Erica Orosco Cruz

First time parents are faced with the obstacle of navigating not only what parenting styles work for them and their child, but also the feedback they receive from their parents and peers. Often, parents will find themselves actively straying from the path their parents took. It is easy to revert back to what you know even if you have the intention of breaking the cycle. This week, Dr. Laura Anderson invites guest Erica Cruz to the Real World Parenting podcast to share her experience raising her children in a different way from how she was parented and the tools she used to keep herself on course. her perspective using the Waldorf and RIE methods. Dr. Laura and Erica discuss the Waldorf and RIE methods, finding and staying true to your values in parenting, and being mindful of the pendulum swing.Erica Orosco Cruz is an early childhood development expert and parent coach who helps children, families, and teachers thrive and grow together on the foundation of mutual respect. She is certified through RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) and is also trained in the Waldorf methods. Erica’s passion for supporting families stems from her own experience as a mother of 4 boys (ranging in ages from 1 to 25!), and a daughter who set out to parent in a different way than she was as a child. While raising her children, she searched to find a program that brought children to the forefront while also providing clear boundaries for mutual respect; a program where children would be seen and heard and where adults would see with new eyes and listen for what was unsaid. When she realized what she was looking for didn’t exist, she founded Homeschool Garden, a now two decade old early childhood development center in Los Angeles.What You Will Learn:How to navigate when the way you are parenting is different from how you were parented and how to stand confidently in that (while also being flexible)How to navigate when the way you are parenting is different from your cultural/ethnic normsFinding a middle ground that works for you and your childrenWhat are the Waldorf and RIE methodsFinding the "sweet spot" of setting boundaries, but also allowing your kids agencyThe arts are as important as reading and writingThe importance of staying the course in the presence of overwhelming feedbackModeling behaviors and respect

First time parents are faced with the obstacle of navigating not only what parenting styles work for them and their child, but also the feedback they receive from their parents and peers. Often, parents will find themselves actively straying from the path their parents took. It is easy to revert back to what you know even if you have the intention of breaking the cycle. This week, Dr. Laura Anderson invites guest Erica Cruz to the Real World Parenting podcast to share her experience raising her children in a different way from how she was parented and the tools she used to keep herself on course. her perspective using the Waldorf and RIE methods. Dr. Laura and Erica discuss the Waldorf and RIE methods, finding and staying true to your values in parenting, and being mindful of the pendulum swing.Erica Orosco Cruz is an early childhood development expert and parent coach who helps children, families, and teachers thrive and grow together on the foundation of mutual respect. She is certified through RIE (Resources for Infant Educarers) and is also trained in the Waldorf methods. Erica’s passion for supporting families stems from her own experience as a mother of 4 boys (ranging in ages from 1 to 25!), and a daughter who set out to parent in a different way than she was as a child. While raising her children, she searched to find a program that brought children to the forefront while also providing clear boundaries for mutual respect; a program where children would be seen and heard and where adults would see with new eyes and listen for what was unsaid. When she realized what she was looking for didn’t exist, she founded Homeschool Garden, a now two decade old early childhood development center in Los Angeles.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>How to navigate when the way you are parenting is different from how you were parented and how to stand confidently in that (while also being flexible)</li><li>How to navigate when the way you are parenting is different from your cultural/ethnic norms</li><li>Finding a middle ground that works for you and your children</li><li>What are the Waldorf and RIE methods</li><li>Finding the "sweet spot" of setting boundaries, but also allowing your kids agency</li><li>The arts are as important as reading and writing</li><li>The importance of staying the course in the presence of overwhelming feedback</li><li>Modeling behaviors and respect</li></ul>

Parenting Different From How You Were Parented with Erica Orosco Cruz

We are currently living in a time in history where we as a society are talking and learning about sexuality and gender identity. People are understandably confused-  and it is as important as ever to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Children growing up discovering their sexuality often feel alone in not knowing others who feel the same as they do and feel the pressure of cultural shame.  This week's guest is Philip Steinbacher, who shares a variety of small changes that can make a world's difference to children. Philip shares his experience growing up as a gay cisgender male and how it has impacted how he approaches teaching. He has encouraged the staff to create a more welcoming environment and fostered a safe space within a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club for both LGBTQ+ students and allies to channel their energy in a productive way.Professionally, Philip Steinbacher has performed as an entertainer at Walt Disney World and been an educator in public and private schools in Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, and Hawai‘i. He holds a BA in Music and an MA in Elementary Education. Philip is the author of two books, Quotation Quizzlers and Vocabulary Ladders, and has an additional title being released this fall. He is the editor of Garden Island Tea, a digital newsletter spilling the tea about events, opportunities, and news for the Kaua'i LGBTQ+ community. So much for the formal résumé. Currently, Philip prefers to say he is a music lover, bibliophile, impresario, cyclist, pianist, hubby, guncle, friend, author, and dog daddy who appreciates fun clothes and really digs disco balls. He lives on the island of Kaua‘i with his husband Jason and their dog Lucky. What You Will Learn:What are some small changes you can make so children feel comfortable?Even allies with good intentions need to work on their approach sometimesIf we force communication and LGBTQ+ stereotypes, we are going to receive a negative reactionHow can parents make an impact in the safe space opportunities within school?

We are currently living in a time in history where we as a society are talking and learning about sexuality and gender identity. People are understandably confused- and it is as important as ever to create safe spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families. Children growing up discovering their sexuality often feel alone in not knowing others who feel the same as they do and feel the pressure of cultural shame. This week's guest is Philip Steinbacher, who shares a variety of small changes that can make a world's difference to children. Philip shares his experience growing up as a gay cisgender male and how it has impacted how he approaches teaching. He has encouraged the staff to create a more welcoming environment and fostered a safe space within a Gay Straight Alliance (GSA) club for both LGBTQ+ students and allies to channel their energy in a productive way.Professionally, Philip Steinbacher has performed as an entertainer at Walt Disney World and been an educator in public and private schools in Florida, North Carolina, Illinois, and Hawai‘i. He holds a BA in Music and an MA in Elementary Education. Philip is the author of two books, Quotation Quizzlers and Vocabulary Ladders, and has an additional title being released this fall. He is the editor of Garden Island Tea, a digital newsletter spilling the tea about events, opportunities, and news for the Kaua'i LGBTQ+ community. So much for the formal résumé. Currently, Philip prefers to say he is a music lover, bibliophile, impresario, cyclist, pianist, hubby, guncle, friend, author, and dog daddy who appreciates fun clothes and really digs disco balls. He lives on the island of Kaua‘i with his husband Jason and their dog Lucky. What You Will Learn:<ul><li>What are some small changes you can make so children feel comfortable?</li><li>Even allies with good intentions need to work on their approach sometimes</li><li>If we force communication and LGBTQ+ stereotypes, we are going to receive a negative reaction</li><li>How can parents make an impact in the safe space opportunities within school?</li></ul>

