You Matter!

You Matter!

Author: Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc November 27, 2025 Duration: 55:25

In this powerful episode of the "Reading With Your Kids" podcast, host Jed Doherty welcomes two remarkable guests—Dean Sikes, author of "You Matter: Finding Hope and Meaning in Everyday Life," and Nathalie Iseli-Chan, educator and author of "Asking Questions About My Adoption Helps Me Grow." This episode dives deep into the essential issues of hope, suicide prevention, and the lifelong journey of discovering purpose and identity.

Dean Sikes shares his moving personal journey as a speaker and advocate for mental health, emphasizing the urgent need for suicide prevention among youth. He provides listeners with insights on how families can start open conversations about difficult subjects, fostering emotional resilience and reinforcing that every child truly matters. Dean further discusses powerful strategies for parents to help their children find hope and meaning, even during challenging times.

In the second half, Nathalie Iseli-Chan sheds light on the complexities of adoption, breaking common myths and highlighting the importance of supporting adopted children. She discusses her latest book, which aims to make families' adoption journeys easier by supplying practical tools for honest, age-appropriate dialogue about adoption, identity, and belonging.

Whether you're a parent, educator, or advocate, this episode offers actionable advice for supporting kids through adversity and helping them discover hope and self-worth. Learn more about supporting your child's mental health, building meaningful connections, and leading purposeful conversations with these expert authors.


There’s a special kind of magic that happens when families share stories, try a new recipe, or simply talk about a movie they just watched together. The Reading With Your Kids Podcast, from Jedlie Circus Productions, Inc, explores that magic in every episode. While the title highlights reading, the conversations here go far beyond the pages of a book. This podcast is really about connection-the kind built through everyday moments, whether you’re cooking, creating, or discovering a new song together. Each episode brings you authentic conversations with authors, educators, and families who share practical ideas and personal stories. You’ll hear about great children’s books, sure, but also about how shared experiences with TV, movies, and music can spark meaningful family discussions. The underlying goal is always to strengthen those essential bonds. Tuning in feels like getting thoughtful, friendly advice on turning daily routines into opportunities for laughter and learning. It’s a supportive space for any parent or caregiver looking to enrich their family life, one shared story or silly kitchen experiment at a time. The tone is warm, inclusive, and focused on the simple, powerful truth that time spent together is the foundation of a strong relationship.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Reading With Your Kids Podcast
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