TLC Connections | Podcast on RSS.com

TLC Connections

TLC Connections

by The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth

Education Mental Health

Radnor PD - How Embedded Social Workers Support Police and Communities

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen sits down with Officer Kaitlin Karmilowicz and Isabel Cook, LCSW, members of the Radnor Township Police Department's Community Support Unit, to discuss an innovative co-response model that combines law enforcement and behavioral health expertise. The conversation explores how Radnor became one of the first departments in Delaware County to fully embed a social worker within its police department. Isabel and Officer Karmilowicz explain how this partnership allows officers and clinicians to respond collaboratively to mental health crises, domestic violence situations, substance use concerns, school-related issues, and other complex community needs. They also discuss the importance of officer wellness and the role an embedded social worker can play in supporting first responders. By creating a culture of trust, accessibility, and confidential support, the program is helping reduce stigma around mental health and encouraging officers to prioritize their own well-being. GUEST BIOS: Officer Kaitlin Karmilowicz has served with the Radnor Township Police Department for nearly eight years. Before entering law enforcement, she worked as a victim advocate in Chester County, supporting individuals and families impacted by crime and trauma. As a member of Radnor's Community Support Unit, Officer Karmilowicz specializes in community-centered policing, crisis response, domestic violence intervention, and behavioral health-related calls. She is part of a multidisciplinary team that works closely with an embedded social worker to connect residents with resources, provide follow-up support, and help prevent crises from escalating. Isabel Cook is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker and the embedded social worker for the Radnor Township Police Department's Community Support Unit. With more than a decade of experience in social work, she has worked in homeless services, victim advocacy, domestic violence programs, and behavioral health support. Since helping launch Radnor's co-response program in 2023, Isabel has worked alongside officers to provide crisis intervention, behavioral health assessments, resource navigation, follow-up services, and officer wellness support. Her role bridges law enforcement and clinical care, helping residents access appropriate services while strengthening relationships between the police department and the community. HELPFUL LINKS: Radnor Township Police Department: https://radnor.com/government/departments/police Isabel Cook – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isabel-cook-376353180/ The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth: https://thelincolncenter.com International Association of Chiefs of Police – Collaborative Reform Resources: https://www.theiacp.org National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI): https://www.nami.org SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Dennis Mahoney - Connecting Government, Nonprofits, and Communities for Impact

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, GT Freeman welcomes Dennis Mahoney, founder of AOI Solutions, for a conversation about leadership, partnership, and helping communities navigate both crisis and opportunity. Dennis shares how his work brings together nonprofits, businesses, governments, faith communities, and local leaders to address some of the world's most complex challenges. Whether responding to hurricanes in the Caribbean, supporting refugee communities, expanding educational opportunities, or helping local organizations collaborate more effectively, Dennis focuses on one central principle: meaningful change happens through relationships. The conversation explores Dennis's journey from the insurance industry into humanitarian and community-based work, including the formative influence of his family, faith, and commitment to service. He reflects on experiences working in disaster zones, helping communities recover after hurricanes, and witnessing both the challenges and resilience that emerge during times of crisis. GT and Dennis also discuss efforts closer to home, including initiatives supporting Philadelphia schools, foster care prevention programs, and community collaboration efforts designed to help organizations work together more effectively. Throughout the conversation, Dennis emphasizes the importance of listening, community ownership, and empowering local leaders. Whether rebuilding after a disaster or strengthening a neighborhood, he believes lasting change starts by bringing people together and helping communities define and pursue their own vision for success. The episode closes with a simple but powerful reminder: you don't have to change the entire world at once. Meaningful impact often begins with taking the next step right in front of you. GUEST BIO: Dennis Mahoney is the founder of AOI Solutions, a consulting firm focused on building partnerships that create access, opportunity, and impact in communities around the world. His work brings together nonprofits, government agencies, businesses, faith communities, and local leaders to address complex challenges ranging from disaster response and humanitarian crises to education and community development. Prior to founding AOI Solutions, Dennis worked in insurance and public service, including serving in the office of Vermont Governor Phil Scott. He has led and supported initiatives across the United States, the Caribbean, Africa, and Southeast Asia, helping organizations collaborate more effectively to serve vulnerable populations. Dennis is also a Distinguished Fellow with the University of Pennsylvania's Fels Institute of Government, where he mentors graduate students and helps connect academic learning with real-world leadership and community impact. His work is grounded in a simple belief: meaningful change happens when people come together around a shared purpose. HELPFUL LINKS: AOI Solutions: https://www.aoisolutions.org Dennis Mahoney – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dennis-mahoney-cpcu-75371a5a/ University of Pennsylvania – Fels Institute of Government: https://www.fels.upenn.edu Safe Families for Children: https://safefamilies.net The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth: https://thelincolncenter.com

