NOHS Roundtable Discussions

In this conversation, Alex Kaplan, the founder and executive director of Substance, shares his personal journey through addiction and recovery, and how it inspired him to create a platform that uses short films as tools for mental health professionals. The discussion explores the intersection of art and mental health, the importance of storytelling in healing, and the innovative approach of using film to facilitate deeper conversations about shame, trauma, and emotional growth. Kaplan emphasizes the need for vulnerability in both storytelling and therapy, and the potential for films to bridge gaps in understanding and connection among individuals facing various struggles. Of Substance website: https://www.ofsubstance.org/ Let’s talk about it. _______ Having survived his own challenges with substances, Alex considers himself living proof that by changing your relationship with struggle, you can build the life you envision. Now, he supports others in doing the same. In his early 20’s, Alex started a promising acting career in Manhattan while bartending at night to get by. The unexpected death of his father sent him into a tailspin and he began to numb himself with substances to ease the pain. This turned into a full-blown addiction that lasted almost 4 years. Disconnected, disillusioned, and plummeting ever deeper into crisis, Alex was finally convinced by his closest relationships to leave New York and seek help. Over the past five years, surrounded by the steadfast support of family, friends, and colleagues, Alex has climbed his way out of addiction and into a very successful career as a writer, director, and producer, and is now the Executive Producer of a well-regarded commercial production company on the East Coast. On his journey, Alex saw that his issue was far less about using substances than it was about WHY he used substances; it was about shame, isolation, a fear of not belonging, and a fear of not being good enough. But that’s not unique to addiction, we all experience these feelings. It’s part of being a person! Alex believes that, no matter what we struggle with, when we all feel more seen, heard, and loved, the world will be a better place. And he’s doing this through movies. In everything he does, Alex works to transform people's relationships with themselves, others, and their belief in what's possible. ____ For more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠⁠https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/ Find us on social media!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nationalhumanservices/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalHumanServices Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nohs_org/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/NOHS_org All our interview videos available on our YouTube page: www.youtube.com/@NOHS_Org Listen and follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeart Radio app! podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nationalhumanservicesorg

Heath Hightower, an assistant professor of social work, joins us at the roundtable to discuss suicide prevention and the need for a shift in how we approach suicidality. He emphasizes the importance of creating spaces for open and honest conversations about suicide and challenging the stigma surrounding it. Hightower suggests that suicide prevention, assessment, and intervention should be integrated into all undergraduate and graduate human services programs. He also advocates for universal screenings for suicide and the inclusion of people with lived experience in the development of support services. Hightower calls for a bottom-up approach that centers the voices and needs of those who are suicidal. Takeaways: Let’s talk about it. _____ Heath Hightower, Ph.D., LCSW-CT, LICSW-MA (he, him, his). Dr. Hightower is an Assistant Professor in the Social Work and Equitable Community Practice Department at the University of Saint Joseph. Heath’s clinical specialties and research interests include suicidality in minoritized communities, suicide bereavement, and the bio-psycho-social-spiritual concerns of LGBTQI+ populations affected by depression, anxiety, and trauma. Moreover, he has presented and co-presented at a variety of local, national, and international conferences including the American Association of Suicidology’s Annual Conference, the Boston University School of Social Work Professional Education Program, The Massachusetts School Psychologists Association’s Fall Conference, The Massachusetts Department of Mental Health, The Massachusetts Commission for the Blind, and the World Grief Conference. In 2017, Dr. Hightower was awarded a Connecticut State College and University Board of Regents Scholarly Excellence Award for his applied positive psychology research with community college students. ___________ For more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠⁠www.nationalhumanservices.org Find us on social media!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter (X) All our interview videos available on our YouTube page: www.youtube.com/@NOHS_Org Listen and follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeart Radio app! podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nationalhumanservicesorg

