Resiliency Within

In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, Resiliency Within is honored to spotlight the extraordinary work of Melissa Boley, who reflects on her remarkable career as a psychotherapist and leader in the field of trauma healing. Melissa was recently awarded the 2026 Lifetime Achievement Award by the Idaho Counseling Association, in recognition of 36 years of dedicated service as a Licensed Clinical Professional Counselor in Idaho. In this episode, she shares the wisdom and insights she has gained through decades of clinical work, as well as her international experiences and deep connection to the healing power of nature. Her journey began in social services in 1978 while still an undergraduate, followed by earningher Master's in Counseling Psychology in 1986. Over the years, Melissa has worked across a wide range of mental health settings—including wilderness therapy programs with incarcerated youth, domestic violence shelters, group homes, crisis residential centers, and community mental health clinics throughout the United States. Since 1990, she has maintained a private practice in Ketchum, Idaho. Specializing in trauma, Melissa brings an integrative, body-based approach to her work. She holds advanced postgraduate certifications in Somatic Experiencing, Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing, and the Trauma Resiliency Model. She also serves as a Teaching Assistant with the Somatic Experiencing Institute and as a Consultant, Facilitator, and Trainer with the Trauma Resource Institute, teaching both the Community Resiliency Model and the Trauma Resiliency Model, sharing trauma-informed resilience skills both nationally and internationally—including in Nepal, the Philippines, and Serbia. Join us as Melissa reflects on a lifetime of service, the evolution of trauma-informed care, and the vital role of somatic awareness in supporting healing and resilience.

In this episode of Resiliency Within, Elaine Miller-Karas, interviews Dr. Adam Barsouk about a sobering reality: cancer has surpassed heart disease as the leading cause of death in many developed nations. Yet there is hope—up to half of cancer deaths may be preventable through lifestyle changes, environmental awareness, and thoughtful public policy. Dr. Barsouk shares important information from his recently published book, Outsmarting Cancer, which reframes one of the most pressing medical challenges of our time: how to prevent cancer. Dr. Barsouk presents a sweeping examination of cancer's true origins—biological, environmental, dietary, infectious, industrial, occupational, and behavioral—and makes a compelling case for why cancer prevention must become a central priority in public and personal health. His book explores a wide range of overlooked and misunderstood risk factors, as well as how inequities in diagnosis, treatment, and prevention disproportionately impact underserved populations. This conversation invites us to rethink cancer not only as a medical diagnosis, but as a public health and societal challenge—one that calls for evidence-based prevention strategies, informed choices, and collective responsibility. About Our Guest: ADAM BARSOUK, MD is a resident-physician at the University of Pennsylvania. His articles about science, medicine, and policy have been featured in Forbes, Newsweek, Fox News, and Business Insider.

In this powerful episode, we honor the legacy of Jane Stevens, founder of PACEs Connection, and explore how her vision is evolving into a bold national and global trauma recovery movement—one grounded in the belief that healing-centered care is a right, not a privilege. Through an intentional collaboration of organizations guided by Alliance Practice | Strategic Consulting for the Trauma Sector, this conversation highlights a growing movement that weaves together grassroots to systems-level change. From trauma-informed advocacy and upstream prevention policy to cross-sector partnerships and global certifications, this work is building a socio-ecological approach to healing across the lifespan. Join Carey Sipp, solutions journalist and leading voice in PACEs science, and Dana Brown, lifelong community organizer and statewide trauma-informed leader, as they share how science, lived experience, and community wisdom are coming together to prevent adversity and promote resilience. Together, they illuminate how positive childhood experiences, maternal and relational health, and community-driven leadership can disrupt cycles of trauma and create pathways for every child, family, and community to thrive. Be inspired by a movement that is not only growing—but transforming systems, empowering communities, and redefining what healing looks like worldwide. About Our Guests: Carey Sipp is a solutions journalist, community builder, and subject matter expert on positive and adverse childhood experiences (PACEs) who has spent nearly two decades researching, writing, and speaking on the science linking childhood adversity to lifelong health outcomes — and championing the upstream prevention strategies and positive experiences that heal and protect. Carey has held a leadership role at PACEs Connection. She serves on the Board of the STAR Network Foundation, the Steering Committee of Prevent First, NC, and the Advisory Board of Trauma Resilient Educational Communities.Carey is the author of The TurnAround Mom Dana Brown is the PACEs Science Statewide Facilitator and Interim Executive Director of PACEs Connection. She is a powerful social entrepreneur who has served the youth of her community in numerous ways.  Some of the highlights of her dedication to her community include her efforts as an inner-city community organizer in City Heights for 29 years. She was a Commissioner on the City of San Diego Commission on Gang Prevention & Intervention and Chaired the Youth Committee. She is the co-chair of the San Diego Trauma-Informed Guide Team  and on the Advisory Council of the University of San Diego's Character Development Center, and the leadership team of the Warrior Spirit Family with Indigenous communities. Dana is a HeartMath National Certified Coherence Advantage trainer and the author, of  Hidden Treasures,

In this powerful episode of Resiliency Within, host Elaine Miller-Karas is joined by Louise Godbold, Executive Director of ECHO, to explore the critical role of survivor agency in trauma recovery. Together, they discuss why healing must be guided by the survivor's voice, choices, and lived experience—especially within systems that often overlook or override individual needs. Louise shares insights from her work with survivors of high-profile abuse, highlighting the added layers of complexity that come with public disclosure, including media exposure and the risk of retraumatization. The conversation also brings attention to Hague Mothers—women who flee domestic violence across borders to protect their children, only to face legal systems that may return their children without fully considering the context of abuse. In light of recent public conversations—including the courage of Dolores Huerta and her allegations against César Chávez—this episode also reflects on the immense courage it takes for survivors to come forward, particularly when speaking about powerful and widely respected figures. Survivors who have disclosed experiences involving individuals such as Bill Cosby, Jeffrey Epstein, and Harvey Weinstein have helped bring greater awareness to the complexities of trauma, power, and accountability. These disclosures often come with significant personal risk, including public scrutiny, disbelief, and retraumatization. This episode explores the importance of helping survivors create a coherent narrative of their experiences as part of the healing process, and the responsibility of journalists, professionals, and communities to adopt trauma-informed practices that reduce harm and promote resilience. With compassion and clarity, this conversation offers a call to action: to center survivor agency, uphold dignity, and create systems that truly support healing. About Our Guest: Louise Godbold is the Executive Director of ECHO, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing training and educational resources on trauma and resilience for survivors and professionals across multiple sectors. Following her decision to come forward about her own experience with Harvey Weinstein in 2017, Louise became a trusted advocate for survivors of high-profile perpetrators, supporting them as they navigate the complex and often retraumatizing terrain of public disclosure. Her work centers on survivor agency, ethical storytelling, and trauma-informed systems change. Louise has written extensively on trauma and survivorship for publications including Pacific Standard, Slate, Smithsonian Magazine, Vox, and The Wrap. She is widely recognized for her leadership in advancing survivor-centered approaches that honor dignity, choice, and voice in the healing process.

In this episode of Resiliency Within, I am joined by Jenn Turner of the Center for Trauma and Embodiment for a thoughtful and energizing conversation about what it means to be women leaders in the fields of mind-body health and trauma healing. Together, we explore the evolving landscape of therapeutic relationships—moving away from traditional hierarchies toward models of shared power, collaboration, and mutual respect. Jenn brings deep insight into embodied trauma healing, helping us understand how the body holds our lived experiences and how healing must include—not bypass—our physical sensations and inner awareness. We also dive into the role of interoception—the ability to notice and make meaning of sensations inside the body—and how this skill supports emotional regulation, resilience, and a deeper connection to self. Grounded in neurobiology, we discuss how the nervous system shapes our responses to stress, trauma, and healing, reinforcing the idea that our reactions are rooted in biology, not personal weakness. Importantly, this conversation also examines how patriarchal structures have influenced healing modalities—often prioritizing authority, control, and "fixing" over listening, collaboration, and empowerment. As women in leadership, we reflect on how we are helping to reshape these systems into ones that honor voice, agency, and the wisdom of the body. This episode invites listeners to consider a new vision of healing—one that is relational, embodied, and rooted in both science and compassion. Whether you are a practitioner, educator, or someone on your own healing journey, this conversation offers meaningful insights into how we can create more equitable, attuned, and human-centered approaches to well-being. About Our Guest: Jenn has had the honor of working with survivors of trauma for all of her career. Along with working in private practice as a trauma-informed therapist, Jenn is the Executive Director of the Center for Trauma and Embodiment where she works to oversee training and supports the development of body-first interventions for healing from trauma. Jenn also leads trainings in Trauma Center Trauma Sensitive Yoga (TCTSY) throughout the U.S. and provides consultation to organizations on how to become more trauma-informed at all levels. Jenn co-founded the Center for Trauma and Embodiment in 2018.