Key Elements in Creating Safe Spaces for LGBTQ+ youth and their families with Philip Steinbacher

Cath Brew

This week's episode is all about gender in schools. Any child who is going through a gender journey will need a support system in school. There is an understanding that we need to become inclusive, but many people don't know what that means on a practical level and what comes next. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on guest Cath Brew to help highlight what needs to be different or recognized at school for your child to feel safe, seen, and supported in their two primary environments of home and school.Cath is an artist who educates and illustrates about marginalised experiences for positive change - with a focus on identity, belonging and expat life. She works with international schools on whole-school LGBTQ+ inclusion together with empowering LGBTQ+ students to be proud. Cath hosts Talk-Back Tuesday: a weekly LGBTQ chat on social media, whilst her podcast ‘Drawn to a Deeper Story’, explores the ‘lives that challenge us and the difficult conversations around them’. Cath also runs 'Crock-of-shit-free' Spiritual Guidance - she helps clients to find inner peace and heal from emotional wounds including ancestral trauma, limiting beliefs, difficult relationships and other internal struggles. Her illustrations can be found on a range of gifts in the Drawn to a Story online shop.What You Will Learn:The importance of understand the difference of sex and genderIt is important to be thorough in changing paperwork needed to reflect your child's new identityPlanning discussions with your child on if they want to tell the school about their new identity and how they'd feel comfortable doing soTeaching your child how they can reclaim language and reframe their mindset on certain wordsUnderstanding the possibility that your child may come out at school prior to coming out at homeResources:Web: www.drawntoastory.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/drawntoastoryFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrawntoaStory

This week's episode is all about gender in schools. Any child who is going through a gender journey will need a support system in school. There is an understanding that we need to become inclusive, but many people don't know what that means on a practical level and what comes next. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on guest Cath Brew to help highlight what needs to be different or recognized at school for your child to feel safe, seen, and supported in their two primary environments of home and school.Cath is an artist who educates and illustrates about marginalised experiences for positive change - with a focus on identity, belonging and expat life. She works with international schools on whole-school LGBTQ+ inclusion together with empowering LGBTQ+ students to be proud. Cath hosts Talk-Back Tuesday: a weekly LGBTQ chat on social media, whilst her podcast ‘Drawn to a Deeper Story’, explores the ‘lives that challenge us and the difficult conversations around them’. Cath also runs 'Crock-of-shit-free' Spiritual Guidance - she helps clients to find inner peace and heal from emotional wounds including ancestral trauma, limiting beliefs, difficult relationships and other internal struggles. Her illustrations can be found on a range of gifts in the Drawn to a Story online shop.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>The importance of understand the difference of sex and gender</li><li>It is important to be thorough in changing paperwork needed to reflect your child's new identity</li><li>Planning discussions with your child on if they want to tell the school about their new identity and how they'd feel comfortable doing so</li><li>Teaching your child how they can reclaim language and reframe their mindset on certain words</li><li>Understanding the possibility that your child may come out at school prior to coming out at home</li></ul>Resources:Web: <a href="http://www.drawntoastory.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.drawntoastory.com</a>Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawntoastory" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/drawntoastory</a>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/DrawntoaStory" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/DrawntoaStory</a>

Strategies for LGBTQ+ Inclusivity In Schools with Cath Brew

Today's conversation is in response to the recent acts of gun violence in the United States, specifically the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Entire communities are left on edge following last week's horrific shooting. It is important to help children feel safe in the face of unfathomable danger. Sadly, the need for these conversations is increasing and these conversations are often difficult for parents and kids alike. Dr. Laura Anderson provides step by step scripts for how to talk to kids about the potential of violence in school, how to manage their fears, and how to approach conversation about events out of our control. Step By Step PlanWhat You Will Learn:How to prepare for tough conversationsLanguage that is especially helpful in these situationsStep by step scripts for conversations with your childHealthy coping strategies for you and your childNext steps to continue healthy habits beyond the initial conversationFor a detailed outline of this process, head to https://www.drlauraanderson.com/real-world-parenting-podcast/ep28-school-based-violence

Today's conversation is in response to the recent acts of gun violence in the United States, specifically the Robb Elementary School shooting in Uvalde, Texas. Entire communities are left on edge following last week's horrific shooting. It is important to help children feel safe in the face of unfathomable danger. Sadly, the need for these conversations is increasing and these conversations are often difficult for parents and kids alike. Dr. Laura Anderson provides step by step scripts for how to talk to kids about the potential of violence in school, how to manage their fears, and how to approach conversation about events out of our control. Step By Step PlanWhat You Will Learn:<ul><li>How to prepare for tough conversations</li><li>Language that is especially helpful in these situations</li><li>Step by step scripts for conversations with your child</li><li>Healthy coping strategies for you and your child</li><li>Next steps to continue healthy habits beyond the initial conversation</li></ul>For a detailed outline of this process, head to <a href="https://www.drlauraanderson.com/real-world-parenting-podcast/ep28-school-based-violence" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.drlauraanderson.com/real-world-parenting-podcast/ep28-school-based-violence</a>

Guiding Your Child Through Their Fears Of Random School Based Violence

This week's episode aims to normalize the idea of the loss of your kid not being who you imagined who they would be. This is a universal experience for parents as most kids, once they start developing their own identities, start to have interests and hobbies that may not align with what you'd imagined for them. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Lisette Lahana, LCSW to share her expertise in how grief affects families who raise a gender expansive child.   Lisette Lahana is a licensed clinical social worker with Bachelor degrees in Critical Gender Studies and Psychology and a Masters of Social Work from Smith College. Her extensive experience providing gender affirming care to transgender, non binary, intersex, those questioning and people who are re-transitioning spans over 23 years. She is a certified member and mentor with World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) since 2002. Lisette has a full-time psychotherapy practice where she works individually with clients of all ages with a primary focus on gender.  What You Will Learn: How grief can be affirming of a gender expansive child  and how it can get in the wayYou can grieve aspects of a child’s gender journey without grieving who they are It's okay to let your child know you're struggling ( including do’s and don’ts for how to share that) The two types of ambiguous lossWhen you find ways to grieve the loss of your own expectations, you make room to celebrate your child Resources:https://www.lisettelahana.com/

