Regulated & Relational

This week on Regulated & Relational, Ginger Healy and Julie Beem welcome a very special guest: educator, speaker, and viral content creator, Jere Chang.Known to millions online as “Ms. Chang,” Jere brings humor, honesty, creativity, and deep compassion to conversations about education, inclusion, belonging, and what she calls radical kindness. With more than 20 years in education and a global social media following, Jere has become a powerful voice for teachers, families, and children navigating today’s educational landscape.In this conversation, we explore:Jere’s journey into teaching and gifted educationWhy social media became a platform for advocacy and connectionWhat “soft activism” and radical kindness really meanThe changing realities facing both students and educators todayThe power of authenticity, curiosity, resilience, and belongingHow laughter and connection can become pathways to healingMs. Chang’s new book on Amazon! Becoming the Teacher I Needed: Lessons in Radical Kindness and Resilience https://www.amazon.com/dp/1394357621 Find Ms. Chang on social mediaMs. Chang Gifted Official Website (mschanggifted)TikTok: @mschanggifted on TikTokInstagram: @mschanggifted on InstagramYouTube: Jere Chang (@mschanggifted) on YouTubeFacebook: Ms. Chang Gifted on FacebookLinktree (all socials): Ms. Chang Gifted Linktree (Linktree)

In this episode of Regulated & Relational, hosts Tracy Leonard and Ginger Healy sit down with Sage Hancock, Executive Director of GenerationAll, for a powerful and thought-provoking conversation on breaking cycles of trauma and creating systemic change.Sage shares her expertise at the intersection of advocacy, healing, and prevention—exploring what it truly means to be trauma-informed and attachment-focused when supporting children and families impacted by early childhood trauma.Together, they discuss:• What effective prevention looks like for at-risk children and families• How generational and secondary trauma show up across communities• The importance of early identification and how trauma manifests in the body• Why systems like healthcare and policy must shift toward earlier intervention• The “circle” of prevention and moving upstream to stop harm before it happens• Expanding models of care, especially in underserved and rural communities• The role of storytelling—including Hometown Betrayal—in driving awareness and changeThis episode is a deep dive into how we move from awareness to action—centering lived experience, strengthening families, and reimagining systems to better protect and support survivors.Learn more about GenerationAll: https://www.generationall.org/Follow on social: @generation.allBook referenced: Hometown Betrayalhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D4KS4S4H

In this powerful and deeply honest conversation, Julie and Ginger sit down with Andy Neal—content creator, speaker, and foster/adoptive parent—to explore the realities of parenting children with Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD).Drawing from both lived experience and professional insight, this episode dives into the complexities of attachment, trauma, and the emotional toll—and growth—that comes with raising children impacted by early adversity. Andy shares his personal journey with vulnerability, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, offering listeners a rare, unfiltered look at life inside a family navigating RAD.Andy Neal is an Oregon-based content creator, speaker, and storyteller known online as @andyfilmsandhikes. With a cross-platform audience of over 500,000, Andy is widely recognized for his viral “stupid hike for my stupid mental health” videos, as well as his candid reflections on mental health, faith, grief, and foster and adoptive parenting. His storytelling blends humor with honesty, creating space for real conversations about healing and resilience.Parenting children with RAD requires a profound shift from behavior management to relationship-based careHealing is nonlinear—for both children and caregiversSupport systems are not optional; they are essentialHonest storytelling helps reduce stigma and isolationFollow Andy: @andyfilmsandhikes

Sometimes healing doesn’t come from doing more—it comes from getting grounded in what’s already around us. In this inspiring episode, Julie and Ginger explore the powerful connection between nature and nervous system regulation, diving into the fascinating science behind why time outdoors calms, heals, and restores us.From the forest floor to the garden bed, you’ll learn how nature interacts with our bodies and brains—on a chemical and cellular level—to reduce stress, boost mood, strengthen immunity, and bring us back into balance.Try these easy, no-cost ways to reconnect and regulate:Take a barefoot walk in the grass with your child.Make mud pies, dig in the dirt, or plant something together.Sit under a tree, journal outdoors, or simply breathe in the fresh air.Create a “sit spot” at home or school to notice daily and seasonal changes.Step away from screens and let the rhythm of nature help you downshift into calm.Nature helps the body move from hyperarousal or dissociation into safety and connection—what trauma-sensitive educators call the window of tolerance. Whether you’re a parent, educator, or caregiver, grounding yourself in nature isn’t just restorative—it’s regulating.As Ginger reminds us: “Healing doesn’t just happen in therapy offices. It’s also waiting for us—just outside the front door.”Resources & References:The Nature Fix — Florence WilliamsShinrin-Yoku: The Art and Science of Forest Bathing — Dr. Qing LiLast Child in the Woods: Saving Our Children from Nature-Deficit Disorder — Richard LouvYour Brain on Nature — Eva Selhub & Alan LoganEarthing: Health Implications of Reconnecting the Human Body to the Earth's Surface Electrons — Chevalier et al., Journal of Environmental and Public Health (2012)Polyvagal Theory — Stephen PorgesChildren & Nature Network: childrenandnature.orgRegulation and Co-Regulation: Accessible Neuroscience and Connection Strategies for the Classroom and Beyond — by Ginger Healy

What if growth could sound like laughter?In this conversation, Billy Kaplan, a licensed clinical social worker at Treehouse Health, joins Ginger and Julie to explore how healing with youth can emerge through humor, play, and connection. Billy shares stories from his therapeutic work, showing how joy and pain often live side by side, and how a simple “yes, and” can open space for change.Together, they reflect on the power of reframing, the meaning of PACE approach (playful acceptance, curiosity, and empathy), and the surprising truth that sometimes the most serious work is play.

What if healing didn’t require a therapy license—only presence, connection, and courage?Andi Fetzner joins Ginger and Julie and shares how her Origins Training work in Arizona supports adults in understanding trauma, building resilience, and reconnecting to themselves and others. The discussion explores the powerful truth that you don’t have to be a therapist to be therapeutic.Together, they unpack key trauma concepts—ACEs (Adverse Childhood Experiences), stress, and resilience—while grounding the conversation in relationship and practical human connection.A central theme emerges: Healing happens in connection.And just as important—uncomfortable does not mean unsafe.This episode is an invitation to rethink what support, growth, and restoration can look like in everyday spaces.

What are children learning that no one is explicitly teaching?Ingrid Cockhren joins Julie and Ginger to explore how historical trauma shapes social learning, schooling, storytelling, and bias across generations. From the lasting impacts of colonization and slavery to concepts like white flight and white-washed education, the conversation highlights how coping patterns, beliefs, and behaviors are quietly passed down—and absorbed by children.Together, they reflect on the limits and responsibilities of schools as microcosms of society, the need for anti-bias and restorative practices in trauma-informed education, and why stronger mental health supports are essential for meaningful change.At the heart of the episode is a simple truth:What is learned implicitly must be addressed explicitly—so stories of hope and growth can be passed on alongside history.

In this episode, Julie Beem and Ginger Healy explore Julie’s research on mattering—what it is, why it matters, and how it shows up in adult-child relationships. This episode is created for parents, teachers, and caregivers who want to better understand externalized relationship-seeking behaviors, such as acting out, defiance, attention-seeking, or emotional outbursts. The conversation focuses on how adults can respond to these behaviors in ways that strengthen connection rather than strain it. Julie and Ginger also share the core components of mattering, along with practical takeaways and reflective questions to help bring mattering to the forefront of everyday interactions with children.

