Stuff That Matters - A New Hope Podcast

Mike Leach is the Chief External Engagement Officer for Think Of US. He's the Principal for Leach Consulting Group, LLC, a partner at Momenta Advisors, Senior Fellow at Center for the Helping Professions and the former State Director at South Carolina DSS.(00:01:23-00:14:58) - His background – gettinginto child welfare and into the South Carolina DSS space.(00:14:59-00:41:07) – A birds eye view of the childwelfare system; what states are doing things well. A look at the frontline staff, and ultimately what is needed to help families stay together. How things have changed post pandemic in the last few years, specifically pertaining toolder adolescents. (00:41:08-00:45:51) – Child welfare and juvenilejustice systems acquiring investments and receiving funding to improve the care that can be provided. The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  to learn more about New Hope on our WEBSITE.

Michael Prelaske is a high school social studies teacher in Wake County, NC, a Graduate Research Assistant at NC State, and founder of 1347 Games, where he designs immersive, multiplayer simulations for classroom learning. His work challenges the traditional model of passive instruction by exploring how digital game-based learning can improve engagement, deepen understanding, and increase long-term retention.Michael’s research focuses on the efficacy of game-based instruction, particularly how well knowledge transfers beyond the game environment and sticks with students over time. He is especially interested in how interactive systems can make abstract or complex content—like global trade, historical decision-making, and social systems—more tangible and meaningful for adolescents.Before entering the classroom, Michael served as a Community Youth Development Officer in Mongolia with the Peace Corps, an experience that continues to shape his perspective on education, culture, and access. He has since earned multiple Teacher of the Year recognitions in North Carolina and is currently pursuing a Ph.D. in Teacher Education and Learning Sciences at North Carolina State University.Through both his research and his company, Michael is working to redefine what rigorous, engaging learning can look like in modern classrooms—moving beyond memorization toward experiences that students can think with.Digital Gaming Based Learning (DGBL) technology as a whole – what is, when did it start to take shape and be recognized as a tool for students - has the potential to revolutionize how students learn by making education more interactive, immersive, and relevant to their lives. (00:01:31-00:20:37) - His background – when did he start to take an interest in this type of learning, Digital Gaming Based Learning (DGBL) as a whole. A little more about Thirteen Forty-Seven Games - which is the only game design firm specializing in standards-based multiplayer simulations for the secondary social studies classroom(00:20:38-00:33:20) – How the work that’s being done at Thirteen Forty-Seven is transforming modern education and how students have responded to this type of learning.(00:35:07-00:47:53) - The distinction between DGBL and typical video games on an XBOX or PlayStation – what makes this form of gaming so much more beneficial. The level of engagement amongst students who are participating in DGBL classes.(00:47:54-00:52:49) - Five-year outlook or maybe sooner - do you see this type of learning being utilized in other subjects – making math or algebra more immersive, and maybe even branching into the corporate world, during an orientation period for new hires at a company – what other possibilities are out there?(00:52:51) – The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  to learn more about New Hope on our WEBSITE.

Officer Michael Chavis, a Police Lieutenant for the Rock Hill Police department. Coming up on nearly 25 years of service, Officer Chavis has seen it all. Serving as a police officer, detective, a sergeant, lieutenant, public information and an executive officer. We discuss how he got into law enforcement, what role the Rock Hill PD has pertaining to mental health, substance abuse, homelessness and suicide prevention. The changes that he has seen over the years, and so much more. Officer Chavis, like much of the Rock Hill PD, has been a friendly face and resource in the community, attending various events and having a strong relationship with the likes of NAMI. Like all police in this country, serving while providing care and safety is their biggest duty. Michael along with the rest of the officers in Rock Hill do just that.(00:01:11-00:18:15) – His background, getting into law enforcement. The Rock Hill Police Department’s relationship with NAMI and how they respond to mental health emergencies.(00:18:17-00:37:38) – What a mobile crisis unit is, law enforcement providing both safety and care as it pertains to mental health, how the police department has changed over the years. Trends regarding substance abuse and homelessness in the community and what RHPD is doing to combat those issues.(00:37:39-00:49:34) – Calls and responses related to suicide intervention. The connection to the 988 lifeline and how texting 911 can either save lives or serve as a resource for those in any sort of trouble. The nature of law enforcement being a taxing job and the importance of police officers treating their own mental health.(00:51:25-01:01:02) – Law enforcements role in the community, attending events, being in the public eye and dictating the perception of how they’re viewed with their engagement. (01:01:03) – The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  to learn more about New Hope on our WEBSITE.

Ben Ingraham is a clinical social worker specializing in trauma-focused care for individuals in high-stress, high-responsibility professions, including military service members, veterans, first responders, and medical professionals. With over 12 years of clinical experience in the medical field both in the civilian realm as well as the military, his work centers on helping clients understand, process, and recover from the lasting effects of trauma in a way that is practical, respectful, and sustainable.Ben's commitment to trauma work is deeply personal. Prior to entering the clinical field, he served as a Hospital Corpsman in the United States Navy, spending the majority of my time embedded with the U.S. Marine Corps, 1st Battalion, 8th Marines at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. That experience shaped his understanding of responsibility under pressure, moral injury, and the long-term impact of carrying others through their worst moments. It also instilled a deep respect for the quiet resilience—and often unseen suffering—of those in service-oriented roles.His mission is to provide compassionate, trauma-informed care that meets people where they are, honors their lived experience, and supports real, lasting change. He is especially passionate about improving access to care, reducing stigma around mental health in service professions, and helping individuals move from simply surviving to living with greater resilience, clarity, and purpose.(00:01:58-00:15:17) - His experience working with the armed forces and how it relates to mental health, areas for improvement, potential gaps and lack of resources.(00:15:20-00:21:54) – The culture of mental health amongst veterans and active-duty military over the years. How things have changed and how things haven’t. Ben’s family history and view of what he does currently.(00:23:40-00:39:58) – Why there is a lack of resources for veteran mental health. Dissecting the 22KILL initiative which was implemented to combat roughly 22 veterans who take their own life every day due to mental health and struggles with PTSD. The state of today’s generation of incumbent military personnel.(00:39:59-00:54:04) – Diving into the VA system.(00:54:06-01:04:34) – How his lived experience serving the country has benefited him as a mentor and social worker. (01:04:36) – The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  to learn more about New Hope on our WEBSITE.

