Wait, Am I Saving the World? | Conversations on Childhood

What does it actually look like to build confident, resilient kids without fear, shame, or outdated teaching methods?In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, I’m joined by dance educator, choreographer, and studio owner Leslie Kuny, who’s been working with kids for over 20 years. We talk about what’s changing in the world of dance (and childhood in general), and why the old-school, fear-based approach just doesn’t work anymore.Leslie shares how she creates a studio environment where kids feel safe, supported, and still challenged—without losing the joy of movement. We get into body image, confidence, boundaries, and why play matters more than ever for today’s kids.This conversation is especially helpful for parents, teachers, and anyone working with children who wants to build strong, confident kids in a healthier, more human way. What we cover: What resilience actually looks like in kids  Why fear-based teaching backfires  How dance culture has impacted body image (and how to shift it)  What parents should look for in a dance studio  Why kids today struggle with unstructured movement  How to set boundaries while still keeping things fun Connect with Leslie Kuny Instagram: @lesliekuny YouTube: Leslie Kuny Dance Podcast: Dancing Through ItChapters00:00 Introduction to Leslie Kuny and Her Journey 04:13 Creating a Supportive Dance Studio Culture 06:39 Philosophy of Teaching and Student Engagement 11:21 Addressing Body Image and Self-Perception in Dance 16:29 Healthy Conversations About Bodies and Movement 20:22 Parental Guidance on Body Image and Dance Studios 25:29 The Importance of Play and Unstructured Movement 32:21 Boundaries and Classroom Management in Dance 41:12 Conclusion and Connecting with Leslie Kuny 💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, Carrie sits down with Laura Smothers-Chu, founder of Joy in Dementia, to talk about what it really looks like to advocate for a loved one navigating dementia, especially when you’re supporting them from a distance.After her father’s diagnosis while she was working in healthcare, Laura quickly discovered how overwhelming and fragmented dementia resources can be, particularly for long-distance caregivers who want to help but don’t live nearby.Today, Laura mentors caregivers through the realities of dementia care, helping them understand available resources, advocate effectively within healthcare systems, and create meaningful moments with their loved ones along the way.This conversation explores the system gaps caregivers face, the importance of community resources, and how to navigate complex healthcare systems with confidence.While this episode focuses on dementia care, the lessons apply broadly to advocating for yourself or a loved one within healthcare systems, something that affects families at every stage of life, whether supporting aging parents, caring for children with medical needs, or navigating care for anyone we love.Almost everyone has been touched by dementia in some way, making this conversation relevant not only for caregivers but for anyone interested in compassion, advocacy, and supporting families through difficult seasons.A personal note: Editing this episode was especially emotional for me, as it was recorded prior to my own mother's passing on 12/23/2025. Conversations like this remind us just how important support, advocacy, and community are when navigating health challenges in our families.Guest InformationLaura Smothers-Chu Founder, Joy in DementiaLaura supports long-distance caregivers navigating the emotional and logistical realities of dementia care. Drawing from her personal experience supporting her father and her background in healthcare, she mentors caregivers in understanding resources, planning ahead, and advocating for their loved ones within complex healthcare systems.🌐 Website https://joyindementia.comIG: https://www.instagram.com/joy.in.dementia/ Free consultation for caregivers available on her website.⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction to Joy in Dementia 01:51 Laura's Personal Journey with Dementia 05:12 The Role of Long-Distance Caregivers 10:15 Identifying Gaps in Dementia Resources 13:00 The Importance of Tailored Support 18:08 Practical Steps for Long-Distance Caregivers 24:38 Recognizing Behavioral Changes in Loved Ones 25:52 First Steps After a Dementia Diagnosis 29:28 The Importance of Community Resources 30:29 Valuing Caregivers in Society 33:05 Wishing for a Cure: The Stigma of Dementia 34:55 Navigating the Healthcare System 39:39 Empowering Caregivers Through Support 44:01 Closing Thoughts & Resources💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