In this powerful and deeply human conversation, Ginger and Julie sit down with Josh Novick—licensed therapist, educator, national speaker, and founder of Trust & Grow Consulting—to explore what it truly takes to create safer, more connected school communities in the wake of violence.Josh brings both professional expertise and lived experience in recovery, grounding this conversation in courage, compassion, and the belief that we heal better together. As an ambassador for Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence, Josh bridges policy and practice, elevating youth voice while advocating for educator wellness and sustainable change.In This Episode, we Explore:Josh’s personal journey and what led him into the work of ending gun violence in schoolsThe importance of trust, relationship, and naming—including how we think about and label spaces like “resource rooms”Supporting educator wellness About Trust & Grow ConsultingJosh is the founder of Trust & Grow Consulting, where the mission is clear: help schools, nonprofits, and mission-driven organizations create trauma-informed, socially and emotionally intelligent spaces that foster healing and connection.https://trustandgrow.org/Teachers Unify to End Gun Violence-https://www.teachersunify.org/

What does it really mean to help students learn how to learn—especially in systems that were never designed with all learners in mind?In this powerful conversation, Ginger and Julie are joined by Zaretta Hammond, nationally recognized consultant, educator, and author, to explore how culturally responsive teaching, neuroscience, and instructional equity intersect. Together, they unpack why rigor and care are not opposites, how learning power is built (or blocked) by systems, and what educators can do to move beyond compliance toward true cognitive justice.Zaretta brings over 25 years of experience supporting schools and systems in understanding the science of learning, the science of reading, and culturally responsive practices, offering both big-picture insight and practical wisdom educators can use right away.Zaretta Hammond is a national consultant, former high school and community college writing teacher, and a leading voice in culturally responsive education. She is the author of:Rebuilding Students’ Learning Power: Teaching for Instructional Equity and Cognitive Justice (Corwin, 2025)Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain: Promoting Authentic Engagement and Rigor for Culturally and Linguistically Diverse Students (Corwin, 2015)🌐 Zaretta Hammond’s website: https://ready4rigor.com/📘 Rebuilding Students’ Learning Power: https://a.co/d/0AYfVe2📗 Culturally Responsive Teaching and the Brain: https://a.co/d/9XHihth

In this heartfelt and reflective episode, Julie Beem and Ginger Healy return to a profound conversation from Season 1 with the late Cissy White—trauma survivor, fierce advocate, and the originator of the term Joy Stalking.As the world faces rising despair and isolation, Julie and Ginger explore what it means to stalk, savor, and sustain joy—especially in the face of pain, trauma, and fear. Drawing from Cissy’s wisdom, Brene Brown’s research, theological insights, and their own personal journeys, they unpack how joy can be a radical act of healing and resistance.You’ll discover why joy is not the same as happiness, how trauma can block joy, and why cultivating even the tiniest moments of joy might just be one of the most important things we can do—for ourselves, our children, and our communities.“Joy stalking is always healing and useful. It’s about savoring life through sensing, using my body, absorbing, feeling all the good stuff.” — Cissy White“Joy isn’t the opposite of sadness. It’s the opposite of fear.” — Anne Robertson via Brené Brown“Joy doesn’t betray but sustains activism… joy is a fine initial act of insurrection.” — Rebecca Solnit“We can’t experience joy when we’re scanning for danger. Trauma blocks joy—but healing invites it back in.” — Julie & Ginger

In this episode, we speak with Dr. Stan Sonu, Associate Professor of Internal Medicine and Pediatrics at Emory University School of Medicine and Medical Director for Child Advocacy at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta. Dr. Sonu shares his insights on adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), relational health, and trauma-informed care, focusing on how clinicians and schools can support resilience and wellbeing in children and families.We dive into Dr. Sonu’s paradigm of “what’s strong with you” instead of “what’s wrong with you?”, and explore the fascinating concept of systemic empathy—how organizations and systems can create environments that nurture and protect children’s relational health.Dr. Sonu also highlights innovative programs like Strong 4 Life at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta and the Health-Law Partnership (HeLP), a collaborative addressing health-harming legal issues for low-income families.He references valuable resources for clinicians, educators, and families, including the work of Dan Siegel, Interpersonal Neurobiology, and community support services at Grady Memorial Hospital.Listeners will gain actionable ideas for integrating trauma-informed principles into their own practice, classrooms, or organizations, and be inspired to shift from focusing on deficits to recognizing and building on strengths in children and families.Resources Mentioned in This Episode:https://www.strong4life.com/en/our-experts/stan-sonuGrady Memorial HospitalDan Siegel Books & ResourcesInterpersonal Neurobiology ResourcesHealth-Law Partnership (HeLP)

Play isn’t just fun—it’s essential. In this episode, Ginger and Julie unpack the science, healing power, and everyday possibilities of play. From brain development to emotional regulation, play shapes resilience, fosters connection, and repairs the impact of trauma. You’ll hear how movement amplifies the benefits, how barriers like technology and busy schedules can be addressed, and why play matters just as much for adults as it does for kids.Along the way, we highlight the insights of Dr. Tina Payne Bryson, Dr. Dan Hughes, Dr. Dave Ziegler, and Dr. Stuart Brown, plus practical strategies for both parents and educators to make play a daily part of life—even in middle and high school classrooms.Whether you’re parenting, teaching, or healing alongside children, this episode will inspire you to see play not as a reward or an afterthought, but as a biological imperative and a vital tool for growth, recovery, and joy.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why play is a “biological imperative” and a cornerstone of healthy brain development.How play supports emotional regulation, resilience, and relationship-building—especially for children impacted by trauma.The connection between movement, nervous system regulation, and healing.Common barriers to play (like technology, safety concerns, and adult exhaustion) and how to overcome them.How a playful stance from adults—rooted in curiosity and delight—reduces defensiveness and fosters openness.Practical ways parents can integrate more play into daily life.Classroom-friendly ideas for incorporating play at all grade levels, including middle and high school.Why adults also need play for creativity, flexibility, and emotional health.“When we prioritize play, we’re not just making memories—we’re shaping brains.” — Dr. Tina Payne BrysonResources & References:Bryson, T. P. (2024). The Way of Play https://a.co/d/hmyINYlBrown, S. (2009). Play: How It Shapes the Brain, Opens the Imagination, and Invigorates the Soul https://psycnet.apa.org/record/2009-17682-000Porges, S. W. (2011). The Polyvagal Theory: Neurophysiological Foundations of Emotions, Attachment, Communication, and Self-Regulation https://a.co/d/ahbaGPQHughes, D. A. (2009). Attachment-Focused Parenting https://a.co/d/5lfYF1pBongiorno, L. (NAEYC). “10 Things Every Parent Should Know About Play” https://www.naeyc.org/our-work/families/10-things-every-parent-playBYU Arts Playbook — Nurturing Developmental Skills Through Arts-Integrated Education

What would it look like if we built a society that prevents child abuse and neglect—before it ever begins? In this episode, Ginger and Julie sit down with Dr. Melissa T. Merrick, President and CEO of Prevent Child Abuse America, to explore the evolving landscape of child well-being and what it takes to move from awareness to true prevention.Dr. Merrick shares powerful insights from her 20+ years of work in clinical research and public health leadership, including her time as the lead scientist for the CDC’s ACEs study and as a principal architect of Thriving Families, Safer Children—a national initiative reimagining child welfare through the lens of equity, collaboration, and hope.This is a conversation about what’s possible when we center families, build supportive communities, and focus on healing—not punishment.In This Episode, We Explore:What the latest data on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) is telling us todayWhy prevention is possible—and how we shift from reacting to preventingThe vision and impact of Thriving Families, Safer ChildrenHow systems-level change must include equity, community voice, and upstream investmentsThe intersection of science, advocacy, and hopeHow leaders, educators, and caregivers can support family well-being at every level"We can’t punish our way into prevention. Real change begins when we center families, build supportive systems, and believe in the power of thriving communities." — Dr. Melissa MerrickResources & Links:Learn more about Prevent Child Abuse America: preventchildabuse.org

