#129 | Navigating Educational Consulting & Mental Health Advocacy: LGBTQ Ally Guidance with Jodi Liston

In this episode, Heather and Jodi Liston discuss her journey and extensive experience in educational and clinical consulting. She talks about her motivation, originating from her personal quest to find appropriate mental health treatment for her children with severe mental health issues. Jodi explains the role of educational consultants, clarifying common misconceptions, and emphasizing the breadth of services her firm offers, including special education advocacy. She shares insights on the increased visibility of LGBTQ+ issues post-Covid and addresses the challenges parents and students face in today's education landscape. Jodi also expresses her passion for helping families navigate crises, whether related to mental health, learning disabilities, or emotional and behavioral challenges.00:00 Introduction: A Personal Journey into Mental Health Advocacy00:40 Early Challenges and Determination01:29 Seeking Expert Help for My Children02:12 Years of Struggles and Experiences03:22 Helping Other Families Through My Experiences06:33 Understanding the Role of an Educational Consultant12:45 Challenges Facing LGBTQ+ Students and Families13:15 The Impact of COVID-19 on LGBTQ+ Issues19:19 Personal Reflections on Acceptance and Advocacy24:01 The Importance of Due Diligence in Choosing Consultants30:41 Special Education Advocacy and Personal Stories35:17 Conclusion: Resources and Contact InformationConnect with Heather:Receive a free excerpt and reflection guide from Heather's book, Parenting with Pride. Find out what kind of ally you are!Share More Human. More Kind. Please subscribe, rate, and review!Connect [email protected] the Kind Space on PatreonBook a call! Watch on YouTubeListen to *NEW* episodes every Tuesday and Friday!This show explores connection, courage, and community for every concerned parent, mom, or ally navigating fear, grief, and bigotry with hope, resilience, and empathy. Through open-minded education, inclusive parenting guidance, and advocacy for mental health and safety, we support LGBTQ youth and stand for human rights and social justice. More Human. More Kind. empowers listeners to shift their mindset, embrace activism and allyship, and lead with kindness, healing, and purpose.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Blubrry - https://create.blubrry.com/resources/about-blubrry/privacy-policy