Carlos Grant is the Executive Director of Alternative Programs in Rock Hill Schools. He has the responsibility of leading efforts across all five of the district's alternative programs that support mental health services, virtual learners, and students at the elementary, middle, high school.(01:15-17:44) -His background and what the vision was when he became the Executive Director of Alternative Programs. The biggest changes he has seen in the school systems pertaining to mental health awareness and resources for students.(19:31-30:37) – Phones in schools, the downfalls, promoting more socialization. The advantages of technology and progression of AI tools, new programs to have a more efficient learning environment. Parents and the workforce impacting engagement with families/guardians.(30:40–37:01) What has Carlos hopeful looking at the future of our school systems and students in Rock Hill…his Goldfish Analogy.37:02– the stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our WEBSITE to learn more about New Hope.

Sharmea Cousar, known as Ms. Icey at our PRTF in Rock Hill, SC, joined New Hope originally in 2015. She has served multiple roles, but has been part of our education department as a teacher the last few years. Her story of compassion and her commitment to the mission, serving youth at New Hope is inspiring and amazing. She was recognized by her peers at our End of Year event with our first-ever Wanda V. Burris Compassion award. (00:00) - her intro, background, and a typical day and when she first noticed the impact she was having on the kids.(07:25) – what she wants those outside the organization to know about the work that she does and that work that is done at New Hope.(09:55) – what she does after a long or difficult day in her personal life that helps her reset and recharge and the unique opportunities that New Hope has provided her.(22:09) – how teaching at New Hope helps with teaching as a parent and vice versa.(27:46) – receiving the Wanda V. Burris Compassion Award a tour end of year event. Her connection with Mrs. Burris, who we sadly lost last year as a key member of the New Hope family. How she got into Education and teaching.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our WEBSITE to learn more about New Hope.

Building Resilience, Reclaiming Hope – No Exceptions. Since 1992, The Lionheart Foundation has been creating high-impact, evidence-informed programs that empower incarcerated adults, systems-involved youth, adolescent parents, and direct care staff serving trauma-impacted youth. At the core of everything they do is the belief that all human life has inherent worth, dignity, and resiliency – no exceptions.By providing high-impact, evidence-informed social and emotional programming, the non-profit organization helps systems-impacted adults and youth to: rediscover their intrinsic worth, build the capacity for self-regulation, develop the tools needed to build peaceful and productive lives.The programs are used by a wide variety of people who work with their target populations: mental health clinicians, program staff, chaplains, community workers, credible messengers, social workers, direct care staff, volunteers, and many others. Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our  WEBSITE to learn more about New Hope.

Our Mental Health Ambassador, Kiara Grace Nalle takes you through a peaceful journey.

The show goes back to its roots! No guests, as the hosts recap 2025 for the podcast, as well as New Hope's accomplishments and what to look forward to heading into what should be an exciting 2026.

Under the sponsorship of The Steel Network and as a direct result of her relationships and experience at Extivita-RTP, in 2023 Kristy Andrews embraced an opportunity to spearhead a novel and impactful endeavor - HBOT4Heroes, a 501c3 non-profit organization dedicated to helping our veterans heal naturally.At HBOT4Heroes, the objective is to restore the brain health of our American heroes with Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). Veterans can receive 40 funded HBOT treatments through HBOT4Heroes’ preferred clinic, Extivita-RTP in Raleigh, NC, allowing them the unique opportunity to increase oxygen levels to a therapeutic level of intense healing through a non-invasive strategic implementation of oxygen and pressure. Kristy is genuinely humbled to be a small part of the great things this nonprofit is achieving to help our American heroes heal, and join the fight against veteran suicide. Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our WEBSITE .

We speak with our Admissions Coordinator, Lorraine Bethea, to learn all about the intake process, the complexities and challenges, opportunities and successes. The intake process is one of the first steps on a youth's journey at New Hope, and Ms. Lorraine is often one of the first faces that a child will see. It's an uncertain and confusing time for many, but Lorraine's calm demeanor and reassurance is a a vital first step.

April Simpkins is a dynamic HR leader with over 30 years of experience in executive business strategy and multiple HR certifications. After eighteen years, April successfully sold her consulting practice to focus on her career as a professional speaker. Recognized for her expertise, she is a sought-after international keynote speaker who has spoken at many conferences, including Fortune 500 corporate events, and on the campuses of several Ivy League universities.April's leadership extends beyond her professional duties. She has served as the Board Chair for the York County Regional Chamber and is an active member of the South Carolina Small Business Development Center (SCSBDC) board. She is on the Duke Energy Advisory Board in the Upstate of South Carolina and was appointed by the Governor of South Carolina to the York County Natural Gas Board of Directors.April is a passionate mental health advocate, serving as an Ambassador for the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) and a board member of NAMI Piedmont Tri-County. Her dedication to eliminating the stigma around mental illness is deeply personal and meaningful. After losing her daughter, Cheslie Kryst, to suicide in 2022, April has become an even more vocal supporter. Cheslie, who struggled with depression, co-authored the New York Times Bestseller called "By The Time You Read This – The Space Between Cheslie's Smile And Mental Illness - Her Story In Her Own Words" with April. To honor Cheslie's legacy, April founded the Cheslie C. Kryst Foundation.She is also the host of the podcast As I Was Saying, in which she explores the intersection of professional life and mental health with candor, insight, and compassion.(00:02:03-00:11:57) – The process of becoming an author and the completion of her book outlining her daughter’s life.(00:11:58-00:28:07) – What April learned about herself and Cheslie while writing the book and in the immediate aftermath of her passing, as well as some of the biggest misconceptions surrounding suicide and mental health.(00:28:08-00:35:15) – How she approaches her speaking engagements, what she shares with families and individuals depending on the specific cases.(00:37:00-00:43:15) – How she balances telling Cheslie’s story while still healing and protecting her privacy. (00:43:17-00:46:39) – What skillsets she transferred into her speaking, podcasting, book publishing and advocacy from her experience and time as an HR consultant and businesswoman. (00:46:41-00:57:17) – Her partnership with NAMI.(00:57:18-00:59:57) – The legacy her book and Cheslie’s story will hopefully leave.(00:58:58) – The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our WEBSITE.

Sitina Digby has been a part of the New Hope family for almost 30 years!! One of our longest tenured employees and someone that has perhaps the closest connection to the building itself. She has moved around quite a bit in her time with us and is now assisting in the PQI department.

