Episode 129

Navigating Educational Consulting and Mental Health Advocacy with Jodi Liston

In this episode, Heather and Jodi Liston discuss her journey and extensive experience in educational and clinical consulting. She talks about her motivation, originating from her personal quest to find appropriate mental health treatment for her children with severe mental health issues. Jodi explains the role of educational consultants, clarifying common misconceptions, and emphasizing the breadth of services her firm offers, including special education advocacy. She shares insights on the increased visibility of LGBTQ+ issues post-Covid and addresses the challenges parents and students face in today's education landscape. Jodi also expresses her passion for helping families navigate crises, whether related to mental health, learning disabilities, or emotional and behavioral challenges.

00:00 Introduction: A Personal Journey into Mental Health Advocacy

00:40 Early Challenges and Determination

01:29 Seeking Expert Help for My Children

02:12 Years of Struggles and Experiences

03:22 Helping Other Families Through My Experiences

06:33 Understanding the Role of an Educational Consultant

12:45 Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Students and Families

13:15 The Impact of COVID-19 on LGBTQ+ Issues

19:19 Personal Reflections on Acceptance and Advocacy

24:01 The Importance of Due Diligence in Choosing Consultants

30:41 Special Education Advocacy and Personal Stories

35:17 Conclusion: Resources and Contact Information

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About the Podcast

Show artwork for Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen
Just Breathe: Parenting Your LGBTQ Teen
With Host Heather Hester

About your host

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Heather Hester

Heather Hester is the founder of Chrysalis Mama which provides support and education to parents and allies of LGBTQIA adolescents, teenagers, and young adults. She is also the creator/host of the Top 1% podcast Just Breathe: Parenting your LGBTQ Teen. As an advocate and coach, she believes the coming out process is equal parts beautiful and messy. She works with her clients to let go of fear and feelings of isolation so that they can reconnect with themselves and their children with awareness and compassion. Heather also works within organizations via specialized programming to bring education and empowerment with a human touch. She is delighted to announce that her first book is out in the world as of May 2024 - Parenting with Pride: Unlearn Bias and Embrace, Empower, and Love Your LGBTQ+ Teen. Married to the funniest guy she’s ever known and the mother of four extraordinary kids (two of whom are LGBTQ) and one sassy mini bernedoodle, Heather believes in being authentic and embracing the messiness. You can almost always find her with a cup coffee nearby whether she’s at her computer, on her yoga mat, or listening to her favorite music.