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Angela Geddes

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Kitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #106: Summer Strategies for Spirited FamiliesIn this summer episode, Angela offers compassionate insight for families navigating the season with children, youth, or adults who have complex and beautiful brains. Whether your loved one is dealing with impulsivity, transitions, rigid thinking, or emotional dysregulation, this episode shares practical strategies for structure, regulation, nourishment, nature, and self-care.Plus: Podcast summer break update!Weekly episodes return in September for FASD Awareness MonthBi-weekly schedule resumes in OctoberPlease share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from these important Kitchen Table Conversations. Your...2025-07-0210 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #105: The Hidden Link Between Prenatal Health and Mental HealthIn this episode of Kitchen Table Conversations, Angela takes a deep and compassionate look at the critical—but often ignored—link between prenatal health and mental health across the lifespan. Drawing on research, clinical experience, and personal stories, she unpacks how even low levels of alcohol or substance exposure during pregnancy can impact brain development, increasing the risk for conditions like anxiety, depression, and ADHD.Angela also addresses the systemic gaps in diagnosis, especially around Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and the cultural silence that prevents honest conversations about prevention. With a focus on education, support—not shame—...2025-06-1116 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #104: Boxes of BooksIn this heartfelt episode of Kitchen Table Conversations, Angela shares the excitement of receiving the updated editions of her two books—A Complicated and Beautiful Brain and Not Your Typical Parenting Guide. She reflects on the inspiration behind the books, shares a moving quote from a teen with FASD, and explores the very real challenges faced by caregivers raising children with complex needs.Angela also introduces a vital new resource by Dr. Maude Champagne, Decoding Complex Behaviour in Brain-Based Disabilities, and teases an upcoming group for caregivers navigating child-to-caregiver reactive and aggressive symptoms.Listen no...2025-05-2913 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #103: Election Emotions & Cognitive DistortionsIn this episode of Kitchen Table Conversations, Angela reflects on the emotional fallout of Canada’s recent federal election—and the importance of healthy dialogue. Drawing from her mental health background, she unpacks 10 common cognitive distortions (like all-or-nothing thinking and emotional reasoning) and encourages listeners to return to the table with more curiosity and less judgment. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling disillusioned by political division and searching for ways to reconnect with community and common ground.Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from these important Kitc...2025-04-3011 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #98: Understanding and Supporting Students with FASDA Practical Guide for EducatorsSupporting Neurodiverse Learners with Compassion and Practical Strategies At Geddes Specialized Support & Integrative Wellness Inc., we are committed to helping educators, school social workers, and child and youth workers develop a deeper understanding of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) and how to effectively support students with complex neurodevelopmental needs.Our latest podcast episode explores "Understanding and Supporting Students with FASD: A Practical Guide for Educators," offering real-world strategies to foster emotional regulation, reduce stigma, and create classroom environments where students feel s...2025-02-1224 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #95: The Holiday SeasonThe most wonderful time of the year for some… yet not for others. In this episode, Angela talks about ways to reduce both the impact of and the incidents of prenatal alcohol/substance exposed pregnancies. She encourages consideration for more broad and informal prevention efforts regarding healthy pregnancies now that we have just learned that prevalence rates of FASD in North America have increased to a still conservative estimate of 8%! Angela also shares some thought provoking ideas around ensuring the holidays are the best they can be for you and your circle. This may...2024-12-1818 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #94: Gentle ParentingJoin Angela as she explores the balance between research, analytical thought, and lived perspectives. Together, we'll bring complex topics back to your kitchen table for meaningful discussion and debate. Are we mitigating risk at the cost of stifling free thought, creativity, and problem-solving? Through open dialogue and a critical cost-benefit lens, let’s make sense of what truly works for us in a world of evolving ideas and challenges.Resources to learn more:Psychology Today | What's Wrong With Gentle Parenting?Psychology Today | When Gentle Parenting Feels PhonyFeeding Your Baby | Caffeine, Smoking, Alcohol, Drugs and Br...2024-11-2111 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #93: Honest & Tough Conversations - Real PreventionIn this episode of Kitchen Table Conversations, Angela Geddes dives into the critical need for ongoing training to empower communities and clinicians in identifying, assessing, and supporting individuals who may have been prenatally exposed to alcohol or other substances. Angela emphasizes that building community capacity means developing clinicians who are not only competent, but also confident in their ability to screen and address the nuanced needs of people with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).Angela tackles the pervasive stigma surrounding FASD, highlighting how many adults living with this condition wish for a more direct and honest dialogue...2024-11-0722 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #92: Professional Development and Opportunities to Hear from Angela and Others…In this episode, Angela reflects on her journey as a social worker, highlighting key insights and lessons learned over the years. Join her as she celebrates the wisdom shared by like-minded professionals who continue to inspire and guide her practice. Angela also shares exciting updates, including her collaboration with Dr. Clare Mitchell, and discusses how honoured she feels to participate in the London Conference and other professional development and caregiver support opportunities during the past and coming weeks. Head to her website to learn more about Angela's latest book, Not Your Typical Parenting Guide, a bo...2024-10-2314 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #91: It’s Complicated; Stigma and FASDIn this podcast episode, Angela tackles a significant issue surrounding the term "FASD" (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder) and whether the name itself contributes to the stigma faced by many who experience misdiagnosis and misunderstanding. While FASD has traditionally been linked to maternal alcohol consumption during pregnancy, recent insights highlight the complexity of the diagnosis. Angela emphasizes the growing understanding of epigenetics and the role of paternal alcohol use at conception, as well as the intergenerational impact of alcohol exposure that may manifest even if no alcohol was consumed during pregnancy.This discussion encourages us to reconsider our...2024-10-0917 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #90: FASD Month is Winding DownIn this episode, Angela opens up about her recent work and candidly addresses the challenges she's faced in raising awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). She