This is a follow-up to Episode 101, where we discussed the two recognized attachment disorder diagnoses and their impact on families. In this episode, we focus on how RAD shows up at school—and what teachers, counselors, and administrators need to know to respond with understanding and effectiveness.Educator Takeaways• Stay curious, not reactive. RAD behaviors are about survival, not defiance.• Don’t take it personally. Regulation is contagious—yours can help calm theirs.• Drop the rope. Avoid engaging in power struggles; instead, step back and stay grounded.• Connect the adults. Prevent triangulation by keeping clear, direct communication among parents, teachers, and administrators.• Prioritize safety and consistency. Predictable routines and transparent expectations create a sense of security.• Support attachment without replacing it. Teachers can be caring and relational without taking on the role of primary attachment figure.What Doesn’t Work• Rewards and punishments as motivators• Multiple warnings or lectures• Asking “why” after behaviors• Emotional reactivity from adultsWhat Does Work• Calm, consistent follow-through• Pre-planned responses for known triggers• Structured routines and visual schedules• Providing regulated choices• Team-based collaboration with parents and specialists• Focusing on regulation first, learning second

What if burnout isn’t just about exhaustion—but something much deeper? In this powerful episode, Julie and Ginger speak with Sheri Kreher, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the Trauma, Illness, and Grief (TIG) Coordinator for 24 school districts in New York. Sheri brings two decades of mental health experience and a deep understanding of the emotional toll today’s educators are carrying.Together, we explore the growing wave of vicarious trauma, moral injury, and systemic despair among school staff—and why the solution lies beyond individual self-care. Sheri introduces the idea of Active Hope—a framework that acknowledges the pain, honors the grief, and offers a path forward rooted in connection, validation, and systems change.If you’ve ever found yourself thinking, “What’s wrong with me that I can’t do this job anymore?”—this episode will help you reframe that question and begin to heal.________________________________________In This Episode, We Explore:• Why burnout in education is often a symptom of deeper, systemic wounds• The role of moral injury and betrayal in driving educator hopelessness• How vicarious trauma shows up—and why it’s not a sign of weakness• What it means to practice Active Hope in school systems that feel broken• How administrators can be a protective factor for staff• Why naming, witnessing, and validating pain is essential to healing• What it takes to build school climates of cohesion, care, and courage"What looks like burnout is often unprocessed grief and betrayal. Educators don’t just need more resilience—they need to be seen, heard, and believed." — Sheri Kreher________________________________________ Resources:• Active Hope (by Joanna Macy & Chris Johnstone)• Active Hope Book Link: https://a.co/d/6dZ6xbi

In this episode, we talk with Rick and Doris Bowman about their brand-new book, Your FBA is a Fantasy!: A Guidebook to Creating Truly Trauma-Informed, Neuro-Affirming Functional Behavior Assessments & Behavior Support Plans. Together, we unpack why traditional FBAs and behavior plans often fall short—and can even harm students—and what it takes to truly shift toward regulation- and connection-based supports that foster resilience and belonging.What you’ll hear in this episode:Why traditional reward-and-punishment systems miss the mark for kids with trauma or neurodivergence.How to reframe “behavior” as an adaptive response—not defiance.Practical brain-body truths from neuroscience, Polyvagal Theory, and HeartMath that educators can use daily.Why adult nervous system regulation is the foundation for supporting students.A message of hope and encouragement for teachers feeling exhausted.This conversation is full of wisdom, compassion, and practical tools that can change the way we see—and support—our most vulnerable students.Resources & Links:Your FBA is a Fantasy! by Rick and Doris Bowman https://a.co/d/hYj5zoJLearn more about Team Bowman and Bowman Consulting Group https://bowmanconsultgroup.com/

“Parents Have Feelings, Too: Emotional Intelligence, The Change Triangle, and Healing Generational Patterns with Hilary Jacobs Hendel & Juli Fraga”Parenting can bring deep joy—but also guilt, shame, rage, grief, and more. So what do we do with all those big feelings? In this powerful episode, Julie and Ginger sit down with Hilary Jacobs Hendel, author of It’s Not Always Depression, and Dr. Juli Fraga, psychologist and parenting educator, to discuss their brand-new book, Parents Have Feelings, Too: Using the Change Triangle to Listen to the Body, Discover Core Emotions, and Connect to Your Authentic Self (out September 23, 2025).This book is a practical, research-backed, and compassion-filled guide to help parents recognize, work through, and grow from their emotions. Together, we explore how understanding your own emotionallandscape—through tools like the Change Triangle and the 4 Cs of Open-Heartedness—can break intergenerational patterns and build emotional intelligence in both you and your children.From the hidden power of disappointment to how to befriend your defenses, this episode is full of insight, practical strategies, and affirming reminders that your feelings matter too. In This Episode, We Explore:A gentle, clear introduction to the Change Triangle and how it helps people process emotionsThe 4 Cs of Open-Heartedness—and how they lead to greater emotional freedom What’s underneath "parent burnout" and how to move through it with clarity Why naming and noticing your defenses can unlock self-compassion How understanding disappointment can transform your parenting Ways parents can model healthy emotional processing for their kids The role of unprocessed trauma in generational parenting patterns—and how to break the cycle Tools for parenting through anxiety, guilt, grief, and more—with authenticity and skill Parents Have Feelings, Too is an emotional wellness playbook for parents. Drawing from the Change Triangle framework and Accelerated Experiential Dynamic Psychotherapy (AEDP), Hilary and Juli provide tools to help parents identify, understand, and process emotions in real time—so they can respond with calm, confidence, and connection. Through exercises, client stories, and reflection activities, this book guides readers to become more emotionally attuned parents and more authentic versions of themselves.“With 1 in 5 moms experiencing anxiety or depression, and over 60% of parents facing burnout, this book isn’t just helpful—it’s necessary.” RESOURCESParents Have Feelings, Too: A Guide to Navigating Your Emotions So You And Your Family Can Thrive: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/788442/parents-have-feelings-too-by-hilary-jacobs-hendel/Emotions Education 101 Class on Zoom for Parents:https://www.hilaryjacobshendel.com/education-cirriculum-content/emotion-education-101Teens, Tweens and Caregivers Curriculum to provide anEmotions Education 2-hour Introduction:https://www.hilaryjacobshendel.com/workshops/teen-emotions-education-101%E2%84%A2Print a PDF of the Change Triangle:https://www.hilaryjacobshendel.com/print-the-change-triangleChange Triangle YouTube channel with tools:https://www.youtube.com/@TheChangeTriangle/videosFollow Hilary: hilaryjacobshendel.comFollow Juli: julifraga.com

In this episode of Regulated & Relational, hosts Julie Beem and Ginger Healy sit down with two fathers on a mission to transform the way families and schools understand neurodiversity—Carl Young and Joel Sheagren.Carl and Joel are the co-creators of Embracing Hope: A Caregiver’s Guide to Neurodiversity, a groundbreaking book that bridges lived experience, creative storytelling, and research-based strategies to empower families raising children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and trauma.👉 Get the book on Amazon: Embracing Hope 👉 Learn more about the project: embracinghopebook.comThis book challenges deficit-focused narratives, instead celebrating the strengths, creativity, and resilience that neurodivergent individuals bring to their families and communities.Through a blend of:Personal stories from caregivers and neurodivergent individualsFictional vignettes that illustrate everyday challengesEvidence-based interventions that can be adapted to each family’s needs…readers are invited to move beyond labels and see the unique gifts of every child.In our conversation, Carl and Joel share:Why they recognized a critical gap in resources for parents raising neurodiverse teensHow storytelling and character-driven vignettes help families engage with complex contentThe surprising and transformative insights from Embracing Hope that resonate most with overwhelmed caregiversHow community, creativity, and advocacy can shift families from survival to thrivingThis book is more than a manual—it’s a companion for families, educators, and allies who are seeking practical tools, renewed confidence, and the reassurance that they are not alone.Join us for this inspiring conversation about resilience, advocacy, and the future of supporting neurodiverse children and families.