Chief James Cadden - Officer Wellness Is Changing Police Culture

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen sits down with Chief James Cadden of the East Lansdowne Police Department for an honest and thoughtful conversation about policing, leadership, and officer wellness. Drawing from nearly 40 years in law enforcement, Chief Cadden reflects on how dramatically the culture of policing has changed since he began his career at age 19. He discusses the evolution from a profession where officers were discouraged from expressing emotion or seeking support to one increasingly focused on wellness, mental health, and resilience. Julie and Chief Cadden also explore the importance of leadership in creating healthier police culture, including the role of wellness evaluations, training, communication, and early intervention. Chief Cadden emphasizes that supporting officers is not about weakness—it’s about helping people become the best version of themselves so they can better serve their communities. The episode also examines how technology is changing modern policing. Chief Cadden discusses the implementation of AI-supported body cameras, translation tools, and community safety camera systems that help officers respond more effectively while improving both officer safety and community trust. Throughout the conversation, Chief Cadden returns to a simple but powerful belief: when officers are healthy, supported, and well-trained, communities benefit too. GUEST BIO: Chief James Cadden is the Chief of Police for the East Lansdowne Police Department in Delaware County, Pennsylvania, where he has served the community for nearly four decades. Beginning his law enforcement career at just 19 years old, Chief Cadden rose through the ranks from patrol officer and detective sergeant to department leadership. Throughout his career, Chief Cadden has emphasized the importance of community policing, officer wellness, professional training, and innovation in public safety. Under his leadership, East Lansdowne has implemented expanded officer wellness initiatives, enhanced training opportunities, and technology-driven public safety tools, including advanced body camera systems and AI-supported community safety cameras. Chief Cadden is a strong advocate for reducing stigma around mental health in law enforcement and believes that supporting officers through wellness, training, and early intervention leads to stronger policing and healthier communities. Connect with Chief Cadden on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-cadden-2067b4 HELPFUL LINKS: East Lansdowne Police Department: https://eastlansdowneborough.com/police-department/ The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth: https://thelincolncenter.com International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF): https://icisf.org Axon Public Safety Technology: https://www.axon.com SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Jennifer Anderson - How Community Gardens Improve Food Access & Health

TLC Connections EP39 Jennifer Anderson - How Community Gardens Improve Food Access & Health SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, GT Freeman sits down with Jennifer Anderson, Executive Director of Trellis for Tomorrow, for a thoughtful conversation about sustainability, leadership, and building healthier communities through local food systems. Jennifer shares her career journey, from a successful path in financial services and global business to a turning point where she realized her work was no longer “feeding her soul.” That realization led her back to school to study public health and ultimately into leadership roles focused on community impact and sustainability. The conversation centers on Trellis for Tomorrow’s work to expand access to fresh, organic food through community gardens across the region. Jennifer explains how these gardens do more than produce food; they create connections, support health equity, and provide opportunities for people to gather, learn, and contribute to their communities. GT and Jennifer also discuss the broader benefits of this work, including youth development, experiential learning, and the importance of hands-on, outdoor experiences in an increasingly digital world. Jennifer highlights how programs that engage young people in growing food can build life skills, confidence, and a sense of purpose. GUEST BIO: Jennifer Anderson is the Executive Director of Trellis for Tomorrow, a nonprofit organization focused on building sustainable communities through local food systems, education, and environmental stewardship. With more than 30 years of experience at the intersection of business and social impact, Jennifer has led and advised organizations across healthcare, consulting, sustainability, and nonprofit sectors. She previously co-founded DudenAnderson and Sustrana, where she helped organizations strengthen strategy, operations, and sustainability efforts. At Trellis, she leads initiatives that expand access to fresh food, support youth development, and strengthen community connection through hands-on, experiential programs. Her work reflects a consistent focus on combining business strategy with human-centered impact to improve outcomes for communities. Helpful Links: Trellis for Tomorrow https://www.trellis4tomorrow.org Jennifer Anderson – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sustainabilityphiladelphia/ USDA – Community Food Systems https://www.usda.gov CDC – Health Equity Resources https://www.cdc.gov SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Dr. John Wilson - How AI Is Changing Entrepreneurship and Education