In this conversation, Dr. Braxton Morrison discusses his work in crisis intervention, particularly in the context of emergency services. He shares his personal journey and experiences with mental health challenges and how they led him to focus on crisis intervention. Dr. Morrison emphasizes the importance of crisis intervention in supporting emergency services personnel who often face traumatic events and the need for greater recognition and awareness of the field. He also highlights the challenges and gaps in current crisis intervention training and calls for a more comprehensive and standardized approach. Dr. Morrison shares his vision for the future of crisis intervention, including the development of a recognized and licensed profession. Dr. Morrison also highlights the challenges and opportunities in the field, providing valuable advice for those interested in crisis intervention. Let's talk about it. ______ About Dr. Braxton: Dr. Braxton Morrison holds a PhD in human services, specializing in disaster, crisis, and intervention. Dr. Morrison brings diverse expertise to the field with a background in law enforcement, emergency medical services, and medicolegal death investigations, as well as suicide intervention, prevention, and postvention. Dr. Morrison is passionate about bringing recognition and awareness to the field of crisis intervention and the work practitioners do. _____ for more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠⁠https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/ Find us on social media!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/nationalhumanservices/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationalHumanServices Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nohs_org/ Twitter (X): https://twitter.com/NOHS_org All our interview videos available on our YouTube page: www.youtube.com/@NOHS_Org Listen and follow on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and the iHeart Radio app! podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/nationalhumanservicesorg

Join us as we explore the complexities of educating and advocating for children with autism with our guest, Lawrence Nentwig. With a background in neuroscience and psychology, and experience as an autism consultant, Lawrence shares the critical issues parents face in navigating the public education system. He emphasizes the importance of understanding educational regulations, the lack of training and resources for teachers, and his personal challenges in finding suitable education options for his children. The conversation also delves into the impact of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic on children with autism, the rise in developmental delays, and the role of neuroplasticity in autism. Lawrence highlights the need for reform in the education and healthcare systems to better support individuals with autism, calling for more integration, understanding, and individualized approaches in the classroom. Don't miss this insightful discussion on creating a more inclusive educational environment. Let’s talk about it. Lawrence Nentwig is an Autism Consultant with a strong background in Neuroscience and Psychology, specializing in education, counseling, and curriculum development for individuals with autism and their families. He excels in designing and delivering professional training programs, both in-person and virtually, to foster inclusive environments. With expertise in counseling, he supports individuals and families by providing effective coping strategies. Lawrence is also skilled in creating tailored curriculum materials and utilizing data analysis to continuously refine educational and counseling interventions. He collaborates with healthcare professionals, educators, and community organizations to advocate for the rights and well-being of the autism community. Lawrence holds a Master of Science in Neuroscience and a Master of Arts in Psychology from the University of Texas at Dallas.

In the final episode of "In Focus," host Alicia delves into the multifaceted challenges associated with ADHD. This episode unpacks common symptoms, self-sabotage behaviors, and the stigma surrounding ADHD. Alicia explores how social media can negatively impact individuals with ADHD, exacerbating two major challenges: poor wellness habits and lack of routine. She discusses the unique connection between habit-building and the ADHD brain's response to the absence of structure. Additionally, Alicia highlights the importance of personal environments, such as living spaces and work areas, in influencing comfort and peace of mind. She also covers how certain foods and drinks can trigger ADHD symptoms and harm physical health. Finally, Alicia offers practical suggestions for rethinking and mitigating the negative impacts of ADHD. Don’t miss this insightful and empowering conclusion to the series! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ___ References: "How to Make Your Future Habits Easy" by James Clear Link: https://jamesclear.com/reset-the-room ___ App Suggestions: "One Sec" one-sec.app/ "Readbay" apps.apple.com/us/app/readbay-ai-just-1-daily-read/id6458649176 ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In the third and final episode of "Beyond the Label," host Molly delves into the personal stories of individuals living with chronic illnesses, diseases, and disabilities. Drawing from film, poetry, and media, Molly examines how words profoundly impact those with chronic conditions. This episode highlights how language is often misused, perpetuating black-and-white stereotypes. Through powerful examples, Molly demonstrates the timeless and significant influence of the written word. Additionally, she provides insight into common statements that are insensitive to individuals living with chronic illnesses and disabilities, encouraging listeners to consider the weight of their words. Don’t miss this compelling conclusion to the series! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication. ______________ Media Credits: Samuel Martin | The underestimated power of words TEDxYouth@AnnArbor | August 2017 "Litany for Survival" poem by Audre Lorde | The Black Unicorn Collection | 1978 "A Mother's Courage: Talking Back to Autism," directed by Fridrik Thor Fridriksson. First Run Features, 2009.