This week's episode aims to normalize the idea of the loss of your kid not being who you imagined who they would be. This is a universal experience for parents as most kids, once they start developing their own identities, start to have interests and hobbies that may not align with what you'd imagined for them. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Lisette Lahana, LCSW to share her expertise in how grief affects families who raise a gender expansive child. Lisette Lahana is a licensed clinical social worker with Bachelor degrees in Critical Gender Studies and Psychology and a Masters of Social Work from Smith College. Her extensive experience providing gender affirming care to transgender, non binary, intersex, those questioning and people who are re-transitioning spans over 23 years. She is a certified member and mentor with World Professional Association for Transgender Health (WPATH) since 2002. Lisette has a full-time psychotherapy practice where she works individually with clients of all ages with a primary focus on gender. What You Will Learn: <ul><li>How grief can be affirming of a gender expansive child and how it can get in the way</li><li>You can grieve aspects of a child’s gender journey without grieving who they are </li><li>It's okay to let your child know you're struggling ( including do’s and don’ts for how to share that) </li><li>The two types of ambiguous loss</li><li>When you find ways to grieve the loss of your own expectations, you make room to celebrate your child </li></ul>Resources:<a href="https://www.lisettelahana.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.lisettelahana.com/</a>

Dealing With The Grief Of Ambiguous Loss with Lisette Lahana

Eden Atwood

If we haven't done our internal work to understand our implicit bias, we could be protecting our client from something integral to their identity. The more shame and secrecy we have the more we undercut our children's opportunity to be prepared. This week's episode dives into how you can provide the space for your child to flourish. All human beings have a right to bodily autonomy and self determination.Dr. Laura Anderson brings on guest Eden Atwood for the conversation. Eden opens up about her story in learning about her intersex diagnosis, discussing medical trauma, and offers parenting tools to work through your fears.Eden Atwood is a parent and social worker who is currently in private practice. Atwood has been an outspoken advocate and activist for children born with differences of sex development and co-founded the online intersex awareness-raising website, The Interface Project.What You Will Learn:Leading with fear doesn't do anything positiveCommunity is keyFostering a sense of bodily autonomySheep, shepherd, and pasture metaphorKeep your knees bentResources:https://www.interfaceproject.orghttps://edenatwoodlcsw.com

If we haven't done our internal work to understand our implicit bias, we could be protecting our client from something integral to their identity. The more shame and secrecy we have the more we undercut our children's opportunity to be prepared. This week's episode dives into how you can provide the space for your child to flourish. All human beings have a right to bodily autonomy and self determination.Dr. Laura Anderson brings on guest Eden Atwood for the conversation. Eden opens up about her story in learning about her intersex diagnosis, discussing medical trauma, and offers parenting tools to work through your fears.Eden Atwood is a parent and social worker who is currently in private practice. Atwood has been an outspoken advocate and activist for children born with differences of sex development and co-founded the online intersex awareness-raising website, The Interface Project.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>Leading with fear doesn't do anything positive</li><li>Community is key</li><li>Fostering a sense of bodily autonomy</li><li>Sheep, shepherd, and pasture metaphor</li><li>Keep your knees bent</li></ul>Resources:<a href="https://www.interfaceproject.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.interfaceproject.org</a><a href="https://edenatwoodlcsw.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://edenatwoodlcsw.com</a>

Keep Your Knees Bent and Love Without Fear with Eden Atwood

This week's guest is one of Dr. Laura Anderson's favorite people in the whole world: her 13-year-old son. The two share an open and honest conversation through the lens of a therapist parent and child relationship. He candidly shares some of his favorite parts of having a therapist parent and offers some suggestions for ways to get through to your child.What You Will Learn:How parenting lands on your kid from a child's perspectiveHow to communicate more effectively with your kidReasons to ask for impromptu feedbackThe importance of staying regulated as a parent to provide for your child

This week's guest is one of Dr. Laura Anderson's favorite people in the whole world: her 13-year-old son. The two share an open and honest conversation through the lens of a therapist parent and child relationship. He candidly shares some of his favorite parts of having a therapist parent and offers some suggestions for ways to get through to your child.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>How parenting lands on your kid from a child's perspective</li><li>How to communicate more effectively with your kid</li><li>Reasons to ask for impromptu feedback</li><li>The importance of staying regulated as a parent to provide for your child</li></ul>

Parenting: From My Child's Perspective

Rhodes Perry

In a study presented by The Trevor Project, 85% of trans and nobinary youth have mentioned that the recent debates about their lived experience has negatively impacted their mental health. It is important to know and take into consideration that parents are making decisions for their children in a time where systems are displaying conflicting messages. For families raising LGBTQ+ children, political decisions can have major personal impacts. This week's conversation addresses the current political climate and conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ journeys, parents' concerns, and aims to normalize the LGBTQ+ experience.Dr. Laura Anderson brings on this week's guest Rhodes Perry to share his expertise and perspectives of being a trans person. Rhodes Perry is an award winning social entrepreneur, sought after speaker, podcast host, and a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ thought leader.What you will learn:Each of us establishes a gender identity and sexual orientationThe importance of developing an antenna to find spaces that are safeWays that cigender and straight people can use their privilege to say no to the negative narrativeAdults can bear the brunt of the learning and discomfort so that kids don't have toThere is hope!- from the perspective of a happy, healthy transgender adultResources:PFLAG National Org https://pflag.orgThe Trevor Project https://www.thetrevorproject.org

In a study presented by The Trevor Project, 85% of trans and nobinary youth have mentioned that the recent debates about their lived experience has negatively impacted their mental health. It is important to know and take into consideration that parents are making decisions for their children in a time where systems are displaying conflicting messages. For families raising LGBTQ+ children, political decisions can have major personal impacts. This week's conversation addresses the current political climate and conversations surrounding LGBTQ+ journeys, parents' concerns, and aims to normalize the LGBTQ+ experience.Dr. Laura Anderson brings on this week's guest Rhodes Perry to share his expertise and perspectives of being a trans person. Rhodes Perry is an award winning social entrepreneur, sought after speaker, podcast host, and a nationally recognized LGBTQ+ thought leader.What you will learn:<ul><li>Each of us establishes a gender identity and sexual orientation</li><li>The importance of developing an antenna to find spaces that are safe</li><li>Ways that cigender and straight people can use their privilege to say no to the negative narrative</li><li>Adults can bear the brunt of the learning and discomfort so that kids don't have to</li><li>There is hope!- from the perspective of a happy, healthy transgender adult</li></ul>Resources:<ul><li>PFLAG National Org <a href="https://pflag.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://pflag.org</a></li><li>The Trevor Project <a href="https://www.thetrevorproject.org" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.thetrevorproject.org</a></li></ul>