In this unforgettable episode, Ginger and Julie sit down with the one and only Barb Clark—a powerhouse trainer, parent, and advocate known for saying the things most people are too afraid (or too tired) to say out loud. With her signature honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, Barb opens up about raising kids with complex needs, navigating Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and what it really takes to help families thrive—not just survive.Barb shares her own parenting journey—including the very recent revelation of her own FASD diagnosis at age 56—and how it’s reshaped her perspective on everything from behavior to burnout. Together, we explore why traditional parenting strategies often backfire with neurodivergent kids, and how brain-based, compassion-rooted approaches can shift the entire family dynamic.This episode is a must-listen for educators, caregivers, and anyone supporting children impacted by trauma, prenatal exposure, or hidden disabilities. It’s filled with relatable stories, regulation strategies you can use today, and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.Because as Barb says, “There is always hope—even if it’s buried under a pile of unfolded laundry.”What FASD really is—and why it’s more common than most people thinkHow emotional regulation and brain-based strategies change the game for kids and caregiversWhy traditional behavior charts and consequences often fail neurodivergent kidsBarb’s personal journey—from raising a child with FASD to discovering her own diagnosisTips for educators and leaders working with students impacted by trauma or prenatal substance exposurePractical, real-world advice you can use immediatelyWhy humor, honesty, and connection are essential parenting toolsBarb’s book, Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family Thrive, will be released October 21, 2025.In This Episode, We Explore:Preorder Barb’s Book: https://a.co/d/eDc38tv

In this foundational episode of Regulated & Relational, Ginger and Julie dive deep into attachment disorders—what they are, how they’re diagnosed, and the realities families face when raising children with these challenges.From the history of Reactive Attachment Disorder (RAD) and Disinhibited Social Engagement Disorder (DSED) to the proposed Developmental Trauma Disorder (DTD), Ginger and Julie unpack decades of evolving research, personal experience, and practical tools for caregivers and professionals. They also address the hallmark behaviors—like manipulation, triangulation, lack of empathy—and explore why these behaviors occur, and how to respond in ways that promote healing and connection.This conversation is both honest and hopeful—acknowledging the challenges while sharing effective therapeutic parenting strategies, the importance of pacing and dosing nurture, and the long-term potential for growth and change.The history and evolution of attachment disorder diagnoses in the DSMHow RAD and DSED differ—and why splitting the diagnosis has caused confusionPrevalence rates and why research has been limitedHow attachment disorders can be mistaken for, or co-exist with, autismThe why behind hallmark behaviors:Manipulation and controlTriangulation between adultsLack of cause-and-effect thinkingLow empathyTherapeutic parenting strategies, including:Offering limited, safe choicesMaking implicit care explicitPacing and dosing nurture to build trustReducing chaos and avoiding power strugglesWhy Developmental Trauma Disorder matters—and how it may fill gaps in our understanding of trauma’s impact on childrenHopeful outcomes and the critical importance of early intervention and ongoing supportAttachment & Trauma Network: www.attachmenttraumanetwork.orgNational Institute of Health prevalence statistics (2023)Reactive Attachment Disorder - StatPearls - NCBI Bookshelf: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537155/ (Published: May 1, 2023)Introduction to children's attachment - NCBI: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK356196/ https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537155/#:~:text=Epidemiology,Adolescent%20Well%2DBeing%2C%20No.Research on RAD subtypes: Dr. Charles Zeanah (2004)https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4342270/ACEs Study: CDC ACEs Resources

In this enlightening episode, Ginger Healy and Julie Beem sit down with Diane Gould, LCSW, and leading voice in the PDA (Pathological Demand Avoidance) movement in North America. As co-author of Navigating PDA in America and Founder of PDA North America, Diane shares her deep expertise and personal journey—including her recent autism diagnosis—to help unpack the complexities of this misunderstood profile of autism.Together, we explore what PDA is, how it differs from traditional views of autism and oppositional behavior, and why recognizing it matters so much. From practical strategies to systemic change, this episode is a must-listen for parents, educators, and professionals working with neurodivergent children.What Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) is—and what it isn’tWhy PDA is often misunderstood as oppositional defianceThe power of the distinction: “I can’t” vs. “I won’t”The origin and mission of PDA North AmericaWhat effective support looks like for PDA individualsCommon misconceptions in schools and clinical settingsThe importance of collaborative, flexible approachesOne small but powerful change you can make todayNavigating PDA in America By Diane Gould, LCSW is a groundbreaking guide for parents, educators, and clinicians seeking to understand and support individuals with PDA in a U.S. context. https://a.co/d/4HS7wy1🌐 Connect with Diane Gould & PDA North America:📥 Website: https://pdanorthamerica.org/https://pdanorthamerica.org/free-pdfs/ [email protected] www.pdanorthamerica.org learn.pdanorthamerica.org facebook.com/pdanorthamerica Instagram.com/pdanorthamerica@PDANorthAmerica PDA North America Resources: PDA Learning Lab - self-paced pre-recorded webinars & trainings - https://learn.pdanorthamerica.org/ Annual Conference - March 5-7th Virtual & In-Person outside Chicago PDA Insights Articles - Articles posted regularly on various PDA topics - https://pdanorthamerica.com/insights PDA-Affirming Provider List - over 500+ providers that consider themselves PDA-affirming, sorted by state/province - https://pdanorthamerica.org/pdaaffirming-providers/ Upcoming Webinars & Events - details and registration for all upcoming announced offerings - https://pdanorthamerica.org/events/ Parent Provided Educators List (if you have a PDA child that goes to an educator that is PDA affirming, we'd love for you to submit them to be listed!) https://pdanorthamerica.org/pda-affirming-providers/ Free Peer Support Groups - support groups that meet regularly - https://pdanorthamerica.org/support-groups/ YouTube Channel - https://www.youtube.com/Free Downloadable PDF Resources - free downloadables - https://pdanorthamerica.org/free-pdfs/ PDA Community Contact List - parents and PDAers seeking a local community of people that understand and value their experience - https://pdanorthamerica.org/community-list/ Support Shop - PDA Swag shop - https://pdanorthamerica.org/supportshop/#products Don’t Miss Future Episodes!Subscribe to Regulated & Relational on your favorite podcast platform and leave us a review. Have feedback or topic suggestions? Reach out—we’d love to hear from you.Let’s keep growing a trauma-informed, attachment-focused community. 💙

In this heartfelt and reflective episode, Julie Beem and Ginger Healy return to a profound conversation from Season 1 with the late Cissy White—trauma survivor, fierce advocate, and the originator of the term Joy Stalking.As the world faces rising despair and isolation, Julie and Ginger explore what it means to stalk, savor, and sustain joy—especially in the face of pain, trauma, and fear. Drawing from Cissy’s wisdom, Brene Brown’s research, theological insights, and their own personal journeys, they unpack how joy can be a radical act of healing and resistance.You’ll discover why joy is not the same as happiness, how trauma can block joy, and why cultivating even the tiniest moments of joy might just be one of the most important things we can do—for ourselves, our children, and our communities.“Joy stalking is always healing and useful. It’s about savoring life through sensing, using my body, absorbing, feeling all the good stuff.” — Cissy White“Joy isn’t the opposite of sadness. It’s the opposite of fear.” — Anne Robertson via Brené Brown“Joy doesn’t betray but sustains activism… joy is a fine initial act of insurrection.” — Rebecca Solnit“We can’t experience joy when we’re scanning for danger. Trauma blocks joy—but healing invites it back in.” — Julie & Ginger