In this episode of Resiliency Within, our host, Elaine Miller-Karas, will interview Bo Dean about his reflections of how the first 2,000 days of life—from pregnancy through early childhood—lay the foundation for resilience across the lifespan. Together, we discuss how these early experiences shape the developing brain, nervous system, and sense of self. Our conversation explores how love and stress can coexist within families, and how unspoken trauma can quietly influence a child's development. Drawing from neuroscience and research on Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs), we examine how early environments shape long-term health and well-being—and, importantly, how resilience can still be cultivated. The hopeful message is clear: resilience is not something a child builds alone. Even one stable, caring relationship can change the trajectory of a life. Bo and Elaine will explore how families, educators, faith leaders, and communities can create supportive environments that foster healing and help children truly thrive. Join us for this meaningful and insightful conversation on shaping resilience from the very beginning. ______________ About Our Guest L.S. "Bo" Dean Jr. is a Senior HR Analyst for Learning & Development at New Hanover County Government and a certified Community Resiliency Model® Teacher/Educator through the Trauma Resource Institute. He designs and delivers Learning and Development for approximately 2,000 public employees across 30 departments — always through a trauma-informed, nervous-system-aware lens. Learn more:  https://bodean.substack.com/  

After disaster strikes, recovery is often measured in dollars—insurance claims, rebuilding costs, financial losses.But what about the human side of recovery? In this episode, Elaine Miller-Karas sits down with Joy Chen, Executive Director of the Every Fire Survivor's Network, to explore how thousands of Los Angeles fire survivors are navigating not only financial hardship, but also the emotional toll of loss and displacement. Through a growing community of over 10,000 survivors and allies, Joy and her network have helped unlock more than $100 million in delayed insurance payouts. Yet what's equally transformative is what happens when survivors come together—moving from isolation to connection, from overwhelm to empowerment. Together, we explore how people directly impacted by disaster are stepping into leadership, advocating for change, and reshaping the systems meant to support them. This is a conversation about more than rebuilding homes. It's about restoring agency, dignity, and hope—and discovering the strength that emerges when communities rise together.   About Our Guest: Joy Chen is the Executive Director of the Eaton Fire Survivor's Network, the largest survivor-led recovery community in the nation, representing over 10,000 fire survivors and allies across Los Angeles. Through her leadership, the network has helped unlock more than $100 million in delayed insurance payouts and built a recovery hub recognized by the Los Angeles Times as a lifeline for thousands. A former Deputy Mayor of Los Angeles, Joy led economic and workforce development initiatives focused on expanding opportunity in historically underserved communities. She has also worked globally in executive leadership at Heidrick & Struggles, advising Fortune 500 CEOs, and trained thousands through the Multicultural Leadership Institute. An internationally recognized author and thought leader, Joy's work has reached millions, challenging traditional narratives of success and empowering individuals—especially women—to lead with agency and purpose. Today, she is a leading voice in disaster recovery and insurance accountability, working to transform broken systems so families can rebuild their homes—and their lives—with dignity and hope.

In times of global upheaval and community suffering, many of us feel shaken—mentally, emotionally, and physically. The brutality and uncertainty we witness can disrupt our sense of well-being, leaving us confused, anxious, or overwhelmed. Yet even in the midst of collective stress, it is possible to cultivate inner harmony. Inner harmony is the quiet meeting place of our thoughts, emotions, and bodily sensations. It is a living balance that emerges when we understand the rhythms of our nervous system and gently guide it back toward regulation and well-being. On this episode of Resiliency Within, host Elaine Miller-Karas shares heartfelt reflections and practical, biologically based insights drawn from the Community Resiliency Model. She explores how we can restore balance, strengthen our resilience circuits, and reconnect with a sense of embodied well-being—even when the world around us feels unsteady.  Join us for a thoughtful and empowering conversation on how to nurture inner harmony during stressful times.

Crisis Recovery for Kids, Parents, and Teachers   Children worldwide are living during very difficult times within the United States and globally. Current policies are impacting our schools - our children, teachers, and school staff.    Inez Tiger and Elaine Miller-Karas will discuss how educational systems worldwide are increasingly confronted with the impact of natural and human-made crises - war, genocide, wildfires, ICE raids, and community violence.   These events disrupt the stability of whole communities with profound implications to children and those who care for them. Join our host, Elaine Miller-Karas, and Educator Inez Tiger for this encore show on implementing the Community Resiliency Model in a systematic, phased approach to support resilience for children, educators, and school staff. _______________ About Our Guest: Inez Tiger, LMFT, brings over 30 years of experience as an educator, school leader, and mental health professional. She has served as an elementary and middle school teacher, counselor, principal, and most recently as Director of Wellness at The Pressman Academy. Inez is a certified teacher of the Community Resiliency Model® (CRM), a practitioner of the Trauma Resiliency Model® (TRM), and a longtime facilitator and trainer in the practice of Council.  Specializing in self-regulation, trauma healing, and the power of storytelling, Inez recently transitioned from her role as a school-based educator to focus more deeply on healing and wellness. A collector of stories, she finds meaning in listening to the resilience of students, parents, and teachers as they navigate their school journeys.  Originally from South Africa, Inez lives in Los Angeles with her partner and their two children. She finds joy in art-making, meaningful collaboration, and long walks with their dog, Chase. One of her guiding mottos comes from Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

On this episode of Resiliency Within, Elaine Miller-Karas welcomes Bev Weise, MBA, ACC—leadership coach, social entrepreneur, and co-founder of Refugee Jumpstart Coaching. Bev shares the inspiring story behind the organization she co-founded in 2021 with Syrian refugee Hussein Alzribi to help educated and highly skilled refugees rebuild their professional lives. Refugee Jumpstart Coaching connects refugees around the world with a global network of pro bono leadership, wellness, and career coaches, as well as job search, entrepreneurship, and industry mentors. Their innovative work empowering displaced professionals earned the organization the International Coaching Federation's Global Social Impact Award in 2024. That same year, Refugee Jumpstart Coaching became a recognized 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in California, expanding its ability to support refugees seeking opportunity, dignity, and meaningful work. Bev brings more than 35 years of experience in corporate and nonprofit leadership development. She is an ICF-certified Leadership Coach and the founder of Leadership Talent Solutions, a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations identify, develop, and retain leadership talent. Her career has included roles such as Executive Director of Interlaw Ltd., an international association of law firms, and Corporate Director of Executive Planning and Development at Northrop Grumman Corporation. A turning point in Bev's life came in 2016 when she volunteered in a refugee camp in Chios, Greece. The experience deeply moved her and inspired her commitment to helping refugees recognize their strengths and rebuild their futures. In this heartfelt conversation, Bev shares how compassion, leadership, and global collaboration can help transform adversity into opportunity—reminding us that resilience often grows when people are given the chance to rediscover their gifts and purpose.

Resiliency Within welcomes back Dr. Phillip Allen.  Dr. Allen is a theologian and ethicist whose research and writings include the intersections of social structure, race, culture, and theology and ethics of justice. He has authored two books: Open Wounds: A Story of Racial Tragedy, Trauma, and Redemption and The Prophetic Lens: The Camera and Black Moral Agency From MLK to Darnella Frazier. He is an affiliate assistant professor at Fuller Theological Seminary, where he completed his PhD in Theology. He is also a poet and documentary filmmaker. Dr. Allen founded the nonprofit Racial Solidarity Project based in Pasadena, CA. As a former Division 1 college basketball player at North Carolina A&T State University, he has enjoyed opportunities as a guest chaplain for college and pro sports teams.   Dr. Allen will talk about the nonprofit he started, the Racial Solidarity Project and his book, the Prophetic Lens. The Prophetic Lens takes an important look at the use of the video camera as an indispensable prophetic tool for the security of Black lives and greater possibility for racial justice. He will share how the camera can be a catalyst for cultural change, using Walter Brueggemann's Prophetic Imagination as a framework for understanding the concept of "prophetic." Chronicling the use of the camera, particularly in film from J.D. Griffiths' Birth of a Nation to Spike Lee's Do the Right Thing, Allen's historical approach reveals how effective this technology has been in achieving the goals of its respective storytellers. Dr. Allen's work is an example of the importance of chronicling the richness of black history.