On our first Hope Grown with a current staff, we welcomed on the ever effervescent Ms. Kim Hudson. She was named as the building’s third Residential Director in January, 2024, tasked with overseeing the Learning Enriched Autism Program (LEAP). After just four years at New Hope serving in various roles, her tenacity, persistence, attention to detail and dedication to excellence allowed her to advance in her career.Ms. Kim is considered a force of positivity and creativity. Her compassion and understanding of the residents are unquestionable and well known throughout all at New Hope. Ms. Kim embodies being kind, yet firm. She has an unquenchable thirst for knowledge and is constantly wanting to improve her craft. She is admired and beloved by the staff and the residents at New Hope. She is a powerful example of what people should strive to be.Joining New Hope in January, 2020, the South Carolina native served as a Team Lead, Clinical Counselor and a Supervisor on the LEAP program. Hudson brought her talents NHTC after years of experience working in customer service roles and as a lead employee trainer for Belk Fulfillment Center, program coordinator and Parks and Recreation Director for the City of Chester.She is a wife, a mother and a grandmother. Hudson is a professional who is dedicated to fostering growth and connection, with a passion for building meaningful relationships. Hudson is a lifelong learner who has a bachelor’s and master’s in business and a bachelor’s in biblical studies. Ms. Kim is also an Ordained Minister and empowerment speaker who has over 30 years of experience working with youth. She is full of enthusiasm for life and embraces new opportunities. Her Motto is “Everyone Deserves to Feel their Best”(00:01:48-00:02:36) Her background and journey at New Hope, arriving in her current role as Residential Director of LEAP.(00:02:38-00:03:33) What she finds most rewarding about the work she does.(00:03:35-00:07:03) What a day in Ms. Kim’s life looks like while at our PRTF and what keeps her motivated and driven. (00:07:05-00:14:40) Some of the misunderstandings and misconceptions about what the youth at New Hope go through and what their experience is like while receiving services; what makes the staff at New Hope different; the importance of engaging activities for the kids. (00:14:41-00:16:50) How her perspective on mental health has developed and changed while working at New Hope.(00:18:36) What LEAPS expansion has meant to the program, the staff and kids.

Mary is the Executive Director of Emerald School of Excellence, an accredited recovery high school in Charlotte dedicated to providing a nurturing and supportive environment for students struggling with substance use disorders and other mental health challenges. The school offers a comprehensive range of services designed to support both academic success and personal recovery.The nonprofit opened its doors in September 2019. Founded in 2017, the school was created to provide a safe, supportive environment where teens in recovery from substance use and mental health challenges can heal, grow, and succeed.Mary’s passion for this work is deeply personal. Adopted from Guadalajara, Mexico, she has walked her own journey of recovery from an eating disorder, depression, and self-harm. Her lived experience fuels her mission to ensure that young people facing similar struggles have access to the education, resources, and encouragement they need to thrive.Before founding Emerald School of Excellence, Mary dedicated 11 years to teaching and coaching in the public school system. This invaluable experience gave her firsthand insight into the challenges students face and the importance of creating an environment where every learner feels seen, supported, and empowered. She holds a 𝗕𝗮𝗰𝗵𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗳 𝗦𝗰𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲 𝗱𝗲𝗴𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝗲𝗻𝘀 𝗨𝗻𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗬𝗼𝗿𝗸 and has become a recognized leader in the recovery and education space.Through 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗱 𝗦𝗰𝗵𝗼𝗼𝗹 𝗼𝗳 𝗘𝘅𝗰𝗲𝗹𝗹𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, Mary is not just building a school—she’s building a movement. A place where teens can rediscover hope, embrace their potential, and create a future full of possibilities.𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱𝘀 & 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 • 𝗔𝗥𝗦 𝗕𝗼𝗮𝗿𝗱 𝗠𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 (𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗲𝗻𝘁) • 𝗡𝗖𝗔𝗗𝗗 𝗕𝗿𝗼𝗻𝘇𝗲 𝗞𝗲𝘆 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 (𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰) – 𝗢𝘂𝘁𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗹𝗲𝗮𝗱𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗵𝗶𝗽, 𝘀𝗲𝗿𝘃𝗶𝗰𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘄𝗶𝘀𝗱𝗼𝗺. • 𝗔𝗣𝗡𝗖 𝗥𝗲𝗰𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆 𝗥𝗼𝗹𝗲 𝗠𝗼𝗱𝗲𝗹 𝗔𝘄𝗮𝗿𝗱 (𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟬) – 𝗛𝗼𝗻𝗼𝗿𝗲𝗱 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗽𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗰𝗼𝗺𝗺𝗶𝘁𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁Mary’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and unwavering dedication. She continues to inspire and uplift countless young people, proving that with the right support, healing and success are possible.00:01:48-00:12:23 – What a recovery high school entails. 00:12:24-00:26:23 – Origin story of Emerald. 00:28:08-00:42:01 – Kids being introduced to substances whether it be drugs or alcohol; what influences that initial use, the different factors and upbringings of children and the socioeconomic impact on addiction and substance abuse.00:42:02-00:46:34 - The relationship with the alumni, resources that are offered to graduates and how they stay connected with past students.00:46:36-00:55:25 - Success story and what people can do to support and contribute to the school.00:55:26 - The Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, rate and review. You can watch full episodes on YOUTUBE.Check out our WEBSITE.

Our Mental Health Ambassador, Kiara Grace Nalle was joined by a recent graduate of New Hope. Nathan Simmons completed his treatment a few years ago and is now living in Seattle, Wash. He is currently working in the mental health space, giving back to kids that had a similar upbringing and face similar battles.

Ian once embraced the “work hard, play harder” mentality, diving head first into a lifestyle that celebrated excessive drinking. He started sipping beer at the age of 1, bartended in the middle of nowhere at 13, built a business from the ground up in 2003, endured two failed marriages, and ultimately sold his company in 2016 while fat and drunk in Vegas. Ian then reached a breaking point and began his journey to reclaim his life. This time, he rebuilt everything—his relationships, his business, and his sense of purpose—without relying on the crutch of martini lunches or wine dinners.Today, Ian is a successful author, his book Wild Ride to Sobriety can be found on Amazon, an entrepreneur, and the creator of Make It Great (MIG). Proudly sober since 2017, he has dedicated himself to personal growth, family, and living a life of purpose and clarity. His journey from addiction to empowerment has become his mission: to help others trapped in the same cycle of self-destruction break free and embark on their own transformative path to health, passion, and a renewed mindset.Through his book, Wild Ride To Sobriety, Ian aims to inspire others to overcome their struggles and embrace a life of balance, success, and fulfillment.(00:02:16-00:08:47) – His book.(00:08:48-00:20:04) – How his upbringing and environment played a role in his addiction to alcohol.(00:20:05-00:23:21) – His rock bottoms and what sparked a change in his behavior.(00:25:17-00:43:49) – His core 4 and what it is in his life that keeps him on his path of sobriety; the relationship he has with his family, friends and loved ones today.(00:45:33-00:52:49) – Make it Great00:52:50 – The Stuff that MattersWatch full episodes on YOUTUBE.