In this thought-provoking episode of Regulated & Relational, Ginger Healy and Julie Beem invite you to explore the transformative power of empathy—not just as a personal virtue but as a vital, actionable skill that the world needs now more than ever.Listen actively – Focus on understanding, not fixing.Challenge your assumptions – Seek to understand those who are different from you.Model empathy for children – Help them recognize their own feelings first.Be compassionate with yourself – Self-awareness is the foundation for empathy.“Empathy isn’t about imagining yourself in someone else’s shoes—it’s about listening deeply to their story and believing them.” – Ginger Healy

In this special birthday-themed episode of Regulated & Relational, we’re doing something a little different—and a lot more personal. Julie Beem is celebrating her birthday by inviting the entire ATN podcast team into the studio for a heartfelt and reflective conversation about birthdays, aging, and the complexities surrounding these milestones—especially for children impacted by early childhood trauma.You’ll hear from Julie, Ginger, Lorraine, and Stephanie as they open up about their own birthday reflections, share meaningful life lessons, and discuss how birthdays can be both joyful and emotionally complicated—especially for children who have experienced trauma, loss, or displacement. Whether you’re a parent, educator, therapist, or someone who just loves a good reflection, this episode is both thought-provoking and full of warmth.

In this insightful episode of Regulated & Relational, hosts Ginger Healy and Julie Beem are joined by Ce Eshelman, LMFT—an expert in attachment, trauma, and therapeutic parenting. With decades of experience as a therapist and adoptive parent, Ce brings both professional depth and personal understanding to this rich conversation.Together, we explore the foundations of therapeutic caregiving, how trauma impacts a child's behaviors and relationships, and what caregivers, educators, and clinicians can do to better support healing. Whether you're a parent, therapist, or simply someone passionate about trauma-informed care, this episode is filled with wisdom, encouragement, and practical tools for supporting children from hard places.What therapeutic parenting really means—and why it worksCommon misconceptions about children with trauma historiesHow traditional parenting approaches can fall short for these childrenPractical ways professionals and extended family can support adoptive and foster familiesWords of wisdom for overwhelmed caregivers—and why there is always hopeCe Eshelman, LMFT is the founder of The Attach Place Center for Strengthening Relationships in Sacramento, CA. A passionate advocate for children from difficult beginnings, Ce is the creator of the Love Matters Parenting Program and author of two powerful books (links below). With over 35 years of clinical experience and lived expertise as an adoptive mom, Ce has helped countless families build connection, resilience, and healing.The Attach Place CenterAttachment & Trauma NetworkLove Matters Parenting Program – Learn Morehttps://www.lovemattersparenting.com/podcastDrowning with My Hair on Fire: Insanity Relief for Adoptive Parentshttps://a.co/d/6Z4MQki20 Things Children from Difficult Beginnings Wish Friends and Family Knewhttps://payhip.com/b/Y90UJ

Today, we’re honored to sit down with a friend of ATN, Martin Ali Simms—a Neurosequential Sports Specialist, Mental Health Consultant, and Founder of The DOPE Coach Academy. Martin has dedicated his life to helping athletes and coaches tap into the healing potential of brain-based approaches, somatic practices, and trauma-informed care.In this episode, we dive into:🧠 What it means to be a Neurosequential Sports Specialist and how brain development intersects with trauma recovery in sports 💪 How somatic practices support healing in athletes (and non-athletes) ⚽ Why sports and movement are such powerful tools for emotional and mental wellness 🏆 The mission and philosophy behind The DOPE Coach Academy 💬 How coaches can foster environments of emotional safety and growth 🔍 The evolving conversation around mental health in the sports world—and what’s still missing ✨ Simple, practical ways anyone can use movement to begin their own healing journeyWhether you're a coach, athlete, parent, or simply curious about the intersection of mental health and physical movement, this episode offers inspiration and actionable insights.Instagram: @thedopestcoachWebsite: www.thedopestcoach.com💬 “Trauma doesn’t just live in the mind—it lives in the body. And the body remembers.” — Martin SimmsIf you loved this episode, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share with someone who needs to hear it. And tag us when you’re listening—we love seeing how this community is growing through these conversations.

In this vital episode, Julie and Ginger dive into the intersection of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) with trauma-informed practices. As DEI comes under political and cultural scrutiny, the hosts make the case that there is no trauma-informed approach without embracing DEI.DEI is not optional for trauma-informed practice—it is essential.Diversity includes more than race: gender, neurodiversity, age, ability, and lived experience.Equity means adjusting systems and supports so everyone can thrive.Privilege isn’t shameful—it’s an opportunity to advocate and build awareness.Systems can either heal or harm—it's up to us to make them more inclusive.Diverse environments enhance safety, fairness, innovation, and connection.📚 Referenced Research & Resources:Merriam-Webster DefinitionsDiversity: “The condition of having or being composed of differing elements.”Equity: “Fairness or justice in the way people are treated.”SAMHSA’s Three E’s of TraumaEvent, Experience, and EffectSource: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Trauma and ViolenceGreater Good Science Center – UC BerkeleyArticle: Why Diversity MattersSummary: Diversity enhances well-being, social connection, and community resilience.Website: https://greatergood.berkeley.eduuvonen et al. (2018) – UCLA Study on School DiversityTitle: Diversity and Peer Relations in SchoolsFinding: Diverse classrooms foster safety, reduce loneliness, and encourage cross-race friendships.Citation: Juvonen, J., Kogachi, K., & Graham, S. (2018). Psychological Science, 29(2), 230-241.Kenneth Braswell -https://www.kennethbraswell.com/Website: https://www.attachmenttraumanetwork.orgFacebook: facebook.com/AttachmentTraumaNetworkEmail: [email protected]

In today’s episode of Regulated & Relational, Ginger Healy and Julie Beem are joined by a special guest, Cally Flox, a teaching artist, educator, and the lead author of A Teacher’s Guide to Resilience Through the Arts. Cally is the founding director of the BYU ARTS Partnership, where she works to enhance student learning and school culture by providing professional development for educators. With a wealth of experience teaching creative dance, integrated arts, and more, Cally brings a unique perspective to the conversation about supporting children impacted by early childhood trauma through arts education. Tune in to hear her insights on resilience, brain-compatible learning strategies, and the power of the arts in fostering healing and growth.Harvard’s Thinking Routineshttps://pz.harvard.edu/thinking-routinesCally’s summer art conferencehttps://education.byu.edu/arts/arts_expressBrain Gymhttps://breakthroughsinternational.org/programs/the-brain-gym-program/Cally’s Book-Teachers' Guide to Resiliency Through The Artshttps://a.co/d/diaJrQUResources Cally would like to share:https://advancingartsleadership.com/The Arts Playbook

In this insightful episode, we sit down with educator, writer, and advocate Meghan Ashburn to explore how we can better support autistic students—both in and out of the classroom. Meghan shares her journey from teacher to autism advocate and how listening to autistic voices reshaped her entire approach.We dive into:Why general education teachers are crucial allies for autistic studentsHow schools can become more neuro-affirming and inclusive spacesThe importance of centering autistic perspectives in both parenting and educationShifting away from behavior-focused strategies to more compassionate, neurodiversity-affirming support📚 Resources Mentioned:Beyond Behaviors by Dr. Mona DelahookeUniquely Human by Barry M. PrizantThe Reason I Jump by Naoki HigashidaMeghan’s website: Not an Autism MomThe Au-some Book Club – a community for learning alongside autistic voices📝 Read Meghan's Articles:"Gen Ed Teachers Hold the Key" – a powerful call to action for inclusive education"Make the School Library More Accessible to Autistic & Disabled Kids"