The Cost of Politicizing Gender with Rhodes Perry

Gender identity is a complex web, and the world of gender is a beautiful place to learn to expand your own limitations and automatic thinking. Join Dr. Laura for part 2 of this conversation where she dives deeper into gender, kids, and pronouns.The likelihood of raising a child who is gender expansive is the same as raising a child who is left handed. Children need to be able to explore themselves and their gender, regardless of how they identify themselves. The safest thing you can do is to learn with them. In this episode, Dr. Laura shares tools for parents to create a safe space for their children that allows them to explore their identity.What You Will Learn?How to build trust between you and your child so they feel safeDealing with your fear of the unknown challenges aheadYou can not create a gender expansive identity in a child who is not on the spectrum as it wereYour child needs you in this journey

Gender identity is a complex web, and the world of gender is a beautiful place to learn to expand your own limitations and automatic thinking. Join Dr. Laura for part 2 of this conversation where she dives deeper into gender, kids, and pronouns.The likelihood of raising a child who is gender expansive is the same as raising a child who is left handed. Children need to be able to explore themselves and their gender, regardless of how they identify themselves. The safest thing you can do is to learn with them. In this episode, Dr. Laura shares tools for parents to create a safe space for their children that allows them to explore their identity.What You Will Learn?<ul><li>How to build trust between you and your child so they feel safe</li><li>Dealing with your fear of the unknown challenges ahead</li><li>You can not create a gender expansive identity in a child who is not on the spectrum as it were</li><li>Your child needs you in this journey</li></ul>

A Conversation About Gender Identity Part 2

Gender identity is a complex web, and the world of gender is a beautiful place to learn to expand your own limitations and automatic thinking.  For parents and others trying to learn how to best support children,  there is a tremendous amount of misinformation circulating about gender identity and kids and teens.  Join me for a careful thoughtful exploration of this important topic.A big piece of our job as parents is to teach our children to tune into their intuition and stand strong in who they are. Yet, often parent's struggle with navigating parenting a child exploring their gender identity.  Dr. Anderson invites you to consider that you are not the brakes or the accelerator in your child's gender exploration. If you are a parent new to this journey, each child's experience is different. The key piece is centering your child, establishing a common language, and continuing to be open to learning. In this episode, Dr. Laura offers a parent's view of how gender identity works, what to do, what not to do, and who to turn to for help when your child is exploring their identity. Tune in next week for Part 2, which includes scripts for what to say if your child comes to you with questions about their gender.What You Will Learn?What is gender identity?What does the term non-binary mean?The importance of battling misinformation so parents are well-informed objectivelyClarifying the different between sexual orientation and gender identity

Gender identity is a complex web, and the world of gender is a beautiful place to learn to expand your own limitations and automatic thinking. For parents and others trying to learn how to best support children, there is a tremendous amount of misinformation circulating about gender identity and kids and teens. Join me for a careful thoughtful exploration of this important topic.A big piece of our job as parents is to teach our children to tune into their intuition and stand strong in who they are. Yet, often parent's struggle with navigating parenting a child exploring their gender identity. Dr. Anderson invites you to consider that you are not the brakes or the accelerator in your child's gender exploration. If you are a parent new to this journey, each child's experience is different. The key piece is centering your child, establishing a common language, and continuing to be open to learning. In this episode, Dr. Laura offers a parent's view of how gender identity works, what to do, what not to do, and who to turn to for help when your child is exploring their identity. Tune in next week for Part 2, which includes scripts for what to say if your child comes to you with questions about their gender.What You Will Learn?<ul><li>What is gender identity?</li><li>What does the term non-binary mean?</li><li>The importance of battling misinformation so parents are well-informed objectively</li><li>Clarifying the different between sexual orientation and gender identity</li></ul>

A Conversation About Gender Identity Part 1

Tips and Scripts for Families on Roads Less Traveled.It's for parents and clinicians wondering "What To Say When." It’s thoughts from the best of both worlds- the place where office couch wisdom meets living room couch experience.  Race. Gender. Adoption. Child Psychology.  I look forward sharing this with you!

This week Dr. Laura Anderson continues the conversation on the parental illusion of control by focusing on what is known as the curling or helicopter parent. Curling is that quirky sport in which people rush and brush the ice immediately in front of a swirling stone, in hopes of clearing its path and having it land just where you want it. Curling parenting fosters a sense of dependence within your child. This week Dr. Anderson is joined by Rashid Curtis, her long time friend and girl-dad-to-three-teens. This episode highlights higher level ways to organize your child's time and bring out the best of their interests. Instead, we'll help you transition into using intentional parenting tactics that will help your child grow into the person they have the potential to become.Rashid is a business strategy consultant and entrepreneur. He specializes in customer and market strategy, by providing business development services to companies in the consumer products, healthcare, life sciences, media and technology industries. Rashid turned his passion for real estate into Triangle Flats, a an investor agency located in Durham, NC. The culmination of twin passions, real estate and entrepreneurship, this small firm assist people acquiring, remodeling, renting and selling investment properties in the Southeastern United States. Rashid lives in Durham, NC with his wife, three children (19, 18 and 12 year old girls) and a labradoodle named Leo.What You Will Learn:Your child needs more time with their peers and less time with their parentsFoster the ability for your child to learn how to tune into their emotions, their sense of being, and their sense of right from wrongHow to help your child trust themselvesWhen we're doing it for them they don't learnThe importance of finding self motivation and self interestResources:http://www.linkedin.com/in/rashidcurtis

This week Dr. Laura Anderson continues the conversation on the parental illusion of control by focusing on what is known as the curling or helicopter parent. Curling is that quirky sport in which people rush and brush the ice immediately in front of a swirling stone, in hopes of clearing its path and having it land just where you want it. Curling parenting fosters a sense of dependence within your child. This week Dr. Anderson is joined by Rashid Curtis, her long time friend and girl-dad-to-three-teens. This episode highlights higher level ways to organize your child's time and bring out the best of their interests. Instead, we'll help you transition into using intentional parenting tactics that will help your child grow into the person they have the potential to become.Rashid is a business strategy consultant and entrepreneur. He specializes in customer and market strategy, by providing business development services to companies in the consumer products, healthcare, life sciences, media and technology industries. Rashid turned his passion for real estate into Triangle Flats, a an investor agency located in Durham, NC. The culmination of twin passions, real estate and entrepreneurship, this small firm assist people acquiring, remodeling, renting and selling investment properties in the Southeastern United States. Rashid lives in Durham, NC with his wife, three children (19, 18 and 12 year old girls) and a labradoodle named Leo.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>Your child needs more time with their peers and less time with their parents</li><li>Foster the ability for your child to learn how to tune into their emotions, their sense of being, and their sense of right from wrong</li><li>How to help your child trust themselves</li><li>When we're doing it for them they don't learn</li><li>The importance of finding self motivation and self interest</li></ul>Resources:<a href="http://www.linkedin.com/in/rashidcurtis" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">http://www.linkedin.com/in/rashidcurtis</a>

