Thrive Dispatches
Thrive Dispatches
Podcast Description
Welcome to Thrive Dispatches, a podcast that explores the stories behind helping children, families, and communities thrive. Join host Dr. Matt Biel, director of Georgetown University's Thrive Center, as he connects with researchers, clinicians, community leaders, and families who are reimagining mental health and well-being.
Each episode brings together diverse perspectives and innovative approaches that are transforming how we support child and family mental health.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast delves into topics related to child and family mental health, community support, and cultural competence. Episodes include discussions on the significance of thriving in mental health contexts and innovative strategies for supporting families, such as cultural and linguistic competence and systemic changes within education and health services.
Welcome to Thrive Dispatches, a podcast that explores the stories behind helping children, families, and communities thrive. Join host Dr. Matt Biel, director of Georgetown University’s Thrive Center, as he connects with researchers, clinicians, community leaders, and families who are reimagining mental health and well-being.
Each episode brings together diverse perspectives and innovative approaches that are transforming how we support child and family mental health.
🎧 Building Community Through Culture: A Conversation with the Navajo Nation
In this special extended episode of Thrive Dispatches, we explore how culturally grounded partnerships can drive sustainable change in early childhood mental health. Host Matt is joined by Thrive Center’s Jen Drake-Croft, who introduces a powerful conversation with Kim Kee and Charnielle Desiderio—two inspiring leaders from the Navajo Nation who helped guide the transformative work of Project I-LAUNCH.
Together, they reflect on building trust with Indigenous communities, adapting evidence-based practices through cultural lenses (including Positive Diné Parenting), and how traditional practices like cradleboarding support infant wellness. You’ll also hear how these efforts continue today through community collaboration, storytelling, and systems change—long after the original grant ended.
🧠 Themes include:
Indigenous-led approaches to mental health
Culturally adapted parenting programs
Cradleboard practices and early development
Long-term sustainability through relationships and respect
Whether you’re a parent, educator, or advocate for culturally responsive care, this episode offers deep insight into the power of partnership and cultural humility.
Disclaimer
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