In a time of deep division, uncertainty, and crisis, Finding Light in the Darkness will explore how we can maintain our well-being, integrity, and hope. Hosted by Elaine Miller-Karas, an internationally recognized trauma expert and resiliency advocate, she will illuminate practical strategies for navigating today's complex social and political landscape. Elaine hopes this episode will provide a beacon of light—insights on staying grounded, fostering compassion, and building resilience in the face of adversity. Elaine is dedicated to empowering listeners to cultivate inner strength and create ripples of change for themselves, their families and their communities. Join Resiliency Within as Elaine uncovers pathways to healing, unity, and action—because light can be found even in the darkest times. ___________________________________ About Elaine Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW, is a social worker, trauma therapist, author, lecturer, consultant, VoiceAmerica  podcast host, Psychology Today blogger, and social entrepreneur. She has been called an "ambassador of hope" in the fields of trauma therapy and community resiliency. As a co-founder of the Trauma Resource Institute, Elaine serves as the Director of Innovation.  She has led the development of the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models, which have left an indelible global footprint, impacting over 75 countries. Her book, "Building Resiliency to Trauma: The Trauma and Community Resiliency Model, Second Edition (2023)," has been recognized by the United Nations and Taylor and Francis.  She is a regular contributor to Psychology Today. She has presented internationally at Oxford University's Skoll World Forum, the United Nations, Resiliency 2024, Medscape, Psychotherapy Networker, the Global Fund, the Carter Center, and the Centers for Disease Control. Elaine believes in a world where every person is treated with dignity and our differences are acknowledged and respected.

In this encore episode, Elaine Miller-Karas, host of Resiliency Within, welcomes back Kevin McLeod, Director of Business & Community Development at the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI), for a powerful conversation about teens, healing, and hope. In this episode, Kevin addresses the Trauma Resource Institute's inspiring work bringing the Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) to teens in Georgia's Juvenile Justice System—and how this innovative program can be brought to schools, teen centers, and community clubs everywhere. YAP has recently been applied to the Disaster Relief Mobilization-Community Resiliency Model Program. YAP empowers teens with simple, science-based wellness skills from the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)—tools that help calm the nervous system and restore well-being after stress or trauma. Through hands-on, experiential training, youth become CRM Teen Ambassadors (CRM-TAs) and learn six easy-to-use skills they can apply for self-care and peer support. What's more, these young leaders go on to share the skills with their friends and classmates through short, engaging "share-backs" that bring the skills to life in everyday settings—from classrooms to living rooms. YAP is more than a program—it's a movement to build resilience, foster connection, and inspire hope—one teen at a time.

In this episode of Resiliency Within, Elaine Miller-Karas sits down with Edith Boyle, LCSW—President & CEO of LifeBridge Community Services—for a meaningful conversation about the power of balancing the narrative and why the stories we tell about our communities shape their future. Bridgeport, Connecticut is often described through statistics of hardship—high poverty rates, community violence, limited access to mental health care, and chronic school absenteeism. These realities are significant and deserve attention. But when a place is defined only by its struggles, something vital is lost. Research calls this deficit framing or spatial stigma—a lens that can lower expectations, reinforce bias, and quietly erode hope, dignity, and well-being. So the question becomes: What else is true? Bridgeport is also home to deep cultural pride, resilient families, committed faith and neighborhood leaders, strong nonprofit partnerships, and generations of community strength. Edith shares how LifeBridge embraces both truths—acknowledging adversity while actively cultivating possibility. Through trauma-informed school and community mental health services, integrated pediatric behavioral health, community resiliency training, and arts-based healing initiatives, LifeBridge helps individuals and neighborhoods expand their narrative beyond survival toward empowerment. This conversation explores how a balanced narrative doesn't deny pain—it widens the lens. It reduces shame, restores dignity, supports nervous system regulation, and strengthens resilience not just in individuals, but across entire communities. Join us for an inspiring dialogue about reframing stories, reclaiming identity, and rediscovering what is possible.   About Our Guest: Edith Boyle, LCSW President & CEO, LifeBridge Community Services Edith Boyle, LCSW is President & CEO of LifeBridge Community Services in Bridgeport, Connecticut, and a licensed clinical social worker committed to advancing healing and resilience in communities impacted by stress and adversity. A first-generation college graduate, she holds an MSW from Western NewMexico University and a BA in Psychology from Arizona State University. Since 2022, Edith has led LifeBridge's expansion of accessible, trauma-informed outpatient mental health care for children, adults, and families—integrating talk therapy and clinical art therapy to support both mind and body. She also champions practical, neuroscience-informed resiliency skills in everyday settings through Community Resiliency Model (CRM) trainings for frontline professionals and community members, helping people feel calmer, more focused, and more connected during challenging times. Edith is advancing community-based models that bring care closer to where families live and learn, including embedding clinicians in schools and pediatric practices across Fairfield County. Under her leadership, LifeBridge joined the National Child Traumatic Stress Network, strengthening the organization's capacity to serve children and families impacted by trauma. She also founded Connecticut's first Trauma-Informed Community of Practice (TI-CoP), convening cross-sector providers to deepen shared learning and strengthen trauma-responsive care throughout the region.

In this conversation, Maryam Zar reflects on resilience as an act of continuity—how individuals and communities carry memory, identity, and care forward after profound disruption. Drawing from her leadership in post-wildfire recovery and her partnership in Art for Healing and the Legacy Family project among other initiatives, Maryam explores how healing is supported when survivors are seen as keepers of story, connection, and meaning. She shares insights on the emotional toll of displacement, the importance of community-led recovery models, and the role of creative and practical structures in helping people feel grounded. The discussion highlights how resilience is often quiet and relational—rooted in showing up, creating safe spaces, and allowing grief and hope to exist side by side. Maryam offers a perspective on recovery that is focused on rebuilding structures and recovering community with a focus on meeting people where they are - even as that evolves. __________________ About Our Guest: Maryam Zar is a longtime community leader, civic convener, and recovery advocate based in Pacific Palisades. She is a founder of the Palisades Recovery Coalition and plays a central role in guiding community-centered recovery efforts following wildfire-related displacement and loss. Her work focuses on restoring not only physical infrastructure, but also trust, continuity, and belonging—particularly for families navigating prolonged disruption. Maryam's leadership emphasizes collaboration across residents, local institutions, mental health practitioners, designers, and policymakers, with a strong belief that recovery is both a logistical and emotional process. Through initiatives such as the Legacy Family project, Community Recovery Labs, and healing-centered convenings, she has helped create spaces where grief, resilience, and forward momentum can coexist. Her approach is grounded, inclusive, and informed by lived experience, with a commitment to ensuring that recovery efforts honor memory while supporting long-term well-being.

Dr. Rebecca Shasanmi Ellis joins Resiliency Within to explore how we can mobilize models of care that strengthen resilience, promote health equity, and advance Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s vision of The Beloved Community across the life span. Drawing on her expertise as a community mental health nurse and a Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® Teacher, Dr. Ellis brings a grounded, systems-level perspective on how social and structural determinants of health shape individual and community well-being. She has taught nurses and other clinical, public health, and social service providers how to manage their own psychological stress while sharing practical resiliency skills that support more equitable, patient-centered care in both facility-based and community settings. Her wisdom is informed by nearly two decades of work in health systems readiness for maternal and child health—globally and domestically—including her current work with communities in Washington, DC. Notably, in 2014, Dr. Ellis served as project manager for a $9 million USD World Health Organization initiative in Nigeria, addressing critical frontline reproductive health workforce shortages during the Ebola crisis. In this conversation, she reflects on lessons learned from global and local contexts, and how resilience-informed, community-centered approaches can foster healing, hope, and connection in times of both crisis and renewal. ________________ About Our Guest: Rebecca Shasanmi Ellis, PhD, MS, MPH, BSN, RN is an Assistant Professor at Georgetown University's Berkley School of Nursing. Her long-term research agenda focuses on the intersections of health workforce and health systems development, mental health, and structural determinants of health, with the goal of reducing health disparities in underserved and resource-limited communities globally. With more than 20 years of experience as a field-trained health professional, Dr. Ellis brings deep expertise in program management, implementation science, and interprofessional education across research, clinical practice, health system strengthening, and policy. This multidisciplinary background uniquely positions her to design, lead, and evaluate complex, collaborative programs that bridge nursing, public health, and global health practice. Dr. Ellis currently serves as Chair of the Public Health Nursing (PHN) Section of the American Public Health Association(APHA) and is a member of the Council of Public Health Nursing Organizations. Prior to joining Georgetown, she was an instructor at Emory University beginning in 2018. She also provided direct patient care as a registered nurse in mental health and women's health settings at SisterLove, Inc.—the first Black women–led HIV organization in the U.S. South—and at Our House Health (formerly CAPN Clinics), delivering care within homeless shelters in Atlanta, Georgia. Since 2014, Dr. Ellis has also served as a research collaborating consultant with the Center for Patient Safety at the University of Sao Paulo College of Nursing in Ribeirão Preto, Brazil, contributing to international efforts to advance patient safety, workforce development, and equitable health systems.

