Episode 56: Karen Dickson and Kathleen Harnish McKune, Remarkably Resilient

Podcast Episode Show Notes: "Kathleen McKune and Karen Dickson"

Introduction: In this insightful episode, Karen and Kathleen, integral members of the resilient Harnish family, join Susie on the Just A Mom Podcast. Co-authors of the impactful book "Remarkably Resilient," the three sisters delve into their experiences, upbringing, and the profound motivation driving the creation of the Remarkably Resilient program. From traumatic discoveries to launching a nationwide initiative, this conversation explores the neuroscience of trauma, coping mechanisms, and the transformative power of resilience.

Background and Introduction:

• Karen and Kathleen introduce their family background, authors of "Remarkably Resilient," exploring their upbringing and the motivation behind the program.

• Kathleen discovered adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) in 2017, leading to a realization about childhood trauma and its impact on mental and physical health.

Remarkably Resilient Program:

• Kathleen and Karen discuss launching the program based on their book, aiming to share their story, discuss trauma neuroscience, and build resilience.

• Turning point moments for Kathleen and Karen, highlighting their resilience and coping mechanisms in adulthood.

Impact of Trauma on Health:

• Discussion on ACEs' impact on mental and physical health, sharing the sisters' experiences and positive counterbalances.

• Susie empathizes with the sisters, acknowledging the lifelong impact of trauma and discussing the challenges faced by survivors.

• Delving into the neurobiology of trauma, stress responses, and the importance of addressing trauma for well-being.

• Kathleen and Karen share their survival journeys, emphasizing the importance of boundaries and self-regulation.

Empathy and Understanding:

• Susie expresses understanding for the sisters' experiences, highlighting the need to break the silence around trauma.

Difficult Summer and Impact on Kathleen:

• Challenges faced by Kathleen and Karen during a difficult summer led to a purpose-driven focus on helping others.

Interview Challenges:

• Anecdote about challenges in discussing sensitive topics on mainstream media.

Sharing Their Experience and Helping Others:

• Emphasis on not staying silent, motivation to help others, and the importance of shedding light on often hidden topics.

Dysregulation and Coping Mechanisms:

• Introduction to dysregulation, recognizing triggers, and employing regulating techniques.

• Discussion on emotional regulation, mindfulness activities, and preventing impulsive reactions.

• Exploration of individual coping mechanisms during childhood, including dissociation and the therapeutic use of work.

• Challenges in remembering traumatic experiences, differences in coping mechanisms, and the impact of therapy.

• Acknowledgment of coping mechanisms and the role of therapists in the healing process.

Four Rs of Resilience:

• Introduction to the Four Rs of Resilience: Relationships, Regulation, Response, Recovery, and Their Significance.

• Launching Remarkably Resilient Together with Johnson County Mental Health Center, emphasizing community awareness and resources.

Supporting Organizations:

• Kathleen and Karen express their dream of widespread adoption, mentioning collaboration with schools and corporate support.

• Susie encourages engagement with local providers, schools, and corporations to support well-being.

Program Launch and Availability:

• Details on the program launch and material availability through remarkably-resilient.com, emphasizing donation for access.

• Discussion on donations and accessing materials, providing instructions for support outside Johnson County.

• Availability of information on various platforms, including Google and remarkably-resilient.com.

• Susie urges listeners to explore and support the program, highlighting its universal benefits.

Self-Care Discussion:

• Kathleen shares personal experiences of trauma and emphasizes the impact of self-care on resilience and well-being.

• Karen discusses the transformative impact of prioritizing self-care, reflecting on personal experiences.

• Susie expresses gratitude for sharing their story, praising Kathleen and Karen for resilience, and guests express appreciation.