Introducing a new series to the STM channel! Hope Grown features New Hope success stories. This highlights a former resident turned current employee! Nathan graduated from New Hope several years ago. He discusses his childhood, upbringing, some of the struggles he was face with both prior to entering into New Hope's care and then after as well. He and Kiara dive into the impact that being back at New Hope has had on him and the impact he is making on the kids being served. This is the definition of FULL CIRCLE!

Victor Armstrong - Vice President for Health Equity & Engagement at The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention. He is a nationally recognized speaker on issues regarding health equity and access to healthcare, particularly as it relates to individuals living with mental health challenges.‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬‬ Victor previously served as North Carolina DHHS’s inaugural Chief Health Equity Officer, with responsibility for leading the overarching strategy and operational goals to promote health equity, diversity, and inclusion.Victor also served as Director of NC Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Substance Abuse Services (Mental Health Commissioner). Prior to this role Victor served as Vice President for Behavioral Health with Atrium Health in Charlotte, NC.He is the host of “Strong Talk”, a monthly podcast dedicated to the discussion of equity, access, and impact as it pertains to mental health and addictions. Victor currently serves on the Steering Committee of the National Action Alliance for Suicide Prevention. He also serves on the Board of Directors for i2i Center for Integrative Health, College for Behavioral Health Leadership, and McLeod Centers for Wellbeing. In addition, Victor serves on the board of advisors for East Carolina University School of Social Work and the 988 National Steering Committee. He is a member of the NC Institute of Medicine and National Association of Social Workers. Victor’s awards and recognition include:• Living Waters Annual Mental Health Summit 2022 “Lifetime Mental Health Champion” Award• National Association of Social Workers North Carolina (NASW-NC) 2022 Social Worker of the Year• Addiction Professionals of NC (APNC) 2021 DEI Leadership & Impact Award• Mental Health America’s 2021 H. Keith Brunnemer, Jr. Award for “Outstanding Mental Health Leadership”• Black Mental Health Symposium 2019 Mental Health Advocate of the Year• Atrium Health 2019 Excellence in Diversity & Inclusion Award• East Carolina University School of Social Work 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award• i2i Center for Integrative Health 2018 Innovation Award for "Whole Person Care"• National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) NC, 2012 Mental Health Professional of the Year.00:02:30-00:22:15 - His background and experience, the story of his trip to Cameroon.00:23:59–00:43:17 - 988, mental health resources, soul shops.00:43:19-00:55:55 – Growing up as the son of a preacher.00:58:51-1:02:32 – His podcast – “Strong Talk”.1:02:35-1:05:25 – Community events, charity events for suicide prevention, the impacts they have on the research and raising awareness.1:05:26 – Victor’s Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. WEBSITE

We speak with the Executive Vice President and COO of Grafton Integrated Health and the President of Ukeru Systems, Kim Sanders.00:02:30-00:14:28 – All about Ukeru.00:14:29-00:27:14 – Outcomes and datasurrounding Ukeru.00:28:58-00:38:33 – Ukeru’s approach toprevention with proactive interventions.00:38:35-00:44:24 – The reaction to Ukeru’ssystem from the residents, kids, youth.00:47:20-00:51:51 – How Ukeru is gettingapproved and how far the reach is, with more than 1000 schools and facilities utilizing the system throughout the globe. 00:51:52-00:58:08 - How long it took for Kimto see the benefits and impact Ukeru could have and the reception from the Grafton staff when it first launched.00:58:09 – Kim's Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com

Dr. Cynthia Persily at the site of one of our West Virginia transition homes. We held an Open House with 50+ providers, partners and stakeholders in the state. Dr. Persily recently served as the Cabinet Secretary, West Virginia Department of Human Services. She has years of experience on boards, working in hospital settings and also spent 20 years at West Virginia University. We discuss her accomplishments in the state and the need for what New Hope will be providing, which is a chance to keep West Virginia's youth home.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Stephen Trzeciak, MD, MPH is a physician scientist, the Edward D. Viner Endowed Chief of Medicine at Cooper University Health Care, and Professor of Medicine at Cooper Medical School of Rowan University in Camden, New Jersey. Dr. T, or Steve as he so graciously allowed us to call him during this episode, is a practicing intensivist (specialist in intensive care medicine), and a clinical researcher with more than 100 publications in the scientific literature. Of those publications, there are two books in which Steve is the co-author. Wonder Drug: 7 Scientifically Proven Ways That Serving Others Is the Best Medicine for Yourself released in 2022, and Compassionomics: The Revolutionary Scientific Evidence that Caring Makes a Difference came out in 2019. His work has been featured in numerous media outlets including CNN, NPR, USA TODAY, The Washington Post, Harvard Business Review, Freakonomics and now Stuff that Matters. Steve’s mission is helping people see the power of compassion, kindness, and hope — through science. As a self-proclaimed research nerd, we dive into Steve’s research and data that went into Compassionomics, what led to that research, the impact it has had on the healthcare industry and more. 00:02:10-00:20:39 His book Compassionomics. What got him started down the path of researching compassion in healthcare and the science behind compassion translating in a healthcare setting.00:22:23-00:36:33 - Burnout and compassion fatigue.00:36:34-00:41:37 - What impact the book had on the healthcare industry.00:41:38-00:47:57 - His latest book, Wonder Drug.00:49:52 - The stuff that matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We are joined by the CEO and Clinical Director of Youth Haven Services, Dawn Johnson. Dawn is also the author of the book, I Survived...So Far, which outlines her incredible story as a mother who has endured the unimaginable pain of burying two of her children and a grandchild. As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker specializing in child mental health, she offers a unique perspective that intertwines professional expertise with personal experience. Her journey through grief is not just a tale of sorrow but a testament to resilience and determination. Her story is a powerful illustration of the enduring power of love and the infinite perseverance of the human spirit.00:01:22- 00:15:36 – Her story and ultimately what went into the book.00:14:15-00:19:57 - How she was able to push forward and the hurdles she faced.00:22:19-00:27:52 – How tragedies and challengesin life can put things into perspective and change how you live yours.00:27:53-00:36:43 – Some of the misconceptionsabout trauma pertaining to ones mental health and if her past experiences as a counselor helped her get through her own trauma with her family.00:38:28-00:41:50 – How she’s able to find thejoy in life and has been able to push forward as a mom, CEO, simply living her life. 00:42:23-00:48:34 – More about Youth Haven Services.00:48:52 – The Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Episode 30! We’ve made it, and we’ve officially made it to March, which celebrates many things including Women’s History Month which you can hear throughout this episode, National Social Work month and the first day of Spring. With that comes a busy time for students across the country, so we were honored to welcome on Clinton Reynolds, Vice President of Programming at Communities in Schools of Charlotte-Mecklenburg, or CIS for short.Clinton is a servant leader in the education and mental health community who chooses to connect daily with his inner teacher and mentor. He has a passion for unraveling the great potential in today's youth through education, exposure, and compassion. In this episode, we dive into the state of adolescents and kids and families, how it connects to mental health and what Clinton see through his work at CIS. We will also take a broader look at the state of kids and schools and communities in today’s world.After working as a high school instructor in Charlotte, Clinton spent more than four years in the residential setting leading the education department before returning to teaching. He shares what he was able to learn from both environments and how much being an educator prepared him for working with youth in need. As Clinton said, students and kids need a caring adult. He has certainly been that through the relationships he has built which has allowed him to become the leader he is today.01:01:31-00:10:53 His background, what CIS is.00:11:23-00:18:49 Diving into the attendance rates across high school kids in the greater Mecklenburg county and across the country as well, specifically post covid. Also, the state of educating in the school systems, how are kids these days responding to being in school.00:19:22-00:30:26 Parents engagement in school functions and how challenging it has become for parents to attend things given the time, day, scheduling conflicts.00:32:07-00:41:51 – Transitioning from an education background and the school settings to working in the mental health space and residential settings.00:42:24-00:46:55 – How Clinton has grown as a leader applying it his current work with CIS.47:12 - The Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We're back! We kick 2025 off with Brant Evans. He is a therapeutic consultant and author. He helps connect kids and families to services, having gained a ton of experience and knowledge from his work in Wilderness therapy programs. He was very observant and taught himself different techniques, practices, preparing himself for more of a leadership role. He went on to work as an Executive Director for a recovery program, co-author his book co-author of Gods, Heroes, and Groups, to explore how timeless stories offer powerful insights into modern therapy and leadership. Brant is now a therapeutic consultant at Stucker, Smith, and Weatherly.00:00:09 - How he got started, culture shifts, examining the family system and helping kids through a different perspective and lens. How the wilderness program allowed him to examine different approaches.00:19:23 (19:20 vdeo) The causality of a shift in the wilderness therapy model and working with families from a therapeutic angle as it pertains to placement in residential treatment facilities.00:30:43 (30:55 video) The family involvement when a child does need to go into a residential setting.00:40:40 (41:00 video) His transition into a leadership role and therapeutic consulting, what lessons he learned that has carried along throughout his personal and professional journey.00:44:06 (45:29 video) We dive into his book.00:55:49 (57:11 video) The Stuff that Matters.Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenterWEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