The chronic illness of a child does not arrive gently. It comes like an asteroid—sudden and life-altering. In this episode, I am honored to be joined by Kelly Cervantes, author of The Luckiest, and her husband Miguel Cervantes, the acclaimed Broadway star of Hamilton, as they share their extraordinary journey through unimaginable loss—and enduring love. Kelly and Miguel open their hearts as they reflect on the life and death of their daughter, Adelaide, who lived with epilepsy and a rare neurodegenerative brain condition. As Adelaide's terminal diagnosis unfolded, Kelly was a full-time caregiver and advocate for her daughter and mother to her older son, Jackson, while Miguel balanced the demands of the stage with the journey of Adelaide's illness unfolding at home. Together, they protected the bond at the center of their family. This episode is about bearing witness, honoring love, and learning how two people can grieve differently yet still reach for one another while caring for their two children with very different needs. This episode is for anyone who has loved deeply, lost profoundly, and wondered whether connection is still possible after everything has changed. A powerful testament to resilience, devotion, and the courage it takes to keep choosing love—amidst the asteroids. _____________________________ About Our Guests: MIGUEL CERVANTES recently wrapped up his time playing Alexander Hamilton in the Broadway and Chicago productions after almost eight years and 2013 performances. Other Broadway credits include IF/THEN, AMERICAN IDIOT, and 25th ANNUAL PUTNAM COUNTY SPELLING BEE. A few of his TV credits include LAW & ORDER SVU, PERSON OF INTEREST, MADAME SECRETARY, and THE BLACKLIST. Miguel grew up in Dallas, TX, and received a BFA in Musical Theater from Emerson College. His favorite roles have been "Daddy" to Jackson, Anessa, Adelaide, and husband to superhero wife Kelly. ... KELLY CERVANTES is an award-winning writer, speaker, and advocate best known for her blog Inchstones and her USA Today bestselling book, Normal Broken: The Grief Companion for When It's Time to Heal But You're Not Sure You Want To. She has been published in the Chicago Tribune, Cosmopolitan, and Fortune as well as featured by MSNBC, New York Times, and CNN. She sits on the boards of CURE Epilepsy and The Undiagnosed Diseases Network Foundation and hosts CURE Epilepsy's podcast, Seizing Life. Born and raised in the Midwest, Kelly now resides in Maplewood, New Jersey, with her family. Her latest book, The Luckiest: A Memoir of Love, Loss, Motherhood, and the Pursuit of Self, was published in November by Ben Bella Books. 

After moving from a conservative Midwestern suburb to New York City to pursue an acting career, Kelly Cervantes never could have imagined what life had in store for her—or how much she would fundamentally change along the way.  Now, in her memoir The Luckiest, Kelly shares the experiences that shaped who she is today—the pain of unrealized dreams, navigating her husband Miguel's Broadway spotlight, fighting for their child's life, finding purpose after loss, and rebuilding her life and marriage. Throughout her wildly unpredictable journey, she has reflected on the role luck has played in her life, both good and bad. "Are we lucky if we escape life with soft skin and minimal layers," she asks. "Or are we lucky to have the battle scars that show a life of survival and meaning?"  

As we begin 2026, Elaine Miller-Karas, the host of Resiliency Within, airs an encore podcast with Aziza Hasan, Executive Director, and Andrea Hodos, Associate Director of New Ground, a nonprofit dedicated to bridging divides and convening constructive conversations around challenging social issues. New Ground envisions what is possible in a world deeply divided which is as pertinent today as it was when first aired. They will share their wisdom on how New Ground envisions an America where Muslims and Jews are empowered to create lasting partnerships and engage in authentic communication and mutual cooperation. This vibrant model of engagement – not bound by history, theology, or politics – affirms that conflict is inevitable and yet not intractable. NewGround empowers Muslims, Jews, and allies to bridge divisions and leverage shared values to strengthen our communities' well-being and our fragile democracy. NewGround is a community-building organization that creates, connects, and empowers Jewish and Muslim Change-makers in America. Through a professional fellowship, high school leadership council, and public programming, NewGround transforms Muslim-Jewish relations and advances a shared agenda for change. They will share what we need to do differently to bring about lasting change.

On this Christmas Day, Resiliency Within will bring back the episode first aired in 2023 with Rev. Lesley Carroll.   We can remember, "what else is true?" as we end 2025, which has been a year that has brought many challenges to our world community.   Dr. Carroll is the former Prison Ombudsman of Northern Ireland and the current Assistant Commissioner for Investigations for the Independent Commission for Reconciliation and Information Recovery.   She has dedicated her life to the pursuit of peace and reconciliation. To her, this mission is a lifelong calling. Her efforts extend beyond Northern Ireland, as she has been instrumental in fostering peace and reconciliation dialogues in Rwanda, Nigeria, Kosovo, and Croatia.   In these challenging times for our global community, Rev. Carroll will generously share her insights and the valuable lessons she has gained on her remarkable journey, offering guidance and inspiration for us all on how to bring peace and reconciliation to our communities worldwide.   Inspired by her experiences, Rev. Carroll introduced the Community Resiliency Model to Northern Ireland. This initiative has led to the establishment of a group of Community Resiliency Model Teachers who are actively disseminating the healing skills of CRM throughout the NI community.

Carla Cavlcanti and Kim Aasland will share how they help their respective churches live beyond their walls. They both believe in being a compassionate presence woven into the daily life of the neighborhoods they serve. There is the belief that "A truly missional church steps outside its sanctuary and into the streets, homes, and gathering places where people live, work, and struggle." They are called not only to preach love but to embody it—through presence, partnership, and practical support. During a disaster, this calling becomes even more urgent. Churches are often among the first to respond, offering safety, resources, and emotional and spiritual care when the ground beneath a community has literally or figuratively shifted. They both have had  the opportunity to stand with survivors in their grief, their uncertainty, and their rebuilding—to be a source of stability, compassion, and hope. Loving people well in a disaster means listening deeply, showing up consistently, and offering whatever they can: food, space, comfort, care, connection, and the assurance that no one walks this road alone. We welcome them to Resiliency Within where they will share their reflections as we approach the holiday season. Carla Cavalcanti is a Community Pastor at Vintage Church Pasadena, devoted to loving people toward Jesus and cultivating meaningful community. A Liberty University graduate with a background in Theater Production, she brings a behind-the-scenes dedication to making things happen. Originally from the East Coast, Carla has lived in California for six years. A survivor of the Eaton Fire—after losing her Altadena home—she stepped into a central leadership role in Vintage's fire-relief efforts and brings deep empathy, strength, and firsthand understanding to those she supports. Fierce, extroverted, and community-minded, Carla is a natural connector, a devoted dog mom to Winston, and someone who thrives in authentic conversation. She values relationships deeply and considers it an honor to walk alongside people with compassion, presence, and hope. Kim Aasland is an Altadena resident, Eaton Fire survivor, and the Fire Response Coordinator at Epicentre Church. Her life has been defined by movement, resilience, and a deep commitment to community. Raised across the Arctic Circle, Turkey, Nigeria, and Italy, Kim developed a global perspective shaped by constant adaptation. She holds a BA in Sociology/Anthropology from Carleton College and an MA in Public Policy from the University of Minnesota. Kim spent sixteen years in Kazakhstan teaching history and religion while raising her four children. Now rooted in California, she has served as both a history teacher and school administrator. In her role at Epicentre Church, Kim is dedicated to supporting fire survivors and helping her community heal and rebuild with compassion and strength.

