As a young college student, Mario was given a lead on a job at a research and training center for children’s mental health. It wasn’t remotely what he was interested in, but his wife said, “take the job; we need the money!” And the rest, as they say, is history.Mario Hernandez, former Chair of the Child and Family Studies Department, University of South Florida, and Systems of Care legend, is my guest on this episode of The Optimistic Advocate podcast.We talk about the early days of systems of care, how he built one of the most successful University behavioral health departments in the United States, leadership, and collaboration - all while never losing sight of system of care core values and principles. It's a deliciously lengthy interview, so grab a coffee, cancel any work appointments for the next hour, and join us on the couch!More Information:La Gaceta article features a delightful recounting of the personal side of Mario HernandezConnect with Mario: marioh@usf.eduConnect with Scott: info@theoptimisticadvocate.comKeep up with new releases of The Optimistic Advocate by subscribing to The Optimistic Advocate on Apple Podcasts or wherever you listen to podcasts.

Alina Liao is a proud daughter of immigrants, a resident of Washington, DC, and mental health advocate. Alina is the Founder of Zenit, a radical wellness company with the mission to make wellness accessible to everyone. With Zenit, Alina makes customized wellness journals and provides healing-centered journaling workshops to empower folks to gain the mental health benefits of journaling. Before Zenit, Alina co-founded a nonprofit where she provided mental health coaching to the youth of color. Outside of work, Alina is an avid practitioner of the Afro-Brazilian martial art of capoeira and teaches kids and adults classes at The Capoeira Spot in DC.In this episode, Alina Liao delightfully talks about her mission to make wellness accessible to everyone through journaling. Alina shares her mental health journey as an advocate and someone who went through loss, depression, and trauma. Journaling played a significant role in her recovery. It brought the spark of inspiration to embark on a special mission to create Zenit Journals, a radical wellness company committed to supporting the health and wellbeing of everyone through journaling.Favorite Quote “Wellness shouldn't be just a luxury thing, which sometimes it can seem like it is. I view our wellness as a human right. We all deserve to have wellness in our daily lives.” - Alina LiaoFor More Information: Zenit JournalsStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think! Send an audio file with your comments to info@theoptimisticadvocate.com. We’d love to hear from you and remember to share it with your podcasting friends.

Lloyd L. Garrison is currently the CEO/Founder of Hidden G.E.M.S. by LG which serves to motivate, inspire, and educate others through the power of the spoken word. Lloyd’s passion for utilizing spoken word and motivational speaking began during the global pandemic in 2020. Lloyd is currently using his passion for assisting disadvantaged youth and their families as the Director of Juvenile Justice Services at Connections, Inc. in Indianapolis, Indiana. He obtained a Bachelor of Arts degree (2001) and a Master of Arts (2005) degree in English from Miami University in Oxford, OH.In this episode, Lloyd Garrison speaks his truth through poetry and spoken word. This innovative advocate has touched many lives through his decades of service to youth involved in the justice system and their families.Favorite Quote “The more we understand each other, and the more we talk to each other, the more we communicate. And the more we extend grace and understanding to one another's experiences, the closer our worlds are.” - Lloyd GarrisonFor More Information: Hidden G.E.M.S by LGBook mentioned in the Podcast – A Mile in My Shoes – Available on the Hidden Gems website.Stay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!

Avni Godse life was changed forever after an inspirational trip to India when she was just 12 years old, where she was shown several unique works of art and was overcome with intense emotions when she realized that these incredible artistic creations were painted by people with no arms.This instantly sparked a flame inside her, wanting to change how the world perceived those with disabilities and illnesses, not seeing them as people who were different, but rather as people who are normal and just like many of us who may not have their limitations, they are able to express themselves, in whatever way they chose, to feel special.This drove Avni to create Heartification, an official non-profit business where her artistic creations are sold, raising money to fully fund pop-up events where those with disabilities and illnesses can express themselves through art to feel special.And with over $30,000 raised in just a year and a half, she is JUST GETTING STARTED!Learn more about Avni’s work at https://www.heartification.com