In the final episode of "I Wish I Knew," host Rachel is joined by her cousin Sabrina for a powerful discussion on the roles and unfair challenges women face in a "man's world." Together, they explore the evolving expectations of womanhood, examining how gender roles have changed and remained the same over generations. They delve into the types of jobs women are expected to take and how these expectations persist in the 21st century. The episode also tackles double standards in various aspects of life, such as sports, work, and family systems. Additionally, Rachel and Sabrina discuss the impact of social media on the expectations of girls and women over the past two decades. They unpack common misconceptions about how women live, maintain their health, and choose their own paths. Don't miss this insightful and thought-provoking conclusion to the series! ________________________________________ email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In the final episode of "The Virtues of Laziness," host Maureen delves into the crucial topic of personal space. She explores the cycle of anxiety and personal rumination, offering practical advice on how to stop the "run away jitters" and create a space that fosters relaxation and peace of mind. Maureen helps listeners understand their own definitions of personal space and examines the relationship between "availability" and "ability." She discusses the importance of setting boundaries while remaining open to new experiences, emphasizing intentionality as key to balancing both. Drawing from philosophical concepts of freedom, drive, and authenticity, Maureen ties all these ideas together. She highlights the importance of creating a "Temple of Laziness," providing actionable steps to help you cultivate a sanctuary of calm and mindfulness in your daily life. Don't miss this insightful and transformative finale! _______________________________ email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication. ____________ Media Credits: "When Will My Life Begin" by Mandy Moore, from the album Tangled. Walt Disney Records, 2010. "New Level of Life" by Caylee Hammack, from the album If It Wasn't for You. Capitol Records Nashville, 2020. "We Didn't Start the Fire" by Billy Joel, from the album Storm Front. Columbia Records, 1989. "Be Kind" by Marshmello and Halsey, from the album Be Kind. Joytime Collective, Astralwerks, Capitol Records, 2020. "Vacation" by G.R.L., from the album G.R.L. Kemosabe Records, RCA Records, 2014. "Dig a Little Deeper" by Jenifer Lewis, from the album The Princess and the Frog. Walt Disney Records, 2009.

In the second episode of the In Focus podcast, host Alicia Spatafore delves into creating a personal toolkit designed to help those with ADHD develop good habits and minimize life's distractions. Alicia explains that an effective ADHD toolkit begins with something personal, incorporates universal elements, and results in something practical. Drawing from her own experiences following her ADHD diagnosis at age 12, Alicia shares her journey and the strategies she has found most effective. She discusses the importance of self-discipline, the challenges it presents, and the necessity of being honest with oneself. Tune in as Alicia offers valuable tips for building a personal toolkit to help anyone struggling with distraction. This episode is packed with practical advice and insights, aiming to empower listeners to take control and thrive despite the challenges of ADHD. EPISODE 3 PREMIERES MAY 31! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In this heartfelt episode of Beyond the Label, host Molly returns to share her deeply personal journey with type one diabetes, a condition she was diagnosed with at the tender age of six. Joined by her mother, they delve into the raw and emotional experience of navigating life with a chronic illness from both the perspective of a child and a parent. Molly opens up about the initial shock of her diagnosis, the overwhelming process of self-education, and the significant adjustments that became a part of their everyday lives. Her mother provides a poignant account of what it was like to support a child with such a demanding condition, highlighting the emotional and practical challenges they faced together. Throughout their conversation, they emphasize the importance of embracing these challenges, adapting to new routines, and the crucial shift towards self-advocacy and personal growth. This episode is a testament to resilience, offering insights and encouragement to anyone dealing with a chronic illness or supporting a loved one through it. EPISODE 3 PREMIERES MAY 31! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In the second episode of "I Wish I Knew," host Rachel McDonagh dives into the profound impact that expectations have on building and maintaining relationships. Joined by her sister Olivia, Rachel explores their personal experiences with past relationships, sharing valuable lessons they've learned along the way. Together, they discuss the importance of setting healthy boundaries in both new and old relationships. Olivia offers insightful advice to the audience on recognizing the lessons gleaned from both positive and negative experiences with friends, family, and partners. Tune in for an engaging and heartfelt conversation that sheds light on how to navigate expectations and foster healthier, more fulfilling relationships. EPISODE 3 PREMIERES MAY 29! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In Episode 2, Maureen explores how social expectations shape our perceptions of importance and self-worth. She delves into the challenge of making time for our favorite lazy activities in our busy lives and offers strategies to prioritize our own opinions over others'. Maureen discusses the importance of taking external judgments lightly and using intentionality to focus on our own needs and desires. She also breaks down different types of social pressures and explains how they trigger fear responses when we try to take time for ourselves. Tune in to discover how to reclaim your time, embrace intentional laziness, and live life on your own terms without guilt or fear. EPISODE 3 PREMIERES MAY 29! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication. ____________ Media Credits: "Numb Little Bug" by Em Beihold, from the album *Egg in the Backseat*. Moon Projects/Republic Records, 2022. "It Could've Been You" by Hannah Grae, from the album Hell Is a Teenage Girl. EPI Records, 2023.

