Wonders & Worries: WonderCast

Guest Hosts: Kelly Hendershot, LGSW, LMSW – Cancer Support Community Summary: In this conversation, Kelly Hendershot, Vice President of Network and Healthcare Partnerships at Cancer Support Community, discusses her role in connecting families and clinicians to vital resources for cancer support. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing conversations about cancer, providing support across the entire spectrum […]

In this conversation, Julie interviews the founders of Perky, Courtney and Crystal, who are both registered nurses and specialize in nipple tattooing for breast cancer survivors. They discuss their personal motivations for starting Perky, the importance of creating a safe and inviting space for clients, and the unique approach they take as nurse tattooists. The conversation also touches on the impact of their work on the community, the challenges of insurance coverage, and their innovative campaigns like the Third Nipple Campaign. They emphasize the importance of holistic health and community support for survivors, encouraging listeners to advocate for accessible resources.

In this conversation, Taryn Schuelke shares her journey of being diagnosed with breast cancer, navigating treatment, and the impact on her family. She discusses her background in the medical field, the challenges of being a working mother during treatment, and the importance of community support. Taryn also reflects on her experiences with hair loss, body image, and how she has supported her children through this process. The conversation highlights the emotional and practical aspects of dealing with cancer while maintaining a sense of normalcy in family life.

In this conversation, filmmaker Madison VanDerLinde discusses her documentary 'Children of Disease,' which explores the impact of parental illness on children. She shares her personal journey into death work, the challenges faced during the filmmaking process, and the importance of community support for families dealing with illness. Madison emphasizes the need for open communication within families and the role of art in healing. She also reflects on her future aspirations in filmmaking and advocacy for children affected by parental illness.

Guest Hosts: Wonders & Worries Teen Council Representatives – Angie, Nash and Arya; Suzi Simmons, Wonders & Worries Central Texas Event Coordinator and Teens Giving Back Program Lead Summary:   For the entirety of my profession as a Child Life Specialist, it has been our teen populations that continue to inspire and touch my heart in […]

Guest Hosts: Dr. Nichelle Haynes, DO   Co-Owner of Reproductive Psychiatry and Counseling based in Austin, Texas  Podcast Host of “More than Mom with Dr. Nichelle Haynes”  Summary:   In this conversation, Dr. Nichelle Haynes, a perinatal and reproductive psychiatrist, discusses her journey in the field of mental health, particularly focusing on the unique challenges faced […]

Guest Hosts: Dr. Caroline Leek BSc MSc PhD RSA CF, Director of Fruit Fly Collective   Summary:   In this conversation, Dr. Caroline Leek discusses her journey from personal loss to creating impactful resources for families affected by cancer. She shares insights on the work of the Fruitfly Collective and the importance of educating children about cancer. […]

In this conversation, David Smith shares his inspiring journey as a wellness coach and blind athlete who faced a sudden diagnosis of stage 3B testicular cancer. In this conversation, David Smith shares his personal journey through testicular cancer, highlighting the importance of finding the right medical professionals, the challenges of recovery, and the emotional toll of the experience. He emphasizes the need for patient advocacy, the impact of community support, and the lessons learned about prioritizing family and personal well-being over career and external validation. David's story serves as an inspiration for others facing similar challenges, encouraging them to seek support and remain resilient in the face of adversity.

Guest Hosts: Joshua Williams (Program Coordinator, Fatherhood EFFECT) and Ernie Agbobock (Parent Educator, Fatherhood EFFECT) with DePelchin Children’s Center in Houston, Texas.   Summary:   In this episode we visit Ernie and Joshua to discuss their work as parent educators and fatherhood specialists at DePelchin Children’s Center, a nonprofit organization that provides counseling services and parenting education […]

Guest Hosts: Sarah Paul, MSW, LMSW, OSW-C; Senior Director of Social Work  Summary:   In this conversation, Julie and Sarah discuss the vital role of Cancer Care, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals and families affected by cancer. Sarah shares her background as a licensed clinical oncology social worker and the various services offered by […]

