The Leading for Children Podcast

Listen in for two thoughtful conversations about belonging—one with Natasha Kile, mother and Past President of the Arkansas Early Childhood Association, and another with Adriana Loson-Ceballos, mother, philanthropy consultant, researcher, and evaluator. Together, we explore how belonging is shaped in everyday relationships, begins with our own self-awareness and agency, and lays the groundwork for the cultural shifts that make systemic change possible.

Hosted by LFC Team Members Nichole Parks, Executive Director, and Julia Connolly, Communications and Program Leader.

Listen in for a rich conversation with mother and clinical psychologist Dr. Jennifer Rocks, as she offers an accessible guide to emotional regulation. Explore the power of this skill in nurturing healthy relationships, hear strategies for practicing it yourself, and learn ways to support children in co-regulating—creating spaces where everyone can thrive.

In this episode, LFC’s Executive Director, Nichole Parks, and Executive Assistant, Amy White, reflect on the role intention has played in shaping their work together—and the ripples that have followed. They show that practicing intention isn’t a lofty ideal or an extra task on a to-do list, but a simple, powerful tool we can draw on in moments throughout the day—one that helps us thrive, and to create spaces where children can thrive.
Set Intention is the first step in the Mutual Learning Method’s Four-Part Facilitation Arc strategy. Used in sequence, this approach promotes equity by providing a familiar, predictable structure for conversation. Each part plays a distinct role in the larger goal of creating safe, equitable spaces where adults can share wisdom, build trust, and foster agency.

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LFC practices the groundbreaking Humanity First Model, developed by Judy Jablon, to improve early learning. The Mutual Learning Method honors the wisdom and dignity of everyone who cares for and educates our children.
Stronger Adults = Stronger Children = Stronger Communities
Learn more at leadingforchildren.org.

In this episode of the Leading for Children Podcast, Nichole Parks and Julia Connolly have an inspiring conversation with Kaylee Phillips, a dedicated Arkansas teacher of adolescents who leads with her values—modeling integrity and empowering her students to find their voices. From guiding young people to reflect on their choices to creating spaces where they feel fully seen, Kaylee is the kind of educator who makes a lasting impact.
A quote to take away: Julia shared, "We share so many values. The way we talk about them might look different, but if you break them down to their very center, they're usually about love and care and relationships."

In honor of the Month of the Military Child in April, we spotlighted two powerful voices from our Humanity First community: KiOwana Phillips, a U.S. Army Sergeant Major and mother, and Shannon Newman, a mother, military spouse, and LFC team member. Through their stories, they offer meaningful insight into what it looks like to show up for military children—fostering a sense of safety, support, and belonging in the face of their unique challenges.
A quote to take away: Shannon shared, " Resilience isn't built in isolation. It's really nurtured in relationship. And when military children are being relocated and moved, it's important that we are building that relationship and sustaining it with them."

Thanks for listening!
To learn more about Leading for Children, visit our website at leadingforchildren.org.