S7 E10: Athlete mental health

In this episode, Alexis interviews Gerald about the topic of athlete mental health. Gerald shares his wisdom and perspective from his expertise as a licensed psychologist along with his training and vast experience working with athletes. Given the increased awareness that athletes, too, experience mental health challenges just like the general population, this interview will answer lingering questions to fill in the gaps of understanding with the topics below. As always, this episode will provide an expert perspective that has nuance and encourages context, rather than one-size-fits-all or sensationalized messaging.

Summary:

• Understanding mental health in general
• The unique context and pressures of sports
• How mental health issues manifest in sports
• The power and fragility of an extreme athlete identity
• Ways to support athletes’ mental health

The ReidConnect-Ed Podcast is co-hosted by Siblings by educational therapist, Alexis Reid, M.A. and licensed psychologist, Dr. Gerald Reid, produced by Cyber Sound Studios, and original music is written and recorded by Gerald Reid (www.Jerapy.com).

https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

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*Please note that different practitioners may have different opinions- this is our perspective and is intended to educate you on what may be possible.

Follow us on Instagram @ReidConnectEdPodcast and Twitter @ReidConnectEd

Show notes & Transcripts: https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

S7 E9: Reading and the Brain w/ Dr. Maryanne Wolf

In this episode, Alexis and Gerald were honored to be joined by Dr. Maryanne Wolf, one of the leading experts on the science of reading. Dr. Wolf shares a tremendous amount of knowledge and wisdom from her extensive career and experiences, as she continues to advocate for the needs of all students as it pertains to their development of and appreciation for reading.

This discussion raises so many questions about our relationship with reading. We address topics such as the evolutionary nature of reading, the impact of technology on our reading brains, the interconnectivity of brain areas related to reading, progressive and effective modes of reading instruction, Dyslexia, and how reading relates to humanity and our relationship with one another.

Summary

• Evolutionary nature of reading
• Understanding of how reading is learned
• Impact of technology on our reading brains
• The interconnectivity of brain areas related to reading
• Effective modes of reading instruction
• Connections between reading, empathy, & humanity

Dr. Maryanna Wolf is a scholar, a teacher, and an advocate for children and literacy around the world. She is the Director of the newly created Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice at the UCLA Graduate School of Education and Information Studies. Previously, she was the John DiBiaggio Professor of Citizenship and Public Service and Director of the Center for Reading and Language Research in the Eliot-Pearson Department of Child Study and Human Development at Tufts University. Dr. Wolf obtained her doctoral degree in Human Development and Psychology at Harvard University. She is the author of Proust and the Squid: The Story and Science of the Reading Brain (2007, HarperCollins), Dyslexia, Fluency, and the Brain (Edited; York, 2001), Tales of Literacy for the 21st Century (2016, Oxford University Press), and Reader, Come Home: The Reading Brain in a Digital World (August, 2018, HarperCollins). Welcome to the Reid Connect-ED podcast, we are honored to have you join us today.

The Reid Connect-Ed Podcast is hosted by Siblings Alexis Reid, M.A. and Dr. Gerald Reid, produced by CyberSound Recording Studios, and original music is written and recorded by Gerald Reid (www.Jerapy.com).

*Please note that different practitioners may have different opinions- this is our perspective and is intended to educate you on what may be possible.

Show notes & Transcripts: https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

Follow us on Instagram @ReidConnectEdPodcast and X @ReidConnectEd

Streaming everywhere (Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube, etc.)

Be Curious. Be Open. Be Well.

S7 E8: Preparing to Launch into the Workforce

In this episode, Gerald and Alexis discuss how young adults can make the most of their years after high school, whether in college or not, to prepare for their future in the workforce… to be ready to launch!

Life changes in so many ways once you leave what may feel like living in a bubble during childhood where there are fewer interactions and experiences outside of your community or school environment. This discussion aims to elicit insight and bring about a sense of hope as we change the expectations from failing to launch to being Prepared to Launch.