SUMMARY: GT Freeman sits down with Dr. John Wilson for a wide-ranging conversation about entrepreneurship, purpose, and the future of work. John shares the origin of his now well-known “$10 million question”—a simple but powerful prompt that asks: What would you do if money weren’t the constraint? Over time, he’s used this question with thousands of people to help uncover what they truly want to build, create, or pursue—and to challenge the belief that those things require massive resources to begin. A major focus of the episode is how AI is reshaping both entrepreneurship and education. John discusses his early adoption of tools like ChatGPT in the classroom, why he encourages students to use AI rather than avoid it, and how these tools are becoming “thinking partners” that can accelerate learning, creativity, and execution. He also introduces the concept of the “accidental entrepreneur”—someone who doesn’t initially see themselves as an entrepreneur but has an idea, skill, or passion worth pursuing. Throughout the episode, John returns to a central idea: the future of work will require people to navigate uncertainty, think creatively, and take ownership of how they create value in the world. Entrepreneurship, in that sense, isn’t just a career path—it’s a mindset. GUEST BIO: John Wilson, PhD, is an entrepreneur, educator, and professor of entrepreneurship at Drexel University’s LeBow College of Business. He teaches courses on entrepreneurial leadership, new venture creation, and emerging technologies, helping students develop the mindset and skills needed to launch and grow businesses in an increasingly complex world. John began his career in technology sales and leadership, where he played a key role in scaling a software company from early growth to a multi-billion-dollar public organization. During that time, he pursued a PhD in organizational leadership, focusing on entrepreneurship and innovation. He is the creator of The Entreprofessor, a content platform focused on helping individuals think differently about work, leadership, and opportunity. John is also an active entrepreneur and advisor, currently involved in multiple startups, including ventures in the AI space. Learn more about John: https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/people/john-wilson Connect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhwilsonphd/ HELPFUL LINKS: Drexel University – LeBow College of Business https://www.lebow.drexel.edu John Wilson – Faculty Profile https://www.lebow.drexel.edu/people/john-wilson John Wilson – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnhwilsonphd/ The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth https://thelincolncenter.com SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Mary Anders - Advocating for Abused Children in Court

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen sits down with Mary Anders of the Montgomery County Child Advocacy Project (MCAP) for a powerful conversation about what it means to truly advocate for children facing abuse, neglect, and the legal system. The conversation explores the full scope of MCAP’s work, from representing children in protection from abuse cases to helping navigate adoption, foster care, and complex family dynamics. Mary also highlights the importance of partnerships with law enforcement, child welfare agencies, and community organizations to provide comprehensive support. A particularly powerful part of the discussion focuses on MCAP’s use of a trained therapy dog, Nutmeg, who helps children regulate anxiety and trauma during court proceedings. Mary also reflects on her own career shift—from investigating crimes to walking alongside children and families through the healing process—and emphasizes a central message: children need to be listened to, believed, and supported. GUEST BIO: Mary Anders is the Deputy Executive Director of the Montgomery County Child Advocacy Project (MCAP), where she oversees daily operations and supports the organization’s mission of ensuring that children involved in abuse and neglect cases have a voice in the legal system. Mary brings decades of experience in child protection and investigation. She began her career with the Montgomery County Detective Bureau, where she investigated major crimes, including child abuse cases, and later led the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. She also worked in higher education, leading Title IX investigations and campus safety efforts. Since joining MCAP, Mary has shifted from investigation to advocacy—helping coordinate legal representation, partnerships, and services that support children from the beginning of a case through its resolution and beyond. She is passionate about ensuring that children are heard, supported, and connected to the resources they need to heal and move forward. Learn more about MCAP: https://www.mcapkids.org/maryanders Connect with Mary on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-anders-303509a7/ HELPFUL LINKS: Montgomery County Child Advocacy Project (MCAP) https://www.mcapkids.org The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth https://thelincolncenter.com Pennsylvania Child Welfare Information https://www.keepkidssafe.pa.gov Victim Services Center of Montgomery County https://www.victimservicescenter.org Mary Anders – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/mary-anders-303509a7/ SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Bernard Dagenais - Connecting Students, Leaders, and Opportunity in Our Region

