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 textIn 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 publ...

Send us a textIn 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 on ment...

Send us a textUncover 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 someo...

Send us a textHillary 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 counte...

Send us a textHillary 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-re...

Send us a textHillary 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 lik...

Send us a textIn 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 und...

Send us a textIn 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 discussin...

Send us a textIn 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 importance ...

Send us a textIn this episode, Hillary and Katrina discuss the unique challenges that back-to-school transitions pose for both kids and adults, particularly for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Katrina offers practical tips for helping children prepare, such as communication, preparation, and setting expectations. The discussion emphasizes the importance of empathy, understanding, and support for raising neurodivergent children. They also touch on the need for accommodations in s...

Send us a textIn this episode of "Coffee Break Conversation," Hillary sits down with Asha to discuss the unique challenges faced by diverse communities in accessing mental health care. The conversation emphasizes the importance of cultural sensitivity, education, and community engagement. Asha shares her personal journey of becoming a mental health therapist, shedding light on the specific obstacles encountered by people of color within the foster care system and the mental health field.The d...

Send us a textJoin Hillary for a special episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation as she sits down with Maranda, a beloved figure in the West Michigan community, and long time partner with Wedgwood. In this episode, Maranda shares her experiences and passion for empowering kids and families through her work in local media. With nearly 40 years of experience working for WOODTV8, Maranda discusses the evolving challenges children face today, from cultural shifts to mental health issues, ...

Send us a textIn this episode, Hillary and Asu discuss what seeking professional help for your mental health can look like, the importance of breaking the stigma of therapy, and the benefits of counseling.Asu shares his experience with the cultural differences in mental health from where his family comes from (Rwanda). He also emphasizes that seeking help shows strength, not weakness. If you would like to learn more about Wedgwood Christian Services, please visit https://www.wedgwood.org...

Send us a textIn this episode of Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary sits down with Jason Olvera, a Clinician at Wedgwood. Together they explore the true meaning of self-care. Beyond the buzzword, they discuss practical steps to incorporate self-care into your daily life, as well as how to balance life's demands while prioritizing your mental health. So grab your coffee (or tea) and join us for a meaningful conversation on taking care of yourself.If you would like to learn more about Wedg...

Send us a textIn this Season 4 Premiere episode of Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation, Hillary and Kali discuss the importance of boundaries. Kali, a mental health expert from Wedgwood, emphasizes the unique and vital role boundaries play in personal and professional relationships. Together, they explore the necessity of clear communication, vulnerability, and problem-solving skills in maintaining healthy boundaries.If you would like to learn more about Wedgwood Christian Services, please v...

Send us a text“And we let these youth know that they are loved regardless of what they did. And we are here to help them. We aren't here not to judge them, but to build them back up to encourage them, to give them hope. To let them know that they don't have to be a product of what they came from because they do have a second chance and we do our best to give them a second chance.”DeeDee YoungBlood-Weems, or as many of the teens in our Residential Program call her – Mama DeeDee – is the Superv...