For four decades, Ellen Bassuk has navigated the worlds of psychiatry, advocacy, and motherhood—shaped by her son Daniel Schoonover's lifelong struggle with mental illness, especially schizophrenia. Between Two Worlds is their deeply personal memoir, chronicling Daniel's journey through a broken health care system, an ill-equipped educational system, and the parenting challenges that came with it. Ellen Bassuk and Daniel Schoonover, mother and son, will share their journey together. From early childhood, Daniel's developmental milestones were atypical, leading to hospitalizations, rejections from institutions unable to see beyond diagnoses, and even expulsions from school. As a single mother and medical professional, Bassuk fought to protect her son from systems that prioritized efficiency over humanity, forging an alternative path that allowed Daniel to reclaim his life. Drawn from hospital and school reports, first-hand accounts, as well as a graphic description of Daniel's inner experience, Between Two Worlds offers an unflinching look at the impact of systems that marginalize vulnerable people. Bassuk calls for a transformation in mental health care—one that embraces recovery principles and person-centered approaches focused on relationships, empathy, and individual needs.  Now close to forty years old, Daniel has found independence, purpose, and community. Their story is a beacon of hope and a call to action—urging a shift from institutionalization to connection, from labels to lived experience, and from stigma to compassion. Between Two Worlds is a powerful memoir for individuals, parents, families, caregivers, professionals, and advocates seeking hope, guidance, and reform in the face of mental illness and systemic injustice.

Dr. Peggy Ward and Sister Peace join Resiliency Within to share the wisdom and poems of Dr. Larry Ward. In this conversation, Dr. Peggy Rowe-Ward reflects on the life and legacy of Dr. Larry Ward and his first poetry collection, Morning Night. She explores how Larry understood poetry—reading it, writing it, and living it—as a powerful form of spiritual practice. As a true great sound and one of the few Black Dharma teachers in his tradition, Larry was a trailblazer who bridged Buddhist and Christian lineages and broke through cultural and spiritual barriers with depth, humor, and clarity. This session invites listeners into the spirit of Morning Night and the way Larry's words continue to guide us home. His book, Morning Night, was his first published collection of poems, where he explored race, nature , and spirit, woven with messages of hope, justice, and belonging. Sister Peace will lend her voice to his eloquent poetry.   Dr. Larry Ward transitioned from this life in August 2025.  His grounded presence and deep insight helped many people worldwide through challenging moments with compassion and clarity, planting seeds of understanding. Dr. Peggy Rowe Ward, Larry's wife, was in partnership in love and work—two luminous teachers whose shared vision blossomed through their work at the Lotus Institute. Having also trained at the Trauma Resource Institute, Larry's understanding of both trauma healing and mindfulness made him a bridge between worlds—the spiritual and the scientific, the personal and the collective. His life was a testament to compassion in action, and his teachings continue to ripple outward, touching countless hearts with the deep sound of love and wisdom. His poems reflect his deep connection to the wonder within all of us.  You can learn more about his work under the leadership of Dr. Peggy Rowe Ward. https://www.thelotusinstitute.org. 

Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW, will discuss the second edition of her book, Building Resiliency to Trauma, with Dr. Michael Sapp, the CEO of the Trauma Resource Institute. During and after a traumatic experience, survivors experience a cascade of physical, emotional, cognitive, behavioral, relational, and spiritual responses that can make them feel unbalanced and threatened. The second edition of Building Resilience to Trauma explains common responses from a biological perspective, reframing the human experience from one of shame and pathology to one of hope and biology. Using two evidence-informed models of intervention that are trauma-informed and resiliency-informed—the Community Resiliency Model (CRM) and the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)—chapters distill complex neuroscience into understandable concepts and lay out a path for fostering short- and long-term healing. CRM develops natural leaders who share wellness skills throughout communities as primary prevention, and TRM focuses on training mental health professionals to reprocess traumatic experiences. Studies have demonstrated that the models' use leads to significant reductions in depression and anxiety, and both models also increase well-being. The models restore balance after traumatic experiences and can be used as tools to cultivate well-being across cultures and abilities throughout the lifespan.

In this episode, Dr. Clarissa Castillo-Ramsey shares her work as the Creative Voice + Community Connections Director for ALTA Arts Collective, a volunteer-led organization of artists, educators, and community leaders dedicated to providing opportunities for healing, expression, and togetherness in the wake of the #EatonFire. 🔊 Listen on… Libsyn: https://bit.ly/VA_ResiliencyWithin Spotify: https://bit.ly/RW-Spotify Apple: https://apple.co/41eOR3G Clarissa is an Altadena resident since 2002, abstract artist, transformational life coach, and organizational psychologist, whose work centers on self-discovery, creativity, and wellness. Through her company, Clarissa Ramsey Studio, Clarissa serves clients in groups, 1-on-1, and through her capstone online events. Her summits and programs, including Creative Care Summit, Painting Your Path™ to Self-Expression, and The Art of Becoming have helped over 4,500 creatives and professionals step into their full potential. ALTA's mission is to build an inclusive and welcoming artistic community that values camaraderie, collaboration, and creativity. We believe in the power of art to connect people and enrich lives. Clarissa helps lead projects such as the Community Canvas Project and Strong Through Art programs—initiatives that bring artists and the community together to rebuild, reconnect, and imagine new possibilities through the transformative power of creativity.

Since January 8th, the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI) has been actively supporting survivors of the Eaton Fire and Palisades Fire. Our team has offered Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® workshops across Los Angeles County for individuals and families impacted by these devastating events, called Disaster Relief Mobilization, Community Resiliency Model (DRM-CRM) Through CRM Workshops, Circles of Connection, the Legacy Project, and other healing and supportive gatherings, TRI has provided spaces for community members to learn wellness skills, share their experiences, and reconnect with hope and resilience. These programs aim to strengthen nervous system regulation, foster collective healing, and help restore a sense of safety and belonging for Angelenos affected by the fire. Michael Sapp will discuss the fire recovery response made by the Trauma Resource Institute with our host, Elaine Miller-Karas.

Dr. Michael Sapp and our host, Elaine Miller Karas will discuss the work of the Trauma Resource Institute as they work with an international team bringing the Community Resiliency Model to our world community. They will discuss the mission and purpose of the Trauma Resource Institute and how, through simple biological skills, they have increased individual and community well-being. How do we nurture compassion, empathy, and kindness in a world so marked by human pain? How do we hold fast to our shared humanity when fear, indifference, or the misuse of power erode it? How do we protect the innocence and empathy of children growing up surrounded by violence and injustice? How do we cultivate compassion within ourselves, our children? The answers to these questions are complex, and they will discuss what they have been privileged to witness worldwide as individuals and communities grapple with these questions.

Dr. Ilene Naomi Rusk shares her trauma-informed and science-based approach to brain health and optimal longevity in this encore episode. During these unprecedented stressful times, her approach is essential in today's world. She's developed a user-friendly way of using a functional medicine approach to help prevent Alzheimer's and improve cognitive health. Dr. Rusk focuses mainly on helping her patients build stress resilience, and she focuses on numerous lifestyle pillars of brain health. These lifestyle pillars, like sleep, diet, and movement, and how we engage with them, can directly affect how we think and feel. Learning to tend to our nervous system, healing traumas, and building emotional and behavioral regulation can help expand our capacity to deal with the challenges and hardships we inevitably face. She combines many trauma healing modalities, such as ancestral archaeology, brainspotting, and somatic techniques, into her biological and spiritual model. Feeling greater emotional resilience can help us connect with experiences of greater freedom and joy and improve the health of our relationships regardless of our circumstances. Being a mother has greatly informed her service work as an international humanitarian worker and community health educator.

Across the globe, there exists a pressing demand for effective treatment of complex trauma. While a growing number of trauma-informed mental health professionals dedicate themselves to supporting individuals, relationships, communities, and systems, the daily confrontation with trauma can take a toll, leading to exhaustion and burnout. Who stands ready to provide support to these therapists and aiding professionals along their professional journey? Brad Kammer, a Somatic Psychotherapist, Educator, and NARM® Senior Trainer, serves as the director of the Complex Trauma Training Center (CTTC), a professional organization dedicated to offering therapist training, consultation, mentorship, and community for psychotherapists and mental health professionals working with Adverse Childhood Experiences and Complex Trauma. Brad will discuss the crucial need mental health professionals have for both continuous professional development and personal support. CTTC is dedicated to empowering therapists and aiding professionals to enhance their effectiveness in working with complex trauma while safeguarding against burnout. The vision is to cultivate a professional community centered on supporting mental health professionals across three dimensions of human experience: personal, interpersonal, and transpersonal. CTTC will offer comprehensive, ongoing professional development and mentorship opportunities for clinicians, including NARM® Therapist and NARM® Master Therapist training programs. Grounded in a mentorship framework, CTTC is committed to guiding mental health professionals through their professional voyage of addressing complex trauma, ensuring their sustained growth and well-being. The spirit of CTTC is encapsulated by its three guiding principles: depth, connection and heart. Discover how Brad and the Complex Trauma Training Center team epitomize this spirit and foster a thriving professional community committed to delivering effective, transformative, trauma-informed care.

