What is the mindful mic?
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.
Hosted by Children's Home, Grace Shimatsu (Fundraising & Development Manager) and Colbi Twiss (Marketing & Communications Director)
Each month, we release two episodes. One episode takes a closer look at a broader issue that affects mental health like housing instability, food insecurity, or access to healthcare. We talk about how that issue impacts individuals and families and then sit down with a local organization that is actively working to address it. These conversations spotlight who they are, the services they offer, and how community members can get connected.
The second episode brings in one of our very own clinicians to talk about topics related to mental health and the counseling process. Whether it's an in-depth chat about play therapy or answers to common questions about starting therapy, these episodes aim to reduce stigma, offer insight, and make mental health support feel a little more accessible.
Together, these conversations offer a big-picture look at mental health, while also keeping it close to home.
Starting June 4th, 2025, you can tune in for fresh episodes on the 1st and 3rd Wednesday of every month.
Make sure to subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube 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!
Wednesday - June 4th, 2025
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.
Wednesday - June 18th, 2025
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.
Wednesday - July 2nd, 2025
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.
Wednesday - July 16th, 2025
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.
Check out some BIPOC resources.
Wednesday - August 6th, 2025
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.
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.
