Laurie is a Queen Leader: The illness and death of her young child spurred a movement over 30 years ago that has made an impact on SO many.

Queens Lead

Listen to the incredible story of how Laurie turned the death of her young son into a movement to help other chilldren & families dealing with cancer. She also tells us how we can begin to rewire our brain to overcome thinking we're "crazy," how we can manage our kids' screen time & what to do about seasonal depression that seems to creep up on so many.

In this emotionally charged episode of Queens Lead, Amy engaged in a profound conversation with Laurie, a remarkable individual who has overcome adversity and dedicated her life to helping others. Laurie's inspiring journey unfolds through stories of resilience, dedication, and profound life experiences. Here's a summary of their impactful dialogue:

Episode Highlights:

💪 Resilience and Dedication: Laurie's Journey to Help Others
Laurie shared her deeply personal experiences, including the devastating loss of her son. Despite facing unimaginable challenges, she channeled her grief into a career devoted to assisting others. Amy commended Laurie's unwavering resilience and determination to make a positive impact on the world, even in the face of adversity. Laurie's remarkable initiative to honor her late son's memory and support other children in similar circumstances was discussed. Together with her husband, Laurie established a child life program at the Children's Hospital, funded by their annual memorial event, which has provided invaluable resources and support to sick children and their siblings for an impressive decade. Amy celebrated Laurie's profound impact through this program.

📖 Laurie's Life and Business Journey
Laurie offered a glimpse into her life journey, beginning with her early marriage and motherhood. She recounted her experience working as a supermarket cashier and the pivotal decision to return to college, embarking on a career in mental health. Laurie delved into her path as a business owner, providing behavioral services, and her decision to expand her practice. With over two decades of running her practice and a team of 25 dedicated individuals, Laurie serves approximately 150 families. She also revealed that she recently authored a book, a remarkable achievement completed during the challenging backdrop of the Covid-19 pandemic.

📘 Method Feedback and Book Suggestion
Laurie shared her method's success and the positive feedback received from physicians and psychologists, which prompted a suggestion to write a book. Amy was curious about the unique aspects of Laurie's method. Laurie explained that her method incorporates two therapeutic modalities, cognitive behavioral therapy and behavioral therapy, setting her services apart. She underscored the importance of tailoring therapy to each individual, leveraging personal experiences, and effecting environmental changes to promote positive behavior.

🎤 Sharing Personal Experiences in Public Speaking
Amy and Laurie explored the challenges of sharing personal experiences in public speaking and on social media platforms. Amy expressed concerns about oversharing, potentially distracting from the intended message. Laurie divulged her therapeutic approach, which employs examples and cognitive behavioral therapy to normalize situations, enabling clients to develop strategies for managing anxiety. Laurie emphasized the value of practice and preparation, likening it to training for a 10K run.

🏋️ Physical Exercise and Mental Health
The importance of physical exercise for mental well-being took center stage. Laurie shared her personal experience of using running as a tool for self-improvement and organization, particularly during her school years. The conversation delved into seasonal affective disorder and the challenges individuals face during the holiday season, especially when coping with the loss of a loved one. Laurie emphasized the need to find ways to navigate the holidays following a loss.

🗓️ Planning, Self-Care, and Tradition Adaptation
Laurie and Amy discussed the significance of planning ahead and self-care during challenging times. Laurie shared her personal experience of losing a son, underlining that it's acceptable to decline social functions when one doesn't feel emotionally up to it. Amy concurred, emphasizing the importance of choosing words carefully when conversing with individuals in mourning. The conversation tackled the notion of delegating responsibilities during the holiday season, challenging the expectation that one must shoulder all the responsibility. Both hosts stressed the fluidity of traditions and the importance of adapting them to meet individual needs.

🕰️ Adapting to Time Change and Screen Time Dangers
Laurie and Amy addressed the challenges of adjusting to time changes, with Laurie suggesting that preparation and routine can ease the transition. They also explored the effects of screen time, particularly on young minds, and the potential dangers of screen addiction. Laurie introduced the concept of sunrise clocks, which simulate natural sunrise to facilitate waking up, and advocated for incorporating even small amounts of exercise to significantly impact mental health. Amy concurred, highlighting the role of movement in her own life.

👪 Parental Control and Emotional Management
Laurie and Amy discussed the importance of parental control for minors and individuals with developmental disabilities. Laurie recommended the use of prepaid phones with limited contacts and parental control over internet access for children. Amy candidly shared her struggles with managing emotions triggered by world events and news. Both agreed on the necessity of staying informed without becoming overwhelmed. The conversation also acknowledged the challenge of discerning what information warrants fact-checking and why.

📱 Social Media Challenges and Emotional Management
Laurie and Amy shared their experiences with social media and the inherent challenges it presents. Laurie disclosed her decision to abstain from engaging in online debates, citing her Jewish faith and recent incidents of anti-Semitism. Amy related her own experiences of getting emotionally entangled in online arguments. They emphasized the importance of seeking reliable sources and engaging in conversations with trusted individuals to gain a better understanding of complex issues. The focus remained on emotional management, ensuring that social media does not monopolize thoughts and reactions.

💼 Remote Work and Mental Health Discussion
Laurie and Amy explored the potential for remote work within Laurie's profession. Laurie confirmed that she collaborates with clients outside of California, facilitated by technology that enables video meetings. The conversation delved into the stigma surrounding mental health, with Amy commending Laurie's book, "You're Not Crazy." The book explores six case studies encompassing various diagnoses and provides guidance on creating a personalized treatment plan. Laurie mentioned that the book is available on Amazon and other bookstores, with additional details available via email. Amy concluded by congratulating Laurie on her healthy lifestyle and teased the upcoming episode.

Next Steps:

Laurie will provide Amy with the website and social media links for her business.
Connect with Laurie:

Laurie's Facebook Page
Laurie's LinkedIn Profile
Laurie's Instagram
Laurie's YouTube
Laurie's Behavioral Services Website
Laurie's Book Website
Stay tuned for Laurie's impactful episode on Queens Lead Podcast!