In this encore presentation, Michael Karlin, one of the creators of Compassionate Integrity Training(CIT), illuminated our listeners about this innovative program that was adopted by  UNESCO MGIEP.   The UNESCO Mahatma Gandhi Institute of Education for Peace and Sustainable Development (MGIEP) is UNESCO's category 1 Research Institute that focuses on Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) towards education for building peaceful and sustainable societies across the world.

Resiliency Within welcomes back John Kania and Laura Calderon de la Barca. Join this conversation with the Collective Change Lab team who are at the leading edge of shifting how organizations, movements, and collective system change efforts are evolving towards more healing-centered ways of working. John Kania is the Founder and Executive Director of Collective Change Lab. Laura Calderon de la Barca is a psychotherapist specializing in individual, intergenerational, and collective trauma, as well as a collective healing researcher. The conversation will include thoughts on how, in the years since the massive disruption and unrest triggered by the pandemic, there is greater openness and receptivity to thinking about trauma more expansively than ever before. Engaging with trauma is increasingly vital as polarization worsens and challenges escalate into a poly-crisis - thankfully, a deeper conversation is taking root on how to mainstream trauma healing.

In this encore episode, Elaine Miller-Karas, host of Resiliency Within, welcomes back Kevin McLeod, Director of Business & Community Development at the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI), for a powerful conversation about teens, healing, and hope. In this episode, Kevin addresses the Trauma Resource Institute's inspiring work bringing the Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) to teens in Georgia's Juvenile Justice System—and how this innovative program can be brought to schools, teen centers, and community clubs everywhere. YAP has recently been applied to the Disaster Relief Mobilization-Community Resiliency Model Program. YAP empowers teens with simple, science-based wellness skills from the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)—tools that help calm the nervous system and restore well-being after stress or trauma. Through hands-on, experiential training, youth become CRM Teen Ambassadors (CRM-TAs) and learn six easy-to-use skills they can apply for self-care and peer support. What's more, these young leaders go on to share the skills with their friends and classmates through short, engaging "share-backs" that bring the skills to life in everyday settings—from classrooms to living rooms. YAP is more than a program—it's a movement to build resilience, foster connection, and inspire hope—one teen at a time.

In a time of deep division, uncertainty, and crisis, Finding Light in the Darkness will explore how we can maintain our well-being, integrity, and hope. Hosted by Elaine Miller-Karas, an internationally recognized trauma expert and resiliency advocate, she will illuminate practical strategies for navigating today's complex social and political landscape. Elaine hopes this episode will provide a beacon of light—insights on staying grounded, fostering compassion, and building resilience in the face of adversity. Elaine is dedicated to empowering listeners to cultivate inner strength and create ripples of change for themselves, their families and their communities. Join Resiliency Within as Elaine uncovers pathways to healing, unity, and action—because light can be found even in the darkest times. ___________________________________ About Elaine Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW, is a social worker, trauma therapist, author, lecturer, consultant, VoiceAmerica  podcast host, Psychology Today blogger, and social entrepreneur. She has been called an "ambassador of hope" in the fields of trauma therapy and community resiliency. As a co-founder of the Trauma Resource Institute, Elaine serves as the Director of Innovation.  She has led the development of the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models, which have left an indelible global footprint, impacting over 75 countries. Her book, "Building Resiliency to Trauma: The Trauma and Community Resiliency Model, Second Edition (2023)," has been recognized by the United Nations and Taylor and Francis.  She is a regular contributor to Psychology Today. She has presented internationally at Oxford University's Skoll World Forum, the United Nations, Resiliency 2024, Medscape, Psychotherapy Networker, the Global Fund, the Carter Center, and the Centers for Disease Control. Elaine believes in a world where every person is treated with dignity and our differences are acknowledged and respected.

This week on Resiliency Within, we present this encore episode in memory of Dr. Larry Ward. Drs. Larry Ward and Peggy Rowe-Ward will address how we are all as a world community are impacted by Racism and how we can heal from the traumas that arise from Racism. Dr. Ward's book, America's Racial Karma published in September 2020 addresses how America can begin to heal. They have been teaching and practicing with Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, a global spiritual leader, poet and peace activist, revered throughout the world for his powerful teachings and bestselling writings on mindfulness and peace. They received the lamp (teacher transmission) from him at Plum Village in 2001. They co-authored Love's Garden and this book was featured in The Best Buddhist Writing of 2009. Peggy and Larry work with CEOs of Fortune 500 programs to integrate cultural diversity, corporate change and transformation. They will also address the Wisdom School they have created to bring healing to our global community.

Dr. Joy Miller returns to Resiliency Within to share an extraordinary global offering—Resiliency 2025: The Power of Connections. Taking place on September 10, 2025, from 12–4:30 pm EST, this free international event brings together an unprecedented 51 renowned presenters from around the world—our largest gathering yet. Join our host, Elaine Miller-Karas, for a dynamic conversation with Dr. Joy Miller, the creator of the Resiliency Conferences. Dr. Miller will share her perspectives of building resiliency globally and how her guests help people during unprecedented difficult times. Now in its 6th year, Resiliency 2025 celebrates the healing power of connection, with conversations and interactive presentations on: Overcoming adversity Strengthening body, mind, and spirit Enhancing relationships Enriching life with purpose and resilience This year introduces a new format: a dynamic blend of our signature 4-minute power talks and expanded 8-minute in-depth conversations—making the event more interactive and skill-based than ever before. Attendees will also experience special tributes, receive a companion handbook, enjoy free continuing education credits, and have on-demand access for one full month. All speakers generously donate their time and talent, creating a unique opportunity to learn from master clinicians, best-selling authors, influencers, musicians, celebrities, and more. With participants expected from over 70 countries, Resiliency 2025 is a true celebration of global healing and community.  

Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW, the host of Resiliency Within, will interview Inez Tiger, LMFT, who has over 30 years of experience as an educator, school leader, and mental health professional. They will discuss how educational systems worldwide are increasingly confronted with the impact of natural and human-made crises, including wildfires, immigration enforcement, and community violence, including armed conflicts. These events disrupt the stability of children, families, and educators, with profound implications for learning and psychosocial well-being. Elaine developed the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® and contributed to the Social, Emotional, and Ethical Learning (SEE) of Emory University. Elaine and Inez will discuss how the Community Resiliency Model and its applications can be implemented as a systemic, phased approach to supporting resilience in schools. They will discuss recent empirical findings, pilot projects, and theoretical underpinnings relating to how CRM-aligned self-regulation practices not only stabilize student emotional states but also buffer stress contagion between educators and students. Implementation recommendations will be elaborated upon, emphasizing training adults first (teachers, administration, staff, and parents), followed by age-appropriate applications for children from preschool through high school in programs like the Disaster Relief Management-Community Resiliency Model (DRM-CRM), the Family Resiliency Program-CRM, and programs like SEE Learning.  Implications for trauma and resiliency-informed education and systemic recovery will be discussed. _________________________ About Our Guest : Inez Tiger Inez Tiger, LMFT, brings over 30 years of experience as an educator, school leader, and mental health professional. She has served as an elementary and middle school teacher, counselor, principal, and most recently as Director of Wellness at The Pressman Academy. Inez is a certified teacher of the Community Resiliency Model® (CRM), a practitioner of the Trauma Resiliency Model® (TRM), and a longtime facilitator and trainer in the practice of Council.  Specializing in self-regulation, trauma healing, and the power of storytelling, Inez recently transitioned from her role as a school-based educator to focus more deeply on healing and wellness. A collector of stories, she finds meaning in listening to the resilience of students, parents, and teachers as they navigate their school journeys.  Originally from South Africa, Inez lives in Los Angeles with her partner and their two children. She finds joy in art-making, meaningful collaboration, and long walks with their dog, Chase. One of her guiding mottos comes from Maya Angelou: "People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."  