The first of three parts! Kiara is joined by her friend, the first guest on KC, to discuss the impacts of social media, particularly on ones mental health. There are certainly some drawbacks and negatives, but there are also a lot of positives and uplifting content being posted that can really help in your life.

Kiara’s Corner is a real and relatable new series that will touch on various topics as it relates to mental health, wellness, and healing. Get deep with host, Kiara Grace, and embark on a journey to healing through the experiences life brings all of us. 

(00:01:36-00:16:13) Talks about his dad, our founder, Dr. George H. Orvin. His recollections of how New Hope began and the stories of the early chapters of the company. What made New Hope unique and a true trailblazer in our space when it first launched. (00:16:14-00:22:36) How Dr. Orvin influenced Jay as a leader. (00:24:33-00:33:29) How the vision that Dr. Orvin had when he started this organization match up with where it is today. How it matches with the vision that Jay had when he succeeded him. Over the years, some of the accomplishments, milestones, successes, memories that stand out the most. (00:33:31-00:44:42) As we continue to expand into different states, add new locations, new services and grow the company well beyond 600 employees, other opportunities that we have yet to tap into that Jay would like to see us explore. Where he wants to see the company in 5 years. What has being an owner of New Hope meant to he and his family. (00:46:08) The Stuff that Matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Kiara’s Corner is a real and relatable new series that will touch on various topics as it relates to mental health, wellness, and healing. Get deep with host, Kiara Grace, and embark on a journey to healing through the experiences life brings all of us. 

We were live at this past weekends annual NAMIWalks event at Cherry Park in Rock Hill. Our very own Mike O’Connor was on hand, as he spoke with various leaders and staff of New Hope, NAMI Piedmont Tri-County, in addition to other members of the community as well as friends and family who were there to walk and simply show their support. Everyone had the same goal in mind, to join together for mental health awareness. As a wise man once said, and may have even said that same morning, why walk alone when you can walk together. Together we walk and together we stand up for mental health.

Kiara’s Corner is a real and relatable new series that will touch on various topics as it relates to mental health, wellness, and healing. Get deep with host, Kiara Grace, and embark on a journey to healing through the experiences life brings all of us. 

Charles Bradley, a Child welfare leader and Annie E. Casey Foundation Children and Families Fellow with more than 20 years of collaborative management and keen business acumen in large, public child welfare organizations. He started his own consulting firm in August of 2023. He has demonstrated ability to manage complex tasks, competing priorities, develop collaborative working relationships with internal and external stakeholders to achieve measurable results, creative solutions, and successful projects. Effective team builder, ensuring a diverse, energizing, and supportive work culture dedicated to developing future leaders. Committed to racial equity and inclusion strategies to achieve equitable outcomes for children and families. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Daryl Rodgers is a Family Recovery Coach, Speaker, and Author. But his life was completely different 10 years ago. Darryl was a pilot, a loving father of two sons and a husband. His oldest son, Chase, was having some issues and exhibiting early signs of what became a rather long and difficult battle with addiction and substance abuse. It began in college, where Chase started getting into drugs, not only affecting his grades but his life in general. He dropped out in the second semester and returned home where the issues persisted. Darryl and his wife tried several treatment options, military school, constantly teetering on the line between pushing Chase away with too much tough love or enabling the behavior by not doing enough. It was impossible for Darryl to know what the right decisions were. Chase has started to make improvements and was in the process of moving to Florida when he was tragically killed in the passenger seat of a car crash in 2014. Darryl details Chase’s journey, what he and his family were faced with and decisions they had to make. After his son’s passing, He wrote his book, A Life is Worth It, detailing the events the led to events in 2014. Darryl found different peer support groups and decided to dedicate his life to helping others in the shoes he was once in. He now coaches parents who have a child with a substance use disorder (drug or alcohol addiction). He delivers inspiring drug-prevention speeches and impaired driving prevention speeches with real-world application. 00:02:39 – The story of his son, what he was going through and the issues that Darryl and his family faced. 00:47:55 – The work he is doing now, the book he wrote, A Life is Worth It, what did he learn from his experience with his son’s addiction journey and advice he has for parents in a similar situation…the process of addiction treatment...different resources for those struggling with an addiction as well as the loved ones of those that know someone suffering from addiction, peer support groups. 01:11:35 – How the impacts of Chase’s tragedy shaped who Darryl is as a father and the connection he has with his second son, Justin. 01:16:42 – The stuff that matters.