In the debut episode of In Focus, host Alicia Spatafore, a senior at Assumption University majoring in communications and media, unpacks the realities of living with ADHD. Alicia introduces herself and shares her personal experiences with ADHD, shedding light on the chemical differences that lead to heightened distractibility compared to neurotypical brains. Joined by her guest Tyler, Alicia engages in a thought-provoking game where they navigate various daily life scenarios, revealing their unique responses to common distractions. Through their conversation, Alicia aims to bridge understanding between different cognitive experiences and offers practical suggestions for limiting distractions in an increasingly distracting world. Tune in to gain insights and strategies for transforming a distracted life into a more focused and intentional one. EPISODE 2 PREMIERES MAY 24!! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In In the premiere episode of Beyond the Label, host Molly Tempesta, a senior at Assumption University studying political science and communications, invites listeners to embark on a journey of radical acceptance. Drawing from her own experiences living with Type One Diabetes, Molly delves into the challenges of navigating life with illness and disability. She encourages a deeper look beyond societal labels and stereotypes. Molly shares personal anecdotes and discusses the often hostile portrayal of illness in social and entertainment media. She breaks down harmful stereotypes perpetuated by these platforms and highlights specific examples of media exploitation. Through heartfelt storytelling and critical analysis, Molly emphasizes the importance of not taking things at face value and advocates for a more compassionate understanding of those living with chronic conditions. Join Molly in this eye-opening conversation that challenges perceptions and promotes a more inclusive and accepting society. EPISODE 2 PREMIERES MAY 24!! email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. ____________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication. ____________ Media Credits: Parks & Rec (2011), Season 4, Episode 2. NBC. Saturday Night Live (2001), Season 27, Episode 4. NBC. Suite Life of Zack & Cody (2007), Season 2, Episode 34. Disney Channel.

In this inaugural episode, Rachel, a senior at Assumption University majoring in Organizational Communications with a keen interest in digital marketing, teams up with her friend Kat to dive deep into the world of college expectations and realities. Join Rachel and Kat as they reminisce about their freshman days, filled with excitement and high hopes, only to be hit by the unexpected challenges that came with the COVID-19 pandemic. They discuss how the pandemic reshaped their college experience, from online classes and social distancing to adapting to a new normal. Tune in as they unpack the gap between their initial college expectations and the actual experiences they faced, offering a candid and relatable perspective for current students and prospective college-goers alike. Whether you're navigating your own college journey or just curious about how students have adapted, this episode provides a heartfelt look at the resilience and adaptability of today's college students. EPISODE 2 PREMIERES MAY 22! In collaboration with Assumption University. The content is used for educational purposes. email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. __________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication.