In this episode of Regulated & Relational, Julie Beem and Ginger Healy discuss the concept of self-compassion, drawing insights from Dr. Kristin Neff's work. Dr. Neff, a researcher in the field, defines self-compassion as treating yourself with the same kindness you'd offer a close friend. She breaks it into three elements: mindfulness (being aware of struggles), connection (understanding we're not alone in challenges), and kindness to self (responding with warmth instead of self-criticism).Julie shares her own struggles with self-compassion and how it can be difficult to confront pain, often either ignoring it or fighting it. Self-compassion, according to Dr. Neff, allows people to pause, acknowledge the difficulty, and respond with care.Dr. Neff emphasizes that self-compassion isn’t just a feel-good idea; it literally rewires the brain by activating the parasympathetic nervous system and increasing emotional regulation. It improves mental and physical health, supports decision-making, reduces stress, and enhances resilience.Julie and Ginger also provide five practical ways to incorporate more self-compassion into daily life, including mindfulness, self-care, journaling, connection with loved ones, and positive self-talk.Supporting ResourcesDr. Kristin Neffhttps://self-compassion.org/Dr. Neff’s bookshttps://www.amazon.com/s?k=dr+kristen+neff&crid=218H6KXMNYTJ&sprefix=dr+kristin+neff%2Caps%2C145&ref=nb_sb_noss_1

Join Ginger and Julie as they wrap up the season by talking about brain lessons.  A little basic brain knowledge can go a long way in understanding behaviors and supporting children in your home or the classroom. Understanding brain development enables us to respond compassionately and helps children—and adults—thrive.  Brains grow from the bottom up and the inside out.  Although babies are born with brain structures in place, the development and activation of areas of the brain happen sequentially - from the bottom up and inside out. Brain development occurs sequentially, from the bottom up and inside out. Neural growth depends on environmental experiences, relationships, and developmental readiness—stages cannot be skipped. Chronic stress and trauma can disrupt this process, wiring the brain to expect stress and react to it intensely. However, due to neuroplasticity, the brain can adapt, heal, and reorganize itself, offering hope for those affected by trauma. Building resilience involves managing stress through deep breathing, meditation, proper sleep, hydration, nutrition, and healthy relationships. Caregivers play a vital role by offering responsive, nurturing care that supports neural tuning (strengthening) and pruning (removing unused connections). These processes help children learn trust, self-regulation, and efficient learning. Storytelling also fosters brain development by soothing stress responses and enhancing connection. Supporting Resources Dr. Wendy Suzuki https://www.wendysuzuki.com/ Good Anxiety https://a.co/d/7jsv01N Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett https://lisafeldmanbarrett.com/ 7 ½ lessons on the brain book https://a.co/d/fq0zTlx Dr. Bessel Van der kolk -Trauma Research Institute https://traumaresearchfoundation.org/programs/faculty/bessel-van-der-kolk/ Jessica Sinarski- Light up the Learning Brain https://a.co/d/fR1gXhb

Join Julie and Ginger as they speak with Dr. Lori Desautels Dr. Lori Desautels has been an Assistant Professor at Butler University since 2016, teaching undergraduate and graduate programs in the College of Education. The Applied Educational Neuroscience Certification, created by Lori in 2016, is specifically designed to meet the needs of educators, counselors, clinicians, and administrators who work with children and adolescents who have experienced adversity and trauma. https://revelationsineducation.com/ Lori has written 6 books https://revelationsineducation.com/the-book/ Register for her symposium here https://www.butler.edu/education/education-neuroscience-symposium/ Register for her summer cohort certification in educational neuroscience here https://www.butler.edu/education/graduate-programs/applied-educational-neuroscience/ Dr. Lori will be doing a 3-hour deep dive during our Academy Day/Pre-Con at our Creating Trauma-Sensitive Schools Conference in Feb in Atlanta! Register now! Here are a couple of favorite takeaways from our episode that Lori beautifully teaches. “Touchpoints are moments of connection that, when any of us feel heard and seen, just changes our biology. When someone sees, feels, or hears us…wow, that’s a lift. A dopamine hit or a serotonin hit. It feels so nourishing to us. “ “We have this beautiful nervous system, which is the brain and body, in constant communication; there’s this bi-directional highway. Our nervous system’s priority is survival. Anytime we sense or feel something in our environment, relationship, or experience that feels threatening or unsafe, our nervous system goes into a state of protection.”

Join Julie and Ginger as they speak with Anashay Wright,  a national award-winning educator, speaker, consultant, and ​​founder of Authentic Disruption and Disruptive Partners, a community-based leadership development program.  https://www.anashaywright.com/ Anashay describes her journey by telling a story of inclusive school leaders who surrounded her family with community resources when they were in need. She says that school and district leaders prioritized people over policy, which led to Anashay falling in love with helping children, and she is now paying it forward. Here are some great takeaways from Anashay: The curriculum can’t save you. Brainwash them into greatness. Use the community as a connector.  Use tech and AI to educate. Kids don’t need Saviorism; they need servant leaders. Kids can read! They read what they want. You can drive solutions with what kids CAN do. If they argue, teach them to argue like an attorney.  Beware of the cycle of impoverished thinking. Give them the power to express themselves, and then listen to them. Beware of deficit thinking that shames people. What are the gifts and talents that you bring into the space? Let them dream. Lead with what’s possible. It starts with the adult dreaming. Make their vision your mission. Lead with radical, disruptive love. The question isn’t how we protect kids from trauma; it’s how we help them respond to it when they encounter it. Our favorite quote from Anashay: When we start to lead with what’s possible and the promise, shift our thinking, and actually believe in ourselves and then in our children, we will disrupt the system. Disruptive Innovation means building something better and ignoring what we currently have. In a classroom, that means if all the other teachers are writing kids up, I’m not going to write kids up. I’m simply gonna ask kids, “What’s wrong, what’s the solution, and how are you feeling?” The big and small moves you make every day when nobody is looking disrupt the system.

Join Julie and Ginger in speaking to Occupational Therapist, Kelly Mahler about Interoception and the body-mind disconnect. Kelly teaches that as caregivers and educators, we should be curious without expectation of a response from the children we work with. She also explains that we all have different internal experiences; our first step is to believe others and their experiences. Kelly tells us that before we start working on helping and healing the body-mind connection, we really need to work towards a place of regulation and help that person feel safe in their body and environment. Check out her website here: https://www.kelly-mahler.com/ And her Big Book of Interoception Games (and other resources) here: https://www.amazon.com/Books-Kelly-Mahler/s?rh=n%3A283155%2Cp_27%3AKelly+Mahler

Join Julie and Ginger in speaking to Carey Sipp talking about early childhood intervention.  Carey is a solutions journalist and “Neuro-Nurturing ®” advocate who has written about the science of adverse childhood experiences* (ACEs) for about 15 years. She has also worked in communications for nonprofit organizations and for-profit organizations for some four decades. As a person with the experience of trauma and depression, Sipp’s inherent empathy is reflected in all her work, be it writing, speaking, or advocating. An avid nature photographer, shew also loves taking photographs of children and families. Sipp is thrilled that her children, now “thirty-somethings”, are living their dreams of active outdoor lifestyles and careers in recreation and healthcare in Montana. Carey refers to the following resources: PACEs science  Deb McNelis Neuro-Nurturing ®” -https://www.braininsightsonline.com/  “First 60 Days” booklet: Leveraging author’s work and movement could spark revolution to prevent and heal trauma, one precious baby, child, and caregiver at a time. Carey’s book: https://a.co/d/eyAGX7q Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey “What happened to you?” https://a.co/d/0HqYxfD Dr. Christina Bethel https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31498386/ Ed Tronick-The Power of Discord https://a.co/d/e5KfXUq https://www.pacesconnection.com/blog/exciting-news-paces-connection-is-back Still face baby experiment video https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f1Jw0-LExyc How to raise a Viking https://a.co/d/1gEhVle