Emma is an Author, Speaker, Podcast host, Founder and President of the Life Is Worth It Organization, and Mental Health Expert whose passion is in suicide prevention, total life wellness and overall health education. With lived experience as a suicide survivor and loss survivor, Emma advocates for youth mental health and education while specializing in collaborative efforts to develop, implement and evaluate prevention strategies through workshops, communication and safe messaging on local, state, and federal levels. Emma’s many accomplishments include being named USA Today’s Woman of the Year Nevada, as well as being selected as the 2022 Winner of the Young Professional’s Network 20 Under 40 Award and the Winner of the 2021 Jersey Mike’s Sub Abover Award. 00:02:04-00:16:24 – Her story, dealing with her suicide attempt, mental health, telling people, when she became aware of what was going on in her life.   00:18:19-00:31:42 – Her nonprofit. 00:31:44-00:36:13 - Her treatment and therapy, what worked, what continues to work. 00:36:16-00:40:03 – Any advice she’d give to a parent, guardian, anyone not a therapist who is faced with a loved one that attempted suicide, suffers from depression and is struggling with their mental health. 00:41:28-00:48:20 – hHer speaking engagements, appearances, Tedtalk, how much it has helped her healing as much as it has helped those she shares her story with. 00:48:23 – the stuff that matters Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Richard Sandoval is the Senior Director of Community Programs at Hope Incorporated. That doesn’t even come close to describing who he is and what he’s about. Richard grew up in a large family in Arizona and was subjected to a drug dealing father as a child. Upon graduating high school, he enlisted in the marine core and served to deployments which began shortly after the events of 9/11. When he left the military in 2006, the traumas that he was faced with carried into his personal life went undiagnosed and untreated for several years. Richard fell into substance abuse, felony charges, drug addiction, two failed suicide attempts and prison time. He found Hope Incorporated in 2012 after his fifth time in rehab, which helped him stay clean and get his life on track. Most people hit rock bottom and often aren’t able to get back up. Richard was. Unlike a lot of people, Richard endured a second rock-bottom three years ago and relapsed after nearly 10 years of staying clean and sober. But the folks at Hope Incorporated stayed committed to Richard and were there for him every step of the way through the power of peer support. Richard continues to work on himself, is a father of two, is working towards his MBA and shares his story as much as he can. His passion, empathy, self-awareness and gratitude is impeccable. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We talk to Saul Malek - Storyteller & promoter of mental health, resilience & hope, sharing lessons from his journey with gambling addiction through public speaking. Saul was, like many, a big sports fan. As a college student, he was on the radio calling games, followed teams, enjoyed watching and rooting for outcomes. However, when he was introduced to daily fantasy sports and gambling websites in 2017, he started looking at sports much differently. His interest slowly turned into a hobby before ultimately turning into an obsession and an addiction. He went through a series of emotions when he wasn’t betting on games, transferred money from different bank accounts, was asking for money and putting his time and funds into gambling. He began to lose a grip of who he was as a person and realized he had lost touch with reality. Weather, politics, the outside world didn’t matter to Saul. He had been using several bookies to place wagers on every sport imaginable. It consumed his mind and was his main priority 24/7. Like drug and alcohol addiction, he needed help and he was able to get that help, but still speaks to a therapist, his sponsor, attends meetings and does what he can to avoid gambling. It’s challenge and a struggle. Like any addiction, gambling addiction can completely change and destroy a life. Saul is still paying off the debts he accrued through various bookies. (00:02:25-00:29:57) How he got into gambling, his initial introduction, his low points and when he realized he had a problem. (00:31:22-00:37:47) – When he decided to get help, gamblers anonymous and 1-800 gamblers (00:37:49-00:44:19) – His relationship with sports today and how he is able to navigate life today. (00:44:20-00:46:02) – His recent speaking trip to Las Vegas, what that was like for him. (00:47:59-00:56:14) – How prevalent gambling is today with so much accessibility and so much promotion of online gambling and DFS services. The harm it might be doing to those with a gambling personality. (00:56:15-01:02:31) – The link between mental health and gambling or addiction of any kind. (01:02:32) - The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We’re back! We had a nice conversation with Thompson Charles, the Founder & CEO of Envesti Solutions, located in Charlotte. Thompson has worked with kids with the same goal as New Hope, the ensure a better future for our youth. He has held several roles such as Director of Programming with Eckerd Kids, Program Manager and Learning and Development Specialist at Thompson Child & Family Focus. Thompson learned a lot over the years, including what makes a qualified employee able to work in this space. That insight and knowledge allowed him to start Envesti Solution in October of 2019. Envesti Solutions has figured out how to bridge the gap between how employees are trained and how they perform on the job. It trains and mentors the exact staff that New Hope hires, professionals that work in residential services and direct care, offering various services and programs. We talked to Thompson about his background, how he started Envesti, managing a business, managing employees, the orientation and interview process, what to look for in a candidate in today’s landscape, and more. Thompson’s knowledge is apparent, but he’s got a very laid-back approach mixed with a ton of passion for the work that he does. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We talked with Brandon Guffey, who is on the South Carolina House of Representatives. In his few short years as an elected official, Brandon has made significant changes to the state and his impact has been felt like few that have come before him, passing transformative bills at a rapid pace and putting into effect new policies and laws to combat some of the most delicate issues in this country such as the mental health crisis, digital safety and suicide prevention. Brandon wasn’t always into politics, however. Up until a few years ago, he was enjoying a career full of extensive sales and business experience, when tragedy struck his family, as his son, Gavin, took his own life as a teen. It was a complex situation, which Brandon outlines some of early on in this episode, but it sparked something within Brandon. With the help and motivation of his wife, he set out to make changes with the goal of preventing the same thing that happened to his son from happening to more youth. He finally decided to run for the city council in 2020 during the pandemic, and once he was elected, Brandon has been leading with his passion and, as Matt so eloquently put it, his Get Stuff Done attitude. He passed Gavin’s Law early on in his freshman year on the House of Representatives, which he explains to us. He also started a non-profit in his sons honor called Less Than Three. As a husband, father, elected official, suicide prevention, mental health and digital safety advocate, Brandon’s mentality and approach to how he lives his life and leads the state of South Carolina is truly inspiring. 00:02:08-00:12:01 - His story and background, Rock Hill native, his son’s suicide as a teenager. 00:12:03-00:33:27 - Protecting today’s youth, the power of big tech, his approach and mindset as a politician and how he started Gavin’s Law in South Carolina. 00:35:24-00:40:52 - Where the mental health epidemic in America stands as it relates to politics and policy makers. Why and how it sometimes falls to the waist side and how Brandon is making sure that doesn’t happen. 00:40:53-00:52:04 – His non-profit, Less Than Three <3. 00:53:28-1:00:28 - Where he sees mental health awareness, suicide prevention and digital safety in the next 5-10 years; how South Carolina is leading the charge to combat the issues. 1:00:29 - The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We were graced by the presence of a friend of New Hope, and now friend of the podcast, Kevin Hines. Kevin’s story is one that is well-documented. If you’re just hearing his name for the first time, Kevin was born to two biological parents who suffered from depression, alcoholism and drug addiction. He entered into the foster care system as a child and later became diagnosed with bipolar disorder and depression as a teen. His mental health struggles were so severe that he attempted to take his own life by jumping off the Golden Gate Bridge, where only 1% of attempts survive. Although his injuries were substantial, he lived to tell his story and turn his life around by inspiring others. Kevin is now a motivational speaker, podcast host, author, director, husband, father and suicide prevention advocate. He spoke at our facility in Rock Hill two years ago and made a lasting impression on staff and the youth that we serve. Kevin recently relaunched his podcast, appropriately titled HINESIGHTS, which can be heard wherever you get your podcasts, and on his YouTube channel, Kevin Hines Story. Kevin also shares more information on an upcoming film called “The Net” which is based on the creation and completion of the physical net that has been installed at the Golden Gate Bridge to further aid in suicide prevention. (00:01:47-00:11:11) We catch up with Kevin about what he has going on currently, his podcast which has just relaunched, his YouTube channel, the upcoming film, the Net, mental health impacting youth as a whole and if he ever saw himself being in the position he is in today as a an advocate for suicide prevention. (00:11:13-00:19:00) How social media and society as it currently stands is impacting mental health amongst our youth. (00:20:56-00:32:36) We talk more specifically about the Net, both the film and the physical structure, the background on the construction and the long, contentious process that went into getting it approved. (00:35:51-00:43:58) How he got into speaking in public and when it occurred to him that he needed to share his story, his message and what resources he still uses to this day to help with his mental health, his stresses, balancing everything he has going on in his life. (00:45:23) His biggest inspiration and who he looks at for motivation. (00:46:47) The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We're joined by Shameka Smith, the Program Coordinator for Second Round Boxing, which is part of Haven House Services in Raleigh. Second Round is one of 10 unique services that is offered to more than 1,200 youth, boys and girls, each year. (00:01:58-00:14:06) – What Second Round Boxing is. (00:14:07-00:18:57) – When she started to notice just how impactful second round boxing was for the youth, how confidence and communication is a point of emphasis while in the program. (00:20:53-00:20:40) – How the kids engage with one another, coming from different backgrounds and schools, but sympathizing with one another over shared experiences and traumas. (00:20:41-00:44:50) – Transitioning into her role with second round boxing and some of the specific success stories, where the kids have gone on and what they have accomplished. (00:46:15-00:53:44) – The methods and techniques they use to care for the youth when they aren’t having the best days. (00:53:47) – The relationships that are built and youth that keep in touch with the program and come back. (00:58:29) – The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

