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In this episode of the Halfway to Dead podcast, host Jen Lovell discusses the importance of supporting children who have suffered abuse and neglect and are in the foster care system. She interviews Kristen Jackson, the Executive Director of the Child Network, who explains two programs: the Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) and the Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program. The CAC provides forensic interviews for children who have been abused, while CASA volunteers advocate for the best interests of children in foster care. The episode emphasizes the need for community support and collaboration to ensure the well-being of these children. The conversation highlights the need for CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) volunteers in the foster care system. Currently, only about 50% of the children in the CASA program have a volunteer, and nationwide there are approximately 400,000 children waiting for a CASA worker. The conversation emphasizes the importance of CASA volunteers in providing support and advocacy for children in the system, ensuring their needs are met and their voices are heard. It also discusses other ways to support these programs even if you are unable to become a CASA… such as donating, volunteering for fundraising events, and voting for the right politicians and judges in your local area that support and prioritize funding for CAC and CASA programs.

About Our Guest
Kristin Jackson has served as the Executive Director of Child Network since 2011. She first joined Child Network in 2005 as the Family Advocate for the Children’s Advocacy Center and then transitioned to the CAC’s Forensic Interviewer in 2007. Kristin also co-chairs the 21st Judicial Circuit Child Abuse Prevention Committee and is a member of Kiwanis.
"I believe everyone deserves a happy childhood free from abuse and neglect and I am grateful to play a part in ensuring this is the case for our community's children.." -Kristin Jackson
Contact Kristin at: KJackson@ChildNetwork.org

Links to Resources Mentioned

If your local to Jen's area: Child Network
https://www.childnetwork.org/
https://il-childnetwork.evintosolutions.com/volunteerapplication

To find a CASA program near you:
https://nationalcasagal.org/our-work/programs/

To report abuse:
1-800-25-ABUSE

Advocate For Legislation:
https://nationalcasagal.org/advocate-for-children/advocate-for-legislation/

Halfway To Dead Podcast

Website: https://halfwaytodeadpodcast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559738033030

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Calling all animal lovers!!! In this episode Jen interviews Kelly McCully, a certified animal Reiki practitioner. They discuss the benefits of animal Reiki, the differences between human and animal Reiki, and the importance of consent in working with animals. Kelly shares her experiences working with animals and how Reiki can promote healing and relaxation. Jen & Kelly also walk you through what a session looks like and what happened during Jen’s Reiki session with her dog, Duke. The conversation also touches on end-of-life care for animals and the deep connection between humans and animals. Reiki can provide benefits for both animals and humans, including relief from physical and emotional issues, promoting balance, and strengthening the connection between human and animal. Animal Reiki can be used with a variety of animals, including dogs, cats, horses, birds, reptiles, and farm animals. Kelly also bravely shares what big life event led her to start down the path of her own personal spiritual journey and ultimately her animal reiki practice.

Kelly is a Usui Reiki Level 3 Reiki Master and Certified Animal Reiki Master Teacher. She is dedicated to exploring the connection between animals and humans through the power of energy healing. Kelly combines her understanding of animal behavior with Reiki to promote relaxation, healing, and harmony for her clients. She is the founder of Purple Paws Animal Reiki: Reiki for Animals and Their Humans.

Let’s Connect!

Kelly McCully

https://purplepawsreiki.com/

Halfway To Dead Podcast

Website: https://halfwaytodeadpodcast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559738033030

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Denise shares her personal story of going through a divorce in her 40's after 23 years of marriage. She shares her insights and advice for women going through divorce and starting over in midlife. She emphasizes the importance of taking care of oneself, setting goals, and celebrating small wins. Denise encourages women to create a clear vision for their future and to invest in their own well-being. She also highlights the value of joining supportive communities and seeking practical resources to help navigate the challenges of divorce.

Denise Brathwaite is a Life Coach from New York. Denise has degrees in behavioral psychology, health & human services, and HR management. She owns Denise Brathwaite Enterprises and has started a community of divorced women over 40, Your Best Life is Waiting for You, which focuses on the empowerment, knowledge, encouragement and the confidence needed to achieve their individual goals. Denise's message is one of empowerment and resilience, reminding women that they have the power to thrive after divorce.

Chapters

00:00Introduction and Overview

02:26Denise Brathwaite's Story: Rebuilding After Divorce

09:13The Importance of Having a Plan

13:08Taking Control of Your Financial Situation

19:24Prioritizing Your Happiness and Empowerment

25:39Preparing for Divorce: Practical Steps

32:54Finding Resources for Housing and Childcare

37:37The Power of Journaling and Self-Reflection

41:54Focusing on the Present Moment and Setting Small Goals

43:45Prioritizing Personal Growth and Well-being

52:24Building a Supportive Community for Divorce Recovery

Let’s Connect

Denise Brathwaite

https://yourbestlifeiswaitingforyou.com/

Halfway To Dead Podcast

Website: https://halfwaytodeadpodcast.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559738033030