Solome Tibebu is a behavioral health strategist and consultant passionate about frontier technologies and solutions transforming mental health, equity, and access. Solome's work has spanned behavioral health and human service consulting, venture capital, corporate development, and various operating roles at behavioral health software companies, large and small. Solome leads a philanthropic fund focused on adolescent mental health. She is a board director or advisor to various adolescent and adult mental health organizations and for-profit companies, including CaringBridge, Columbia University Mind Ventures, Equip, Headstream, Hopelab, Made of Millions, the Telosity Fund, and Violet.Solome is the founder and host of the Going Digital: Behavioral Health Tech summit, the largest conference focused on virtual behavioral health. She is also the co-author of ReThink Behavioral Health Innovation, the source for digital behavioral health technology and startups. Solome's work as an investor, entrepreneur, non-profit consultant, and behavioral health technology expert has been featured as a Harvard Business Review case study, TEDx Talk, The Huffington Post, Forbes, Inc Magazine, Upworthy, Psychology Today, and more.Solome is the recipient of the SAMHSA National Federation of Families for Children's Mental Health Youth MOVE National Dare to Dream Award (Washington, DC), the MN Association of Children's Mental Health 2010 Outstanding Service Award (Minneapolis, MN), the Margaret Clark Morgan Mental Health Scholar Award (Cleveland, OH), GSCU Dr. Martha L. Colvin Docent (Atlanta, GA), and was selected as 1 of 20 young social entrepreneurs to represent the US internationally at the G20 Summit Young Entrepreneurs Alliance in Sydney, Australia.Solomé is the Director of the Upswing Fund. She is leading the effort to provide timely resources to organizations that focus on the mental health and well-being supports to adolescents of color and/or LGBTQ+ in the United States—populations that face urgent needs during the pandemic but too often lack access to the care they need. Funding for the effort comes from Pivotal Ventures, a personal investment and incubation company founded and led by Melinda Gates. In this episode, Solomé gives an update on the rollout of the ongoing Upswing Fund. Solomé talks about their efforts, approach, and what has happened since they launched. Salome announces that out of the hundreds of amazing applicants, they were able to select 88 organizations. This episode is an update on Solome's first interview in this podcast, back in October 2020. To listen to the first episode, go to the show's episode section, episode 12.For More Information: Pivotal Ventures – A Melinda Gates CompanyThe Upswing Fund for Adolescent Mental HealthGoing Digital Behavioral Health Tech SummitAnxiety in TeensSurviving Anxiety: Solomé Tibebu at TEDxTCCognificReThink Behavioral Health InnovationStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make...

Tessie Castillo is an author, journalist and public speaker who specializes in stories on criminal justice, drug policy, prison reform and racial equity. She co-wrote her first book, Crimson Letters: Voices from Death Row, with four men serving death sentences in North Carolina, whom she met while volunteering at North Carolina’s Central Prison in 2014.While volunteering, Castillo was moved by the wisdom, humility, and accountability of the men in prison. In May 2014 she wrote an editorial to the Raleigh News & Observer advocating for the humanity of people on Death Row. In response, the prison administration canceled her class and revoked her status as a volunteer. Castillo began writing to her former students. The letters and essays they exchanged formed the base for Crimson Letters: Voices from Death Row. After its publication in March 2020, the prison confiscated the book from its co-authors and banned it from NC prisons.Crimson Letters illuminates the complex stew of choice and circumstance that brought four men to Death Row and their search for hope and purpose behind bars. Since its publication, Castillo and her co-authors (who call in from prison) have been speaking on criminal justice issues and sharing their story with universities, faith groups, non-profits, radio shows, and podcasts, including NPR, Longform Podcast, and the Greensboro Bound criminal justice series featuring anti-death penalty advocate Sister Helen Prejean. They also host a free book club where co-authors call into virtual discussions to answer questions and converse with book club members.By offering the unique opportunity to listen and interact with people on Death Row, Castillo and her co-authors debunk the assumptions and stereotypes that shape criminal justice policy. Crimson Letters is more than just a book. It is a collaborative project that challenges us to witness and engage with humanity behind bars.Reach out to invite Tessie and her co-authors to speak to your group or support her with a donation.Take action to help end the death penalty.