Learning To Let Go Of The Curling Parent Lifestyle

Often the more responsibility we have the less we take care of ourselves. This week Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee. Dr. Rachel operates from the philosophy that no matter what we have going on we must take care of ourselves. Self care looks different for everyone, but this episode is all about figuring out what self care means to you and how to build these practices into your life.  Come laugh and grimace with Drs. Laura and Rachel about how letting go of the illusion of control in parenting is a great way to practice self-care. Dr. Rachel is a Licensed Psychologist, Certified Diversity Practitioner, Certified Professional Coach, and Author of Choose You! As an entrepreneur, wife and mother of four, she has developed a keen passion for supporting busy women leading busy lives. inspires women with the practical and tangible skills necessary to achieve greater life satisfaction, professional productivity and ultimately, a peace of mind. She believes that in order to excel in their careers, women must first excel in their personal lives.What You Will Learn:How the illusion of control in parenting is a huge source of stressWays to foster independence &amp; strong skill sets in your childIdeas for setting boundaries in your self care practicesReminders to find an accountability partner who has your best interest at heartThat the most common source of pushback is from yourselfTips to reignite your passion for lifeResources:https://www.amazon.com/Choose-You-Reignite-Passion-2014-12-04/dp/B01K3RH65Q

Often the more responsibility we have the less we take care of ourselves. This week Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Dr. Rachel Mitchum Elahee. Dr. Rachel operates from the philosophy that no matter what we have going on we must take care of ourselves. Self care looks different for everyone, but this episode is all about figuring out what self care means to you and how to build these practices into your life. Come laugh and grimace with Drs. Laura and Rachel about how letting go of the illusion of control in parenting is a great way to practice self-care. Dr. Rachel is a Licensed Psychologist, Certified Diversity Practitioner, Certified Professional Coach, and Author of Choose You! As an entrepreneur, wife and mother of four, she has developed a keen passion for supporting busy women leading busy lives. inspires women with the practical and tangible skills necessary to achieve greater life satisfaction, professional productivity and ultimately, a peace of mind. She believes that in order to excel in their careers, women must first excel in their personal lives.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>How the illusion of control in parenting is a huge source of stress</li><li>Ways to foster independence &amp; strong skill sets in your child</li><li>Ideas for setting boundaries in your self care practices</li><li>Reminders to find an accountability partner who has your best interest at heart</li><li>That the most common source of pushback is from yourself</li><li>Tips to reignite your passion for life</li></ul>Resources:<a href="https://www.amazon.com/Choose-You-Reignite-Passion-2014-12-04/dp/B01K3RH65Q" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.amazon.com/Choose-You-Reignite-Passion-2014-12-04/dp/B01K3RH65Q</a>

The Illusion of Control and The Importance of Self-Care in Parenting

All behavior comes from the brain. I used to think that was reductionist. But in this episode we talk about trauma, attachment loss, the brain and the connection between these things and behavior. If we don't understand trauma and brain science, many children and parents experience blame, shame and failure. In reality, many trauma responses and challenging behaviors are a sign of growth.Superheroes are born from adversity. Villain stories are often similar, but with no safety provided along the way. The more we understand our brains and our children's brains, the more we can help them to grow into the super humans they are capable of becoming.This week, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH to share tips for parents to use to help both themselves and their children work through the hard stuff. You have to believe there is hope in this approach to try it, and you have to try this approach to believe it.Jessica's superpower is making brain science accessible and entertaining for children and adults alike. She is living this out as a licensed mental health counselor &amp; supervisor, bilingual author, and dynamic presenter. Since she loathes the dry, adult language found in many “therapy books,” she crafted the RILEY THE BRAVE series to be books that children and parents can’t wait to read and re-read.What You Will Learn:Why it is important to BOTH Celebrate the courage of survival AND celebrate learning to trustWhy it is important to understand the upstairs downstairs brain, and tips for staying regulated so you can build a staircase between the two sectionsHow we can help parents wrap their minds around why brain science matters, and how to our kids about it.Key concepts for parents to help their children stay regulatedResources:www.RileyTheBrave.orghttps://bravebrains.com

All behavior comes from the brain. I used to think that was reductionist. But in this episode we talk about trauma, attachment loss, the brain and the connection between these things and behavior. If we don't understand trauma and brain science, many children and parents experience blame, shame and failure. In reality, many trauma responses and challenging behaviors are a sign of growth.Superheroes are born from adversity. Villain stories are often similar, but with no safety provided along the way. The more we understand our brains and our children's brains, the more we can help them to grow into the super humans they are capable of becoming.This week, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Jessica Sinarski, LPCMH to share tips for parents to use to help both themselves and their children work through the hard stuff. You have to believe there is hope in this approach to try it, and you have to try this approach to believe it.Jessica's superpower is making brain science accessible and entertaining for children and adults alike. She is living this out as a licensed mental health counselor &amp; supervisor, bilingual author, and dynamic presenter. Since she loathes the dry, adult language found in many “therapy books,” she crafted the RILEY THE BRAVE series to be books that children and parents can’t wait to read and re-read.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>Why it is important to BOTH Celebrate the courage of survival AND celebrate learning to trust</li><li>Why it is important to understand the upstairs downstairs brain, and tips for staying regulated so you can build a staircase between the two sections</li><li>How we can help parents wrap their minds around why brain science matters, and how to our kids about it.</li><li>Key concepts for parents to help their children stay regulated</li></ul>Resources:<a href="http://www.rileythebrave.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">www.RileyTheBrave.org</a><a href="https://bravebrains.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://bravebrains.com</a>

The Brain Behavior Connection

The voices of first/birth parents, sadly, are rarely heard in the mainstream media related to adoption. This week on the Real World Parenting Podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Susan Dusza Guerra Leksander, LMFT to discuss navigating the power dynamics in adoptive families, dealing with the trauma that is inherent in the adoption process, and so much more. They touch on the fears involved in getting things wrong in these relationships, the fear for your child's safety, and the recent current events with Amy Coney Barrett and the abortion bans in the United States.Susan Dusza Guerra Leksander, LMFT is a first mother, transracial adoptee, and a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in the adoption and foster care triads. As First/Birth Family Specialist, Susan focuses on the needs of expectant parents considering adoption, and first/birth families of who have placed children of color for adoption. Susan placed her daughter for adoption in 2001 in an “open” adoption which was subsequently closed by her daughter’s adoptive parents. She was transracially adopted as an infant and, with the support of her adoptive parents, reunited with her first families as a teenager. Susan envisions a world where all expectant parents and first/birth parents are fully empowered, accurately informed, and emotionally supported, in order to make the best decisions for their children and themselves.What You Will Learn:To unpack all that goes into adoptionTo question your own beliefs and assumptionsTips for clinicians working with members of the adoption triadHow trauma affects the First Parent even in a voluntary adoptive situationWays to cope with the imbalance of legal rightsWhat are the emotional experiences of birth first parents and how that shows up in relationships and communicationResources:Susan hosts a monthly peer support group for any first family members through PACTpactadopt.orgsusan@pactadopt.orgMpower alliance: https://www.mpoweralliance.orgConcerned United Birth Parents https://www.cubirthparents.org