reflects on the resistance she has encountered in spreading the message and poses important questions about why this crucial issue isn't receiving the attention needed to drive meaningful change.Please visit the CanFASD website to learn what Canadians have been up to, and check out the upcoming training dates below. If you would like additional information on any of these events, please reach out to us at infogeddes@gmail.com. 2024-09-2609 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #89: #FASDMonth2024We all have a role to play in supporting/preventing FASD. It's up to all of us to support healthy pregnancies.As we mark FASD Awareness Month, we are thrilled to share a project that holds a special place in our hearts. A small group of young adults, collectively, with lived experiences of family disruptions, grief, loss, trauma, FASD, learning disabilities, ADHD, anxiety, domestic violence, and other adverse childhood experiences, came together to form new connections and explore hidden talents. What emerged from this collaboration is nothing short of magical in our humble view. With...2024-09-1109 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #86: AdvocacyAdvocacy is a cornerstone of social work, essential in helping others learn to voice their needs. Yet, navigating the fine line between assertiveness and finesse is crucial. In this episode of Kitchen Table Conversations, we delve into strategies for advocating effectively while maintaining respect and avoiding further stigmatization. Join us as we explore the nuances of this vital aspect of our profession.RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:Psychology Today | Practice AssertivenessPsychology Today | How, and How Not, to Stand Up for YourselfYouth Employment | How To Stand Up For Yourself Without Putting Other People D...2024-07-3119 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #85: Tips for Summertime Fun!This week, Angela is heading away for a family holiday and felt that it would be fitting to discuss some tips and strategies that can help to make summertime as enjoyable and relaxing as possible; even for people who are experiencing the impact of complex neurodevelopmental conditions like Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Cerebral Palsy, Tourtett's Syndrome, Autism, and Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.It is so important to realize that FASD is the most common Developmental Disability in Canada, and with the right support and information, it can be prevented. Let's talk about this and some strategies that...2024-07-1715 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #84: Neurodivergence. What is it?In this episode, Angela shares her thoughts on our broad understanding of neurodivergence and how the opportunity for inclusivity is there, but we seem to continue to miss the most common developmental disorder there is which is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.Angela highlights the reason why she wrote her book, A Complicated and Beautiful Brain,(including an audio endorsement from Dr. Peter Choate recommending this book alongside Dr. Bruce Perry and Oprah Winfrey's book, What Happened To You?). She highlights how different her book is from others in that it aims to help people see the more...2024-07-0319 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #83: Our Prevention Efforts Are Not WorkingIn this episode, Angela discusses the risks of alcohol in pregnancy and provides some evidence once again that our communication around this issue needs to change. Check out the resources below for more statistics and position papers on this subject and her social media posts to help spread these important messages. We really can make such a difference. “When we know better, we can do better.” Let's make some of this information go viral!!RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:CanFASD | The Prevalence of Alcohol Use During Pregnancy in CanadaCanFASD | Reporting on Alc...2024-06-1917 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #82: The 8 SensesIn this episode, Angela reviews the 5 common senses and then explores a little more deeply some less widely understood senses and how so many of our children/youth and adults struggle with sensory overload. The 8th sense in particular is interoception. Angela discusses what this means and how difficulties in this area can manifest and impact day to day life.Please check out the resources below for more information and feel free to reach out to us to learn more. Angela and her team focus on both self and co-regulation every day in their practice a...2024-06-0516 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #81: The Health Benefits of Meaningful Social ConnectionsIn this episode, Angela chats about the consequences of social isolation and some of what we have learned from our COVID experience. She also discusses the importance of feeling understood and a sense of belonging and folks are reminded of some strategies to support wellness, and specific programs and services that can be helpful. Check out Psychology Today to read an article on How Social Isolation Affects the Brain and our program offerings for the Building Connections Workshops. Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from th...2024-05-2310 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #80: Making a Difference in our Corners of the WorldIn this episode, Angela shares her gratitude for the work she is honoured to do and the people she supports and walks alongside. She shares her passion for reducing both the impact and incidences of prenatal exposures and thanks you for your ongoing support of this message by listening to this podcast and taking these important topics back to your kitchen table.By taking care of our own little corners of the world, we can create real change that will spread and, one day, have a global effect.Please share this podcast with those...2024-05-0805 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #79: School Accommodations - Are They Working?In this episode, Angela shares some of her recent kitchen table conversations regarding Individual Education Plans and when and how we support students in the way that they need in order to reach their potential. Sometimes our efforts are shortsighted and not as helpful as they are intended to be, and sometimes it's simply not possible to make the accommodations that people are looking for. Angela shares how it takes a community to raise a child and we need to extend ourselves to others rather than judge people harshly, recognizing that everyone is doing their best.2024-04-2513 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #78: The Many Benefits of Acceptance Commitment Therapy!Angela is proud to be trained in Mindfulness Yoga Acceptance Commitment Therapy/training and sees the improved outcomes in individuals and families every single day in her small but growing practice. She uses elements of the modality in her personal and professional life. Angela is pleased to be able to speak to the research and the practice based evidence at the 9th International Research Conference of FASD for Adults and Adolescents in Seattle Washington. She is also participating in a poster session to highlight what we've learned after offering training specific for Social Workers and front line c...2024-04-1010 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #77: The Urgent Need to Spread the WordTo follow up on our last conversation, where we discussed the holes in our social safety net, Angela focuses on the need to increase awareness within our system and within our communities regarding the incidents and the consequences that result from prenatal substance exposures. She gives examples of how misinformation and resistance does harm to those who we are passionately supporting - just often in unhelpful and irrelevant ways.  