Hosted by Grace Shimatsu (Development and Programs Director) and Colbi Twiss (Marketing and Communications Director), The Mindful Mic is a podcast from the Children's Home that explores the many factors that shape our mental health and connects listeners to the community resources working to make a difference.
The Mindful Mic dives into real conversations about mental health — in our homes, schools, workplaces, and communities. Because mental health touches every part of life, and every one of us is connected through our shared experiences of struggle, growth, and healing
Our goal is to spark understanding, reduce stigma, and remind our community that none of us are alone. Whether we’re talking about resilience, relationships, loss, creativity, or hope, every conversation helps build a stronger, more compassionate community.
Guest line up!
Make sure to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite podcast platform so you never miss an episode. We’ll be diving into compelling topics, insightful conversations, and interviews you won’t want to miss.
Keep an eye out—we’ll be updating with episode topics and guest lineups soon!
Episode 11 - Leslie Scantling, a breast cancer survivor and founder of Flock Cancer Idaho, and Carrie Panzer, LCSW
In this episode, we sit down with Leslie Scantling, breast cancer survivor and founder of Flock Cancer Idaho, and Carrie Panzer, LCSW, Oncologist Therapist ,who specializes in grief, and embodiment therapy.
Together, they share a heartfelt conversation about navigating life after diagnosis, the emotional side of survivorship, and how healing grows stronger when we come together as a community.
Learn more at:
Episode 10 - Abi Franklin - Student and Director of Idaho Homelessness Impact
In this inspiring episode of The Mindful Mic, we meet Abi Franklin, a Boise high-school student who turned compassion into community impact. As the director of Idaho Homelessness Impact, Abi is proving that leadership has no age limit.
Together, we explore how youth leadership, empathy, and purpose come together to make meaningful change—especially in the fight against homelessness and the challenges tied to mental health. Abi shares her journey of starting a nonprofit as a teen, what she’s learned about resilience and connection, and how young people everywhere can use their passions to give back.
Join us for a heartfelt conversation about kindness in action, the power of listening, and the hope that grows when we lead with empathy.
Episode 9 - Kelly Eisenbarger - LMSW, Interim Executive Director of Boise Hive
In this episode of The Mindful Mic, we sit down with Kelly Eisenbarger, LMSW, Interim Executive Director of Boise Hive — a nonprofit creating a safe, sober, and supportive space for Boise’s music and arts community.
Boise Hive isn’t just a rehearsal or recording space — it’s a lifeline. Through free and low-cost counseling, peer support groups, and creative programming, the Hive helps musicians and artists protect their mental health, prevent suicide, and find connection through creativity.
Kelly shares what it means to lead an organization that bridges art and advocacy, the power of community-led healing, and how Boise Hive continues to foster hope and belonging for those who create, perform, and find solace in music.
Tune in for a conversation about resilience, creativity, and the ways music can quite literally save lives.
Episode 8 - Drew Petersen - Professional skier, filmmaker, and public speaker
Professional skier, filmmaker, and public speaker Drew Petersen opens up about his journey from suicidal depression to resilience and hope. In this conversation, Drew shares the story behind his new documentary Feel It All, which intertwines skiing Colorado’s highest peaks with running the Leadville Trail 100 ultramarathon.
We also explore his mission to shift the culture around mental health in mountain communities, his upcoming TED Talk during Suicide Prevention Month, and his Boise events—including the Sept. 25 community premiere of Feel It All at the Egyptian Theatre.
Episode 7 - Jake Stockton - Founder of The Continuation Project
In this special episode of The Mindful Mic, we sit down with Jake Stockton, founder of Stay; and Play and the Continuation Project, created in honor of his son, Kade Parrish.
Jake shares how he transformed unimaginable grief into a movement of hope—raising awareness, and creating safe spaces for honest conversations about mental health
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 to connect with the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. You are not alone.
Learn more about The Continuation Project and how you can get involved.
Episode 6 - Amy Grace - Image that Farms and Warm Springs Care Farm
Episode 6, we sit down with Amy Grace, LMFT—licensed therapist, founder of Imagine That Farm, and co-founder of Warm Springs Care Farm—to explore the deeply grounding power of nature-based and animal-assisted therapy.
Amy shares how working with animals, tending to gardens, and connecting with the rhythms of nature can reduce stress, build resilience, and support emotional healing. From the sensation of the sun on your skin to the calm presence of a goat by your side, Amy shows us how therapy on the farm isn’t just healing—it’s transformative.
Whether you're a fellow clinician, a parent, or someone seeking new ways to care for your mental well-being, this episode will remind you that sometimes, the best therapy begins outdoors.
Episode 5 - Angela Sanchez - Big Brother Big Sister of Southwest Idaho
In this episode of The Mindful Mic, we sit down with Angela Sanchez from Big Brothers Big Sisters of Southwest Idaho to explore the transformative power of mentorship. Angela shares her own journey, the impactful programs BBBS offers, and why one-to-one connections between mentors and youth are more important than ever.
We dive into how these relationships nurture confidence, resilience, and mental well-being—not just for the Littles, but for the Bigs too. Whether you’re a parent, a community advocate, or someone who’s ever considered becoming a mentor, this conversation is for you. Because sometimes, the life you change might be your own.
Learn more about Big Brother Big Sisters. And join in the conversation.
Episode 4
Krysti Garcia- Dunn - Children's Home Counseling Services
In honor of BIPOC Mental Health Month, this episode of The Mindful Mic shines a light on the unique mental health experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Color—and the critical role that school-based counseling plays in supporting them.
We’re joined by Krysti Garcia-Dunn, LMSW (Licensed Master Social Worker)—a dedicated clinician with Children’s Home Counseling Services who provides mental health support both in our clinics and directly in schools. As a passionate advocate and voice for the BIPOC community, Krysti shares insight into the challenges BIPOC youth face, the importance of culturally responsive care, and how being present in schools helps break stigma, build trust, and create safe spaces for healing.
Tune in for an honest, hopeful conversation about identity, access, and the power of being seen.
Episode 3
Allison Evaro - Girls on the Run
In this episode, we sit down with Allison Evaro, the Executive Director of Girls on the Run Treasure Valley.
In our conversation, we talk about the mission of Girls on the Run and how their programs help young girls build confidence, self-worth, and meaningful connections with others.
As you’ll hear, Girls on the Run is about so much more than running. It’s about creating a safe, supportive space for girls to grow – not just physically, but mentally and emotionally too.
Episode 2
Savannah Perez - Children's Home Counseling Services
In honor of Pride Month, we’re dedicating this episode to a conversation that matters deeply—supporting LGBTQIA+ youth and the vital role mental health plays in that journey.
In this episode, we’re joined by licensed therapist, Savannah Perez, to explore how parents and caregivers can create safe, affirming spaces for their children—especially those navigating questions around gender, identity, and self-expression. Because when kids feel seen and heard, their whole world can change.
Episode 1
Kate Hedstrom - The Speedy Foundation
We’re thrilled to announce the very first guest on The Mindful Mic:Kat Hedstrom of The Speedy Foundation!
Kat is a passionate mental health advocate who will join us to share her inspiring story, the mission behind The Speedy Foundation, and how we can all play a part in suicide prevention and community well-being.
We want to hear from YOU!
Our podcast, The Mindful Mic, is all about real conversations that matter—centered around mental health and the people making a difference in our community.
What questions do you have about the mental health world?
Who do you want to hear from—local leaders, therapists, advocates, or organizations?
Now’s your chance to shape upcoming episodes. Message us today with your thoughts, ideas, or burning questions—we're listening.
Let’s start the conversation together.