The voices of first/birth parents, sadly, are rarely heard in the mainstream media related to adoption. This week on the Real World Parenting Podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Susan Dusza Guerra Leksander, LMFT to discuss navigating the power dynamics in adoptive families, dealing with the trauma that is inherent in the adoption process, and so much more. They touch on the fears involved in getting things wrong in these relationships, the fear for your child's safety, and the recent current events with Amy Coney Barrett and the abortion bans in the United States.Susan Dusza Guerra Leksander, LMFT is a first mother, transracial adoptee, and a licensed psychotherapist who specializes in the adoption and foster care triads. As First/Birth Family Specialist, Susan focuses on the needs of expectant parents considering adoption, and first/birth families of who have placed children of color for adoption. Susan placed her daughter for adoption in 2001 in an “open” adoption which was subsequently closed by her daughter’s adoptive parents. She was transracially adopted as an infant and, with the support of her adoptive parents, reunited with her first families as a teenager. Susan envisions a world where all expectant parents and first/birth parents are fully empowered, accurately informed, and emotionally supported, in order to make the best decisions for their children and themselves.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>To unpack all that goes into adoption</li><li>To question your own beliefs and assumptions</li><li>Tips for clinicians working with members of the adoption triad</li><li>How trauma affects the First Parent even in a voluntary adoptive situation</li><li>Ways to cope with the imbalance of legal rights</li><li>What are the emotional experiences of birth first parents and how that shows up in relationships and communication</li></ul>Resources:Susan hosts a monthly peer support group for any first family members through PACT<a href="http://pactadopt.org/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">pactadopt.org</a><a href="mailto:susan@pactadopt.org" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow">susan@pactadopt.org</a>Mpower alliance: <a href="https://www.mpoweralliance.org" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.mpoweralliance.org</a>Concerned United Birth Parents <a href="https://www.cubirthparents.org" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.cubirthparents.org</a>

Adoption From The Perspective of A First/Birth Parent

This week's guest is Author and Training Specialist at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Tony Hynes. Dr. Laura and Tony share a conversation on his experience as an adoptee with two mothers and existing in the space in between, often referred to dueling loyalty. Growing up in this unique circumstance, sometimes it is easy to focus only on one side of the coin when it comes to the challenges and the joys. Tony shares his perspective of the full picture in this episode where he pulls from his background to share tools to better equip you in connecting your child to their racial background.Tony was adopted by his parents Mary and Janet in the mid-1990s. In his memoir, "The Son With Two Moms," he writes about his experiences growing up as both an interracial adoptee and as a child growing up in a same sex headed household. Today, Tony is an advocate for families like his, having served on the Board of Directors for organizations that serve to highlight adoptive families from diverse upbringings. He also has been invited to be a speaker at conferences on adoption and foster care throughout the nation, especially those involving interracial placements. Tony completed his master’s thesis in Sociology on the psychology of children within the same sex headed household, and has now begun begin his PhD studies in Language, Literacy, and Culture. In his time as Training Specialist at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Tony has designed innovative training curricula that help families and professionals respond to evaluation and assessment tools that encapsulate holistic pictures of adoptees and foster youth.What You Will Learn:What is dueling loyaltyHow it feels to be "the only" in the roomThe importance of frank conversations and making an effort dailyThe facets of the internal struggle your child may be experiencingResources:CASE - Center Adoption Support and EducationHynes@Adoptionsupport.orghttps://adoptionsupport.org/staff/anthony-hynes/Training for Adoption Competency (TAC)https://adoptionsupport.org/adoption-competency-initiatives/training-for-adoption-competency-tac/Tony on Instagram @tony_hyAdditional Adoptee Voices on Instagram@adoptee_thoughts@isaac_etter@hannahjacksonmatthews@nicolesjchung

This week's guest is Author and Training Specialist at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Tony Hynes. Dr. Laura and Tony share a conversation on his experience as an adoptee with two mothers and existing in the space in between, often referred to dueling loyalty. Growing up in this unique circumstance, sometimes it is easy to focus only on one side of the coin when it comes to the challenges and the joys. Tony shares his perspective of the full picture in this episode where he pulls from his background to share tools to better equip you in connecting your child to their racial background.Tony was adopted by his parents Mary and Janet in the mid-1990s. In his memoir, "The Son With Two Moms," he writes about his experiences growing up as both an interracial adoptee and as a child growing up in a same sex headed household. Today, Tony is an advocate for families like his, having served on the Board of Directors for organizations that serve to highlight adoptive families from diverse upbringings. He also has been invited to be a speaker at conferences on adoption and foster care throughout the nation, especially those involving interracial placements. Tony completed his master’s thesis in Sociology on the psychology of children within the same sex headed household, and has now begun begin his PhD studies in Language, Literacy, and Culture. In his time as Training Specialist at the Center for Adoption Support and Education, Tony has designed innovative training curricula that help families and professionals respond to evaluation and assessment tools that encapsulate holistic pictures of adoptees and foster youth.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>What is dueling loyalty</li><li>How it feels to be "the only" in the room</li><li>The importance of frank conversations and making an effort daily</li><li>The facets of the internal struggle your child may be experiencing</li></ul>Resources:CASE - Center Adoption Support and EducationHynes@Adoptionsupport.org<a href="https://adoptionsupport.org/staff/anthony-hynes/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://adoptionsupport.org/staff/anthony-hynes/</a>Training for Adoption Competency (TAC)<a href="https://adoptionsupport.org/adoption-competency-initiatives/training-for-adoption-competency-tac/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://adoptionsupport.org/adoption-competency-initiatives/training-for-adoption-competency-tac/</a>Tony on Instagram @tony_hyAdditional Adoptee Voices on Instagram@adoptee_thoughts@isaac_etter@hannahjacksonmatthews@nicolesjchung