Scott Bryant-Comstock interviews Bill Russell, who shares the story behind The Daily Mile and its impact on children and families worldwide.Bill Russell is the Director of The Daily Mile USA Program. Bill has over 20 years of experience as a public educator and has been an administrator, a teacher, and a coach. Bill has genuine love and passion for helping young people become the best they can be. Bill also enjoys being active with family and friends.The goal of The Daily Mile is to improve the physical, social, emotional, and mental health and wellbeing of our children – regardless of age, ability, or personal circumstances. The Daily Mile is a social and physical activity, with children running or jogging – at their own pace – in the fresh air with friends. The Daily Mile is in 78 countries and has more than 3 million participating children. The goal is for every student in every elementary school to have 15 minutes per day to take care of their mind and their body through The Daily Mile. In this episode, Bill Russell talks about the story behind the phenomenal program, The Daily Mile. Bill passionately discusses the mission of The Daily Mile which is to improve the physical, social, emotional, mental health, and well-being of our children around the world. And to make this happen, Bill encourages everyone to become a Daily Mile Champion. You can create a difference in the world and change lives, especially the younger generations. You can do all that by joining The Daily Mile in its mission and become part of a caring and committed team.What You'll LearnWhat The Daily Mile Program is all about.The positive effects of The Daily Mile on the physical, social, emotional, and mental health and well-being of our children. How to become a Daily Mile Champion and join The Daily Mile in making a difference in the world.And much more!Favorite Quote “I've always wanted all children to have the ability to be the best that they can be. That's been me as a coach, me as a teacher, and me as a dad." - Bill Russell For More Information: The Daily MileBecome A Daily Mile ChampionStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think!

Dr. Robert P. Franks is the president and Chief Executive Officer of the Judge Baker Children's Center (JBCC) and a faculty member at Harvard Medical School. Dr. Franks is a leader in the implementation and dissemination of evidence-based practices in children’s mental health, holds a master’s degree from George Washington University and a Ph.D. from Boston College. He completed his clinical training and doctoral fellowship in child psychology at the Yale University Child Study Center in New Haven, Connecticut. Dr. Franks has served on the faculties of the Yale University School of Medicine, the University of Connecticut Health Center, and the Duke University Medical Center.Dr. Franks has worked in academic settings, non-profit institutions, medical centers, and the community to improve the quality of behavioral health care for children and families. He has worked across multiple child-serving sectors at the local and national levels including pediatrics, behavioral health, education, juvenile justice, and child welfare. Over the course of his career, he has led numerous statewide workforce development initiatives to implement a wide range of best and evidence-based practices and programs. His work has helped bridge the gap between research and practice and improved access to high-quality care for thousands of families. Dr. Franks is recognized as a national expert on the dissemination, implementation, and sustainment of best practices in behavioral health.  As CEO of the Judge Baker Children’s Center, Dr. Franks works at the policy, systems, and practice levels to create sustainable change and improve access to quality behavioral health care leading to lifelong positive outcomes for children and families in Massachusetts and beyond. Dr. Franks is further establishing the Judge Baker Children’s Center as a national leader in children’s mental health and works collaboratively with partners locally and nationally at the policy, systems, and practice levels to advance quality care that has been proven to help children and families.In this episode, Dr. Robert P. Franks talks about his new book, BE A BETTER PARENT - 10 STRATEGIES FOR BEING THE BEST YOU CAN BE FOR YOUR CHILD. Dr. Franks shares a glimpse of his personal experience and family life which became his inspiration in writing this powerful book. He also imparts some practical parenting advice on how you can be the best parent for your child. What You'll LearnThe importance of love, quality time, communication, and respect in parenting. Practical parenting advice from a psychologist through the lens of love combined with years of working with families.  And much more!For More Information: Judge Baker Children's CenterBook mentioned in the podcast:BE A BETTER PARENT - 10 STRATEGIES FOR BEING THE BEST YOU CAN BE FOR YOUR

Joining me today are two iconic individuals who are passionately serving people and communities through their advocacy work, Julie Radlauer-Doerfler, and Ryon Robert Coote. This episode represents the third conversation in our three-part miniseries on conversations about race.   Julie Radlauer-Doerfler is a changemaker and a peacemaker. In every aspect of her career, she has focused on transforming individuals, organizations and communities. She specializes in utilizing evidence-based and researched practices to inform her processes. Her style of boldly embracing change in a warm and nurturing manner offers support to those she works with. Julie truly believes that we should “be the change we want to see in the world” and actualizes this value in her work and her life. Julie has published articles, reports and has facilitated hundreds of workshops, training events and presentations. Julie is a principal partner in the Ronik-Radlauer Group and the CEO of Collectively.Ryon Robert Coote is the Chief Development Officer for the Broward Partnership for the Homeless, Inc., the largest comprehensive homeless services provider in Broward County. He was born in Jamaica and migrated with his family to the United States at a very young age. He is a graduate of the Steve J. Green School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University where he received a Master of Public Administration and a graduate certificate in Human Resources Policy and Management. Ryon has a passion for helping people in need and truly believes in the Martin Luther King Jr. quote “Everyone can be great… because anybody can serve. You don’t need a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.” Ryon is an advocate who champions efforts to improve living conditions and education for children and adults in underserved communities and/or in adverse situations. He has over 18 years of experience in the nonprofit and government sectors and has worked on several public projects involving community leaders, and local elected officials that have increased opportunities for disadvantaged children and adults. In this episode, Julie Radlauer-Doerfler and Ryon Coote have a conversation on the concept of I don't see color. Julie and Ryon share their insights on the importance of addressing this topic based on their perspectives and experience as a white female and black male. As this mini-series comes to an end, these advocates hope that we could all have better conversations about race.   What You'll LearnThe importance of addressing the question, do you see color? The impacts of color on health care, education, finance, and other aspects of society.  The value of creating changes that include both black and white people to become a better society. And much more! Favorite Quote "There are people in this world who are going to have to adjust and change, and that includes black and white. So that's the only way we're going to get past this to become a better society.” - Ryon...