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, GT Freeman sits down with Bernard Dagenais, President and CEO of The Main Line Chamber of Commerce, for a thoughtful conversation about leadership, connection, and creating opportunity across a region. Bernie shares how early moments of exposure—like meeting a journalist as a teenager—helped shape his career path, and why those same moments are critical for today’s students. He reflects on his journey from journalism to leading a major business organization, and how his work now focuses on bringing people together to grow businesses, develop leaders, and strengthen communities. The conversation explores the Chamber’s role in supporting companies through leadership development, peer learning, and talent initiatives, as well as its growing focus on connecting students to real-world career opportunities. Bernie emphasizes the importance of communication, mentorship, and experiential learning—especially for young people who may not otherwise have access to those opportunities. Listeners will hear how connection—whether through networking, shared goals, or mentorship—can shape careers, strengthen organizations, and create pathways for the next generation. As Bernie shares, helping people “find where they want to be” is at the heart of both strong communities and strong economies. GUEST BIO: Bernard Dagenais is the President and CEO of The Main Line Chamber of Commerce, a role he has held since 2010. He leads an organization of more than 1,100 member companies representing over 53,000 employees across the Greater Philadelphia region. Bernie brings a diverse background in journalism and business leadership. He previously served as editor of the Philadelphia Business Journal, where the publication became the most award-winning among 40 American City Business Journals during his tenure. Prior to that, he was business editor of The Washington Times, overseeing coverage of international trade and congressional business issues, and was part of a technology media startup during the early days of the Northern Virginia tech boom. At the Chamber, Bernie has helped expand initiatives focused on leadership development, talent attraction, and professional growth, including Leadership Main Line and the Main Line Society of Professional Women. He is a frequent speaker on the regional economy and serves on multiple boards focused on workforce development and education, including efforts to strengthen the pipeline between students and careers. Connect with Bernie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernard-dagenais-ba549310/ HELPFUL LINKS: The Main Line Chamber of Commerce: https://www.mlcc.org World Class Greater Philadelphia Initiative: https://economyleague.org GEAR UP Program (college readiness support): https://www2.ed.gov/programs/gearup Bernard Dagenais – LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bernard-dagenais-ba549310/ SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Nicole Martin - Trauma-Informed Work with First Responders

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen welcomes Nicole Martin, LCSW, for an in-depth conversation about trauma-informed care, stress regulation, and the work of supporting first responders. Nicole explains how trauma-informed approaches differ from trauma-focused treatment, emphasizing the importance of meeting people where they are, respecting boundaries, and understanding how the brain and body respond to stress. Drawing from her clinical background and her work delivering trauma-informed de-escalation trainings, she shares how neuroscience, experiential learning, and practical tools can help first responders navigate high-stress encounters more effectively. The conversation also explores how these trainings have created space for meaningful dialogue around officer wellness, mental health, and resilience. Nicole reflects on the importance of regulation, co-regulation, and communication in crisis situations, and why helping responders understand their own nervous systems can ultimately lead to safer outcomes for both officers and the communities they serve. This episode offers valuable insight for anyone interested in trauma-informed care, crisis response, and the growing movement to support the mental health of those who serve on the front lines. GUEST BIO: Nicole Martin, LCSW, is a licensed clinical social worker and trauma-informed trainer with The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth. Her work focuses on helping first responders, law enforcement professionals, and community organizations understand the neurobiology of stress and trauma while developing practical tools for de-escalation and resilience. Nicole brings a diverse background in clinical therapy, group facilitation, and trauma-informed education. Prior to joining TLC, she worked with individuals experiencing complex trauma, addiction, and eating disorders, and facilitated therapeutic and psychoeducational groups across a range of treatment settings. At TLC, Nicole leads trauma-informed de-escalation trainings developed in partnership with law enforcement agencies. Her interactive approach combines neuroscience, experiential learning, and practical skill-building to help professionals better regulate their own responses, build rapport in high-stress situations, and create safer outcomes for everyone involved. Connect with Nicole on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemartinmssmlsp/ HELPFUL LINKS: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth https://thelincolncenter.com SAMHSA – Trauma-Informed Approach https://www.samhsa.gov CDC – Trauma-Informed Principles https://www.cdc.gov Nicole Martin – LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolemartinmssmlsp/ SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