Guest Hosts: Laura Townsend, Co-Founder and President, Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation and Dr. Charles Holshouser, MD, FACOG  Summary:   This conversation delves into the critical issue of patient safety, highlighting personal stories and the formation of the Louise H. Batz Patient Safety Foundation. Laura Townsend shares her journey following her mother’s tragic experience with […]

In this episode we visit with Wanda Montemayor and Meagan Butler to discuss healing-centered engagement, art therapy, and the incredible ways that art can support community care. This conversation explores the impact of community art therapy in healing trauma and building resilience. Wanda and Meagan, share about their experience with the Uvalde Love Project in Uvalde, Texas, where community art supports children and families affected by a school shooting. Listen to how their incredible community engagement targets specific needs of individuals and communities, builds positive relationships, and uses the power of art therapy in promoting healing and connection.

Guest Hosts: Christy Apple, ACBPC-AG, ACHPN  Summary:   In this conversation, Christy Apple shares her journey into palliative care, her experiences as a nurse practitioner, and the challenges of balancing her professional life with personal struggles, including her ex-husband’s cancer diagnosis and her own preventative health measures. She emphasizes the importance of open communication with children […]

In this conversation, Julie, Ellie, and Renee discuss the mission and impact of Inheritance of Hope, a nonprofit organization that provides support and resources to young families facing terminal illness. They explore the importance of community, the coexistence of joy and sorrow, and the unique experiences of families navigating difficult times. The discussion highlights personal stories, the significance of shared experiences, and the organization's commitment to fostering hope and connection among families. In this conversation, Renee Johnson and Ellie discuss the various programs offered by Inheritance of Hope, focusing on community building, support for families facing terminal illness, and the importance of preserving memories through legacy videos. They highlight the no-cost services available to families and the transformative experiences that come from participating in these programs. The discussion emphasizes the emotional support provided through community connections and the ongoing efforts to expand their reach across the country.

Guest Hosts: Meredith Cooper, MA, CCLS, LPC and Melissa Hicks, MS, CCLS, LCMHC, RPT-S Cofounders of Wonders & Worries  Summary:   In this episode we are joined by Meredith Cooper and Missi Hicks, cofounders of Wonders & Worries. Listen as they discuss their experiences as Child Life Specialists and the founding of Wonders and Worries, a […]

Guest Host: Kristen Patton  In this episode, we are joined by Kristen Patton, a local Mom of four, advocate of her Austin community and grateful recipient of a heart transplant. Her story is one of chaos, vulnerability, gratitude, resiliency and well… Grace.    Key Websites: Dr. Mary Beth Cishek  http://advancedheartcarecenter.com/  Dr. William Kessler   https://ctvstexas.com/about-ctvs/our-physicians/cardiothoracic-surgeons/william-f-kessler-m-d-f-a-c-s/  Ascension Seton […]

Guest Hosts: Rachel Duff CLS, OTR-L   Summary:     In this conversation, Rachel Duff shares her journey as a pediatric occupational therapist and her personal battle with cervical cancer. She discusses the challenges of navigating her health issues while managing a blended family, including the impact of her medical journey on her children and her relationship with […]

Guest Hosts: Megan Polites, LAT, ATC – Program Coordinator for Kesem  Summary:   In this episode, we share about the mission and impact of Kesem, a national organization dedicated to supporting children affected by a parent’s cancer. They explore the various programs offered, including free summer camps and virtual support, emphasizing the importance of community and […]

Guest Hosts: Danielle Coleman, MS, CCLS   Whitney Dubuisson, MEd, CCLS  Wonders & Worries, Houston Office We prepare our children for how to handle conflict out in the world. Watch for bullies… treat others with kindness…build an emotional vocabulary… What happens when the primary source of conflict is at home between your children? Join us as […]

As we turn a page on a new calendar year, we look back at 2024 and give thanks for all the incredible resources shared, the brave stories that highlighted resiliency, uncertainty, loss and hope. Over 20 new episodes shared, social platforms grown and the exciting potential of a new year to come. Thank you to […]