Today, I am joined by two amazing individuals who are exceptional in their advocacy work, Julie Radlauer-Doerfler, and Ryon Coote. This episode is the second of the three-part series of conversations about race.Julie Radlauer-Doerfler is a changemaker and a peacemaker. In every aspect of her career, she has focused on transforming individuals, organizations and communities. She specializes in utilizing evidence-based and researched practices to inform her processes. Her style of boldly embracing change in a warm and nurturing manner offers support to those she works with. Julie truly believes that we should “be the change we want to see in the world” and actualizes this value in her work and her life. Julie has published articles, reports and has facilitated hundreds of workshops, training events and presentations. Julie is a principal partner in the Ronik-Radlauer Group and the CEO of Collectively.Ryon Robert Coote is the Chief Development Officer for the Broward Partnership for the Homeless, Inc., the largest comprehensive homeless services provider in Broward County. He was born in Jamaica and migrated with his family to the United States at a very young age. He is a graduate of the Steve J. Green School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University where he received a Master of Public Administration and a graduate certificate in Human Resources Policy and Management.Ryon has a passion for helping people in need and truly believes in the Martin Luther King Jr. quote “Everyone can be great… because anybody can serve. You don’t need a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.”Ryon is an advocate who champions efforts to improve living conditions and education for children and adults in underserved communities and/or in adverse situations. He has over 18 years of experience in the nonprofit and government sectors and has worked on several public projects involving community leaders, and local elected officials that have increased opportunities for disadvantaged children and adults.Ryon is a devoted father and husband and is inspired by his family to make this world a better place. When he is not working you will find him spending time with his family, traveling, playing golf, fishing, and reading.In this episode, Julie Radlauer-Doerfler and Ryon Coote have a dialogue about privilege. These two advocates share the importance of the profound meaning of privilege coming from their own perspectives and how privilege impacts the way we communicate with each other and the society as a whole. Julie and Ryon are hopeful that by listening to this conversation, people can glean something helpful and apply it in their own lives with the people around them. Favorite Quote"I think my takeaway from today is that as a white person, we have to recognize our privilege. And that's really the first step is that self awareness. And once you recognize it and just own it, then figure out how you're going to use it to create a more just society." - Julie Radlauer-Doerfler For More Information:The Ronik-Radlauer Group, Inc.https://collective-ly.org/contact Julie at julie@collective-ly.orgBroward Partnership Stay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the...

Julie Radlauer-Doerfler is a changemaker and a peacemaker. In every aspect of her career, she has focused on transforming individuals, organizations and communities. She specializes in utilizing evidence-based and researched practices to inform her processes. Her style of boldly embracing change in a warm and nurturing manner offers support to those she works with. Julie truly believes that we should “be the change we want to see in the world” and actualizes this value in her work and her life. Julie has published articles, reports and has facilitated hundreds of workshops, training events and presentations. Julie is a principal partner in the Ronik-Radlauer Group and the CEO of Collectively.Ryon Robert Coote is the Chief Development Officer for the Broward Partnership for the Homeless, Inc., the largest comprehensive homeless services provider in Broward County. He was born in Jamaica and migrated with his family to the United States at a very young age. He is a graduate of the Steve J. Green School of International and Public Affairs at Florida International University where he received a Master of Public Administration and a graduate certificate in Human Resources Policy and Management. Ryon has a passion for helping people in need and truly believes in the Martin Luther King Jr. quote “Everyone can be great... because anybody can serve. You don’t need a college degree to serve. You don’t have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace and a soul generated by love.” Ryon is an advocate who champions efforts to improve living conditions and education for children and adults in underserved communities and/or in adverse situations. He has over 18 years of experience in the nonprofit and government sectors and has worked on several public projects involving community leaders, and local elected officials that have increased opportunities for disadvantaged children and adults. Ryon is a devoted father and husband and is inspired by his family to make this world a better place. When he is not working you will find him spending time with his family, traveling, playing golf, fishing, and reading.In this episode, Julie Radlauer-Doerfler and Ryon Coote have a conversation about race and social justice issues, demonstrating how people from different backgrounds can have deep and civil conversations about these difficult issues. These two advocates hope that by showing people how they do it, listeners can glean something useful and apply it in their own lives with their colleagues, friends, and loved ones.  What You'll LearnImportant topics about racism, white privilege, and cancel culture.The relevance of having an open dialogue about uncomfortable topics around race and social justice issues, no matter what your background is.  Helpful tips on how you can listen with an open mind and take actions to gain a better understanding of the topics discussed. And much moreFavorite Quote "I think the takeaway for me is, don't be scared to ask questions because you're never going to get an answer unless you ask the question." - Ryon Robert CooteFor More Information: The Ronik-Radlauer Group, Inc.www.collective-ly.orgcontact Julie