Matt Zaun - How Story Builds Connection, Trust, and Influence

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, GT Freeman welcomes speaker and strategist Matt Zaun for a compelling conversation about leadership, communication, and the transformative power of story. Matt shares why storytelling isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s an essential leadership skill. He breaks down how stories bypass resistance, build empathy, and help people connect to purpose in a way that data and directives simply can’t. Together, GT and Matt explore real-world examples from education, mental health, and organizational leadership where storytelling has created culture shifts, unlocked clarity, and inspired action. Matt also shares tips for leaders who feel stuck in transactional communication—offering simple, powerful ways to share meaningful stories that resonate. Whether you're a team leader, teacher, executive, or parent, this episode will help you rethink how you communicate—and why stories are the most human, memorable, and motivating tool we have. GUEST BIO: Matt Zaun is a strategic communication advisor, keynote speaker, and the founder of Stories With Traction, a consultancy that helps leaders use storytelling to increase influence, enhance team engagement, and drive results. With a background in marketing and leadership strategy, Matt works with executives, educators, and entrepreneurs across the country to craft messages that move people—from boardrooms to classrooms. His mission is to help organizations ditch jargon and complexity in favor of stories that inspire connection, trust, and action. Learn more about Matt’s work at StoriesWithTraction.com, or connect with him on LinkedIn: Matt Zaun SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities. HELPFUL LINKS: Matt Zaun Stories With Traction: https://www.storieswithtraction.com/ Matt Zaun on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattzaun/ The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth: https://thelincolncenter.com

Crystal Haas - Creating Schools Where Students Feel Safe

SUMMARY: In this episode of TLC Connections, Julie Knudsen sits down with Dr. Crystal Haas of Red Clay Consolidated School District for a thoughtful conversation about restorative practices and what it truly takes to build healthy, inclusive school communities. Crystal shares her journey from the music classroom into district-wide restorative leadership, and explains how restorative practices help schools move from punishment and removal toward listening, accountability, and repair. She describes practical strategies like treatment agreements, restorative language, classroom circles, and re-entry conversations that support students not just academically, but relationally and emotionally. Listeners will hear powerful examples of how restorative practices can reduce discipline referrals, strengthen trust between students and staff, and create school environments where students feel safe enough to return, reconnect, and thrive. This episode is an honest and hopeful look at what’s possible when schools lead with connection, equity, and belonging. GUEST BIO: Dr. Crystal Haas is an educator and restorative practices trainer with Red Clay Consolidated School District in Wilmington, Delaware. Originally a high school music and choir teacher, Crystal’s career evolved as she became deeply committed to restorative practices and the power of relationship-centered school communities. Trained through the International Institute for Restorative Practices, Dr. Haas now helps lead district-wide implementation of restorative strategies across 27 schools, supporting teachers, administrators, students, and families in building cultures of connection, equity, accountability, and belonging. Her work is grounded in the belief that every student deserves to feel seen, heard, and supported in school. HELPFUL LINKS: Red Clay Consolidated School District - https://www.redclayschools.com International Institute for Restorative Practices (IIRP) - https://www.iirp.edu Harvard Making Caring Common Project - https://mcc.gse.harvard.edu Dr. Crystal Haas on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrystal-haas-ed-d-a28b7113/ SPONSOR: The Lincoln Center for Family and Youth (TLC) is a social enterprise company based in the Greater Philadelphia Area. Founded in 1970 by a behavioral health hospital, TLC is an entrepreneurial nonprofit providing innovative education, coaching, and counseling services to individuals and families, as well as grant writing and management services for school districts and universities.

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