Elaine Miller-Karas, host of Resiliency Within, welcomes back Kevin McLeod, Director of Business & Community Development at the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI), for a powerful conversation about teens, healing, and hope. In this episode, Kevin addresses the Trauma Resource Institute's inspiring work bringing the Youth Ambassador Program (YAP) to teens in Georgia's Juvenile Justice System—and how this innovative program can be brought to schools, teen centers, and community clubs everywhere. YAP has recently been applied to the Disaster Relief Mobilization-Community Resiliency Model Program. YAP empowers teens with simple, science-based wellness skills from the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)—tools that help calm the nervous system and restore well-being after stress or trauma. Through hands-on, experiential training, youth become CRM Teen Ambassadors (CRM-TAs) and learn six easy-to-use skills they can apply for self-care and peer support. What's more, these young leaders go on to share the skills with their friends and classmates through short, engaging "share-backs" that bring the skills to life in everyday settings—from classrooms to living rooms. YAP is more than a program—it's a movement to build resilience, foster connection, and inspire hope—one teen at a time.

Erin Kennedy and Scott Dinits are deeply embedded in the communities affected by the wildfires in Northern California.  With the recent firestorms on Maui and Southern California, learning how to support children and adults is essential.  They were direct responders after the 2018 Campfire that devastated Butte County Communities and the town of Paradise, California. As Boys and Girls Club employees, they share what is essential to help children and adults heal. Both Erin and Scott are trained in the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® and will share how this model and other interventions helped their community as part of their care of their community.   This broadcast was first aired after the firestorm on Maui. They address what was not helpful in the recovering process even though it was extended with good intentions. They discuss the challenges, the hope, and healing as they continue to journey through the aftermath of this tragedy and destruction.   This dialogue can provide further information and support for those responding to disasters.  

Elaine Miller-Karas, the host of Resiliency Within, welcomes back Dr. Michael Sapp, the Executive Director of the Trauma Resource Institute. Dr. Sapp and Elaine will acknowledge the profound challenges many people in our worldwide community have been navigating during 2025. The weight of witnessing so much uncertainty, fear, and suffering can feel overwhelming, especially for those who have dedicated their lives to serving and protecting vulnerable individuals and families. The need for healing is urgent — not someday, but right now. Taking time to care for our hearts, bodies, and minds is a necessity if we are to continue the vital work of healing with compassion and sustainability. They will highlight their recent trip to the United Kingdom and the work they are doing internationally to promote the healing of our planet. They will share the compassion, dedication, and resilience they are honored to witness every day. Skills that nourish our mind and body will be shared to help those who are suffering.  

Helping Survivors of Natural Disasters: Lessons From Hurricane Florence   In the wake of the recent flood in Texas, our hearts are heavy with sorrow for all who have suffered unimaginable losses. To those grieving the death of children, family members, friends, and neighbors, we extend our deepest condolences. As the full magnitude of this tragedy continues to unfold, we are reminded of the profound challenges ahead. Extreme weather events are closely tied to a range of adverse mental health outcomes. Common mental health conditions that arise in the wake of such disasters include post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, anxiety, suicide, and substance abuse disorders (Cianconi et al., 2020). While emergency mental health workers and first responders provide initial support, the lasting impacts on the mental health of a disaster-stricken community often persist for weeks, months, or even years. Mental health systems can face severe strain as the demand for services frequently exceeds local capacity, compounding the challenges survivors must overcome. Bo Dean and Jvanete Skiba of Wilmington, North Carolina, join Michael Sapp, CEO of the Trauma Resource Institute, and Elaine Miller-Karas, host of Resiliency Within, to discuss valuable lessons learned to enhance the well-being of survivors from Hurricane Florence and other disasters. Their reflections and the interventions they have adopted offer crucial insights for the people of Kerr County, Texas.

As the current administration takes away funding for school-based mental health interventions, now is the time to amplify the good works done by school districts around the country, including Cleveland County Schools in North Carolina.   In this encore episode, Ryan Etheridge will describe how his school district prepared the staff and teachers for helping children during the transition from home to school after COVID-19 school closures.

In a time of deep division, uncertainty, and crisis, Finding Light in the Darkness will explore how we can maintain our well-being, integrity, and hope. Hosted by Elaine Miller-Karas, an internationally recognized trauma expert and resiliency advocate, she will illuminate practical strategies for navigating today's complex social and political landscape. Elaine hopes this episode will provide a beacon of light—insights on staying grounded, fostering compassion, and building resilience in the face of adversity. Elaine is dedicated to empowering listeners to cultivate inner strength and create ripples of change for themselves, their families and their communities. Join Resiliency Within as Elaine uncovers pathways to healing, unity, and action—because light can be found even in the darkest times. *This encore episode was first broadcast February 4, 2025. ___________________________________ About Elaine Elaine Miller-Karas, LCSW, is a social worker, trauma therapist, author, lecturer, consultant, VoiceAmerica  podcast host, Psychology Today blogger, and social entrepreneur. She has been called an "ambassador of hope" in the fields of trauma therapy and community resiliency. As a co-founder of the Trauma Resource Institute, Elaine serves as the Director of Innovation.  She has led the development of the Trauma and Community Resiliency Models, which have left an indelible global footprint, impacting over 75 countries. Her book, "Building Resiliency to Trauma: The Trauma and Community Resiliency Model, Second Edition (2023)," has been recognized by the United Nations and Taylor and Francis.  She is a regular contributor to Psychology Today. She has presented internationally at Oxford University's Skoll World Forum, the United Nations, Resiliency 2024, Medscape, Psychotherapy Networker, the Global Fund, the Carter Center, and the Centers for Disease Control. Elaine believes in a world where every person is treated with dignity and our differences are acknowledged and respected.

Resiliency Within's host, Elaine Miller-Karas, co-founded the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI).  She resigned as Executive Director in 2020 when she welcomed Dr. Michael Sapp as the CEO of TRI. They will discuss the international organization's past, present, and future. The Trauma Resource Institute (TRI) is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that cultivates trauma-informed and resiliency-focused individuals and communities worldwide. TRI is known internationally for its innovative perspectives promoting individual and community well-being. Two types of training, the Trauma Resiliency Model (TRM)® and the Community Resiliency Model (CRM)® have been developed by Elaine Miller-Karas. Both models are biologically based and teach wellness skills, cultivating well-being in mind, body, and spirit. While TRM is oriented toward mental health professionals, CRM focuses on public health and has been taught to professionals and natural leaders of communities.  TRI has brought its healing modalities to more than 70 countries.  Dr. Sapp and Elaine have traveled to many places worldwide, including China, the Philippines, Germany, Turkey, Northern Ireland, India, Kenya, Rwanda, Tanzania and Nepal. TRI has built meaningful collaborations with diverse organizations such as the Center for Contemplative Science at Emory University, EdCamp Ukraine, Los Angeles County Department of Mental Health, Fighting Back Santa Maria, and the Christopher Wolf Crusade.  Dr. Sapp and Elaine will elaborate upon TRI's values and its mission. TRI's mission is: To take people from despair to hope through simple skills-based interventions based on cutting-edge research about the brain. To expand access to biologically based treatments by training frontline service providers, community leaders, and clinicians to build local capacity in diverse communities nationally and internationally. TRI's values include: Every individual, child, and adult has a natural-born ability to cultivate well-being and can learn an array of self-help skills. When a traumatic event has resulted in symptoms, individuals are entitled to treatment that is gentle, effective, and culturally sensitive. Education and intervention about the common reactions to traumatic experiences must be available to diverse populations and cultures. Treatment of individuals suffering from traumatic stress reactions must be accessible and affordable to all members of society. __________________________ About Dr. Michael Sapp Michael Sapp serves as the Executive Director of the Trauma Resource Institute (TRI), where he has been actively involved since 2010, initially as Senior Faculty for both TRM and CRM. His educational background includes an M.A. in General Psychology and a Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology, both earned at The New School in New York, NY. Dr. Sapp is deeply committed to disseminating TRI's innovative healing approaches to a global audience. In 2016, he assumed the role of Associate Executive Director, and his exceptional leadership skills led to his appointment as CEO in 2020. A notable aspect of Dr. Sapp's work lies in his keen interest in neuroscientific approaches to trauma healing. This interest culminated in his co-authorship of the chapter "The Nervous System, Memory, and Trauma" in Ms. Miller-Karas' book, Building Resilience to Trauma: The Trauma and Community Resiliency Models, first published in 2015 and subsequently in its second edition in 2023. In collaboration with the United Nations Population Fund, Dr. Sapp played a crucial role in establishing a CRM Teacher Training program for Angola in 2023. This program aims to educate 180 Young Adult Social Mobilizers (YASM), impacting up to 6,000 Angolan Youth  His humanitarian work was further shaped by experiences in Istanbul, Turkey, supporting Syrian refugees and assisting survivors of the "troubles" in Northern Ireland. He was instrumental in launching TRI's training programs in Belfast, Northern Ireland.