We also need to know that families are struggling and conditions like FASD can be prevented with the right supports and information shared. Angela is hoping th...2024-03-2713 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #76: Some Holes In Our Social Safety NetIn this episode, Angela shares information about programs and services aimed to support people in need. She also discusses how sometimes these programs and services fall short and that we all can help to clarify the myths associated with income and disability support and realize that the system is not always easy to navigate, and oftentimes it is not utilized to its full potential; meaning that we are not seeing the improved outcomes that we are all hoping for with the financial investments made. Angela gives examples of our attempts made to create an inclusive society, actually doing the...2024-03-1314 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #75: Neurodivergence - Some Parenting Tips and Food for ThoughtIn this episode, Angela shares a few tips and strategies that may be helpful when supporting our children with ADHD, and she also discusses some overlapping characteristics for other mental health and learning difficulties that should be considered and talked about around our Kitchen tables.Resources to Learn More:PsychCentral | Parenting Kids with ADHD: 12 Tips to Tackle Common ChallengesDOWNLOAD | Not Your Typical Parenting Guide (PDF)Community Networks | Overlapping Behavioral Characteristics of FASD & Related Mental Health Diagnoses in Children (PDF)Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who...2024-02-2913 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #74: Valentine's DayA chance to reflect and evaluate.In this episode, Angela talks about different needs and approaches to special days like Valentine’s Day and acknowledges that for some this can be a very difficult day, and there are no rules; no 'right' or 'wrong' way of doing things. She discusses the power of music and messaging that can help to inspire us and highlights a couple of good songs that she recommends.Angela also discusses grief, and loss, and the benefit of seeking out support systems and exploring ways to change things up if needed in...2024-02-1412 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #73: Not Your Typical Parenting StrategiesIn this episode, we are chatting about prioritizing our efforts, keeping busy and meeting our kids and the people we love and support where they are at and without so many assumptions and blame. We will discuss how important prevention efforts are, but also, how important it is to just be helpful no matter what the diagnosis is or what caused it. If parents and providers can do a better job identifying when people are struggling with some things that are legitimately more difficult for them to manage, then we can be more helpful and supportive.  When w...2024-02-0108 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #72: It's Bell Let's Talk Day!Let's all see what we can do to bring these conversations home to our kitchen tables so we can all do our part to reduce the stigma and deepen our understanding of how we can support mental wellness beyond just a superficial level. In this episode, Angela touches on how Bell media is doing wonderful things to keep the conversation going, but also, reportedly blindsided one of their major news anchor's with an abrupt dismissal.  Regardless of the reason's for the termination, which are not for us here to judge, the approach left a lot of negative f...2024-01-2410 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #71: Happiness... is it Overrated?What are we really looking for?In this episode, Angela chats about how we define and understand happiness, and how sometimes the quest for happiness can be counterproductive. It can leave us feeling like our efforts are not working and that we must be doing something wrong.Angela also points out that these elements are in line with ACT and highlights how pleased and proud she is to be presenting at the conference and the workshop. RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:Psychology Today | What is Happiness?9th International Research C...2024-01-1717 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #70: Why Isn’t This Going Viral?In this episode, Angela chats about why there continues to be such resistance in communities and within systems to learn more and share more of this important messaging that could really be game changing in terms of the health and wellbeing of future generations.Angela encourages you to check out training opportunities from FASD ONE and CanFASD to learn more, including her Social Work Training aimed to build our current system capacity without much more in the way of financial investment. When we know better we can do better. Thanks for coming along with me a...2024-01-1018 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #69: Happy 2024!A new year is a time to reflect and often involves the opportunity to look ahead and set some new intentions/resolutions. It's also o.k. to not and to just keep plugging away and working towards living our best life. There are no 'rules' here but we all can do little things that can increase our overall wellness.This episode has some tips to support emotional intelligence and to build resilience because sometimes "bad things happen to good people" and we can focus more on "bouncing back" rather than the "set back".RESOURCES...2024-01-0416 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #68: Considerations for the HolidaysOur final podcast for the year!! Hoping it finds you well and looking forward to some quiet time with family and friends. We're also mindful of those who do not celebrate or find this time of year as peaceful as they would like for a number of reasons. Our thoughts are with you. In today's episode, we are reminded of the importance of community and connections, and we offer some ideas in this area. We are also reminded of the importance of supporting healthy choices and offering non alcoholic options at gatherings for all and to do s...2023-12-2009 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #67: HappinessIn this episode, we’re going to take some time to talk about happiness and the thing we can be doing to experience more of it. Please take a time some time to read the article I mention by Psychology Today that shares 23 ways to be happier.Take time to reflect on what’s most important to you. While happiness all day every day is not a realistic goal, find moments in everyday life and appreciate them as they come.RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:ARTICLE | How to be Happy: 23 Ways to be Happ...2023-12-1312 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #66: Empowering our Future Parents and HelpersThis episode reminds us all of where the most meaningful learning takes place and there are times when we need to challenge historical understandings, and approaches particularly when it comes to relationships and parenting strategies.  