Is work-life balance actually possible or is it a myth that keeps working moms stuck in stress and guilt?In this powerful conversation, resilience specialist and coach Charlotte Haggie joins me to dismantle the idea of “balance” and replace it with something far more sustainable: self-trust, emotional regulation, and inner equilibrium.Charlotte shares how motherhood exposed her own “good girl” identity — the pressure to achieve, please, and prove — and how that identity was quietly pulling her away from presence with her child.We talk about:• Why work-life balance is a myth • The difference between confidence and self-trust • The “Good Girl Cycle” and how it fuels stress • How stress impacts children (even when we think we’re hiding it) • What kids actually need from overwhelmed parents • Modeling emotional regulation instead of multitasking • Building resilience without adding more to your to-do listIf you’ve ever felt like you’re failing at both work and motherhood then this episode will help you shift that narrative.Because resilience isn’t about doing more.It’s about becoming anchored enough to handle what already exists.About CharlotteCharlotte Haggie is a resilience specialist, coach, and host of the top 2% globally ranked podcast The Resilient Working Mum. Through her Ease Over Effort™ framework, she helps working mothers build self-trust, emotional regulation, and inner calm so they can lead at work and at home without burning out.Her work focuses on breaking the “good girl cycle,” building mental resilience, and helping women model calm and presence for their children.Free Resource from CharlotteCharlotte is generously offering listeners access to her private podcast:Unfrazzled: A New Way to Work and Mother👉 Listen here: https://unfrazzled-private-podcast.grwebsite.com/Timestamps00:00 Introduction to resilience & working motherhood 01:17 Why work-life balance is a myth 05:41 The Ease Over Effort™ framework explained 11:12 Confidence vs. self-trust 14:26 What children actually need from stressed parents 19:29 Boundaries, presence, and modeling emotional regulation 23:25 Feeling like you're failing at both work and motherhood 29:48 The “Good Girl Cycle” and identity pressure 33:47 The intergenerational impact of stress 36:20 What gives hope to modern momsConnect with CharlotteWebsite: https://charlottehaggie.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/charlottecoaches/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/charlotte.haggie LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charlottecoaches/If this episode resonated, follow the show and share it with a parent, educator, or caregiver who is shaping childhood in powerful ways.And if you want to create an impact for kids in your own community through movement and mindfulness go to www.playmotionkids.com/businessowners.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, host Carrie sits down with educator and movement specialist Tami Lysher, who brings over 40 years of experience in early childhood education, trauma-informed care, and nervous system integration.Tami shares how movement, breathwork, and connection play a critical role in helping children regulate their nervous systems—especially children impacted by trauma, sensory challenges, ADHD, and learning differences. Through her framework Move Into Calm, she explains why children are not meant to sit still, how stress and trauma show up in the body, and why regulation must come before learning.This conversation explores the powerful connection between parent and child regulation, practical ways adults can support co-regulation, and simple movement strategies that can be woven into everyday life at home or in the classroom. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, this episode offers grounded, body-based insights to help children feel safe, connected, and ready to learn.In this episode, we cover:Why movement supports brain development and emotional regulationHow trauma and chronic stress affect children’s learning and behaviorThe role of parent and educator self-regulationSimple movement and breathwork tools for daily routinesWhy every behavior is an unmet need⏱️ Chapters00:00 Introduction to movement and trauma-informed education 01:26 The importance of movement for children 04:35 Understanding dysregulation in children and parents 09:09 Strategies for self-regulation in adults 18:17 Practical movement techniques for educators 27:13 Creating safe spaces for children 35:59 The role of connection in learning and development 44:42 Final reflections and resources🔗 Find Tami LysherWebsite: https://www.moveintocalm.com Instagram: @studiotpilatesmi YouTube: Studio T Pilates Facebook: Tami Lysher | Studio T Pilates💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

What if reading wasn’t just about academics but about health, emotional regulation, connection, and joy?In this episode, Carrie sits down with Stephanie Affinito, literacy teacher educator, author of Leading Literate Lives, and host of the KidLit Love podcast, to talk about how books truly shape childhood.Stephanie shares why reading helps children feel seen and understood, how strong reading identities are formed, and what families can do to support reluctant readers without pressure or power struggles. You’ll also learn how journaling and notebooking can deepen a child’s emotional processing, why reading is an underrated wellness tool, and how adults can reconnect with reading for themselves, even in busy seasons of life.This conversation is full of practical insight, gentle mindset shifts, and permission to make reading feel inviting instead of forced.In this episode, we cover:Why books help children make sense of their worldHow reading builds empathy, resilience, and emotional healthWhat to do when a child says “I hate reading”Simple ways to create meaningful reading rituals at homeHow journaling supports both literacy and nervous-system regulationThe role of audiobooks — and when they’re most helpfulWhat gives Stephanie hope for the future of literacy⏱️ Episode Chapters00:00 – The Power of Reading in Childhood 03:27 – Books as Portals to Understanding 06:49 – Building Strong Reading Identities 09:34 – Encouraging Reluctant Readers 12:26 – Creating a Reading Ritual at Home 15:37 – Common Missteps in Promoting Reading 18:40 – The Benefits of Journaling with Reading 21:42 – Reconnecting Adults with Reading 24:34 – The Role of Audiobooks 27:34 – Challenges and Hopes for Literacy 30:46 – Connecting with Stephanie Affinito🔗 Connect with StephanieWebsite: https://www.alitlife.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/AffinitoLitPodcast: KidLit LoveBook: Leading Literate Lives✨ Special Project: Stephanie also offers 365 Book Postcards — a free, handwritten book recommendation sent by mail based on your (or your child’s) reading interests. It’s a fun way to connect readers with the books they need most.🌱 Create Impact in Your Own CommunityIf you’re inspired by this conversation and feel called to support children through movement, mindfulness, and whole-child wellness, you can learn more about becoming a PlayMotion Kids Certified Instructor.👉 Visit https://www.playmotionkids.com to explore training opportunities and bring joyful, purpose-driven movement to kids in your community.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