Barbara Huff is the first board president and the founding Executive Director of the National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health (NFFCMH). Barbara was the co-recipient of the Blanche F. Ittleson Award in 2013. This prestigious award is given by the American Orthopsychiatric Association to individuals with outstanding achievements in the delivery of children’s services and the promotion of children’s mental health. In this episode, Barbara Huff talks about her journey as an iconic family advocate. We go down the memory lane from where she started her advocacy work up to the present day. Barbara also shares some valuable lessons related to mental health out of her personal experience and expertise. Stay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think! Send an audio file with your comments to info@theoptimisticadvocate.com. We’d love to hear from you and remember to share it with your podcasting friends.

Keith Wakeman is the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of SuperBetter. Keith’s professional background is in brand management. He worked for almost 20 years in the food industry where he led brand portfolios, innovation teams, new venture development, and corporate strategy for big food companies. SuperBetter is an application that is designed to empower individuals and communities to live epic lives that are full of joy, resilience, strong social relationships, positive emotions, and a sense of purpose. SuperBetter is based on the work of Jane McGonigal, the Chief Science Officer of SuperBetter, and author of the New York Times best-seller of the same name.In this episode, Keith Wakeman talks about the story behind the success of SuperBetter. He discusses their mission to unlock heroic potential in every one of us around the world through the application. Their epic win is to positively impact the co-occurring epidemics of mental illness, addiction, and suicide. And equally important, building connections with mission-aligned organizations to improve resilience, recovery, and mental health in the industries and communities they serve.What You'll LearnWhat the SuperBetter method is all about.The positive impact of playing SuperBetter on one's mental health, well-being, and success in life.  The resources available to help you gain a better understanding of the application and how you can get started.And much more!Favorite Quote “You are the hero of your own story. This is all about you and helping you be stronger. You are the hero of your own story and you are stronger than you know.” – Keith WakemanFor More Information: SuperBetter.comJane McGonigal’s TED TalkJane shares her personal story that led to SuperBetter.SuperBetter Book Club Jane McGonigal shares advice with parents about connecting with their kids over videogames during the pandemic in this new discussion with Donna Volpitta. Journal of Pediatric Psychiatry Practical and empirically guided framework for selecting appropriate mHealth apps for pediatric populations. Book mentioned in the Podcast:SuperBetter: The Power of Living GamefullyStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on