Research is evolving, and this means that there are things for us to learn and bring home. My focus continues to be around the misinformation about prenatal alcohol/substance exposure because there is an URGENT need for us to do things differently. Even when I get referrals to support mood and relationship issues, we so very often (not always) learn that PA...2023-12-0616 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #65: Preparing for the Holiday Season [REPEAT]This episode originally aired as EPISODE #17 on December 21, 2022.In this repeat episode, today's conversation will centre around the holiday season as we explore all the 'feels' and consider the needs of people who may find the season particularly stressful. These tips and considerations will be helpful  to all of us, but in particular for people with complicated mental  health, learning and sensory needs. Let's do our best to challenge the 'rules' we have in our heads about what we need to do, what the holidays 'should' look like, and adapt in order to best position ourselves for th...2023-11-2914 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #64: Children's Mental HealthThis episode addresses the urgent need for us to do things differently; to consider things like the impact of financial stress, housing issues, and overall mental wellness of the family when considering ways to improve children's mental health. We also need to consider one concrete way that we all can mitigate the risk of children's mental illness, and that is by talking about the risks associated with drinking during pregnancy.Let's keep this conversation going!RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT | Training for Social Workers facilitated by Angela GeddesCMHO Conference | Infant and...2023-11-2214 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #63: Presenting at the CMHO ConferenceI am excited to be presenting at the Canadian Mental Health Ontario Conference. My goal is to broaden the audience and invite more people to explore training opportunities to become more competent and confident in their ability to screen and identify when what people are presenting with is more than Mental Health, trauma and parenting issues and may be directly related to prenatal trauma including exposures to alcohol and other polysubstances. With prevalence rates being conservatively understood to be 5% and with fewer than 1% of Ontarians who would qualify for an FASD diagnosis actually having access to an a...2023-11-1511 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #62: So Much to Learn and ShareIn this episode, we’ll look at some surprising statistics and what people do not know about some of our most complicated and beautiful brains. Listen in to hear of some of Angela’s recent and upcoming efforts to increase awareness and build system capacity. A shout out to MPP Rob Flack for giving us so much of his valuable time to listen to the needs and opportunities. Many many thanks.RESOURCES TO LEARN MORE:FASD Assessment Team Training, in partnership with FASD ONETraining for Social Workers, facilitated by Angela Geddes2023-11-0808 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #61: The Passing of a 'Friend'...In this episode we will look at the passing of a ‘friend’ and have further discussion about complicated mental health and addictions from the real experts. Check out the links below for Rebecca Tillou's work and we recommend Matthew Perry's book, Friends, Lovers, and the Big Terrible Thing. We feel that hearing from people with lived experience is so important and we encourage all to take these conversations back to our kitchen tables and to share the podcast broadly. We can really make an impact regarding mental health support, housing issues, poverty, employment, etc. When we kno...2023-11-0113 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #60:Help Us to Spread the WordToday's episode centres once again around the role of prenatal exposure to alcohol and how so few of us understand the impact on individuals and families every day. Angela speaks of what she learned while attending and presenting at the London Region FASD Conference (Learn more by following #LFASD and @FASDLondon). Our goal here is to broaden the audience and increase understanding. It takes a community to raise a child. We need your help to share these important messages.  Please share this podcast with those in your circle and community who would benefit from these im...2023-10-2607 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #59: The Gift of CompassionIn this episode we look at the importance of checking our biases once again, and realizing that when typical parenting, or mental health supports are not working as expected, we need to be open to trying things differently. There is resistance to change, and families feel the blame and shame everyday. So do some of the service providers who are trying to help build new understanding and capacity. Another very important kitchen table conversation!2023-10-1811 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #58: Examining Our ThoughtsJoin us for a short mindfulness practice. This episode explores acceptance commitment therapy and ways that we can both settle and evaluate our thoughts in order to learn and move forward in ways that bring us closer to the things and people that are important to us. Check out the Programs section on our website to learn more about individual and group opportunities aimed at helping people reconnect with our values and to live our best lives - even amidst some real challenges and even crisis situations.2023-10-1117 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #57: Houston, we have a problem…This podcast discusses the importance of being able to identify when we have a problem and how best to get diagnostic clarification. We also discuss how, in our efforts to build more inclusive supports and services, we sometimes become more exclusionary by requiring prenatal exposures to be confirmed before getting a full assessment. We discuss the importance of this in terms of prevention and resources etc. We also explore how we can still seek comprehensive assessment and mitigate risk of added stigma and in some cases doing more harm than good when we just address symptoms and t...2023-10-0409 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #56: Trusting That We’re Getting The FactsIn this episode, we’ll look at the responsibility to provide accurate information around alcohol use and pregnancy. I remain passionate about reducing both the incidents and the impact of prenatal exposures. We can do better and we have a responsibility to provide people with evidence based information. Listen in to this episode and please feel free to share. It's up to all of us to support healthy pregnancies.Head to the website to access the resources referenced in this episode.2023-09-2716 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #55: Highlighting Some Important Things We ALL Should Know About FASDIn the spirit of FASD awareness month, let's keep these important conversations going! Did you know that so many people with FASD have been misdiagnosed with ASD and ADHD? Listen in to find out more facts about FASD and head to the website to learn more.2023-09-2115 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #54: History of FASDWe've known about FASD since the 1600's - What????Why are we still so confused about this largely preventable condition? Listen in to hear why we continue to get so many mixed messages and how we can contribute directly to healthier pregnancies, people and communities by bringing this conversation home to our own kitchen tables.Head to the website to learn more.2023-09-1317 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #53: When We Know Better We Can Do BetterThis episode of Kitchen Table Conversations focuses on our ongoing efforts to reduce the stigma surrounding complicated mental health and learning difficulties that are often associated with prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE) and FASD. We will also discuss ongoing opportunities to reduce both the impact and incidents of prenatal alcohol exposure and how we all can support healthy pregnancies, people, families and communities by bringing these conversations back home to our kitchen tables.Check out my free resources for individuals and families with Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorders here.2023-09-0610 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #52: A Head Start on FASD Awareness MonthSeptember, which is FASD awareness month, is fast approaching. Let's get a head start!! Listen to this episode where we discuss opportunities to learn more about the impact of prenatal alcohol exposure (PAE), and hear more about some surprising statistics. We will also learn more about what we all can do to improve our prevention efforts and to support people who are currently living with the effects of PAE. Let's do this! With the right information and support, the most common developmental disability can be prevented. Think about that for a minute.Visit the website f...2023-08-3012 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #51: Transitioning Back to School - A Family AffairToday's episode will touch on how we can make the transition back to school as good as it can be. We have to be mindful and creative when addressing resistance about going back to school. We will discuss how important it is for us as parents and caregivers to be mindful of our mood and messaging, and how we can support and validate feelings while expressing confidence in our kids ability to overcome difficulties and experience success. We also share an important reminder that it's o.k. to ask for help!Visit the we...2023-08-2311 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #50: Normalizing the Benefit of TherapyIn this episode, we aim to normalize the benefit of therapy/counselling and doing our best to provide early access that can really help to lighten the load, and to prevent chronic difficulties or illness. Let's bring this conversation back home to our kitchen tables so others who struggle with feeling stuck, low energy, high stress or anxiety and maybe other work or relationship difficulties, can seek some objective and evidence informed support in order to help them live their best lives!Visit the website for more information about the purpose and kinds of therapies a...2023-08-1709 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #49: Supporting Healthy PregnanciesIn this episode, we’re talking about supporting healthy pregnancies and clarifying some language and messaging. When we know better, we can do better!Feel free to send me some ideas on how to share messages in ways that help people realize that FASD can happen to anyone, not just for those who struggle with “problem drinking."Head to the website to reach out or access resources to learn more.2023-08-0919 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #48: World Breastfeeding WeekThe theme for this year's World Breastfeeding Week is "Let's make breastfeeding and work, work!"We still have some work to do to support working mothers in their breastfeeding efforts. Visit my website to read an article by the WHO outlining their research regarding children's health and how breastfeeding provides optimal nutrition, and how children's health is impacted by poor nutrition.In this episode, we also discuss some of the myths that get passed down and ways to change that by bringing important information back to our kitchen tables.2023-08-0212 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #47: Another Positive Look at AnxietyThis is a repeat episode that originally aired as EPISODE #12: A Positive Look at Anxiety. We think it’s worth another listen.People with anxiety often really struggle with many things, and often with their view of themselves. They often find themselves frustrated with their perceived shortcomings and often with inability to deal more effectively with their intense worry and anxiousness. In this episode, we’ll take a look at some of the really positive qualities and characteristics for anxious people in the spirit of a strength based and hopeful approach to treatment and support!2023-07-2611 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #46: Music as a Medium (A Redo of Challenging our Biases)Using music as a medium. Let’s take another listen to this episode, which originally aired as EPISODE #44: Challenging Our Biases Around People Who Don't 'Work', and the song recently released by Dean Brody called Broke. I think it warrants another listen with a little more explanation as to why this discussion should come home to your Kitchen Tables. Here is a link to his song and I encourage you to have a listen. He refers to things that don’t work as “Broke”. The metaphor is brilliant and it’s no surprise coming from such a gift...2023-07-1910 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #45: Everything is Temporary… Let's BreatheIn this episode, Angela discusses the importance of noticing, honouring and learning from our feelings and evaluating whether or not our responses help or hinder us. Listeners are invited to take a few minutes to breathe and imagine a temporary button and explore ways to help us avoid getting stuck when things get very difficult.Angela and her team use many principles from Acceptance Commitment Therapy/Training within their practice. Visit the website to find recommended books and resources for further reading if this spikes your curiosity. 2023-07-1213 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #44: Challenging Our Biases Around People Who Don't 'Work'Using music as a medium, this episode challenges the listener to bring this discussion back to our kitchen tables to explore the unique challenges that people with hidden disabilities experience. People do want to work; and they do work very hard... But there are many times when this is impossible within our communities. We can do better, and when more people understand why some people don't work, we will judge less harshly and build more inclusive communities that allow more to contribute in good ways. Pink said it best when she said, "you wanna talk about hard w...2023-07-0610 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #43: Great News! Canada Now has a Disability Benefit!Parliament passed Bill C-22; establishing the first ever Canada Disability Benefit.This is fantastic news and a result of much advocacy from Inclusion Canada, various organizations, families and individuals who know that 40% of people with a disability live in poverty. The work continues, and much more advocacy is necessary to help clarify who qualifies especially with more 'hidden' disabilities. Let's bring this home to our kitchen tables to discuss! 2023-06-2807 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #42: Book Reviews and Spreading the WordWelcome to summer! In today’s episode, I’m sharing tips for good health, plus some reviews on my book (thank you!) and the need to raise awareness; all in an effort to help people and communities be as healthy as they can be.2023-06-2112 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #41: Breaking Stigma, Supporting Success in a Complex WorldToday's episode is highlighting an upcoming FASD Conference scheduled for the Fall which focuses on breaking stigma and supporting success in a complex world. Angela is honoured to be a part of this amazing event to help share information from the frontline and family perspective in our effort to build more inclusive service delivery systems and communities.Check out the website for more details on the conference and please pay attention to the call for art to celebrate the beauty and creativity that comes from people with complicated and beautiful brains.2023-06-1511 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #40: How to Move Forward & Make Peace with our PastSo many times our past continues to interfere with our day to day existence in disruptive ways. Often we allow our distressing past experiences to continue to alter our world view and our view of our self.Have a listen to this episode to hear about some of the ways that we can make peace with our past and move towards our values with more wisdom and resilience.  