In this conversation, Carrie and Katie Barngrover explore the principles of Functional Diagnostic Nutrition, emphasizing the importance of understanding food sensitivities and their impact on health and behavior. Katie shares her personal health journey and experiences with her family, highlighting how dietary changes can lead to significant improvements in well-being. They discuss the importance of food sensitivity testing, navigating dietary changes, and the role of nutrition education for both parents and teachers. The conversation also addresses common myths about healthy fats and the future of nutrition for children, encouraging families to adopt healthier eating habits.You can find Katie at https://www.angelwinghealth.com.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Functional Diagnostic Nutrition01:44 Katie's Journey from Teaching to Nutrition04:10 Personal Health Challenges and Discoveries06:56 Understanding Food Sensitivities10:39 Identifying Body Signals and Symptoms14:31 Navigating Nutrition in a Complex World17:52 Food Sensitivity Testing Explained22:58 Advice for Teachers on Nutrition and Behavior25:36 Understanding Individual Nutritional Needs26:18 Healthy Eating Habits for Families31:20 Debunking Myths About Healthy Fats35:13 Teaching Kids Healthy Eating for Longevity37:02 Hope for the Future of Kids' Nutrition38:01 Support and Resources for Nutritional Guidance💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

In this conversation, Carrie sits down with Stacy Schaffer, MA, LPC — a children’s therapist, author, and advocate for emotional healing — to explore how play can become a bridge to safety, connection, and resilience.Stacy shares her insights from over 20 years of experience in child and adolescent therapy, explaining how play therapy helps kids process big emotions, and why understanding anxiety through a child’s eyes is so powerful.Together, they discuss how adults can help kids look for signs of safety, how to heal shame, and what happens when we don’t tend to our own emotional “cuts.” This conversation serves as a reminder that play isn’t just for children; it’s a pathway for all of us to heal.💛 Topics include: • The therapeutic power of play • Helping kids understand anxiety • Healing shame in adults and children • The importance of therapist self-care and secondhand trauma • Creating safety through connection🎙️ Learn more about Stacy at authorstacyschaffer.com and follow her on Instagram @hoperestored.🌿 Hosted by Carrie Speed — Social Worker & Founder of PlayMotion Kids💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

This week, we’re talking about holiday traditions — and why your kids won’t remember the perfect schedule, the fancy crafts, or the ten thousand activities you’re juggling. They remember the feeling.In this episode, we explore what actually makes holidays meaningful for kids: warmth, presence, and a few small traditions done with intention, not pressure.If you’re feeling stretched thin this season, this episode is your reminder that you don’t have to do it all. You can choose one simple tradition, let go of the rest, and your kids will still remember this season with so much joy.We’ll talk about:how kids store emotion, not perfectionhow even tiny traditions anchor childrenwhy scaling back is sometimes the best thing you can doa simple reflection to help you decide what matters most this yearIf you care about childhood, wellbeing, and showing up for the kids in your life — this one’s for you.Share this episode with a parent, teacher, or caregiver who needs a breath of peace today.And if you feel called to create real impact for kids in your community through movement, mindfulness, and whole-child learning, learn more about becoming a certified PlayMotion Kids instructor at PlayMotionKids.com.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

Season 2 officially launches on January 1st, but I’ll be dropping a few mini solo episodes between now and then just because I can’t wait that long to start talking about the good stuff.In this minisode, I’m digging into something that sits at the center of everything I do: childhood. Not in a dramatic way, not in a “fix the kids” way, just a real conversation about why those early years matter for all of us, even as adults.If you care deeply about kids, work with kids, or you’re just trying to understand yourself a little better… this one’s for you.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