We explore experiences and challenges that come after high school; strategies to navigate the uncertainty; and insights to make meaning and gain wisdom throughout the journey. Ideas shared come from Gerald's expertise as a practicing psychologist and Alexis’ expertise as an educational therapist and executive function coach working with young adults everyday.

Summary:

Exploring Changes & Uncertainty after High School & entering the workforce

Finding Purposeful work, Preparation and Gaining Wisdom from Experiences

Navigating Uncertainty, Investigating both Values and Emotional Triggers

Executive Function & Life Skills

Utilizing Resources to Grow and Adapt

Be curious. Be Open. Be well.

The ReidConnect-Ed Podcast is co-hosted by Siblings by Alexis Reid and Dr. Gerald Reid, produced by Cyber Sound Studios, and original music is written and recorded by Gerald Reid.

https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on YouTube

*Please note that different practitioners may have different opinions- this is our perspective and is intended to educate you on what may be possible.

Follow us on Instagram @ReidConnectEdPodcast and Twitter @ReidConnectEd

Show notes & Transcripts: https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

In this episode, Gerald and Alexis explore the experience of social anxiety for the second time on this podcast. In this discussion, we try to normalize social anxiety as it relates to the internal human drive for connection. We provide context and nuance as to how and when social anxiety can become triggered. Gerald describes how he addresses social anxiety for his patients in psychotherapy pulling from multiple theoretical and practical viewpoints. Sub-topics discussed in this episode include social media's impact on social anxiety, communication patterns, identity, values, intentions, and mindsets.

Summary

• Defining and understanding social anxiety
• Contexts and triggers of social anxiety
• Influences of social anxiety
• Gaining self-awareness through reflection
• Ways to feel more socially comfortable

S7 E6: Disabilities & Accessibility w/Dr. Luis Pérez and Mia Laudato

In this episode, Alexis and Gerald have an in depth discussion about the topic of disabilities and accessibility with two experts in the field of education and Universal Design for Learning (UDL) - Dr. Luis Perez and Mia Laudato. We get into many topics. We start by discussing the way in which accessibility is such a prominent aspect of society already and is beneficial to those with and without disabilities. The conversation attempts to pull in listeners who may not realize that most of us in our elderly years are likely to have some kind of disability and in need of support to access aspects of society and daily living. Then, we discuss the way in which systems can be viewed as aiming to support individuals with disabilities as a way to help everyone to both contribute and also to feel a sense of belonging. Further, the difference between ‘helping’ versus ‘supporting’ by reducing barriers is discussed as a way to shift the frame around what it means to address the needs of those with disabilities. Lastly, we discuss the way in which language is used regarding disabilities, including how language is perceived, how it evolves, and how we can think more openly and reflectively about the language we use and also on the effectiveness of how we embrace inclusion.

Meet Mia Laudato, MSEd, a passionate leader in inclusive education and co-director of CITES—the Center on Inclusive Technology and Education Systems at CAST. With over 25 years of experience, she’s dedicated to making sure every learner—especially those with complex needs—has access to equitable, high-quality education. Mia’s expertise in assistive technology, Universal Design for Learning, and inclusive design has taken her around the world as a speaker and change-maker. As a teacher from Pre-K to college, she brings humor, heart, and a few “punny” jokes to everything she does. When she’s not transforming systems, you’ll find her kayaking, doing yoga, or laughing and sharing stories over good food with family and friends.

Dr. Luis Pérez is Senior Director of Disability and Accessibility CAST and the Principal Investigator for CITES, but the views shared on this podcast episode are all his own. He holds a doctorate in special education and a master’s degree in instructional technology from the University of South Florida. Luis was recognized with an International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Making It Happen! Award in 2020. Dr. Pérez has published three books on accessibility, mobile learning and UDL: Mobile Learning for All (Corwin Press), Dive into UDL (ISTE) and Learning on the Go (CAST Publishing). He currently serves as an AT and Workplace strand advisor for the Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA).

https://luisperezonline.com

Summary

• How Accessibility affects Society
• Belonging and Contribution for All
• The Difference between Help and Supports
• Perception and Use of Language
• The Process of Integrating UDL

The ReidConnect-Ed Podcast is hosted by @AlexisAnnReid and Dr. Gerald Reid, produced by @CyberSoundRecordingStudios, and original music is written and recorded by Gerald Reid (www.Jerapy.com) @MusicJerapy.