The Joys and Challenges of Growing Up as The Son with Two Moms

Mike Berry

With the holiday season in full gear, you may notice a spotlight on shifting expectations and dysregulated behaviors. This time can be a reminder of loss, grief and the complex mixed feelings for many adoptees. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Mike Berry to share tools you can use to navigate this stressful time of year.Mike Berry is the Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Honestly Adoption, a virtual support, resource, and training site for foster and adoptive families. The Honestly Adoption Company is fiercely committed to helping parents gain insight into their child, change their parenting approach, and in turn, transform their family. They believe strongly in highlighting and spotlighting voices from the entire adoption triad. Mike and his wife Kristen have built this amazing network that has been voted in the Top 5 out of 100 best adoption blogs on earth 5 years in a row by Healthline.com and Feedspot.What You Will Learn:Become aware that this may be a difficult season for your childContinue to look beneath behaviors for feelings driving behaviorTo notice your own expectations and how those impact family regulationBe mindful of overstimulationHow trauma history can dictate your child's behaviorSoothing and regulation tools for the holiday timeResources: https://honestlyadoption.comhttps://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/honestly-adoption-mike-berry/1129825395https://www.facebook.com/honestlyadoption/https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeberrywriting/

With the holiday season in full gear, you may notice a spotlight on shifting expectations and dysregulated behaviors. This time can be a reminder of loss, grief and the complex mixed feelings for many adoptees. Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Mike Berry to share tools you can use to navigate this stressful time of year.Mike Berry is the Co-CEO and Co-Founder of Honestly Adoption, a virtual support, resource, and training site for foster and adoptive families. The Honestly Adoption Company is fiercely committed to helping parents gain insight into their child, change their parenting approach, and in turn, transform their family. They believe strongly in highlighting and spotlighting voices from the entire adoption triad. Mike and his wife Kristen have built this amazing network that has been voted in the Top 5 out of 100 best adoption blogs on earth 5 years in a row by <a href="http://Healthline.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Healthline.com</a> and Feedspot.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>Become aware that this may be a difficult season for your child</li><li>Continue to look beneath behaviors for feelings driving behavior</li><li>To notice your own expectations and how those impact family regulation</li><li>Be mindful of overstimulation</li><li>How trauma history can dictate your child's behavior</li><li>Soothing and regulation tools for the holiday time</li></ul>Resources: <a href="https://honestlyadoption.com" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://honestlyadoption.com</a><a href="https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/honestly-adoption-mike-berry/1129825395" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/honestly-adoption-mike-berry/1129825395</a><a href="https://www.facebook.com/honestlyadoption/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/honestlyadoption/</a><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeberrywriting/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeberrywriting/</a>

Navigating Holidays With Your Adoptive Family Featuring Mike Berry

Mark Hagland

This week on the Real World Parenting podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson continues her conversation from last episode with Mark Hagland on intersecting identities of being LGBTQ+ and a transracial adoptee.Mark Hagland shares how learning about and engaging with the complexities in his identity have deepened his thoughtfulness, compassion, and vision. He explains the phrase he coined, "Don't tragedize your child's narrative."Mark was born in South Korea in 1960 and adopted as an infant by white parents of Norwegian and German descent, and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is a professional business journalist and lives in Chicago. He has participated in in-person and online forums around transracial adoption for over 20 years, and has spoken publicly about issues around transracial adoption in numerous settings, both in the United States and in Europe.What You Will Learn:The importance of teaching your child how to navigate their mindspaceThe harm that is done when you tragedize your child's narrativeThat identity complexity makes life richerWhy it is critical to center the experiences of adopteesResources:https://www.facebook.com/groups/TRA101www.markhaglandbook.com

This week on the Real World Parenting podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson continues her conversation from last episode with Mark Hagland on intersecting identities of being LGBTQ+ and a transracial adoptee.Mark Hagland shares how learning about and engaging with the complexities in his identity have deepened his thoughtfulness, compassion, and vision. He explains the phrase he coined, "Don't tragedize your child's narrative."Mark was born in South Korea in 1960 and adopted as an infant by white parents of Norwegian and German descent, and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is a professional business journalist and lives in Chicago. He has participated in in-person and online forums around transracial adoption for over 20 years, and has spoken publicly about issues around transracial adoption in numerous settings, both in the United States and in Europe.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>The importance of teaching your child how to navigate their mindspace</li><li>The harm that is done when you tragedize your child's narrative</li><li>That identity complexity makes life richer</li><li>Why it is critical to center the experiences of adoptees</li></ul>Resources:<a href="https://www.facebook.com/groups/TRA101" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/groups/TRA101</a><a href="http://www.markhaglandbook.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">www.markhaglandbook.com</a>

The Complexities of Identity Abundance with Mark Hagland Part 2

Love alone is not enough to protect your transracially adopted child from the difficulties they will face. This episode aims to highlight strategies for raising children with intersecting identities, and shed light on the resources that are available today.In this episode of the Real World Parenting podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on a special guest to discuss the intersecting identities of being LGBTQ+ and adopted. Mark Hagland recounts his struggle finding himself between interacting with Korean people who don't understand his gay identity and interacting with white LGBTQ+ people who don't understand his POC identity.Mark Hagland is an adult transracial and international adoptee. He was born in South Korea in 1960 and adopted as an infant by white parents of Norwegian and German descent, and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is a professional business journalist and lives in Chicago. He has participated in in-person and online forums around transracial adoption for over 20 years, and has spoken publicly about issues around transracial adoption in numerous settings, both in the United States and in Europe.What You Will Learn:What is meant by the concept narrative burden, and why adoptive parents need to understand itLove is a great place to start, but it isn't enough to protect transracial adoptees from identity harmHow to make sure your kids are getting into spaces where they feel seen and supported for both their racial and LGBTQ+ identitiesThere are no shortcuts- parents can learn to sit with discomfort now so our kids don't have to laterHow different identities can shine in different circumstances

Love alone is not enough to protect your transracially adopted child from the difficulties they will face. This episode aims to highlight strategies for raising children with intersecting identities, and shed light on the resources that are available today.In this episode of the Real World Parenting podcast, Dr. Laura Anderson brings on a special guest to discuss the intersecting identities of being LGBTQ+ and adopted. Mark Hagland recounts his struggle finding himself between interacting with Korean people who don't understand his gay identity and interacting with white LGBTQ+ people who don't understand his POC identity.Mark Hagland is an adult transracial and international adoptee. He was born in South Korea in 1960 and adopted as an infant by white parents of Norwegian and German descent, and grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He is a professional business journalist and lives in Chicago. He has participated in in-person and online forums around transracial adoption for over 20 years, and has spoken publicly about issues around transracial adoption in numerous settings, both in the United States and in Europe.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>What is meant by the concept narrative burden, and why adoptive parents need to understand it</li><li>Love is a great place to start, but it isn't enough to protect transracial adoptees from identity harm</li><li>How to make sure your kids are getting into spaces where they feel seen and supported for both their racial and LGBTQ+ identities</li><li>There are no shortcuts- parents can learn to sit with discomfort now so our kids don't have to later</li><li>How different identities can shine in different circumstances</li></ul>