In the debut episode, Maureen Lynch, a senior at Assumption University majoring in Communications and Media, takes us on a thought-provoking journey into the art of inaction. As the Editor in Chief of the school newspaper, an academic tutor, and a dedicated service provider at a pancreatic cancer charity where she interviews and profiles survivors, Maureen is no stranger to a busy schedule. Yet, she challenges us to reconsider the relentless pace of modern life. Maureen invites listeners to reflect on the question, "Who am I?" by delving into the philosophical origins of the "self." She encourages us to discover what laziness means to us personally and to recognize the consequences of measuring our worth solely through achievements. Through her insightful discussion, Maureen offers a refreshing perspective on how to integrate moments of inaction into our lives, fostering a healthier balance in the face of daily hustle culture. Join Maureen as she explores these profound concepts, guiding us toward a more mindful and intentional way of living. In collaboration with Assumption University. This content is used for educational purposes. EPISODE 2 PREMIERES MAY 22! Email us at info@nationalhumanservices.org for details on how to get involved with The Student Podcast Collaborative. __________ About the Project: This project involves Communication & Media majors creating a ninety-minute, three-part podcast series as their final capstone project. Students transition from learners to practitioners by proposing, scripting, recording, editing, and broadcasting their original podcasts, which must address both personal and public concerns. The podcast format is chosen for its relevance and growth in the industry, and the long-form nature of the series encourages students to develop storytelling, research, and production skills. The course emphasizes understanding the opportunities and limitations of media in human communication. The content is used for educational purposes. ____________ Media Credits: "What Was I Made For?" by Billie Eilish, from the Motion Picture "Barbie" Soundtrack. Atlantic Records, 2023.

In PART TWO of our conversation, Dr. Brenda dives into the potential of AI in establishing a financial foundation and developing a structure for our personal value systems. We explore further what impact AI could have on the ins and outs of human service provision. Dr. Brenda confronts financial stereotypes associated with nonprofits and human service organizations. We also breakdown her process of creating financial wellbeing. Let’s talk about it. _____ Dr. Brenda's websites: https://drbrendamoneycoach.com/ https://drbrendau.com/ Take Brenda’s Quiz to find out your Money Archetype: https://drbrendamoneycoach.com/quiz/ About Dr. Brenda: Dr. Brenda seamlessly blends her sociology and personal finance expertise with a profound dedication to environmental stewardship. In her transformative book, Money Road Trip: Chart Your Course to Financial Freedom, she guides readers on an enlightening journey to achieve both financial freedom and joy. As the visionary behind PlanetSmart Finance Fest, she advocates for a sustainable future where wealth building and planetary health are in harmony. Her programs, celebrated for their clear-cut wisdom, engaging resources, and visually stunning graphics, inspire individuals to achieve both financial prosperity and ecological mindfulness. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she addresses critical topics like burnout and financial freedom, including her popular “From Ramen to Riches” talk, specifically tailored for college students. In 2020, Dr. Brenda embraced a life on the open road, demonstrating that anything is possible when you dare to follow your heart's desires. When she’s not anchored at her southern California base, you can find her RVing, with her adventurous cats in tow, discovering new sights around every bend as they roam America together. Dr. Brenda's journey is a testament to living boldly and pursuing dreams with courage, one mile at a time, inspiring others to do the same. _______________ for more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠⁠https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/ Find us on social media!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠ ⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠Twitter (X)⁠ All our interview videos available on our ⁠YouTube ⁠page.

This week we welcome Dr. Brenda Uekert to the Roundtable! In PART ONE of our conversation, Dr. Brenda shares her history with burnout and how it led to her work as a financial coach and a more meaningful lifestyle. We discuss the effects of burnout on human service professionals and the consequences that impact our capacities to serve others and ourselves. Dr. Brenda also unpacks the importance of financial education and how it relates to the current state of success in the human services field. Let’s talk about it. _____ Dr. Brenda's websites: https://drbrendamoneycoach.com/ https://drbrendau.com/ Take Brenda’s Quiz to find out your Money Archetype: https://drbrendamoneycoach.com/quiz/ About Dr. Brenda: Dr. Brenda seamlessly blends her sociology and personal finance expertise with a profound dedication to environmental stewardship. In her transformative book, Money Road Trip: Chart Your Course to Financial Freedom, she guides readers on an enlightening journey to achieve both financial freedom and joy. As the visionary behind PlanetSmart Finance Fest, she advocates for a sustainable future where wealth building and planetary health are in harmony. Her programs, celebrated for their clear-cut wisdom, engaging resources, and visually stunning graphics, inspire individuals to achieve both financial prosperity and ecological mindfulness. As a sought-after keynote speaker, she addresses critical topics like burnout and financial freedom, including her popular “From Ramen to Riches” talk, specifically tailored for college students. In 2020, Dr. Brenda embraced a life on the open road, demonstrating that anything is possible when you dare to follow your heart's desires. When she’s not anchored at her southern California base, you can find her RVing, with her adventurous cats in tow, discovering new sights around every bend as they roam America together. Dr. Brenda's journey is a testament to living boldly and pursuing dreams with courage, one mile at a time, inspiring others to do the same. _______________ for more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠⁠https://www.nationalhumanservices.org/ Find us on social media!⁠⁠⁠ ⁠LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Twitter (X) All our interview videos available on our YouTube page.