Check out the website for more details and tips that we all can benefit from.2023-06-0716 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #39: Reducing Stigma; Sharing Ideas and Experiences in NewfoundlandIn this episode, I will share my experience from the Newfoundland FASD Conference that I was honoured to speak at this past week. We had an amazing time meeting so many people who are so committed to making a difference: reducing stigma and raising awareness for people with complicated and beautiful brains.We met so many resilient people with some traumatic yet hopeful and inspiring stories to tell. Visit my website to read and share the CBC article mentioned in this episode, because it’s a story that needs to be told!2023-05-3112 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #38: Keeping the Conversation Going, all the way to NewfoundlandIn this episode, as Angela heads to Newfoundland to speak at a conference on FASD, we recognize the impact proper education and awareness can have on prevention when it comes to prenatal alcohol expose. Increasing awareness can dramatically change the landscape of FASD in a relatively short period of time.It’s so important to have these conversations and to bring them home to your own kitchen table.2023-05-2424 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #37: Mental Health and Self MedicatingToday's episode is focused on how many people struggle with life's challenges and mental illness alone, and so often their method involves self medicating with substances. Addictions often result from untreated trauma or mental illness. In fact, I've been in this helping profession for a very long time, and I've never seen addiction without an underlying mental health issue that has been left unattended.Let's keep the conversation going around what can be very helpful and do what we can to prevent our loved ones from 'going it alone' and taking longer to recover than m...2023-05-1711 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #36: Finding Joy in Other Peoples SuccessesCan finding joy in other peoples successes be the secret to our own happiness?I learned a new word! Freudenfreude - the opposite of Schadenfreude. Let's talk about the mental health benefit of being genuinely happy for others when they experience joy or success.  “Acts of service, being happy for others, all some of the little things to help bring us joy and peace in this busy hectic and unbalanced life!” ~ Toronto Star April 20, 2023 - By Christine Sismondo2023-05-1011 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #35: May is Mental Health Awareness Month!May is mental health awareness month. Let's take some time to learn a few facts and stats, and to further understand the ongoing impact of poverty and stigma on overall wellbeing. We will also explore opportunities to promote mental wellness while doing what we can to prevent both the impact and the instances of mental illness and other hidden complex neurodevelopmental disorders.Check out the website for additional resources to learn more.2023-05-0314 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #34: Screen Time - How Much is Too Much?How much is too much when it comes to screen time? Yet another pressure we put on parents that is so hard to define and sometimes manage. Let's talk about quality and not quantity. Four things to consider; mitigate, mindful usage, modelling healthy usage, and minimizing.2023-04-2610 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #33: Research Concludes - Dad's Drinking is Tied to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome EffectsThis episode focuses on the results of an article published by Futurity.org which shares the findings of mice studies indicating direct impact from male alcohol consumption on the pregnancy including "a profound shift in the organization of the face."Let's bring this topic home to our Kitchen Table Conversations because it's up to all of us to support healthy pregnancies, and there is no wiser investment in the world.Visit the website to read the article.2023-04-1910 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #32: Drug Overdoses and SuicidalityThis episode looks at the compounded vulnerability for people with Complex Neurodevelopmental disorders. When we know better… we can do better; whether we are impacted directly or if we love and support people who are.Please check out the additional resources available on my website.2023-04-1215 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #31: Self-Care, Sharing the Load and Building SkillsToday's podcast is focusing on some tips and strategies to develop skills and a family 'team' approach getting everyday tasks completed and the importance of taking care of ourselves and each other. Check out the website for links to  Mama Systems by Laura Hernandez and her podcast, Mama Advocate, for more info and support in helping to keep our homes organized so we have time for other important things including the extra time we need to be available for our kids with special needs.2023-04-0516 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #30: Challenging Myths About Cannabis UseThis episode focuses on challenging some of the myths that are often shared and understood with regards to cannabis use. Many view cannabis use as natural, healthy, and without significant risks. However, research is indicating that there are risks from long term use to the individual and risks from any use during pregnancy and breastfeeding. This comes as a surprise to many, so we feel it's a conversation to bring back to your kitchen table.  Listen in for more information and check out the resources on the website for articles that will provide more details.2023-03-2911 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #29: A Practical Approach to Supporting People with a Complicated and Beautiful BrainThis episode focuses on a practical approach to learning more about and supporting our children, youth, and adults with a complicated and beautiful brain... a Complex Neurodevelopmental Disorder (CND). Angela offers some strategies to help keep us all on track when we begin to understand that we or our children are struggling with mood, concentration, social and learning difficulties, and/or physical health in one way or another. Head to the the website for the downloadable booklet, A Practical Approach, which provides us with a framework to get started and shares concrete ways that we can keep o...2023-03-2210 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #28: Celebrating Neurodiversity while Advocating for Inclusion of FASDWe are in the middle of neurodiversity celebration week which is a worldwide initiative aimed to challenge some of our biases and our misconceptions around neurological conditions.  It is a time where we can acknowledge and celebrate neurodivergence and to begin and continue conversations that will lead to better understanding and inclusion!2023-03-1512 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #27: Celebrating International Women's DayToday we are celebrating International Women's Day. In this episode, I would like to acknowledge what this day means, focusing on equal opportunity and inclusion all the while celebrating freedom of choice, as well as pay special attention to caregivers of those who have been impacted by PAE and FASD.I would like to all to take a moment and listen to a song by Jessie T called Just a Number. It’s a beautiful message that challenges bias and stereotypes, and acknowledges that one size does not fit all. Please listen in wh...2023-03-0810 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #26: The Role of a Social WorkerIn this episode, we will discuss the role Social Workers play in our communities. As a social worker, I work for the people that I support; I have always been a ‘helper’ and explore creative ways to make things happen, to reduce or remove barriers. Social workers believe people are capable, resourceful, creative and resilient… until they are misunderstood and misdiagnosed. We are a diverse group of practitioners, working in a variety of sectors. I have completed informal research working in different sectors to see for myself what kind of opportunities there are to build on