In this episode of Resilience Matters, we sit down with Stefanie Lachenauer — New Jersey’s 2024-2025 State Teacher of the Year and a Starr Certified Trauma and Resilience Trainer. Stefanie shares her journey as a veteran educator leading district-wide initiatives in mindfulness, SEL, and trauma-informed practices. From building empowering programs for middle school students to advocating for equity and wellness statewide, she offers practical strategies and heartfelt insights for creating safe, supportive learning environments. Whether you’re a teacher, leader, or advocate, this conversation will leave you inspired to lead with compassion and purpose.

To stay in touch with Stefanie, follow her on instagram, facebook, or LinkedIn.

In this powerful episode of Resilience Matters, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) and the growing pushback against these efforts. Across the country, DEIB programs are being dismantled at the governmental level and threatened at the corporate level. Policies that once aimed to create equitable opportunities and address systemic inequalities are now being labeled as “divisive” and “harmful.” But who really benefits from this rollback? And what does it mean for marginalized communities?

Our guests Kenneth Ponds, Erin Madden Reed, and Candy Guyton-Pendergraft, all members of Starr's Glasswing team, explore the complexities of DEIB initiatives and the cultural and political resistance they face. We examine the performative nature of some corporate DEIB programs, the broader societal implications of these policy shifts, and the importance of sustaining hope and transformation in the face of systemic challenges. This episode is a call to action—not just for policy change, but for critical thinking, community engagement, and personal transformation in the fight for equity and the Oneness of Humankind.

In this episode, Jeff Sefcik, principal of Stanton Middle School in Fox Lake, Illinois, shares his transformative journey in implementing trauma-informed education. As he prepares for retirement after 33 years in education, Jeff reflects on the power of fostering connections, reshaping disciplinary approaches, and creating a culture of resilience for students and staff. He joins Kathy Hart, Senior Director of Learning Services and Solutions at Starr, and host Ben Reed to discuss the impact of the Circle of Courage model, the importance of relationships, and how his school community is evolving to better meet students’ needs.

In this powerful episode of Resilience Matters, Starr President and CEO, Elizabeth Carey, is joined by Dr. Payam Akhavan, an expert in human rights and a passionate advocate for community-based resilience. Together, they explore how the collective power of ordinary people can spark profound, lasting change—especially during these turbulent times of global transition. Dr. Akhavan shares his compelling vision of a “glorious planetary civilization” that awaits us, reminding us never to underestimate the power we each hold for good. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on hope, community, and the resilience that can transform the world.

Don’t miss this insightful discussion—listen now!

Hear from school social worker Erika Grevelding and school psychologist Colleen Germann, creators of the Courageous Choices program, about the importance of helping students develop their social-emotional skills.

By using these strategies regularly, students become more comfortable with self-regulation and emotional awareness, making it easier to apply them during stressful moments. These skills don’t require special tools—just regular reinforcement. You'll see an increase in student engagement and an overall sense of belonging and teamwork within your classrooms!

In this debut episode, Dr. Caelan Soma, Chief Clinical Officer at Starr Commonwealth, talks with Amina VanderHyde, a Clinical Case Manager at Starr Behavior Health in Detroit, Michigan. With a master's in social work and extensive experience working with children, Amina shares her insights on the often hidden impacts of stress and trauma.

They delve into what happens when someone experiences stress and trauma and how these experiences can manifest in ways that might be easily overlooked. Amina offers practical advice on distinguishing between typical mood swings and behaviors triggered by deeper issues. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity in understanding a child's needs, encouraging parents and caregivers to ask the right questions to uncover underlying concerns.

This episode is filled with valuable insights for anyone working with or caring for children. Amina's compassionate approach provides hope and practical strategies for recognizing and addressing the effects of trauma. Whether you're a professional in the field or simply want to better understand the children in your life, this conversation offers essential tools for supporting resilience.