Empowerment & Emotional Intelligence w/ Dawn Gillom-Carter Our conversation continues with Dawn Gillom-Carter, Associate Professor & Academic Coordinator at Prince George’s County Community College. Professor Carter breaks down the meaning of emotional intelligence and how crucial it is on the path to becoming a change agent. Her work with diverse populations and as an educator gives her the opportunity to invest in her own evolution as a change agent in human services, as well as those of her students. The tenets of emotional intelligence are foundational to our relationships with ourselves and others: self-awareness, empathy, motivation, self-regulation, and social skills. Professor Carter shares how she uses these principles to guide her students through understanding what emotional intelligence is and how to embrace it in there personal and professional lives. We dissect what it means to “meet people where they are” and the barriers we face in the process of learning our relationship to other individuals. How do our emotions arise in and impact our work serving others? What techniques can we embrace, both in our personal lives and in the classroom, to help us evolve our emotional intelligence and self-awareness? Let’s talk about it. _____ About Professor Carter: Dawn Gillom-Carter is the associate professor and academic coordinator of human services at Prince George’s Community College. She holds an M.H.S. and an M.S. in human services, specializing in multidisciplinary human services. Professor Carter has been with the College since 2016, teaching introductory to upper-level courses in human services and psychology as an adjunct professor and executive director of a national non-profit human service organization. She is excited about her roles as associate professor and academic coordinator and strives to create an engaging learning environment where students become lifelong scholars and learners. She is a graduate of the National Leadership Institute on Developmental Disabilities at the University of Delaware, and holds a certification as a Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) from the Center for Credentialing & Education, Inc. Professor Carter is the current Regional Director for the National Organization for Human Services Mid-Atlantic Territory. ___________________ for more NOHS, visit our website: ⁠www.nationalhumanservices.org⁠ All our interview videos available on our ⁠⁠YouTube ⁠⁠page. Find us on social media!⁠ LinkedIn ⁠⁠Facebook⁠ ⁠Instagram⁠ ⁠X⁠

Empowerment & Emotional Intelligence w/ Dawn Gillom-Carter We return to the Roundtable with Dawn Gillom-Carter, Associate Professor & Academic Coordinator at Prince George’s County Community College. Professor Carter breaks down the meaning of emotional intelligence and how crucial it is on the path to becoming a change agent. Her work with diverse populations and as an educator gives her the opportunity to invest in her own evolution as a change agent in human services, as well as those of her students. The tenets of emotional intelligence are foundational to our relationships with ourselves and others: self-awareness, empathy, motivation, self-regulation, and social skills. Professor Carter shares how she uses these principles to guide her students through understanding what emotional intelligence is and how to embrace it in there personal and professional lives. We dissect what it means to “meet people where they are” and the barriers we face in the process of learning our relationship to other individuals. How do our emotions arise in and impact our work serving others? What techniques can we embrace, both in our personal lives and in the classroom, to help us evolve our emotional intelligence and self-awareness? Let’s talk about it. Part 2 premieres March 19th. _____ About Professor Carter: Dawn Gillom-Carter is the associate professor and academic coordinator of human services at Prince George’s Community College. She holds an M.H.S. and an M.S. in human services, specializing in multidisciplinary human services. Professor Carter has been with the College since 2016, teaching introductory to upper-level courses in human services and psychology as an adjunct professor and executive director of a national non-profit human service organization. She is excited about her roles as associate professor and academic coordinator and strives to create an engaging learning environment where students become lifelong scholars and learners. She is a graduate of the National Leadership Institute on Developmental Disabilities at the University of Delaware, and holds a certification as a Human Services-Board Certified Practitioner (HS-BCP) from the Center for Credentialing & Education, Inc. Professor Carter is the current Regional Director for the National Organization for Human Services Mid-Atlantic Territory. ___________________ for more NOHS, visit our website: www.nationalhumanservices.org All our interview videos available on our ⁠YouTube ⁠page. Find us on social media! LinkedIn Facebook Instagram X