On today’s episode we’re joined by Fonda Bryant – Motivational Speaker, Mental Health Advocate, and suicide survivor. Having overcome a long past filled with depression, she turned around her life completely almost 10 years ago to the day. She’s now a QPR Suicide Prevention Instructor, Mental Health First Aid Instructor for Youth, and a NC Certified Peer Support, training thousands of people globally on how to become certified Gatekeepers. She’ll be celebrating her 29th year of surviving that attempt on her life on Valentine’s day of this year, Feb. 14. (00:01:44-00:18:57) We talk about her background and past, dealing with depression, mental health, having her son at a young age, how things were more difficult to seek help and admit she had a problem living in the black community. (00:18:58-00:36:05) Different resources, EAP, the 988-hotline, the relationship with her aunt and the impact she had on her journey and recovery, very well saving her. (00:38:01-00:50:12) How society is responding to those dealing with mental health issues. (00:50:15-00:56:05) Speaking to her own community. (00:57:29-1:03:02) Her speaking engagements as a whole, when they started, the reception she has received and impact it has had on her. (1:03:03) The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

WE'RE BACK! We begin 2024 with Erica Reid, the Senior Director of Program Implementation at Friends of the Children. (00:01:41-00:36:59) Friends of the Children, her background, collaborating with the families, how families receive the service that is offered. The interview process, finding the mentors or actual "friends of the children" and what qualities are identified when looking for the ideal candidate. (00:40:47-00:46:59) Partnership with Simone Biles and other famous ambassadors that do work with the organization, as well as success stories that came from Friends of the Children. (00:47:00-00:50:32) Erica’s excitement on the current state of things as she travels the country to different Friends of the Children hubs, finding Friends of the Children and getting involved. (00:50:34) The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Jenn Drummond was living a rather successful and normal life as a business owner and mom. Until a horrific car accident in 2018 changed everything. It should have ended her life, but it instead gave her a new perspective and new ambition on life, as she turned that near fatal experience into perhaps the biggest turning point. She set out to change who she was and how she lived her life. With the help and motivation of her kids, she set several goals for herself living a new and improved life, one of which was to start climbing mountains. Not the mountains you might see in western North Carolina or even Utah where Jenn resides, but some of the most infamous, mentally, and physically demanding mountains in the world like Mount Everest and K2. Jenn became the first woman to climb the Seven Second Summits. The pursuit matched her desire to live a life of significance, not just success. You can listen to her on the Seek Your Next Summit podcast and read about her stories in her new book Break Proof, which will be released on Jan. 9 of 2024. 00:02:00–00:19:33 – Life before her accident in 2018, how the accident changed her perspective on life, when she started climbing mountains and training. 00:19:34-00:23:59 – The dynamic between the family and the impact her children had on her after her accident and motivating her to climb Everest. 00:25:55-00:37:37 – We dive more into the transition from her life pre 2018 to post 2018 and going from a business owner of a financial firm to mountaineering. 00:37:39-00:51:10 – Her vision board and what’s next on her bucket list. 00:52:36 – Her book. 00:55:48 – The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Niki Miller is the Assistant Director for Shield. She’s an advocate for the vulnerable in the fight against human trafficking. Niki was a little nervous at first making her podcast debut, but she was highly insightful and passionate about the work she does. 00:01:36-00:13:22 What Shield is, how she got started working in this space. Design For Joy, an organization employing women that were once victims of trafficking. 00:13:23-00:23:43 – She dispels some myths associated with human trafficking and presents some of the facts and data. 00:25:08-00:42:36 – We pick her brain regarding some outside observations and what can be done to aid in the fight against human trafficking. 00:42:38-00:53:53 – Exploring services available for the victims. 00:57:25-00:59:45 – Minimizing the supply of trafficking and trying to prevent the amount of victims, reducing vulnerabilities. 00:59:47 – The Stuff that Matters

