Wonders & Worries: WonderCast

Wonders and Worries

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MENTAL HEALTH
EVERY TWO MONTHS

Professional support for children through a parent's illness

3 MAR

Season 2 Episode #21 (Revisited) – Our Favorite Things

In this podcast, we are joined by Shani Thornton, CCLS as she collaborates to share a Child Life Specialist’s take on Oprah’s Favorite Things. Resources in the community, favorite calming techniques, the best things about supporting kids...it’s all in there.

46 min
16 FEB

Season 3, Episode #24 (Revisited) – Beats

In this episode, we meet Kristin Malaer, a Certified Transplant Social Worker in Houston, TX and cohost of the podcast, Beats by Social Work. As February marks the beginning of American Heart Month and a space to focus on cardiovascular health, listen in as we highlight in this episode the social work profession and its specific roles and supports for families navigating heart transplants.

29 min
3 FEB

Season 9, Episode #75 – Childhood Matters

In this episode we meet Shaleena Tareen, the founder and president of Childhood Matters, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting families navigating childhood mental health challenges. Throughout the conversation, Shaleena provides valuable insights into building emotional intelligence in children, the significance of open communication within families, and the role of community support. She encourages parents to model emotional awareness and coping strategies for their children, emphasizing that connection and understanding are key to navigating difficult times. The episode concludes with Shaleena sharing details about upcoming events and resources available through Childhood Matters, reinforcing the message that families are not alone in their struggles and that help is available.

26 min
16 JAN

Season 9, Episode #74 – Eluna Resource Center

In this conversation, Sarah Behm Guillén discusses her work at Eluna Resource Center, focusing on grief support for children and families impacted by loss and addiction. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing ambiguous loss, which includes non-death losses such as illness and estrangement. Sarah shares various coping strategies, including the Seven Cs model and the significance of community support. The conversation highlights the need for open discussions about grief and addiction, aiming to reduce stigma and encourage families to seek help.

25 min
6 JAN

Season Special – Season 2025 in Review

2025 was such a special collection of voices, national resources and incredible tools. We are so grateful. Join us today as we take a WonderCast™ glance at the greatness of 2025... in review.

18 min
16/12/2025

Season 7, Episode #60 (Revisited) – Our Beginning

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 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting children whose parents are facing serious illnesses. They share their personal backgrounds, the challenges they faced in establishing the organization, and the growth and impact it has had over the years. In this conversation, Meredith Cooper and Missi Hicks discuss the evolution and growth of Wonders and Worries. They emphasize the importance of leadership changes, a culture of experimentation, and the value of diverse skill sets within their team. The discussion highlights the resilience of children, the significance of curiosity in professional development, and offers advice for aspiring Child Life Specialists. They also explore the expanding role of Child Life Specialists in various settings and the training resources available for community support.

33 min
02/12/2025

Season 8, Episode #73 – Previvor

In this conversation, Rochelle Schube shares her personal and professional journey in the field of oncology, discussing her experiences with cancer in her family and how it shaped her career as a social worker. She delves into the emotional complexities of being a previvor, the impact of genetic testing, and the challenges faced in navigating healthcare and insurance. Rochelle emphasizes the importance of community support and advocacy for those at risk, while also providing valuable advice for individuals facing similar genetic histories.

29 min
17/11/2025

Season 8, Episode #72 – The Women’s Fund

In this conversation, Kaila Vargas, the program manager for the Women's Fund for Health Education and Resiliency, discusses the organization's mission to empower women and girls through health education and advocacy. She highlights the importance of creating safe spaces for candid conversations about health, building resilience, and effective communication strategies for self-advocacy. The discussion also covers the structure of the programs offered, community support, and upcoming events that aim to provide resources and education to participants.

28 min
04/11/2025

Season 8, Episode #71 – Young Lung Cancer Initiative

Guest Hosts: Leah Philips, M.Ed. and Bianca Bye, LCSW – founders of the Young Lung Cancer Initiative Summary: This conversation features Leah and Bianca, both advocates for young lung cancer patients, sharing their personal stories and the formation of the Young Lung Cancer Initiative. They discuss the challenges faced by younger patients, the stigma surrounding lung cancer, and the importance of […]

32 min
15/10/2025

Season 8, Episode #70 – Growing A Village

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 […]

24 min
02/10/2025

Season 8, Episode #69 – Perky

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.

28 min
15/09/2025

Season 6, Episode #53 (Revisited) – Middle Ground

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.

42 min

12 Episodes

Professional support for children through a parent's illness

Creator

Wonders and Worries
Years Active

2022 - 2026
Episodes

12
Rating

Clean
Copyright

© 2023 Wonders and Worries
Show Website

Wonders & Worries: WonderCast