Tangled Routes: Stories Navigating Youth and Family Systems is a podcast series brought to you by the National Training and Technical Assistance Center for Child, Youth, and Family Mental Health. Each episode shares real-life experiences, taking you on a journey through systems that shape the lives of youth, young adults, and families living with mental health needs, as told by the very people who lived them.
In this episode, we hear from Kristen, an advocate and changemaker whose journey through the juvenile justice and child welfare systems began at just 12 years old. What followed was a series of compounding traumas—from criminalization to survival mode—then ultimately, a fierce determination to turn pain into purpose.
This episode includes candid reflections on trafficking, incarceration, and trauma. Listener discretion is advised.
To explore more about trauma-informed leadership and the work of the Lost and Found Institute, visit the NTTAC website or check out the show notes.
5 Aug 2025
Paige
In this episode, we hear from Paige, a young adult who shares her journey navigating early psychosis, receiving a mental health diagnosis, and finding her path forward through a combination of clinical care, family support, and deep self-acceptance.
If you or someone you know is navigating a new diagnosis, let this episode be a reminder: You are not alone. There is support. There is healing. And there is still joy ahead.
5 Aug 2025
Ashley
In this episode, we hear from Ashley—a leader in children’s mental health who brings us back to her beginnings. Through the lens of her own lived experience, Ashley opens up about perfectionism, silence, survival, and the windy path toward healing.
This is a story about growing up in a small town without tools or language for mental health—and learning, over time, how to build both.
Please be aware that this episode includes discussion of suicide. Listener discretion is advised.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide please call 988. Visit the NTTAC website or check out the show notes for resources on suicide prevention and healing-centered practices.
5 Aug 2025
Leroy
In this episode, we hear from Leroy, a passionate advocate from Texas who shares his journey of aging out of foster care, navigating college with mental health needs, and discovering the life-changing impact of people who chose to show up for him again and again.
To learn more about building authentic relationships and creating environments where youth can thrive, check out the resources in our show notes or visit the NTTAC website.
13 Dec 2024
Breaking the Cycle: Communities Combating Adverse Childhood Experiences
NTTAC Tangled Routes host David Crisp shares insights from community leaders as they break the cycle of Adverse Childhood Experiences and foster healing and resilience.
31 Oct 2024
Tondra
23 Oct 2024
Jason
In today’s episode, Jason will share his powerful and deeply personal journey from a childhood marked by trauma and abuse to his transformative experiences in and out of the criminal justice system. His story sheds light on the challenges faced by many and the resilience required to overcome them.
Please be advised that this episode includes discussions of physical abuse. We encourage listeners to prioritize their well-being and seek support if needed.
In the show notes, you’ll find helpful resources, including our podcast episode guide. In the guide, discover evidence-based practices, community-informed solutions, and actionable steps to support families and children facing challenges like those discussed in the episode.
5 Oct 2024
Meri
24 Sept 2024
Shavontae
In today’s episode, we hear from Shavontae, a mother of eight who has faced numerous challenges while navigating the child welfare and juvenile justice systems. Shavontae shares her journey of overcoming mental health and substance abuse struggles, and how peer support and determination helped her reclaim her life and reunite with her children. Join us as she offers a powerful story of resilience and hope.
In the show notes, you’ll find helpful resources, including our podcast episode guide. In the guide, discover evidence-based practices, community-informed solutions, and actionable steps to support families and children facing challenges like those discussed in the episode.
Helpful Resources
https://bit.ly/Shavontaes-Story
FindTreatment.gov The most comprehensive resource for persons seeking treatment for mental and substance use disorders in the United States and its territories.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline: Dial 988 or visit the website https://988lifeline.org/ (https://988lifeline.org/)
Offers 24/7 support for people in distress, including those dealing with suicidal thoughts or crisis situations.
10 Sept 2024
Lisa
In today’s episode, we’ll hear from Lisa, as she reflects on the impact of labeling children with special needs, the importance of community support, and how her experiences in early childhood education have shaped her approach to advocacy.
In the show notes, you’ll find helpful resources, including our podcast episode guide. In the guide, discover evidence-based practices, community-informed solutions, and actionable steps to support families and children facing challenges like those discussed in the episode.
https://bit.ly/TangledRoutes-Ep2
27 Aug 2024
Casey
In this episode of Tangled Routes, we delve into Casey’s powerful journey through a challenging childhood marked by domestic violence and systemic failures. Casey shares a harrowing account of her family's escape from an abusive situation, the impact of those early experiences, and the critical role of support systems in her recovery.
Explore our podcast episode guide for additional resources on intimate partner violence and suicide prevention. Discover evidence-based practices, community-informed solutions, and actionable steps to support families and children facing challenges like those discussed in the episode.
Helpline Resources:
National Domestic Violence Hotline: 1-800-799-7233 or www.thehotline.org (https://www.thehotline.org/)
Provides support, information, and resources for individuals experiencing domestic violence.
https://nttacmentalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Tangled-Routes-Episode-Guide.pdf (https://nttacmentalhealth.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/08/Tangled-Routes-Episode-Guide.pdf)
Reach and audience
Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.
YouTube views
22,000
Score snapshot 15 Sept 2025
Apple Podcasts (US)
5.0 / 5
2 ratings
Podcast Authority Score: 46 / 100
A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.
Quality
48
Social presence
0
YouTube
76
Engagement
32
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