*Please note that different practitioners may have different opinions- this is our perspective and is intended to educate you on what may be possible.

Show notes & Transcripts: https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

Be Curious. Be Open. Be Well.

S7 E5: The Negative Impact of Hazing

In this episode, we are hoping to shine a light on the topic of hazing with an expert on the topic, University of Maine researcher and professor, Dr. Elizabeth Allan. In this very nuanced discussion, we aim to bring the experience of hazing to the surface. We will discuss the nature of hazing, the historical context of hazing, psychological factors that contribute to hazing and being hazed, consequences of hazing, and the way in which colleges and individuals can address hazing on their campus.

Dr. Elizabeth Allan is professor of higher education at the University of Maine College of Education and Human Development, where she also directs the Hazing Prevention Research Lab. In addition, she is the founder and principal of StopHazing (StopHazing.org), a research group working on developing evidence-based, research-to-practice hazing prevention programs and initiatives. Allan’s research focuses on campus cultures and climates, including studies on classroom teaching, campus diversity and equity in addition to student hazing and its prevention. She is the author of two books, co-editor of a third, and has authored or co-authored more than 40 research-based articles and book chapters.

Be curious. Be Open. Be well.

The Reid Connect-Ed Podcast is co-hosted by Siblings by Alexis Reid and Dr. Gerald Reid, produced by Cyber Sound Studios, and original music is written and recorded by Gerald Reid (www.Jerapy.com).

https://reidconnect.com/reid-connect-ed-podcast

Listen on Spotify

Listen on Apple Podcasts

Listen on YouTube

*Please note that different practitioners may have different opinions- this is our perspective and is intended to educate you on what may be possible.

S7 E4: Youth and Social Media Use

In this episode, Jerry and Alexis speak with Dr. Alison Yeung about how youth engage with social media. This episode broaches topics of mental health, child development, education, parenting, and psychology. Dr. Yeung is a family physician from Kitchener, Ontario who has spent the past decade becoming acutely aware of how youth are struggling in new and unprecedented ways - increasing rates of depression, anxiety, eating disorders, self-harm, and suicidal thoughts. Dr. Yeung is highly concerned that kids today are showing signs of feeling more alone, less motivated, and lacking a deep sense of purpose. We were very excited to speak with Dr. Yeung about her advocacy for mental health, specifically regarding the potential negative impact of social media on youth. More information about her efforts can be found on her instagram handle: @thesmartphoneeffectmd and in her substack https://thesmartphoneeffectmd.substack.com/

S7 E3: Autism and Executive Functions w/Dr. Susan Faja

In this episode, Gerald and Alexis are joined by Dr. Susan Faja - clinical psychologist from Boston Children’s Hospital - to discuss executive functions among individuals on the Autism spectrum. In this valuable discussion, you will learn how executive function challenges present in ASD, the individual differences among the ASD population, how to support executive function for those with ASD, and recent research findings about Autism.

Dr. Susan Faja, who is a psychologist at Boston Children’s Hospital specializing in the research of individuals with Autism, particularly children. The Faja Lab led by Dr. Faja seeks to understand changes in brain systems of executive control, social cognition and social perception resulting from targeted interventions that use electrophysiological as well as behavioral measurement tools. She leads the Faja Lab, where her approach allows for the exploration of the developmental processes that contribute to behavioral symptoms, clarifies how interventions work, and provides a platform for rigorously testing novelinterventions. Additionally, Dr. Faja seeks to understand why and how individuals with Autism can present so differently in their development, as a way to better understand causes and inform individualized treatments.