Empowered to Connect Podcast

Latest Episodes:

[E217] Fawn: Stress Responses 101 Jul 29, 2025

Show notes

The Fawn Response! The least known of all the stress responses! We relied on the work of Pete Walker from his incredible book: PTSD: From Surviving to Thriving as we crafted this episode. Stela Sinanaj, Clinical Therapist, and Becca McKay, Program Manager of the ETC Institute join us to explain the ins and outs of the fawn response as well as how to better support the loved ones in your life who identify with this stress response!

[E216] Freeze: Stress Responses 101 Jul 15, 2025

Show notes

The Stress Responses - you know - Fight, Flight and Freeze...well, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually 4 stress responses ("Fawn" is the fourth - don't worry, we'll cover it in great detail in a few weeks). We'll look at how you can support both yourself and those you love IN those responses! Today, we dive into the "Freeze" Response.

I'm OUT and you can't thaw me - the Freeze Response is one of the toughest to handle as a parent, friend or caregiver. It can disguise itself in lots of ways, but don't worry, we're here to help! Expressive Arts Therapist Jill Stockberger and ETC Staffer Becca McKay join us to discuss how we can support ourselves and those we love when they freeze.

[E215] Flight: Stress Responses 101 Jul 01, 2025

Show notes

Those who experience a flight stress response have learned to avoid conflict to protect themselves. They may physically run away, attempt to change the subject, deflect with humor, or lie. The flight stress response can also be associated with over-achieving or obsessive compulsive tendencies. This instinctive reaction makes people want to flee to escape danger (real or perceived). The flight response is a helpful automatic reaction for self preservation and fleeing harm.

How do we support ourselves or our people when they're in flight mode? You'll have to listen in to find out! JD, Becca and Dr. Rachel Peterman explore the ins and outs of the flight response with a unique twist that you do not wanna miss.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E214] Fight: Stress Responses 101 Jun 17, 2025

Show notes

The Stress Responses - chances are, you've heard of them - Fight, Flight and Freeze...well, you may be surprised to learn that there are actually 4 stress responses ("Fawn" is the fourth - don't worry, we'll cover it in great detail in a few weeks) and we are taking the next several weeks to do deep dives into each of them! We'll look at how you can support both yourself and those you love IN those responses! Today, we dive into the "Fight" Response.

Those who identify with a fight stress response have learned to step up to the plate to protect themselves. This instinctive reaction often sends them into an aggressive, sometimes attack mode to fend off the danger they face - real or perceived. What's the best way to support someone with a fight response? You'll have to listen in to find out! JD, Becca and Tona walk through everything from what a stress response is to how to support those you love in the middle of those 'fight' responses.

To learn more about Empowered to Connect, check out our website and follow us on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube!

[E213] How Stories Change The World with Kaycee Stanley Jun 03, 2025

Show notes

Today, we’re joined by Kaycee Stanley, Executive Director and Founder of The Reel Hope Project — an organization using powerful, strengths-based videos to connect kids in foster care with their forever families.

Kaycee shares the heart behind their mission, the balance of holding onto hope while honoring each child’s story, and how their videos capture what makes each child come alive.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation about storytelling, connection, and making a lasting impact!

To learn more about The Reel Hope Project, click here!

[E212] Three Friends You Need in Your Life May 20, 2025

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Friendships Matter More Than You Think!

Whether you’re surrounded by a solid circle of friends or navigating a season of loneliness, connection matters. This week on the podcast, we’re breaking down the three types of friends everyone needs — those walking alongside you, those a step ahead, and those just a bit behind.

Join us as we share personal stories and practical insights on how to build a rich, meaningful community. Whether you’re feeling connected or craving deeper connections, this episode is for you.

[E211] Self Regulation 101 May 06, 2025

Show notes

What is regulation anyway—and why does it matter for our kids (and us)?

This week we’re diving into the basics of self-regulation—what it really means to be balanced and steady, why deep breaths aren't always enough, and how our kids move from needing our help (co-regulation) to doing it on their own.

We talk about:
✨ What dysregulation actually looks like (hint: it's not always a meltdown)
How attachment plays into emotional regulation
Why one-size-fits-all solutions don’t work
And how compassion—for our kids and ourselves—is the real game-changer

Whether your child is bouncing off the walls or shutting down completely, this episode is for you. And remember, you are not alone!

Head to YouTube to watch our short video on What is Self Regulation!

[E210] More than Cake & Balloons: How We Show Kids They Matter Apr 22, 2025

Show notes

It’s more than cake and balloons.

What does it really mean to celebrate someone — especially our kids? Is it about big parties and perfect gifts? Or is it something deeper?

This week on the podcast, we’re talking about the heart behind celebration: the power of being seen, known, and cherished. We’ll share stories of moments we felt celebrated, and explore how simple, intentional gestures can speak louder than any party ever could.

Because at the end of the day, celebration says:
✨ I see you.
✨ You matter to me.
✨ Your needs and wants are important.

Let’s raise kids who feel this kind of celebration — every day.

[E209] Marriage in the Midst Apr 08, 2025

Show notes

Marriage is hard. And if you’re in a tough season, you are not alone!

On today’s episode, we sit down with Empowered to Connect's very own Mo and Tona Ottinger, as they share their marriage journey with honesty and wisdom.

What happens when you and your spouse aren’t on the same page? When you realize marriage isn’t as simple as A + B = C? Your marriage doesn’t have to look like anyone else’s—but growth happens when we extend the same compassion to our spouse that we do to our kids.

As Mo shares on the episode:
"This is harder than I thought… and there is a gift in the growing."

Join us for this powerful conversation about love, struggle, and the beauty of learning together.

Show notes:
Stress capacity window downloadable

[E208] Attachment 101 Mar 25, 2025

Show notes

If you’ve been around here for even a minute, chances are you’ve heard us mention the word “attachment.” Attachment isn’t just a buzzword—it’s the foundation of how our kids feel safe, loved, and connected. But what is attachment really, and why does it matter so much?

In this episode, we’re covering:
- What attachment is (and what it’s not!)
- How it’s built over time through everyday moments
- Why it’s about patterns of connection, not perfection

When we do our best to tune in and meet our child’s needs, we help create secure attachment, which in turn deepens our connection with our kids.

#parentingpodcast #empoweredtoconnect #connectedparenting #attachment101 #attachment #parenting

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