The Complexities of Identity Abundance with Mark Hagland

Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Beth Wheeler for a long overdue conversation. The two join together in discussing whiteness and the anti-racist work that we, as White people, need to be doing. Dr. Laura and Beth identify the common roadblocks people face in their anti-racist work and what keeps White people from speaking up. This episode will give you the tools you need to move forward on your own so that the burden doesn't fall upon People of Color. Dr. Laura and Beth offer specific strategies for staying in the work even when it is uncomfortable, and hope today will help you in your journey.Beth Wheeler (she/her/hers) is a psychotherapist, educator, networker, and advocate who works to promote equity and inclusion with diverse populations in all areas of her work.  A Clinical Social Worker trained also in bodywork, Beth’s understanding of trauma and resilience inform both her private practice with adults and her Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging work in organizations.  Beth identifies as a white, cis-gender, queer/lesbian, middle-class, able-bodied woman.  She is also co-raising her two black domestically adopted sons (15 and 12), with her ex-wife.What You Will Learn:What it means to be White and how that shapes the way we think about race and racismWhich feelings keep White people from working to be anti-racist and what we can do about themHow White people can support other White people in doing the workHow we define White supremacy, and why language mattersWhen to ask for help if you are a White person raising children of colorResources:Beth Wheelerhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-wheeler-aa0b5ba/https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/beth-wheeler-silver-spring-md/445743Janet Helmshttps://www.apa.org/members/content/race-mechanisms-inequalitySURJ Showing up to Racial Justicehttps://surj.org

Dr. Laura Anderson brings on Beth Wheeler for a long overdue conversation. The two join together in discussing whiteness and the anti-racist work that we, as White people, need to be doing. Dr. Laura and Beth identify the common roadblocks people face in their anti-racist work and what keeps White people from speaking up. This episode will give you the tools you need to move forward on your own so that the burden doesn't fall upon People of Color. Dr. Laura and Beth offer specific strategies for staying in the work even when it is uncomfortable, and hope today will help you in your journey.Beth Wheeler (she/her/hers) is a psychotherapist, educator, networker, and advocate who works to promote equity and inclusion with diverse populations in all areas of her work. A Clinical Social Worker trained also in bodywork, Beth’s understanding of trauma and resilience inform both her private practice with adults and her Diversity, Equity, Inclusion and Belonging work in organizations. Beth identifies as a white, cis-gender, queer/lesbian, middle-class, able-bodied woman. She is also co-raising her two black domestically adopted sons (15 and 12), with her ex-wife.What You Will Learn:<ul><li>What it means to be White and how that shapes the way we think about race and racism</li><li>Which feelings keep White people from working to be anti-racist and what we can do about them</li><li>How White people can support other White people in doing the work</li><li>How we define White supremacy, and why language matters</li><li>When to ask for help if you are a White person raising children of color</li></ul>Resources:Beth Wheeler<a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-wheeler-aa0b5ba/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-wheeler-aa0b5ba/</a><a href="https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/beth-wheeler-silver-spring-md/445743" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/beth-wheeler-silver-spring-md/445743</a>Janet Helms<a href="https://www.apa.org/members/content/race-mechanisms-inequality" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.apa.org/members/content/race-mechanisms-inequality</a>SURJ Showing up to Racial Justice<a href="https://surj.org" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://surj.org</a>

What Gets In The Way of White People Doing Anti-Racism Work with Beth Wheeler

This week Dr. Gamby joins Dr. Laura to discuss things to look for if you’re wondering whether or not your child may have autism. If your child does have a pattern of developmental differences, it is important to intervene early. Dr. Gamby highlights steps to take to ensure your child's needs are being met.Tanya Gamby, Ph.D. is a Hawaii licensed psychologist and a past President of the Hawaii Psychological Association. During the course of her career, Dr. Gamby trained and worked with some of the top autism providers in the world. She currently runs an autism early intervention clinic in Hawaii. Dr. Gamby has over twenty years of experience doing early intervention with children with autism. She is passionate about providing ethical, effective interventions for children and their families.What You Will Learn in this podcast:Signs that may be symptoms of an autism spectrum disorderThe strengths that children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder often haveThe importance of early assessment and interventionThe arc of mild autismHow ABA therapy done skillfully and playfully is an effective interventionHow to find the right clinician to help your child and familyResources:Association for Science and Autism treatment www.ASAT.comhttps://www.autismserviceskauai.com/our-teamwww.drlauraanderson.com

This week Dr. Gamby joins Dr. Laura to discuss things to look for if you’re wondering whether or not your child may have autism. If your child does have a pattern of developmental differences, it is important to intervene early. Dr. Gamby highlights steps to take to ensure your child's needs are being met.Tanya Gamby, Ph.D. is a Hawaii licensed psychologist and a past President of the Hawaii Psychological Association. During the course of her career, Dr. Gamby trained and worked with some of the top autism providers in the world. She currently runs an autism early intervention clinic in Hawaii. Dr. Gamby has over twenty years of experience doing early intervention with children with autism. She is passionate about providing ethical, effective interventions for children and their families.What You Will Learn in this podcast:<ul><li>Signs that may be symptoms of an autism spectrum disorder</li><li>The strengths that children diagnosed with an autism spectrum disorder often have</li><li>The importance of early assessment and intervention</li><li>The arc of mild autism</li><li>How ABA therapy done skillfully and playfully is an effective intervention</li><li>How to find the right clinician to help your child and family</li></ul>Resources:Association for Science and Autism treatment <a href="http://www.asat.com/" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">www.ASAT.com</a><a href="https://www.autismserviceskauai.com/our-team" rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.autismserviceskauai.com/our-team</a><a href="http://www.drlauraanderson.com" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">www.drlauraanderson.com</a>

Recognizing Early Signs of Autism and Seeking Whole Child Support

Tips and Scripts for Families on Roads Less Traveled. It's for parents and clinicians wondering "What To Say When." It’s thoughts from the best of both worlds- the place where office couch wisdom meets living room couch experience. Race. Gender. Adoption. Child Psychology. I look forward sharing this with you!

Real World Parenting

The best podcast episodes about true crime. For any thrill seeking podcast listeners who just can't get enough of the captivating stories of murderers and criminals. This topic has all the best episodes from many different true crime podcasts.  Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!

Best True Crime Podcasts

The best podcast episodes on romantic relationships. Episodes talk about the 5 love languages, intimacy, and the taboo topics of sexual desires and infidelity. This topic is a deep dive into the science and complexities that face us in our relationships with others. Add episodes you're interested into your queue below!