what we do a...2023-03-0110 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #25: Spreading the Word… Strengthening the ConnectionAngela was honoured to have participated in a Conference over the past weekend. Listen in to this episode about the focus on making connections, the need for helpers, and where we discussed the importance of accurate diagnosis and how it provided clarity and freedom, after so often being misunderstood and misdiagnosed. For more training opportunities and tips for friends and family to help support individuals with complex mental health and developmental conditions, please check out the many Resources and Programs available through our website.2023-02-2212 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #24: Impulse Control and Complex Neurodevelopmental IssuesIn this episode, a special guest with FASD walks us through what impulse control issues looks like from her perspective and Angela offers some additional tips and strategies that can lead to decision making that is less impulsive and more in line with our values.Please visit the website to access the additional resources referenced in this episode.2023-02-1518 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #23: Informed Decision Making and Teachable MomentsThis episode focuses on the benefit of learning new information, from the new drinking guidelines to developmental screens. How learning and change can often be met with resistance, and how we can keep conversations going that will lead to prevention, earlier intervention, and improved outcomes for individuals and families.Visit the website to access the additional resources referenced in this episode.2023-02-0818 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #22: Simple Tips to Support Your Mental HealthAs a follow up to last week's Bell Let’s Talk focus, we thought we would discuss some tips that can help all of us address pressure and stressors in a healthy and helpful way. Listen in for a discussion around sitting with our emotions and challenging our self talk and our thoughts if they are no longer serving us well.To access the additional resources referenced in this article, please visit the website.2023-02-0110 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #21: BELL Let's Talk DayLet’s talk about mental health conditions of all kinds; some of the contributing factors; why the problems are becoming worse and opportunity for some rather straightforward prevention opportunities. There is a correlation between increased alcohol use, increased incidents of alcohol exposed pregnancies, and mental health conditions.Please check out the resources referenced in this episode to learn more and to hopefully become inspired to keep these conversations going around your kitchen tables.2023-01-2512 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #20: Balancing Blended FamiliesThis episode was a special request, and one that I feel is so important. I appreciate the requests for kitchen table conversation starters, and this one impacts so many. I really do believe that as with any transition, doing your homework, consulting with others with lived and professional experience can be so helpful. As can establishing mutual understanding, goals and clear communication in terms of what is most likely to lead to success! Same needs to be applied when taking a leap and blending a new family. Not all turn out to be the Brady Bunch, and t...2023-01-1815 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #19: Finding Our PurposeFollowing up from last week's episode where we spoke of personal growth and New Year's resolutions, we thought we would focus on how much easier these things can be accomplished when we connect with our values and really understand our purpose. Finding purpose and meaning in our lives can be so beneficial in terms of our overall health and wellness, but it's not easy for all of us to do. Have a listen for some tips for yourselves and to keep the conversation going around your kitchen table. To access the resources referenced in this episode, please...2023-01-1111 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #18: Wishing You Hope and Positive Opportunities for 2023This episode will focus on the importance of learning new things, challenging ourselves to live our healthiest of lives, and things we can do to make it most likely that we will stick to our goals and resolutions. In our efforts to support individuals and families to live their best lives free of stigma and with more understanding and clarity, we are pleased to be offering training for social workers in the New Year.  This episode shares a few details about that as well so we encourage you to share with people you feel may be...2023-01-0418 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #17: Preparing for the Holiday SeasonToday's episode will centre around the holiday season as we explore all the 'feels' and consider the needs of people who may find the season particularly stressful. These tips and considerations will be helpful to all of us, but in particular for people with complicated mental health, learning and sensory needs. Let's do our best to challenge the 'rules' we have in our heads about what we need to do, what the holidays 'should' look like, and adapt in order to best position ourselves for the most meaningful experiences.  In terms of hope for the future, we w...2022-12-2116 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #16: Parenting Complex Kids with Safety and DignityToday, we are talking about parenting kids, youth and adults with complicated and beautiful brains. We’ll focus on our need for safety planning in order to prevent critical issues and to protect people from making dangerous or poor decisions.Have a listen as we firmly believe that it takes a community to raise a child.Visit www.angelageddes.ca to download a free copy of the Safety Plan for Families and Caregivers and access the other resources referenced in this episode.2022-12-1415 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #15: Keeping the Prevention Conversation GoingEveryday I am reminded of how important my work is, and how we need to keep prevention conversations going. This week, we offered some training to Crisis Mental Health workers and police officers who were very curious about how best to support people with complicated and beautiful brains in a crisis.The training always includes stats for context and the conversation around alcohol use and pregnancy. There are always people in the room who express concerns regarding their own alcohol use during pregnancy, maybe an unplanned pregnancy and the frequent incorrect and mixed messaging that they hear...2022-12-0712 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #14: Keeping Our Brains HealthyIn today's episode, let's keep the conversation going around wellness and what we can do personally to keep us (specifically our brains) as healthy as possible. This means all across the lifespan beginning with pregnancy and well into our later years. In this Kitchen Table Conversation, I'll share some tips and ideas to inspire you. It’s about doing whatever you can to live your best life!  To access the additional resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-11-3011 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #13: Keeping It SimpleKeeping it simple as we work towards living our best life.This episode is a follow up to our last conversation which focused on the positive attributes of people who are experiencing anxiety or would consider themselves to be anxious people.  