Send us a text Sometimes one coffee isn’t enough. Join us for a second cup in this special bonus episode! In this bonus episode, Hillary continues the discussion with Marie Brown and Kimber Decker about what it truly means to create safe, healing environments for kids when home doesn’t feel like home. Together, they explore how trust is built over time, why therapy doesn’t have to feel clinical or intense, and how hope can begin with a small spark when kids are given space to step out o...
Send us a text What happens when “home” doesn’t feel like home? In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary talks with Marie Brown, Supervisor of Wedgwood’s Human Trafficking residential treatment home, and Kimber Decker, clinical facilitator in Wedgwood’s Intensive Outpatient Program. They unpack how instability, trauma, and unsafe environments affect a child’s sense of safety and identity—and how consistent care, healthy boundaries, and supportive relationships can...
Send us a text In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary sits down with LeRae Kuperus, Director of Spiritual Formation, and Maranda Johnson, Aftercare Supervisor, to explore how kids and adults can begin the hard but healing work of unlearning false beliefs about themselves. Together, they discuss how safe environments, consistent relationships, and faith-filled guidance help replace harmful narratives with truth, confidence, and belonging. This encouraging convers...
Send us a text In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary sits down with Pastor Arlan Palmer, Wedgwood’s long-time chaplain and diversity coordinator, and Katolo Mendamenda, a residential home supervisor. Together, they explore how kids -especially those who have faced trauma—struggle with honesty, rejection, and self-worth, and how caregivers can walk alongside them in these challenges. Arlan and Katolo share insights from decades of combined experience, offering p...
Send us a text In this episode, Hillary sits down with Dr. Dan Gowdy (President & CEO of Wedgwood Christian Services) and Jessica Knoth (Principal of Zeeland East High School) to discuss the latest research on child well-being in Michigan and what it means for kids and families. They unpack the mental health challenges youth are facing, the crucial role schools play in support, and why listening and mentoring can make all the difference. Together, they highlight the power of community col...
Send us a text Is it anxiety or just stress? In this episode, Hillary sits down with Hannah (Wedgwood Outpatient Clinician) and Brooke Davis (Director of Mental Health at Kenowa Hills Public Schools) to talk about the growing trend of self-diagnosis among teens and why understanding mental health requires more than just a label. They explore the impact of social media, the difference between stress and anxiety, and why person-first language matters. Together, they offer insight into how paren...
Send us a text What helps a kid feel like they truly belong? In this episode, Judge Kathleen Feeney and Abish Israde (Wedgwood Wraparound Program) join Hillary to explore how one trusted adult can make all the difference in a child’s life—and why a sense of belonging is essential for emotional and social well-being. Hear stories from the courtroom and the community, along with practical strategies for parents, caregivers, and educators to help kids feel seen, supported, and connected. W...
Send us a text What kind of connection are teens really finding online? And what’s being lost or gained in the process? In this episode, Brina Tieymeyer & Mark Washington (Zeeland Public Schools) help unpack the complex relationship between social media and connection. Explore how constant digital interaction can impact emotional well-being, why kids (and adults!) may still feel lonely despite being “connected,” and what healthy use of social media can actually look like. Wheth...
Send us a text What does it mean to truly belong? Why does it matter so much? In this episode, Pastor Steve Carigon returns to explore the deep connection between love and belonging, especially for kids who have experienced trauma. Learn how creating spaces of acceptance and hospitality can transform lives, and why feeling seen, safe, and supported is essential at any age of life. Whether you're a caregiver, parent, or simply someone who wants to love others better, this con...
Send us a text Why are so many young people feeling alone in a connected world? Hillary sits down with Dr. Lisa Lowery and Kali Jackson-Dieleman to explore the rising loneliness among Gen Z. They discuss the impact of social media, the importance of validation over sympathy, and how small, consistent acts of empathy can make a big difference in helping people feel truly seen and heard. For more information on the podcast, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/podcast/ For mental ...