Join Ginger and Julie as they talk to Mathew Portell. Mathew has dedicated a decade and a half to education in his role as a teacher, instructional coach, teacher mentor, and school administrator before joining PACES Connection as the director of communities in March 2022. He spent seven years as principal of Fall-Hamilton Elementary, an internationally recognized innovative model school for trauma-informed practices in Metro Nashville Public Schools. Mathew is now back in the building as a principal and has written a book along with Ingrid Cockrhen, Julie Kirtz, Julie Nicholson, and Tyesha Noise entitled Reducing Stress in Schools. Check out Mathew’s book: Reducing Stress in Schools: Restoring Connection and Community Mathew gives the following advice: Don’t get caught up in the job and forget about the work. Get back to the basics and listen for what the fundamental truths are in trauma-informed educational environments. Mathew tells us that “Kids can’t achieve academics if their social and emotional health needs aren’t met.” He also says, “We have to base all our decisions on what we say and who we say we are. If we say we are student-focused and adult-supported, then the decision we make has to mirror that. It’s huge when developing a school culture that is looking to reduce stress. You gotta know who you are first, establish your identity as an individual school then document it. Create your core values and then as you make decisions align them with who you say you are.” Be sure to view the "Every student Known" video.

In this episode Ginger and Julie talk to Dafna Lender who is an international trainer, EMDR therapist, and supervisor for practitioners who work with children and families. She is a certified trainer and supervisor/consultant in Dyadic Developmental Psychotherapy and Theraplay. Dafna’s expertise is drawn from  25 years working with families with attachment issues in many settings. She is a leader in family therapy from an attachment perspective and is passionate about her work and regularly co-trains with Bessel van der Kolk, Peter Levine,  Ed Tronick, and Dan Hughes. She is the author of Integrative Attachment Family Therapy and Theraplay: The Practitioner’s Guide. https://www.dafnalender.com/ Listen in as Julie and Ginger talk with Dafna about therapeutic parenting, attachment, and more!

Listen in as Julie and Ginger talk to Ginger Lewman about Bullying. Ginger Lewman is a national consultant & keynote speaker with ESSDACK, a non-profit education service center based in Hutchinson Kansas. She holds a Master of Science in Psychology and Special Education and Gifted Education, With 30 years in education, she inspires and helps all levels of educators figure out the hard hurdles for innovative teaching and learning.  Why do people bully? There are many reasons but Ginger boils it down to the messages we hear as kids and feeling a lack of safety, dignity and/or belonging. Ginger encourages us to get upstream and gives great strategies and tools and states that these and other tools are best utilized in an environment steeped daily in the foundation of the science of trauma and resilience-building and utilizing restorative practices whenever conflict arises anywhere. “Once we become unafraid of our own stories, we all become safer.” ~ Steve Halley Resources: www.stopbullying.gov https://www.essdack.org/ Peaceful Schools and Families: https://www.essdack.org/psf Favorite takeaways: It is difficult work for someone who is hurt, for someone who has hurt other people to move toward conflict. They’ve got to listen to them and they can only do that if I feel safe. When we’re talking about bringing people into circle toward conflict this is an opportunity for each person to examine what their role has been. It’s not just “you did it”, it’s “we are experiencing this and this is not good for any of us in our community, this isn’t about you just cleaning up what you did wrong”. It’s all of us.

In Episode 82, Ginger & Julie dig into Oxytocin. Oxytocin is often called the “love” or “cuddle” hormone. High levels of oxytocin correlate with the speed of wound healing. Research is documenting the positive effects of oxytocin in treating many conditions including heart disease, schizophrenia, diabetes, and certain kinds of cancer. For children who have experienced early adversities with attachment disorders and trauma-based impacts, increasing their oxytocin levels holds the promise of helping them emotionally, socially, relationally, and physically. Besides physical touch and affection other things that increase oxytocin: Exercise Healthy Diet Vitamin D Music The following additional resources were mentioned Dr. Stephen Porges https://www.stephenporges.com/ Amelia and Emily Nagoski https://www.burnoutbook.net/about-the-authors Dr. Louis Cozolino https://www.drloucozolino.com/ Drs. Dan Hughes and Jon Baylin -Brain-Based Parenting book- https://a.co/d/gUWRjQF

In this episode Julie and Ginger interview ATN’s dear friend, Dr. Melissa Sadin. Melissa teaches us about Hope Theory based on the work of Gwinn and Hellman and their book Hope Rising. You can check out Dr. Sadin’s books and work here: http://www.traumasensitive.com/, https://a.co/d/9x4lPtk. What is the definition of hope? Hope is setting a goal that you desire, creating a pathway toward the goal, and utilizing the willpower necessary to achieve the goal through connection to another person. Dr. Sadin further states that Hope Builds Resilience and Resilience Builds Hope. She tells us that through the following three-step process we can build hope and resilience in our children at home and students at school: 1. Set an achievable goal 2. Set the pathway -the WAYPOWER 3. Get a cheerleader- the WILLPOWER, who will help revise and check-in Melissa teaches us that: - Hope builds executive functioning capacity - Students with high hope have better attendance than students with low hope - Students with high hope have better academic outcomes than students with low hope- despite cognitive ability - Students with hope are more likely to find success in career or college sooner than students with low hope Listen in and join us in building hope!

In this Episode Julie and Ginger teach about the PolyVagal Theory and introduce us to Our PolyVagal World a new book by Dr. Stephen Porges and his son Seth Porges. Link to the book: https://www.amazon.com/Our-Polyvagal-World-Safety-Trauma/dp/1324030259 How safe we feel is crucial to our physical and mental health and happiness. When we feel safe our nervous system and entire body undergo a massive physiological shift that primes us to be healthier, happier, and smarter, to be better learners and problem solvers: to have more fun; to heal fast, and generally to feel more alive.  It is in this safe state that we can learn. When we feel safe we feel a sense of connection to ourselves and others. We are born wired to connect but when trauma enters the picture it rewires us and we feel disconnected from people, society, and our own bodies.  The impact of trauma stretches through our brain and nervous system through every part of our body changing our physical and mental health. Link to the video on our Autonomic Nervous System and how we are impacted by trauma: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZdIQRxwT1I0&t=15s

In this Episode Julie and Ginger talk to Dr. Rick Cain. Rick specializes in the neuroscience of stress and well-being. He helps us explore how wellness practices in the biological domain of self-regulation, such as healthy eating, restorative sleep, and regular exercise, aid in our ability to regulate our nervous system and are pivotal for optimizing cognitive function, forming habits, and managing emotions. Rick teaches us about the concept of the "body budget," as coined by Lisa Feldman Barrett, PhD -https://lisafeldmanbarrett.com - and he ends with talking about how we can use mindfulness to help us avoid functioning on autopilot. Autopilot is a state of mind in which one acts without conscious intention or awareness of present-moment sensory perception. It's common for us to go through our days on autopilot, just trying to get through them. It's a normal part of the human experience, and it's okay sometimes to lose track of the present moment. It's important to recognize that when we're constantly on autopilot, we risk missing out on the small moments that make up our lives. The choice between operating on autopilot and cultivating a state of awareness is within our control.