Episode 15: Integrated Care Begins with Self-CareToday, I'm honored to share a conversation with two amazing individuals, Rebecca Pille and Laurie Ellington. Rebecca Pille is the Department Chair for two graduate programs — Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Health and Wellness Coaching and Master of Arts degree in Health and Wellness Coaching in Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH). She is an experienced faculty with a demonstrated history of working in the higher education industry. Skilled in Health Promotion and Wellness, Workplace Wellness, Strategic Planning, Leadership and Management, Health Psychology, Health Literacy, and Applied Behavioral Science. Strong professional graduated from Northcentral University with Ph.D. in Psychology (Health Psychology/Behavioral Medicine) and with M.S. in Applied Behavioral Science from Johns Hopkins University.The Health and Wellness Coaching program at Maryland University of Integrative Health (MUIH) is an evidence-informed curriculum in which students are equipped with knowledge, skills and resources to help clients tap into their inner source of motivation to restore and preserve health and well-being. Graduates are prepared for professional credentialing with the International Coaching Federation (ICF) and the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaching (NBHWC). MUIH offers a Master of Arts degree in Health and Wellness Coaching and a Post-Baccalaureate Certificate in Health and Wellness Coaching. Now enrolling for Spring. For more information, see https://muih.edu/academics/health-wellness-coaching/Laurie Ellington is co-founder and Chief Executive Officer of Zero Point Leadership, a leading-edge neuroscience-based organization for personal and leadership learning and development. She is also the co-author of Six Steps to Unlocking Extraordinary Leadership: The Neuroscience of HighPerformance Leadership. Laurie is among the pioneers who recognize that we can change the world by harnessing the power of the connection between the heart and the mind. Combining research from modern neuroscience, mind-body research, heart intelligence, flow, and mindfulness, she helps individuals, teams, and organizations experience transformational shifts in the way they think, feel, and show up in the world. Laurie has over 22 years of experience in coaching, training, consulting, and mind/body medicine, and is appreciated for her ability to evoke untapped capacities and eliminate outdated habits that keep people from excelling. She holds the Professional Certified Coach credential from the International Coach Federation, certification in Brain-Based Coaching from the NeuroLeadership Institute, and is a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach. Laurie is also a HeartMath® Certified Trainer, Licensed Professional Counselor, and Certified Yoga Instructor.In this episode, Rebecca and Laurie talk about the importance of self-care and the vital role it plays in integrated health care. They share some techniques and strategies in self-care which are validated by science and their reputable years of service in the integrated health profession.What You'll LearnThe importance of self-care, especially in the helping...

ACHIEVING RACIAL EQUITY IN MASSACHUSETTS: THE DYNAMIC DUO IS ON A MISSION!Today, I am joined by Audrey Smolkin and Thula Sibanda. Audrey is the Director of Child and Family Policy at the UMass Medical School. She is responsible for identifying, developing, overseeing the management of new programs, research, and evidence-based policy initiatives all related to children and families. And as part of her job, she is partnering with organizations and individuals from throughout the state to help improve services. Her current focus is on trauma, particularly racial trauma, and the long term negative impacts on the trauma of youth. Also joining me is Thula Sibanda. She is the coordinator of the Juvenile Detention Alternatives Initiative (JDAI) in Massachusetts. Thula’s focus is on the oversight and implementation of the JDAI initiative in Massachusetts. It seeks to improve or reimagine a juvenile justice system that is anti-racist and developmentally appropriate and ensures that the right youth is in the right place for the right reasons. In this episode, we unveil the magic of this dynamic duo of Audrey and Thula as they embark on an incredible mission to provide racial equity training to providers, families, community leaders throughout the entire state of Massachusetts. What You'll LearnWhat is racial trauma and the long term negative impacts on the trauma of youth.Racial equity programs and training available to providers, families, community leaders across the entire state of Massachusetts. Tips on how you can take part in ending racism.And much more!Favorite Quote (38:51) “Find out what your why is. And you hold on to that for dear life because that will get you through whatever challenges you face, whatever struggles you face.”-Thula Sibanda For More Information: Audrey Smolkin, MPPDirector,Child and Family Policy, Instructor, Dept. of Pediatrics, UMass Medical SchoolStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think! Send an audio file with your comments to info@theoptimisticadvocate.com. We’d love to hear from you and remember to share it with your podcasting friends.

This is Scott Bryant-Comstock with the Optimistic Advocate podcast and the Kundalini Chronicles podcast. Wait, wait, what? Two podcasts?Yes!I made the decision to split out the Kundalini Chronicles, which has pretty much dominated the last almost 30 episodes of the Optimistic Advocate podcast,For those of you who are interested in just focusing on my experiences with awakening, and the lessons learned from that, but more importantly tips and strategies for your own personal self development, you will want to visit The Kundalini Chronicles.The Kundalini Chronicles podcast is available on just about every podcast player there is whether it's Apple, Spotify, Google, just go into your podcast player of choice, type in the Kundalini Chronicles, it'll bring it up, hit the subscribe button, and you are good to go.And then the Optimistic Advocate podcast will stay true to its original focus on interviews with some pretty amazing advocates from around the United States and actually around the world. We've been branching out and doing some really fine interviews. We have just a stack of interviews ready to go. We'll start rolling those out next week.To subscribe to the Kundalini Chronicles: (We will add more host providers as they populate the show)THE KUNDALINI CHRONICLESApple PodcastsSpotifyOvercastPocket CastsRSS FeedStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think! Send an audio file with your comments to info@theoptimisticadvocate.com. We’d love to hear from you and remember to share it with your podcasting friends.