May is Mental Health Awareness Month because it was first established in 1949 by Mental Health America to raise awareness about mental health and well-being. The month aims to educate the public, reduce stigma, promote open conversations, and celebrate recovery from mental illness. At a time when major cutbacks are being made by the current administration, it is essential that we focus on providing mental healthcare for our citizens and continue to support programs providing care to the most vulnerable members of society. Dr. Michael Sapp will discuss the importance of looking at mental health as a public health emergency with our host, Elaine Miller-Karas, a world-reknown trauma therapist. The impact of traumatic experiences on individual and community health is widespread. According to the World Health Organization (WHO, 2021), "Traumatic events and loss are common in people's lives." There is a need to quickly establish programs that provide timely psychological counseling and intervention to alleviate anxiety and improve general mental health. Health and community care systems led by a cadre of psychologists, psychiatric nurse practitioners, chaplains, social workers, marriage and family therapists, nurses, peer counselors and physicians have brought the community resiliency model concepts and skills into medical clinics, community mental health and resiliency programs, shelters for the unhoused, and hospitals. Dr. Sapp will discuss how models like the Community Resiliency need to be scaled to meet the public health emergency of mental health conditions faced by children, teens and adults.

Essential funds are being cut for important programs helping youth. Where common sense laws are lacking to protect children, violence prevention professionals and credible messengers are working on the frontlines to mediate conflict, interrupt violence, and restore peace. Jordan R. Murphy, PhD, RN, is a nurse scientist who specializes in behavioral health and trauma and resiliency-informed care. In this encore episode, Dr. Murphy will share her work in Gun Violence Prevention, supporting professionals and survivors. Gun violence is a major public health and social justice issue, and yet it is preventable. For the last three years, gun violence was the #1 cause of death for children and adolescents 1-17 years of age, surpassing motor vehicle accidents and cancer. A greater understanding of the issues involved and the development of innovative programs are critical to the well-being of our Nation. 

During these challenging times as mental health funding is being cut in many parts of the world, hearing again from Chris Underhill in this encore show.  Chris has been a champion for mental health globally. Chris Underhill MBE works as a mentor and is a social entrepreneur in the field of quality of life, and mental health in the community. Elaine Miller-Karas first met Chris in Oxford, England at the Skoll World Forum where she was struck by his depth of understanding of the suffering of individuals with mental health challenges. He also shared an abundance of hope of how to bring innovations to meet the challenges of those who suffer in developing countries.  Chris Underhill draws on his lived experience as a child and his many years hands-on in the field to discuss resiliency and trauma in very poor communities in developing countries and at home. During his career, Chris has created several organizations in mental health, wellbeing and resilience, bringing hope to thousands. This has included Thrive, Action on Disability and Development, Basic Needs, Cities Rise and the Elders Council of Social Entrepreneurs. "Hope" is his topic on this episode of Resiliency Within. There is an important inspiring parallel between Chris' early struggles as a child, his own growth, and the growth of his mission in the support of many traumatized people around the world. Chris Underhill will share his humble journey and his wisdom with our listeners.

During these challenging times, it is imperative to raise up the true history of the Civil Rights Movement of the 1960s. In this encore show, Reena Evers-Everette, their committed and passionate daughter, shares how  the vision of her father and mother continues through the Medgar and Myrlie Evers Institute in Jackson, Mississippi. She shares her personal experience of suffering and resiliency. She details living the institute's mission: cultivating positive social change and intergenerational civic engagement through research on social equity and justice worldwide.

We must not forget that the greatness of America has been shaped by the immigrants who have come for that hopeful opportunity of a better future. People have immigrated to the United States from many places around the globe. They have often escaped the horrors of war and oppression to come to a country hoping for a future where their families could thrive in a Democratic Republic.   The host of Resiliency Within will share aspects of her first-generation view with her colleague, Martha Parra, LCSW, who came to the United States as a child with her family.  The identities of Latinas and Latinos are shaped by geography, heritage, race, and gender. Latinas and Latinos embrace their heritage and contribute to the culture of the United States. Martha's family came to California from Mexico, and Elaine's mother and grandmother came from El Salvador. They will share how their families taught them compassion, courage, strength, service, and hard work. They will share the values they learned from their families and how their rich heritage has inspired their personal and professional journeys as community leaders. Elaine and Martha will also share their families' challenges as they immigrate to a new country. Martha will discuss traditional healing practices learned from her father and how he inspired her work as a social worker. They also share the challenges of racism and colonialism that immigrants face. Martha will share two programs initiated by the Reagan administration that gave her and her family a pathway to legal residency. The Community Resiliency Model and the Trauma Resiliency Model and how they have been accessible to the Latino community. Martha pioneered the first Community Resiliency Model Teacher Training in Spanish in the pilot study through California's Mental Health Services Act and the County of San Bernardino. Martha will share her work as an Immigration Evaluations Evaluator and her work with Asylum, Hardship, the Violence Against Women Act, and victims of human trafficking.

This week on Resiliency Within, host Elaine Miller-Karas welcomes Jesse Kohler for a timely conversation on the evolving landscape of trauma-informed care. Drawing from his policy experience in Washington, D.C., Jesse offers insights into the evolving political climate and its impact on trauma-informed practices. Together, they will discuss how community mental health leaders can thoughtfully respond to stakeholders who express concerns or objections to trauma-informed approaches. The conversation will also delve into the complexities of navigating emerging "red flag" policies introduced by the new administration. Most importantly, Jesse will offer practical guidance for advocates on engaging local legislators, emphasizing the importance of explaining how traumatic experiences shape the lives of children and adults in our communities. _________________________________ About Our Guest Jesse Kohler is the founder and president of The Change Campaign, which in this role he also currently serves as the Executive Director on loan to the Campaign for Trauma-Informed Policy and Practice. His career began in Philadelphia nonprofits with direct service work, but shifted toward systems transformation work around the onset of the pandemic. He now lives and works primarily in DC with the love of his life, but is also in the process of receiving his Master's in Public Administration from the University of Pennsylvania, which takes him back to his family in Philly for monthly visits when he has in person classes. In college, Jesse established a personal mission to create a sustainable planet and better future for all, which is now the mission of The Change Campaign. 

This show is being rebroadcast because of the importance of recognizing and respecting the LGBTQ+ community during these unprecedented times.  The culture wars, with vitriolic rhetoric and attacks on LGBTQ+ individuals and families, are taking their toll. Sue Borrego and Kelsey Bunker Roberston are mother and daughter.  They share their journey of love, hope, and resilience. This show first aired in 2023, and its message of love and hope is timeless and much needed in today's world.    Resilience is sometimes the outcome of some of the darkest moments in one's life. My guests had very different experiences following Sue's coming out when Kelsey was 9. Sue was occupied by the fear of losing her children and job and moving through the generational shame of her sexuality. Kelsey became a fierce advocate, proud of her parents and much less touched by the shame her mom felt. Sue gave birth to her children, Kelsey and Bryce in the 1980s. When they were toddlers, it became clear to Sue that she was a Lesbian. Nothing about her life and work had space for her truth. She was married to a man and working successfully at a Christian University. She chose to live closeted until she could no longer live so incongruously. Sue needed to find a different job and initiate divorce proceedings. Initially, Sue was not public about her sexual orientation. Ironically, Kelsey's dad came out several months later.    Together, they lived as a "non-traditional" family in a traditional town. Sue, consumed by the worldview of sexual orientation she grew up with, was terrified of costing her kids a "normal" life and losing the world she had carefully built. As an "emancipated minor" she had carefully constructed a world that she thought would protect her future. Kelsey continued to develop her sense of justice and love. She was a guest on panels, an advocate at school and an educator in her life. Today, Kelsey is a mom of 6, and Bryce is a father of three. Both of their parents are married to their partners and have lives filled with joy and love.