When marriages end, the path forward isn't just about legal proceedings—it's about rebuilding lives and preserving family bonds. 

Amy Armstrong [https://www.thecenterforfamilyresolution.com/professional-bios/], certified parent coach and co-founder of the Center for Family Resolution, [https://www.thecenterforfamilyresolution.com/] shares how mediation can transform the challenging journey of separation and divorce into an opportunity for positive change.

From protecting children's emotional well-being to managing high-conflict situations, this episode offers invaluable insights into:

 * The role of professional mediators in family conflict resolution
 * How mediation differs from traditional divorce proceedings
 * Ways to maintain healthy family dynamics during separation
 * The intersection of legal, emotional, and practical support in family mediation
 * Cost-effective strategies for resolving family disputes

Whether you're considering separation, in the midst of divorce, or helping someone through this challenging time, this conversation provides important guidance for finding a peaceful path forward.

Season Two/Episode Four: Finding Peace After Separation or Divorce

Romona Jackson, Founding President and CEO of The Women's Advocacy Center [https://www.womensadvocacycenter.org/] sheds light on the critical issue of domestic abuse. In this episode, we highlight the startling statistics of women incarcerated for homicide, many of whom may have been victims of abuse themselves. Learn about the importance of the Danger Assessment Instrument in identifying high-risk situations and potentially saving lives.

Romona shares her expertise on the collaborative approaches to addressing and preventing domestic abuse, including the potential of Community Coordinated Response Teams (CCRT).

Don't miss this powerful discussion on how society can better support women and children in crisis, and the steps we can take to break the cycle of violence. Tune in to learn about the challenges in creating effective community responses and how organizations like The Women's Advocacy Center are making a difference [https://www.womensadvocacycenter.org/donate].

Season Two/Episode Three - Assessing Danger to Prevent Domestic Abuse

The formative years of a child's life, from ages 0 to 8, are crucial for developing physical, cognitive, emotional, and social skills. But did you know that children also form their sense of identity during this time?

Mark Papadis, [https://www.amazon.com/stores/Mark-G-Papadas/author/B007XDUBNI?ref=ap_rdr&isDramIntegrated=true&shoppingPortalEnabled=true] founder of the I AM 4 KIDS Foundation [https://iam4kids.com/], explores the critical role of identity formation in a child's early years, how children develop their sense of self during these formative years, and the lasting impact it has on their lives.

Learn why a child's (and adult's) identity is so crucial and how you can support the young ones in your life as they navigate the journey of self-discovery.

Season Two/Episode Two: Empower Your Kids to Discover Their True Selves

As we approach the election and witness increased public recognition and scrutiny of people of color, especially women, it's more important than ever to address these issues head-on.

In this episode, we explore the early development of racial awareness in children and discuss effective strategies for nurturing an inclusive mindset. Mijha Godfrey, founder of Jambo Books [https://blog.jambobooks.com/], shares her expertise on:

 * The impact of racism, discrimination, and bias on child development
 * Best practices for discussing racism and bias with kids
 * How parents can lead by example in promoting diversity and inclusion

Tune in and learn how to cultivate a home environment that celebrates differences and fosters understanding across racial and ethnic lines.

Season Two/Episode One: Embracing Diversity and Raising Color-Conscious Children in a Biased World

As if parenting alone wasn't challenging enough, intimate relationships are another complexity for parents. 

Whether you're married, cohabiting, or dating as a single parent, uncertainty is bound to arise. Dr. Caroline Madden [https://www.carolinemadden.com/], a Los Angeles-based pro-marriage therapist and author, shares her expertise on infidelity, trust-building, and maintaining healthy relationships.

Join us as we explore:

 * The impact of parental relationships on children's well-being
 * Strategies for mothers coping with betrayal and its effects on family dynamics
 * Steps to recover and rebuild trust after infidelity
 * Advice for divorced parents re-entering the dating scene

Whether you're working through marital issues or starting anew, this episode guides fostering healthy relationships that set positive examples for your children.

Tune in for an honest, compassionate discussion on relationships, parenting, and personal growth.

Episode Fifteen (Season Finale): Parenting Though Love's Ups and Downs

After a separation or divorce, co-parenting with an ex-partner can be a challenging and emotionally charged experience. In this episode,  Darlene Taylor, [https://darlenetaylor.com/]certified professional parenting and life transitions coach, therapist, and former clinical social worker, helps guide you through co-parenting and navigating differences.