Send us a text Hillary sits down with Jason Lheureux, Director of Residential Programs at Wedgwood, to discuss the impact a single trusted adult can have on a child’s life. They explore how safe, supportive relationships build confidence, and how it helps kids navigate life’s challenges. Jason shares real-life examples and practical ways that parents, mentors, teachers, and community members can step into this vital role. Whether you’re a caregiver, educator, or simply someone who wants to ma...
Send us a text In this Coffee Break Conversation episode, Dr. Dan Gowdy, President and CEO of Wedgwood Christian Services, shares his heart on what it means to lead with purpose and compassion. Drawing from his personal journey—including his education, missionary work, and extensive leadership experience—Dan emphasizes the power leadership in building empowered, engaged teams. He also discusses the importance of integrated mental and behavioral health care, reducing stigma, and increasing...
Send us a text In this episode, Hillary sits down with Alli Matthews, a physician assistant in Wedgwood's Outpatient Psychiatry Program. They discuss the vital role psychiatry plays in mental health care, how it complements therapy, and the personalized approach she takes when it comes to individual treatment. Alli addresses common misconceptions about mental health diagnoses and medications, providing helpful examples. Whether you're curious about how psychiatry works, seeking clarity ...
Send us a text Uncover the true power of generosity and how it can transform lives—starting with yours. In this special end-of-year episode, Hillary sits down with Brooke, V.P. of Advancement, and Judy, a passionate supporter, to explore the many forms of generosity. Through personal stories, they share how 'giving' goes far beyond monetary gifts. From simple acts of service to moments of kindness and offering your time, discover how even the smallest gestures can create ripples of hope in so...
Send us a text Hillary sits down with Jacklyn, a clinician at Wedgwood who specializes in trauma, anxiety, and depression. Together, they explore the impact that social media has on mental health, particularly how "compare and despair" patterns can harm self-esteem and lead to anxiety. Jacklyn offers insights on recognizing when comparison becomes unhealthy, along with practical strategies to build a healthier relationship with social media. They also discuss how practicing gratitude can cou...
Send us a text Hillary talks with Emily Nykamp, a therapist within Wedgwood's Counseling Team, about her passion for helping clients—especially kids and teens—find creative ways to overcome challenges, build resilience, and grow. Emily explains burnout as a result of prolonged stress, especially in fields like healthcare, education, and caregiving, where people often feel overworked and undervalued, especially post-pandemic. They discuss recognizing burnout early and managing it through self-...
Send us a text Hillary sits down with LeRae, the Director of Spiritual Formation, to explore the connection between faith and mental health. LeRae shares insights on how spiritual health can enhance mental well-being and offers practical advice for balancing faith with mental health challenges. Together, they discuss how spirituality can help find meaning in both joyful and difficult seasons, the importance of compassion, and how to navigate challenging conversations during stressful times ...
Send us a text In this episode, Hillary and Nick Bayer explore the rising trend of substance use disorders among adolescents, focusing particularly on marijuana use. They discuss the environmental and mental health factors contributing to this trend and highlight the importance of addressing these issues to provide effective support for individuals struggling with addiction. The conversation covers the complexities of addiction recovery, including recognizing signs of addiction, addressing ...
Send us a text In this episode, Hillary and Brina Tiemeyer discuss the critical topic of framing suicide as a public health issue. They highlight the importance of using language that de-stigmatizes suicide and providing trauma-informed care. The conversation covers the need for understanding and intervening in suicidal thoughts, particularly among teenagers and adolescents, and emphasizes approaching the topic with empathy and sensitivity. Brina and Hillary address the challenges of disc...
Send us a text In this episode, Hillary and Gina Boscarino discuss the complex challenges of raising teenagers in the digital age. They discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for teens to talk about the issues they face and offer guidance on navigating social media and technology use. Emphasizing the need for strong relationships with teachers, classmates, and community members, they explore strategies to help teenagers build resilience. The conversation also highlights the importan...