In today’s episode, Ginger and Julie talk to Dr. Amy Fast. Dr. Amy is currently a superintendent in Oregon. She is an author, and education commentator, former HS principal and elementary school teacher…and she is a mom!  Her book, It’s the Mission, Not the Mandates can found at https://a.co/d/4ZtW5Kg . Listen in for these great takeaways: “Where I find kids thrive and are the most well, is when there is the magic balance of being pushed hard and loved hard. You can't have one without the other because if you have the love without that developmental push, that just right push, so that they are just enough outside their comfort zone where they're growing but not falling off the edge of the cliff then kids do become entitled or enabled, but if you have the opposite where you are always pushing them with no support, or love or affection then you have kids with suicidal ideation or poor self-concept.” “The work doesn't feel good when it's easy, it feels good when it matters and that's part of why so many educators are suffering. There is a lack of congruence between what we are asking and mandating and telling them to do and what they know in their guts actually matter for kids.”

In today’s episode, Ginger and Julie dive into Step-Parenting. Approximately 40% of all families are blended families, which are defined as divorced and/or remarried families or those living together that have children residing with one parent and possibly visiting the other, and have another adult in their lives who is the stepparent figure. Divorce is widespread, (hovering around half of all marriages.) For children, divorce is considered a traumatizing event and being raised by stepparents can be a landmine of potential trauma. That doesn’t mean we at ATN are against divorce or that we blame the adults for their decision to separate. We want parents to understand how divorce can potentially impact your children – for the rest of their lives. And how best to help them come out of it in a positive way. Here are some takeaways. Listen to your children. Give them a safe space to express themselves. Discuss and decide as a couple how you’re going to handle family dynamics and what you want for your family. Whenever possible, try to be on the same parenting page. Take co-parenting seriously. Professional help will be needed as you blend your family, Interventions can help these struggles from becoming complex traumas and resources and support are available through ATN. If you want more information about our Trauma-Informed Certification program, go to certification.attachtrauma.org.

Co-Regulation: Stepping in with soothing, responsive interactions to help a person be able to regulate their emotions.   OR Borrowing the ability to attain a regulated state from another person who is emotionally regulated and responsive to our need for assistance. First – you need to regulate yourself.   Be aware of own triggers Find /create your own system of support Find activities, interests to help you regulate (music, movies, hobbies, exercise) Find what grounds and anchors you, a source of strength, comfort, and clarity of purpose like personal faith, nature, meditations Second - let them borrow some of your regulation.   Be (and remain) present Reflect back calm and responsiveness   Hold space The final step of regulation is to actively teach children how to regulate themselves, giving them tools to use. Mindfulness Name It to Tame It   Creative Expressions of Emotions   Movement & Rhythm  Breathing   Sensory Engagement    Hunger or Thirst   Grounding Techniques   Play   Resources: Mona Delahooke https://monadelahooke.com/ Deb Dana https://www.rhythmofregulation.com/ The Whole Brain Child- Dr. Siegel and Dr. Bryson

In this episode, Julie and Ginger share the Five Neurodivergent Love Languages from @neurowonderful. Info dumping. Sharing information about topics that excite you and that you have an interest or passion in and sharing them in detail and length. Body Doubling/Parallel Play/Sharing Space. When people do separate activities with each other, they are not trying to influence each other's behavior. Seeking Support/Support Swapping.  Helping each other look out for themselves in small ways.  Deep Pressure. Finding a way to be grounded physically through pressure and weight  can alleviate stress.  Penguin pebbling/gift giving. This is when an ND person shows another person affection by offering them little objects, like trinkets or even memes.  Listen in as Julie and Ginger discuss that the Five Neurodivergent Love Languages are a Tool for EVERYONE! Share these with the children in your care to open dialogue about how we see and value each other and how we can better connect and understand each other. It can be a very effective way to increase communication and inclusivity.

In this Episode Julie and Ginger seek to increase awareness and acceptance of the strengths that neurodivergent children have.  Neurodiversity means valuing all types of thinking and learning equally, without considering any as superior. It focuses on equitable inclusion by accepting diverse ways of engaging with the world, rejecting the ideas that difference from the norm are problems to be fixed. ATN aligns with the belief that societal and physical barriers create disabling environments, and that impairments result from these barriers rather than from focusing on what is wrong with the person.  “Neurodivergent” describes someone whose brain works differently. A neurodivergent person often has different ways of thinking or processing the world around them than someone who’s “neurotypical” or who has what’s seen as a more standard experience. Neurodivergent people aren’t any less capable than their peers, and in fact tend to excel in more particular or specialized areas. But often our school and social structures aren’t built to accommodate ND individuals, which makes life more difficult for them.   Neurodivergent students LEARN DIFFERENTLY. Dr. Mona Delahooke teaches that we should take “differences” off a diagnostic checklist and see these differences as adaptations in the way the student processes information in the classroom.  So what should educators be doing?  Experts who work with neurodiverse students suggest Using Trauma-Informed strategies in the classroom and regulation-driven teaching models. They also highlight the importance of adapting systems and environments to support success by honoring all forms of communication as valid Resources noted in the episode https://www.templegrandin.com/ https://www.axismunditherapy.com/ https://www.kelly-mahler.com/ https://monadelahooke.com/ Listen in and Julie and Ginger share their vulnerable stories of parenting and educating their neurodivergent children in hopes of helping others walking in their shoes.

In this Episode, Julie interviews Joe Brummer and Marg Thorsborne about their new book, Becoming a Trauma-Informed Restorative Educator.  Both Joe and Marg have years of experience and are experts in the field of restorative justice. Marg talks about how we can move away from punishment and the harm of behaviorism, and encourages us to look at how to build lagging skills and view behaviors through a lens of can’t vs won’t. She says that punishment doesn’t have the capacity to teach a skill that is missing. Joe tells us that restorative justice is a community-building program vs. discipline program and goes on to say that RJ is any practice that builds, maintains, and repairs relationships. It’s going upstream and creating a school climate that doesn’t create negative behaviors - when we focus on relationships and see the value of every student because they aren’t disposable. It’s a way of being that says to the student, “We will love you, we will help you clean up your mess, and repair your mistakes”. Accountability is there. There are consequences, And it requires system change because the system helps them make the change. It’s a paradigm shift. Marg reminds us that we are wired to be connected and redemption is important for our healing.  Listen in as Julie interviews Marg and Joe and dives into the why behind their new book that will lead to a systems change starting with the creation of restorative educators.  Pre-order this book now - released June 21, 2024:  Jessica Kingsley Publishing Amazon

In this episode, Julie and Ginger welcome Ingrid Cockhren into the studio to discuss parenting in today’s society…or, as Dr. Gabor Mate calls it, Horticulture on the Moon.   Dr. Gabor Mate, a renowned expert, brings a unique perspective to the table. He points out that Western society has taught us to ignore our parenting instincts. He cites indigenous parenting practices as examples, which were more likely to meet the infant’s needs while supporting the mother and family with the community. We echo his sentiments. Our current culture often makes raising children a challenging task, akin to cultivating plants on the moon. Ingrid Cockhren, M.Ed., is a seasoned professional with a career spanning two decades. Her expertise in stress, trauma, and human development has allowed her to transform her research and knowledge into trauma-informed and healing-centered solutions for communities, workplaces, and organizations. Her diverse roles in juvenile justice, family counseling, early childhood education, professional development and training, and community education further underline her comprehensive understanding of the subject.  Ingrid states, “As long as we continue to focus on individual wants and desires and not the collective public good, then we will continue to have struggles, and our society pushes for those individual wants and desires. We are mainly driven by consumerism and capitalism and the pursuit of individual liberty and happiness.  These are our founding principles, but what is required when we have children is the village, the collective. This is in opposition to the values that go along with our society. As long as we continue down this path of putting the individual's wants and desires ahead of the collective good then we will continue to have environments that are not conducive to parenting." You can find more from Ingrid here https://cockhrenconsulting.com/