Wait, Am I Saving the World? is a podcast for the people shaping childhood: parents, teachers, caregivers, and anyone trying to show up for kids without losing themselves in the process.Hosted by Carrie Speed, social worker and founder of PlayMotion Kids, this show blends real conversations with practical insight on child development, mindfulness, movement, and what it takes to support kids and the adults caring for them.Whether you’re managing a classroom, running a child-centered business, or parenting in the wild, you’re not alone. Season 2 drops January 1.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. In this episode pf Wait, Am I Saving the World, Carrie of Joyful Rising is joined by Bethany Jenkins, a Licensed Professional Counselor and the creator of the Psych Screen Podcast. Bethany brings her expertise as a Supervisor for School-Based Clinicians in Virginia, where she helps children and adolescents navigate mental health challenges. Together, we unpack the unique mental health struggles faced by women in social services and nonprofits, including burnout, secondary trauma, and the guilt associated with self-care. Bethany shares practical strategies for emotional resilience, setting boundaries, and finding joy in both work and personal life.Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for tools to support your well-being, this episode offers actionable insights and inspiration to help you thrive in your meaningful work.You can find Bethany on the following platforms:Social handles: Psych Screen Podcast (Facebook and Instagram) Podcast: Psych Screen Website: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2421007? Audio Note: Please excuse the occasional audio quality variations during the episode. We appreciate your understanding and are committed to bringing you valuable content!💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work.  Welcome to a transformative episode of the Joyful Rising Podcast! In "Connected Life Framework: Transform Your Mornings, Transform Your Life," Carrie dives into her game-changing approach to morning routines that create connections with your faith, body, mind, future self, and daily life. Discover the science behind why a structured morning can set the tone for a successful day, and explore practical, plug-and-play habits you can effortlessly integrate into your mornings. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed by chaotic starts or seeking to create more intention and joy into your daily life, this episode offers empowering strategies and insights to help you build a routine that works for you.  Tune in and start creating a life you love, one intentional morning at a time! 💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work.  Transform your daily life with the power of positive habits. In this episode, we talk about the science of habit formation and share practical strategies to build and maintain positive daily habits. We'll talk about the habit loop and the brain science behind forming habits. Whether you're aiming to boost productivity, enhance well-being, or simply add more joy to your everyday routines, this episode provides the tools you need to create lasting change. 💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. Party Like It's Your 80th: Discovering Your Core ValuesEver wondered what your 80th birthday party would say about you? In this episode, we dive into the 80th Birthday Party Exercise—a unique  method to uncover your deepest values and align your actions with what truly matters. Join Carrie as she explores other practical exercises as well, like the Values Clarification Exercise and the Life Map Exercise, designed to help you reflect on your past, envision your ideal future, and prioritize your core beliefs.Discover how celebrating your future self can provide clarity and purpose in your present life. Whether you're seeking greater fulfillment in your career, relationships, or personal pursuits, this episode offers actionable steps to ensure your daily actions resonate with your most important values. Tune in for powerful strategies to live authentically and meaningfully. Let’s make your life’s journey a celebration of who you are and who you aspire to be!Key Takeaways:Understand the importance of aligning actions with personal valuesLearn the 80th Birthday Party Exercise to envision your ideal legacyDiscover practical exercises to identify and prioritize your core valuesGain strategies to integrate your values into daily decision-makingEnhance your sense of purpose and fulfillment through intentional livingGrab a pen and paper, get comfortable, and prepare to party like it's your 80th birthday!💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

 [Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. In this episode, we explore the transformative power of yoga for both body and mind. Learn how yoga supports mental resilience, calms the nervous system, and helps release built-up stress—without needing to be ultra-flexible or spend hours on the mat. I’ll share my personal journey with yoga, unpack the research on its physiological benefits, and bust common myths that might be holding you back. Plus, discover one simple pose you can try today to start reaping yoga’s rewards—right where you are. 💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. What if you could literally change your brain with just a few minutes of mindfulness each day? In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, we explore the science behind mindfulness and how it strengthens the brain’s resilience to stress. Learn how mindfulness calms the fight-or-flight response, grows your gray matter, and helps you stay present—even in the toughest moments.Plus, discover practical, beginner-friendly mindfulness techniques you can start using today to reset, recharge, and reclaim your calm. Join Carrie for a short guided mindfulness practice at the end to help you take the first step toward a more grounded, balanced life.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. In this episode of Wait, Am I Saving the World?, we look into the PERMA framework from positive psychology—a practical, research-backed approach to finding balance and well-being in the face of stress. Join Carrie as she breaks down the five pillars of PERMA: Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, and Accomplishment.You’ll learn actionable strategies to reconnect with your “why,” celebrate small wins, and create moments of joy even on the toughest days. Because saving the world shouldn’t mean losing your sanity.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project

[Season 1] This episode is from our original season, where we explored broader themes around burnout, purpose, and meaningful work. Hi Friends and welcome to "Wait, Am I Saving the World?"-a podcast for the helpers, healers, and change-makers who are out there doing the work that changes lives. If you've ever felt the weight of the world, wondered if you're making a difference, or just need a reminder that YOU matter too, this space is for you. Each week we'll explore tools to help you stress less, live more, find joy, and thrive in your meaningful work.💛 Have thoughts, stories, or questions? I love hearing from listeners. Send a note anytime and it might even make it into a future episode.FB & IG: playmotionkidsWebsite: www.playmotionkids.com and www.playmotionkids.com/businessownersIG: better.childhood.project