On this episode, we take you into the life of a parent whose child has dealt with mental health and someone who has navigated the system. The perspective comes from Nina Nalle-Robinson, the mother of former New Hope resident and ultimate success story, Kiara Grace-Nalle. Kiara has donated plenty of her time giving back to New Hope, having spoken to staff and current residents twice, she was our fourth guest on this podcast back in August. Her mom graciously shared her experiences and her own journey. We dive into it all, from first becoming Kiara’s mother living in Massachusetts, moving to North Carolina, coping with her daughters mental health timeline which ultimately led to New Hope, what things were like post New Hope, having simultaneous pregnancies with Kiara and sharing all of the amazing moments that life has provided in the last decade plus. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/ (00:01:58-00:11:30) Her journey with New Hope and her daughter’s road. First becoming a mother and childhood for Kiara. How important the support of her parents were living in Massachusetts. (00:11:32-00:18:40) When she first became aware of Kiara’s mental health struggles and the transition moving from the Northeast to North Carolina in the early 2000s. (00:18:41-00:24:59) The first introduction to New Hope and what led to Kiara entering. (00:26:55-00:38:45) What advice she’d give to a parent who has a child experiencing mental health hardships. (00:38:46-00:45:30) What life was like when Kiara first returned home, the services that are offered for parents and families when their child returns home from a residential treatment facility. (00:45:55) Kiara’s life trajectory and her accomplishments after leaving New Hope. (00:51:19) The Stuff that Matters.

Well if you’ve been missing us, we’re back after a couple weeks off with the strong and powerful message of Danya Perry. Danya is currently the Director of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Wake County in Raleigh. He has had the pleasure of serving as an education and community advocate for the last 20 years. We talk about how he got into working with kids in the community, spearheading statewide initiatives aimed at school violence prevention, dropout prevention, disproportionate minority confinement, and community mobilization. We also discuss how he has assisted many organizations in their mission to ensure academic proficiency, provide a conducive learning environment, and mobilize the community around youth. Danya had co-authored several books, including “Preventing Violence & Crime in America’s Schools: From Put Downs to Lock Downs,” which speaks to the need for early prevention and “The Secrets for Motivating, Educating, and Lifting the Spirits of African-American Males.” Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Dan Nash is the founder of Human Trafficking Training Center. After serving 27 years in law enforcement working patrol, narcotics, violent crime and anti-human trafficking, Dan had a revelation that completely changed his outlook on the epidemic that is still a major issue in the US and worldwide to this day. We talk about his background, some of the misconceptions he became aware of, the stats and key numbers, the experience which ultimately changed his perspective and view on human trafficking changing. We dive into the intersection between human trafficking, drug trafficking, and trafficking crimes. Dan also shares what kind of services the Human Trafficking Training Center offers and how far their reach has expanded. Although this is one of the heavier discussions and topics we’ve had since this podcast’s inception, it was incredibly interesting and insightful. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

Keith Howard is the CEO at Circle of Care. He’s a speaker and advocate for leadership development, innovation and work culture. Keith discusses his background, Circle of Care and the service they provide in Oklahoma. We talk about the transition he made into becoming a CEO and leader, the child welfare and foster care system, of which he holds very near and dear. He opens up about he and his wife’s journey fostering four children, whom he eventually adopted and welcomed into his family. Keith also sheds some light onto his faith the impact his relationship with God had on many of the steps along his path. (00:01:20-00:17:34) His background and story, transitioning into becoming a CEO and into a leadership role. (00:17:35-00:25:07) When he first joined Circle of Care, where it is today. (00:26:32-00:37:13) Child Welfare and Foster Care. (00:37:14-00:49:45) His journey fostering children and eventually adopting. What impact that process had on him. (00:49:47-00:52:04) His faith. (00:54:02) The stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

On today’s episode of Stuff that Matters, we give some love to a fellow Rock Hill, S.C. member. Kati Durkee, the Marketing and Outreach Coordinator at NAMI Piedmont Tri-County joins us on the show. For those that don’t know, NAMI is the National Alliance on Mental Illness. It’s an organization of families, friends and individuals whose lives have been affected by mental illness. Together, they advocate for better lives for those individuals suffering from a mental illness. Kati explains how she was impacted by mental illness, as her children experienced hardships at a young age. She dives more into her background and how she first learned about NAMI as an organization, tragedies she was faced with in her personal life and family, the state of mental health in this country as a whole, and more. We also discuss the 2023 NamiWalks, which is the 10th annual and will be held this Saturday, October 7 at 9am at Cherry Park in Rock Hill as well as Lindsay Pettus Greenway in Lancaster at 2pm. This year, New Hope is proud the be the presenting sponsor. To register for the walk, namiwalk.org/piedmont or to help raise awareness, visit namipiedmont.org. Please enjoy the passion and message of Kati Durkee. Kati’s background and when she started at NAMI, her children’s mental health challenges when they were younger, her brother and father-in-law taking their own lives (00:01:46–00:09:50). What is NAMI (00:09:53-00:32:59). (00:27:31–00:32:59) – Peer Support. What has her encouraged and discouraged on the mental health system side (00:34:25-00:52:39). We preview the 10th Annual NAMIWalks event on October 7 (00:59:20-1:04:05). 1:04:07 the stuff that matters. Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/

We speak with Gordy Pyper, a leader in the Child Welfare space. Gordy is a longtime friend and former coworker of Stuff that Matter’s own, Mike O’Connor. The two go way back to their time working together with the Eckerd Wilderness program. Gordy discusses his history and professional journey, his experiences with the wilderness program and that space as whole (00:01:43-00:32:14). We discuss some of the things that could be done differently as it pertains to mental health treatment, the process and services that are provided (00:33:39-00:48:38). Another part of his journey that is engrained into who is today is the story of adoption. Gordy was adopted himself, which had a profound impact on and created a close connection to the adoption process and the foster care system. It’s ultimately what led him to being open to becoming an adoptive father, which he became more than 15 years ago, as he is now the adoptive father of two sons (00:50:36–1:11:18). As always we finish by asking Gordy the stuff that matters to him (1:11:20). Subscribe and like, you can also watch full episodes on YouTube. VIDEO https://www.youtube.com/@NewHopeTreatmentCenter WEBSITE: https://www.newhopetreatment.com/