Solomé Tibebu is the Director of the Upswing Fund. She is leading the effort to provide timely resources to organizations that focus on the mental health and well-being supports to adolescents of color and/or LGBTQ+ in the United States—populations that face urgent needs during the pandemic but too often lack access to the care they need. Funding for the effort comes from Pivotal Ventures, a personal investment and incubation company founded and led by Melinda Gates. In this episode, apart from learning about the incredible funding opportunity available to mental health providers who focus on adolescents of color and LGBTQ youth, we also learn about the amazing Solomé Tibebu, who leads the effort.What You'll LearnPivotal venture's efforts to fund an act that serves as COVID response to the needs of the service providers who are delivering mental health and well-being support to adolescents of color and LGBTQ youth.More resources on mental health and well-being available to adolescents of color and LGBTQ.Tips on taking care of your mental health base on Solome's lived experience.And much more!Favorite Quote“I do hope that as an industry, we can recognize that the service providers are people too. And we have to make sure that they're getting the care and support they need every day as they navigate with impacted budgets as a result of COVID.” - Solomé TibebuFor More Information: Download the Overview for Grant Applicants!Pivotal Ventures – A Melinda Gates CompanyThe Upswing Fund for Adolescent Mental HealthGoing Digital Behavioral Health Tech SummitAnxiety in TeensSurviving Anxiety: Solomé Tibebu at TEDxTCCognificReThink Behavioral Health InnovationStay Involved With The Optimistic AdvocateDo you want to hear stories of inspiring advocates who help individuals and families make positive changes in their lives in communities across the globe? And maybe bring you a bit closer to recognizing your full potential as an advocate for change. Then listen and subscribe to The Optimistic Advocate podcast. Enjoy each episode!Follow Scott Bryant-Comstock on LinkedIn.Join our LinkedIn community.Let us know what you think! Send an audio file with your comments to info@theoptimisticadvocate.com. We’d love to hear from you and remember to...

Today, I am joined by three individuals involved in improving the mental health services and supports for youth and young adults living in Broward County, Florida. Tiffany Lawrence, Latrice Richards, and Crysta Snyder. They are working under the umbrella of the One Community Partnership 3 System of Care Grant and Broward Behavioral Health Care Coalition.  Tiffany Lawrence, LMFTTiffany is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida who has been working in the behavioral health field for 7 years. She works at Broward Behavioral Health Coalition as the Project Director for Broward County’s One Community Partnership 3 System of Care SAMHSA grant. Her expertise is in assisting communities to develop programs that promote success for transition-age youth with behavioral health needs. Tiffany values an integration of traditional and non-traditional methods in her work to help others. She is a certified Regional Transition to Independence Process (TIP) model trainer and fidelity reviewer as well as an Individual Placement and Support (IPS) Supported Employment trainer and fidelity reviewer.South Florida Wellness Network:South Florida Wellness Network (SFWN) is a recovery-focused support network run and driven by youth, adults, and family peers. We are a community of individuals who have been strengthened by our lived experiences with behavioral, emotional, mental health, trauma, and/or substance use. Our shared experience united and empowers us to help others discover their unique path to recovery. The peers go into jails, treatment centers, mental health receiving centers, Juvenile Assessment Center (JAC), and the child welfare system to provide peer support and outreach to adults and children.Crysta Snyder, CRPS is a Certified Recovery Peer Specialist at South Florida Wellness Network and identifies as a person in recovery. She has been providing direct services for the last four years utilizing the TIP Model in the community. Crysta hopes to share her experience as a young person serving young people and her perspectives on youth culture. She currently attends Palm Beach State College majoring in Social Work and enjoys fine cuisine and cross-fit in her spare time.Latrice Richards, LPC-S, CLC is the System of Care Clinical Integration Coordinator for the One Community Partnership 3 (OCP3) grant program at Broward Behavioral Health Coalition. OCP3 is a community grant program funded by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration in partnership with Broward County.In this episode, we talk about the innovative social marketing campaign called, Unmask Your Feelings. How their team is helping youth and young adults learn to express their feelings through masks. Especially during this time of Pandemic, where wearing a mask is a must.What You'll LearnThe implications of wearing a mask to one's mental health, especially the youth and young adults.What the social marketing campaign Unmask your feelings is all about. Helpful tips on how to look after your mental health during these difficult times.And much more!Favorite Quote“I want us to relay a message of hope behind these masks. Sometimes we can feel alone. Some people don't even want to wear them. Some mental health conditions are exasperated by putting on these masks, I've seen people who struggled to breathe behind them as they got anxiety behind their masks. So I wanted to say you have this mask on, but we understand what you're feeling, you're not alone.” - Tiffany Lawrence This episode is sponsored by:In 2011, the State of Florida’s Department of...

