PHOENIX (STN) â Following one of the most contentious general elections in recent memory, âIt Happens at STNâ returned for a November episode packed with important discussions about leading through times of change and division.
The live studio audience heard a discussion on the importance of leadership during divisive times, met an incredible woman who talked about the power of resilience, and got a look at how keeping moms facing substance use disorder and their newborn babies together is improving outcomes.
Plus, UMOMâs Director of Evaluation & Impact Fernandez Bjork talks about his life journey, Valley of the Sun YMCA is recognized for its efforts to prevent child abuse, and inside the Keys to Change program finding success with outside living space for those suffering from homelessness.
Watch ‘It Happens at STN’ Episode 3, Season 3:
Here are the highlights from the November 2024 episode of âIt Happens at STNâ
2:40-11:36
How to better lead teams during times of deep division
Valley Leadership CEO Dave Brown joined UMOM CEO Jackson Fonder and COO Monique Lopez to discuss the differences between agreement and alignment in the workforce and what benefits can come from disagreeing.
They also address the importance of listening and explain why differences of opinion can actually help leaders lead through times of change and division.
11:43-14:33
A journey from Alabama to homeless advocacy at UMOM
Moving from foster home to foster home and suffering significant abuse as a child wasnât easy on Fernandez Bjork, but it didnât discourage him either.
The Director of Evaluation & Impact at UMOM sits down to trace the journey that took him from serving in the United States military to a career advocating for people experiencing homelessness and explain how the family that eventually wound up adopting him inspired him to always help those who need it.
16:28-24:40
Jessica Cox shares how resilience turns disability into possibility
Jessica Cox, the worldâs first licensed pilot without arms and a 4th-degree Taekwondo black belt, joined âIt Happens at STNâ to share her journey of defying expectations and proving that disability is not a limitation.
From her familyâs encouragement to step out of her comfort zone to the mentors who guided her, Cox highlights the impact of tough love and the essential role of resilience in overcoming obstacles.
26:22-38:12
Guiding better care for moms suffering from substance use disorder and their newborn babies
In the return of âThe Wellness Collectiveâ, the co-founder and executive director of Hushabye Nursery, Tara Sundem, joined Dr. Sara Salek from AHCCCS, and Tad Gary, President and CEO of Mercy Care to discuss how to better improve care for new mothers suffering from substance use disorder and their children.
They explain why ending stigma is key to success and how good science is leading to significantly better outcomes for both child and mom, in both the short and long term.
38:47-41:47
Praesidium Accreditation helps ensure Valley of the Sun YMCA is keeping kids safe
A look at the Valley of the Sun YMCAâs effort to guarantee safe spaces for children and earn recognition for putting systems and procedures in place to prevent child abuse within the organization.
42:10-58:03
Safe outdoor space and what it can do to help solve the homelessness puzzle
A safe place to sleep is one key element in assisting people experiencing homelessness, even if that space is outside.
The leadership team from Keys to Change discusses the Safe Outdoor Space program and how providing food, showers, and security can help turn lives around.
53:41-56:29
Combining services helps Key Campus serve better
The STN team goes inside the Respiro shelter on the Key Campus to see what happens when several services dedicated to helping people find permanent housing are available under one roof.