As the author of  "It's Not About Us," [https://www.amazon.com/Its-Not-About-Us-Co-parenting/dp/B0BFC5P9QD/ref=sr_1_1?crid=1FRYC13F2668I&keywords=darlene+taylor+it%27s+not+about+us&qid=1671145289&sprefix=darlene+taylor%2Caps%2C60&sr=8-1]  Darlene shares her expertise on navigating the complexities of co-parenting and maintaining a healthy relationship with your ex for the sake of your children.

Episode Fourteen: Your Guide to Co-Parenting

In honor of Mother's Day, this special episode takes a personal turn as Romona Jackson, founding president and CEO of the Women's Advocacy Center, [https://www.womensadvocacycenter.org/] discusses the often stigmatized topic of domestic abuse. Despite the empowerment of women in modern society, the blame and shame surrounding domestic violence persist. Romona sheds light on the far-reaching impact of domestic abuse, which extends beyond the household and affects entire communities.

This episode explores the origins of the Women's Advocacy Center, the reasons behind the lingering stigma, and the critical intersections between domestic abuse, mental health, and substance abuse. 

Don't miss Romona's insights on an upcoming forum [https://womensadvocacycenter.networkforgood.com/events/70557-2024-community-forum?fbclid=IwZXh0bgNhZW0CMTAAAR1tNXAfZxBb7c5tqIXO9_r6EETMXwlI4ShOIC1_UBRhXYTA5LXCYhMqCZQ_aem_AVihw785dgZA1ne9ThbQPnoz5dtENu6ja8vJ5OjVt9BJKldKCcZD696q4GwdA2hyG_oCTL038VKBsHnwis4DPVpi] that aims to raise awareness and provide support for survivors.





Episode Thirteen: Shattering the Silence on Domestic Abuse

Recent headlines have been devastatingly reporting children dying at the hands of their caregivers.

Cases like Jailyn Candelario [https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.aol.com/news/mother-sentenced-life-her-toddlers-171348801.html&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1714239832209200&usg=AOvVaw0-7w8Q5PAjQdXNtbhc_z3V] and Jalayah Eason [https://www.nydailynews.com/2024/04/26/bronx-mom-charged-with-killing-6-year-old-daughter-hung-little-girl-in-closet-and-beat-her-prosecutors-jalayah-eason/] paint pictures of distressed caregivers and gruesome deaths. Resources like the Parent Stress Line, 800-632-8188, and the National Parent Helpline, 855-427-2736 are unknown to many, and those in despair might be worried about their kids being taken away if they admit to struggling financially or mentally.

Prestina Yarrington, The Growth & Development Coach, [https://www.google.com/url?q=https://prestinayarrington.com&sa=D&source=docs&ust=1714239832202409&usg=AOvVaw2pg5Ovnr6WCoM2abqWrm2D] discusses family preservation programs and ways to get help.

Episode Twelve: Who is Failing Who? When Parents Need Help

Death and dying are a natural part of life, but the grief that comes with it can feel overwhelming and disrupt our lives.

If you are a parent who has suffered a deep loss, trying to keep normalcy in your life - especially for children - can be extremely difficult.

Grief counselor, educator, and recognized grief expert Elizabeth Schandelmeier [https://howlingliongrief.com/]shares advice for parents juggling simultaneously grieving and caretaking after dealing with significant losses.

This episode is dedicated to my nephews, Jaden and Gavin, and their wonderful mom, Rachel.

Episode Eleven: Grief, Dying, and Parenting

The opioid epidemic and fentanyl crisis are killing our children. According to the NY Times, opioids are the leading cause of child poisoning deaths.  

Research from Yale University recently found that in 2021, fentanyl was responsible for 94% of pediatric opioid deaths. Why aren't more people talking about this?

Brian Townsend, [https://www.only2mg.com/] former Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent and founder and principal of Eagle 6 Training [https://www.eagle6training.com/] shares his mission to raise awareness on education and prevention.

Episode Ten: The Illicit Fentanyl Crisis

Welcome to the podcast that brings together parents, nonprofit organizations, and legal experts dedicated to making a positive impact on the lives of children caught in the midst of separation, custody battles, and challenging family situations.

Children's well-being is of paramount importance. This podcast provides knowledge, inspiration, and empowerment. Whether you're a parent navigating the complexities of child custody, a nonprofit organization striving to support children and their caregivers, or a legal professional seeking to champion the rights of minors, this podcast is your go-to.

Guardians of Hope, Empowering Child Advocacy is a platform for learning, sharing, and fostering positive change. Together, we can create a brighter future for the next generation, one child at a time. Subscribe today and become a Guardian of Hope for children in need.

Cynthia Ramsaran

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