Roots& Wings Episode ONE:

Roots& Wings Episode ONE:
Podcast Description
In this powerful debut episode of Roots & Wings, the co-hosts invites listeners on a journey into the heart of identity formation. Through deeply personal stories and thought-provoking conversation, we explore how childhood experiences, social labels, and cultural expectations shape the way we see ourselves—and how we teach the next generation to do the same.Featuring reflections from Patrice, Ashley and Kacy, this episode examines the intersections of character, loss, resilience, and lived values. Together, we unpack how to nurture emotional intelligence and build a strong sense of self in a world that often defines us before we’re ready.With questions like “Who are you when no one is watching?” and insights into parenting, storytelling, and self-perception, this episode is a meaningful conversation-starter for anyone raising—or becoming—a grounded, compassionate, and self-aware human being."Roots keep you grounded. Wings take you forward. True growth is knowing when to stand firm and when to fly."
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast centers around themes of identity formation, emotional intelligence, and parenting dynamics. For example, the debut episode titled 'Who Am I in the World?' explores how childhood experiences and family values shape self-perception and resilience. It also encourages listeners to consider how they can nurture a sense of self in their children amidst societal pressures.

In this powerful debut episode of Roots & Wings, the co-hosts invites listeners on a journey into the heart of identity formation. Through deeply personal stories and thought-provoking conversation, we explore how childhood experiences, social labels, and cultural expectations shape the way we see ourselves—and how we teach the next generation to do the same.
Featuring reflections from Patrice, Ashley and Kacy, this episode examines the intersections of character, loss, resilience, and lived values. Together, we unpack how to nurture emotional intelligence and build a strong sense of self in a world that often defines us before we’re ready.
With questions like “Who are you when no one is watching?” and insights into parenting, storytelling, and self-perception, this episode is a meaningful conversation-starter for anyone raising—or becoming—a grounded, compassionate, and self-aware human being.
“Roots keep you grounded. Wings take you forward. True growth is knowing when to stand firm and when to fly.”
Episode One: Who Am I in the World?Host: Patrice Wright-Lewis, Ashley Zomalt and Kacy Brubaker Podcast:Roots & Wings
Episode Summary: In our very first episode, we explore the question, Who am I in the world? Co-Host Patrice, Ashley and Kacy to reflect on how our early experiences, family values, and cultural expectations shape our identity—and how we can guide the next generation to define themselves with courage, clarity, and compassion. This episode is about storytelling, self-awareness, and learning when to stand firm and when to fly.
Time-Stamped Highlights:
00:00 – Introduction: What is Roots & Wings?
01:30 – Patrice’s story: Loss, labels, and the power of books
07:15 – Ashley’s story: Character, parenting, and Gen Z values
12:20 – Kacy’s story: Leading by example and “farm values”
17:00 – How childhood experiences shape identity
21:00 – Social labels vs. self-perception
26:00 – Teaching emotional intelligence & resilience
30:15 – How we raise open-hearted kids in a divided world
34:00 – Closing thought: “Roots keep you grounded. Wings take you forward…”
Reflection Questions for Listeners:
- Who were you taught to be—and who do you want to become?
- How did your upbringing shape your emotional responses?
- Are you modeling the values you want your children to carry forward?
Mentioned in this Episode:
- Maya Angelou quote: “People will never forget how you made them feel.”
- TV show: Bewitched as a metaphor for identity and hiding one’s truth
- Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACES) as a framework for understanding resilience
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