Micah Howe is a dedicated mental health advocate from rural Iowa. He is a strong advocate and a rising voice for those with lived experience. He was supposed to speak at the 33rd Annual Research and Policy Conference in March 2020, but the COVID-19 pandemic put a halt to the conference.The Iconic Clown: Reflections on the Joker’s Popularity as the Personification of Mental Illness and What America Can Learn From Gotham City’s Mental Health SystemThe Joker has become a hot-button character in the last few years as it relates to mental illness and mass violence. But why? What is it about this villain that has garnered so much attention, and what might the Batman series teach us about psychosocial and political solutions to problems of behavioral health in society?In this episode, Micah candidly shares his journey through mental health treatment and support and his evolution as an advocate. He provides some great tips for those with mental illness, their families, and loved ones.What You'll LearnThe resources and support groups that are available to people with mental health illness and their families in Gotham CityA profound reflection on Micah's presentation: Reflections on the Joker’s Popularity as the Personification of Mental Illness and What America Can Learn From Gotham City’s Mental Health System. Useful tips for people with mental illness, their families, and loved ones coming from Micah's lived experience.And much more!Favorite Quote“Advocacy was just natural, you come through such a difficult journey, and finally start to get some breakthroughs.” - Micah HoweFor More Information: The International OCD FoundationThe National Alliance on Mental Illness

Today, I am joined by three amazing individuals, Tiffany Lawrence, LMFT, Damas Cher-Frere, and Erica M. Ricketts, MBA. Tiffany is a Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist in Florida who has been working in the behavioral health field for 7 years. She works at Broward Behavioral Health Coalition as the Project Director for Broward County’s One Community Partnership 3 System of Care SAMHSA grant. Her expertise is in assisting communities to develop programs that promote success for transition-age youth with behavioral health needs.  Damas is a self-taught artist who was born in Haiti and has lived in South Florida for over 20 years. He graduated from Boyd H Anderson High School. Damas is a motivated young man who does not let his mental illness stop him from being productive. Through his work as an artist and illustrator, he shows others that strength lies in pushing forward and doing what you love, despite what obstacles may stand in your way.  Erica Ricketts, a native of Jamaica and has resided in South Florida for almost 3 decades. She is the mother of 2 adult sons, Kadeem – 28, and Kahlil, 24. Ms. Ricketts joined Henderson Behavioral Health in 1993 and has been the Chief Financial Officer since 1995. As CFO, Ms. Ricketts’s duties include the day-to-day supervision of all accounting functions. She oversees Henderson’s investment portfolio, manages the organization’s budget, and is involved in contract negotiations with federal, state, county, and other funding sources. Ms. Ricketts currently serves as the Chair of the Florida Council for Behavioral Health CFO Workgroup and was one of the recipients of the Mental Health Association of Southeast Florida’s Epic Award in 2018. She is a Nationally Certified Adult & Youth Mental Health First Aid Trainer. Additionally, Mrs. Ricketts serves on the Board of Directors for the Lighthouse of Broward and is a Charter Member of the Women of Color Empowerment Institute, at which she also serves as a Mentor for Professional Women in Broward County.In this episode, we get the opportunity to hear both professional and personal perspectives on the topic of the impact of racial injustice on the provision of behavioral health services in Broward County, Florida. Guests on this episode include a mother of two adult sons, a young man who has experience with the mental health system, and a mental health services provider. This podcast episode is sponsored by Broward Behavioral Health Coalition:In 2011, the State of Florida’s Department of Children and Families designated the Broward Behavioral Health Coalition, Inc. (BBHC) as Broward’s local Managing Entity. BBHC is responsible for the contracting, monitoring, clinical quality oversight and performance improvement of the DCF/State funded behavioral health services. BBHC provides a comprehensive system of care for substance use, mental health, and co-occurring disorders for individuals in Broward County. As a non-profit organization, BBHC also manages local and national grants to develop evidence-based practices and practice improvement for providers and persons served. One Community Partnership is a SAMHSA system of care grant contracted through the Broward County government to BBHC. This podcast is brought to you through these grant dollars.What You'll LearnThe impact of racial injustice on the provision of behavioral health services in Broward County, Florida.The effects of racism and racial injustice on the mental health of black people. A profound understanding of racism and racial injustice based on the personal experience of the guests. And much more!Favorite Quote"I think the system needs to first work with engagement. You're not going to be able to engage...