Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation

Wedgwood Christian Services
  • 4.6 (9)
  • Non-Profit
  • Updated Weekly

Helpful and hopeful conversations about mental and behavioral health. Take a break, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), and relax as you gain insight from the experts.

  1. Faith Driven Hip-Hop & Rising Above Trauma w/ Steven Malcolm

    6d ago

    Faith Driven Hip-Hop & Rising Above Trauma w/ Steven Malcolm

    Send us Fan Mail What happens when faith becomes the heartbeat behind the music?  In this episode of Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary Kirkendall sits down with Grand Rapids recording artist Steven Malcolm to talk about his journey from a traumatic, fatherless childhood to becoming an award-nominated Christian hip-hop artist whose music has reached millions around the world. Together, they explore how faith, vulnerability, and authentic storytelling have shaped Steven's music, why community and accountability have been essential to his growth, and what it means to use his platform to bring hope to others while staying true to his calling. Drawing from his own experiences with trauma, redemption, fatherhood, and the music industry, Steven shares powerful encouragement for anyone navigating pain, depression, or uncertainty. He reminds listeners that no story is beyond God's ability to redeem. Whether you're a fan of hip-hop, passionate about mental health, raising the next generation, or simply looking for hope in the middle of life's challenges, this conversation offers honesty, encouragement, and a powerful reminder that brokenness doesn't have to be the end of the story. LINKS & INFO: Steven Malcolm's WebsiteSteven Malcolm's InstagramListen to Steven Malcolm on SpotifyWedgwood's WebsiteLearn More about This PodcastSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    51 min
  2. Human Trafficking Through the Lens of a Survivor & Advocate w/ Katie Green & Andrea Keller

    Jan 7

    Human Trafficking Through the Lens of a Survivor & Advocate w/ Katie Green & Andrea Keller

    Send us Fan Mail What does human trafficking actually look like? What does it mean? In this episode of Wedgwood’s Coffee Break Conversation, host Hillary Kirkendall sits down with Andrea Keller, Wedgwood’s Anti-Human Trafficking Coordinator, and Katie Green, a nationally recognized advocate and therapist, and survivor of human trafficking. Together, they unpack the myths and misconceptions surrounding human trafficking, explore the vulnerabilities that traffickers exploit, and explain why trafficking is far more relational and complex than many people realize.  Drawing from first-hand experience and professional expertise, Andrea & Katie share insights on prevention, trauma-informed care, and what survivors truly need to heal and rebuild stability. Whether you’re a parent, educator, faith leader, healthcare professional, or simply someone who wants to better understand this issue, this conversation offers clarity, compassion, and practical ways to be part of the solution. LINKS & INFO: Wedgwood's Manasseh ProjectHuman Trafficking CommissionNational Survivor StudyNational Human Trafficking Hotline: 888-373-7888 or Text the word "INFO" to 233733Katie Green's Email: Katiegreen@lifesupportllc.infoSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    40 min
  3. Creating Safe & Supportive Environments w/ Kimber Decker & Marie Brown (BONUS Episode)

    12/17/2025

    Creating Safe & Supportive Environments w/ Kimber Decker & Marie Brown (BONUS Episode)

    Send us Fan Mail 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 of survival mode and imagine a different future. LINKS & INFO: For more Info on this PodcastLearn more about WedgwoodWedgwood & Podcast MerchSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    9 min
  4. When Home Doesn’t Feel Safe w/ Marie Brown & Kimber Decker

    12/03/2025

    When Home Doesn’t Feel Safe w/ Marie Brown & Kimber Decker

    Send us Fan Mail 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 begin rebuilding belonging. Drawing from decades of combined experience, Marie and Kimber share powerful stories that highlight the impact of trust, autonomy, and connection in healing. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, mentor, or someone who simply cares about kids, this conversation offers practical insight and hopeful reminders that nurturing, “home-like” spaces can be created in small, meaningful ways. LINKS & INFO: For more Info on this PodcastLearn more about WedgwoodWedgwood & Podcast MerchSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    42 min
  5. Rewriting the Stories We Tell Ourselves w/ LeRae Kuperus & Maranda Johnson

    11/05/2025

    Rewriting the Stories We Tell Ourselves w/ LeRae Kuperus & Maranda Johnson

    Send us Fan Mail 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 conversation offers wisdom and hope for anyone seeking healing, growth, and a renewed sense of identity. LINKS & INFO: For more Info on this PodcastLearn more about WedgwoodWedgwood & Podcast MerchSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    32 min
  6. How to Cope with Rejection w/ Arlan Palmer & Katolo Mendamenda

    10/01/2025

    How to Cope with Rejection w/ Arlan Palmer & Katolo Mendamenda

    Send us Fan Mail 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 practical wisdom for guiding kids through disappointment, helping them build confidence, and teaching the difference between honesty and cruelty. They also reflect on how adults can model receiving feedback well and demonstrate that mistakes do not define us. This hopeful and down-to-earth conversation highlights the power of empathy, community, and consistency in helping young people find healing and resilience. Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or simply someone who values growth, this episode will remind you of the importance of both truth and grace. LINKS & INFO: For more Info on this PodcastLearn more about WedgwoodWedgwood & Podcast MerchSupport the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    33 min
  7. Challenges & Hope for the Next Generation w/ Dr. Dan Gowdy & Jessica Knoth

    09/03/2025

    Challenges & Hope for the Next Generation w/ Dr. Dan Gowdy & Jessica Knoth

    Send us Fan Mail 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 collaboration and share reasons to stay hopeful about the future. If you care about supporting kids and want a deeper understanding of both the needs and the possibilities ahead, this conversation offers insight and encouragement! LINKS & INFO: Wedgwood's State of the Child ConferenceThe Annie E. Casey 2025 Kids Count Data BookFor more Info on this PodcastLearn more about WedgwoodWedgwood & Podcast MerchUse code "BREWCREW" for 15% off registration for State of the Child 2026 (February 26th at Frederik Meijer Gardens) Support the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    31 min
  8. The Truth About Self-Diagnosis w/ Hana Pierson & Brooke Davis

    08/06/2025

    The Truth About Self-Diagnosis w/ Hana Pierson & Brooke Davis

    Send us Fan Mail 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 parents, educators, and communities can support kids with compassion, clarity, and proactive care. If you’ve ever wondered how to talk about mental health in a healthier, more accurate way, this conversation is full of thoughtful guidance and hope. For more information on the podcast, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/podcast/ To get connected to mental health support and counseling, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/counseling/ To learn more about Wedgwood, please visit: https://www.wedgwood.org/ For Wedgwood & Podcast merch, please visit: https://wcb.myprostores.com/ Support the show Don't forget to subscribe to stay up-to-date on the latest episodes!

    44 min
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Ratings & Reviews

4.6
out of 5
9 Ratings

About

Helpful and hopeful conversations about mental and behavioral health. Take a break, grab a cup of coffee (or tea), and relax as you gain insight from the experts.

Information

  • Creator
    Wedgwood Christian Services
  • Years Active
    2021 - 2026
  • Episodes
    82
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation
  • Show Website
    Wedgwood's Coffee Break Conversation