We will discuss ways to keep us grounded in nature and many mental health and wellness benefits that we can find from spending time outdoors. We will be reminded of the benefits of living in this moment and spending time 'worrying'  about the things we can control while letting go of the things that are outside of...2022-11-2311 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #12: A Positive Look at AnxietyPeople with anxiety often really struggle with many things, and often with their view of themselves. They often find themselves frustrated with their perceived shortcomings and often with inability to deal more effectively with their intense worry and anxiousness. In this episode, we’ll take a look at some of the really positive qualities and characteristics for anxious people in the spirit of a strength based and hopeful approach to treatment and support!To access additional resource on anxiety, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-11-1610 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #11: Remembering and Honouring our Canadian VeteransIn this episode, we will take some time to acknowledge the contributions of our Military Veteran’s and their role in all conflicts, as well as those who have made sacrifices on the home-front. We encourage people to learn more about the role of our Indigenous and Black Veterans and the extra obstacles they faced as they proudly and bravely served our country.  We also would like to take some time to explore how many of our Veteran’s struggle with the transitions to civilian life and specifically with PTSD.  We used to refer to this as ‘shell sh...2022-11-0915 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #10: Right Here, Right NowHappiness or contentment, can in many cases be a choice. Today's episode is focussing on ways to keep things a little 'lighter'. We're talking about how so much of our time is spent in the past, wishing that things were different, or in the future worrying about what might be coming rather than focussing on being 'right here, right now'. In many cases, we can do better when we recognize that there is a problem, big or small, and then taking time to consider if our response is going to make the problem bigger or smaller.The...2022-11-0212 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #9: The World Begins at the Kitchen TableInspired by a poem written by Joy Harjo, The World Begins at the Kitchen Table, which was recently shared with me, I reflect personally with gratitude at the many days spent at my kitchen table. I'm also aware that many people have not had the same experiences. For those of us who are called upon for support or assistance, whether that be with family members and friends and/or for those of us who work in the system, that's something we all need to remember. The most important thing we can all do is to build relationships with the...2022-10-2609 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #8: Exploring NeurodiversityIn this episode, we'll explore what it means and who qualifies as neurodiverse, and the need, ironically, to be more inclusive of FASD when discussing neurodivergent conditions. We are also discussing the need for assessment for everyone who is struggling with day to day interactions and activities and we are highlighting the importance of Occupational Therapists as an integral part of assessing people with mental health and developmental challenges.  October is Occupational Therapy Month in Canada!To access additional resources, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-10-1909 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #7: Global Mental Health Awareness DayGlobal Mental Health Awareness Day was on October 10, 2022, so was Canadian Thanksgiving Day. I would like to take a moment to acknowledge that sometimes it’s healthy to take a pause and reflect, and ask ourselves if the rules we have created still make sense for us.To access the resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-10-1212 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #6: The Epidemic Nobody Wants to Talk AboutIn this episode, we are discussing The Social Determinants of Health and the impact of alcohol in marginalized communities - the much higher rates of PAE/FASD, as well as Canada's 2nd Annual Truth and Reconciliation Day on September 30, 2022. To access the resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-10-0509 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #5: Opportunities to Learn MoreAs we near the end of the month of September, which is International Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness month, we've dedicated this episode to providing listeners with upcoming opportunities to learn more about what many of us are recognizing to be a hidden epidemic. Angela will be speaking at two upcoming conferences and we'd love for you to participate. For complete detail on these events and more, please visit www.angelageddes.com.2022-09-2807 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #4: Just Google ItEven with all of the information out there, there continues to be a gap in service providers understanding that would enable more of us to offer support in relevant and helpful ways. As well, there is plenty of outdated and inaccurate information out there in ‘google land’, so we need to be creative in the ways that our clear, concise and accurate messages get sent and received.2022-09-2112 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #3: The Effects of PAE Across the LifespanWhat does the effects of PAE look like across the lifespan? It’s complicated and everyone is different.  Although there are some commonalities, the presentations are unique to the individual because there are different protective factors, and the amount and timing of the alcohol consumption is different for each… meaning that what gets impacted is different and to different degrees as well. To access the resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-09-1411 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #2: A Misunderstood ConditionThe cost of misdiagnosis. FASD affects 4% of the general population which is more than Autism, Tourette’s Syndrome, Down’s Syndrome and Cerebral Palsy combined, yet it is still so misunderstood... Let’s change this, and keep the conversations going. To access resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-09-0908 minKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesKitchen Table Conversations with Angela GeddesEPISODE #1: Introducing Kitchen Table ConversationsAn introduction to Kitchen Table Conversations with the goal being to share important facts and stats to inspire further learning and conversations among family and friends to make impact where it matters most. To access the resources referenced in this episode, please visit www.angelageddes.ca.2022-09-0906 minThe FASD Success ShowThe FASD Success Show#083 Angela Geddes: FASD: A Complicated & Beautiful BrainSend us a textIn this episode of The FASD Success Show, I’m talking to a professional who has dedicated her career to understanding, advocating, and supporting families and individuals with FASD. So much so, she wrote her thesis on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, which she has just turned into an e-book: A Complicated & Beautiful Brain.   Angela Geddes refers to it as a guide to understanding the effects of prenatal exposure to alcohol (PAE) and what Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) looks like across the lifespan. It is a resource manual filled with...2021-10-031h 06Women Who Run with HorsesWomen Who Run with HorsesA conversation with Life and Equine Facilitator Angela GeddesOn today's episode I am joined by Angela Geddes, Life and Leadership Coach and Equine Guided Facilitator.  Angela runs and owns Soul on Fire Equine Wellness Center in New Brunswick. I invited Angela onto the podcast to share her journey through a recent health crisis and how that lead to a deeper claiming of her purpose and priorities in life.  A deep reminder of how important it is for us to listen to the messages our bodies give us and the consequences if we don't. You can find out more about Angela and her work at...2020-03-0143 min