Illuminating Hope

Sherrill L. Rosen is a retired Missouri Circuit Court Commissioner who served with distinction in the 16th Judicial Circuit, based in the Eastern Jackson County Courthouse. With a legal career spanning a decade, Commissioner Rosen was widely respected for her commitment to family law and her tireless advocacy for survivors of domestic violence.

Born in Denver, Colorado, and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, Rosen earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Colorado at Boulder at just 20 years old. She went on to receive her law degree from the University of Missouri School of La...

This is Part 2 of our powerful conversation with Attorney and Professor Mary Kay O’Malley—a respected voice in family law and a dedicated educator shaping the future of justice.

In Part 1, Mary Kay gave us a look into her journey through law and education, and how both worlds intersect impact families and communities.

Today, we’re picking right where we left off—diving deeper into the challenges and opportunities in family law, her perspective on systemic change, and the role advocacy plays in creating safer, more supportive environments for children and families.

Advocati...

Mary Kay O’Malley has been the director of the Child and Family Services Clinic and clinical professor since 2002. She obtained her bachelor of arts from St. Mary-of-the-Woods College near Terre Haute, Indiana and her master of arts from UMKC. After working as a social worker for the Missouri Division of Family Services for 13 years, she returned to school and graduated cum laude from the Washburn University School of Law in Topeka, Kan., where she was an editor on both the Washburn Law Journal and the ABA Family Law Quarterly.

Following law school, Professor O’Malley was empl...

Guest: Patricia “Tricia” M. Scaglia, Scaglia Law Firm, LLC

Patricia “Tricia” M. Scaglia, is a solo practitioner in Independence, Missouri. She practices primarily in the area of Family Law and Juvenile Law, frequently serving as a Guardian Ad Litem and mediator. A life-long Kansas City resident, she received her Juris Doctor from the University of Missouri-Kansas City (UMKC), where she serves as an adjunct professor. Ms. Scaglia received a Bachelor of Journalism and a Bachelor of Arts from the University of Missouri-Columbia. She served as law clerk to the late Honorable Kelly J. Moorhouse, Sixteenth Judicial Circuit of Misso...

Guest Tamara A. Veit received her J.D. from the University of Missouri–Kansas City in 2004. In 2004, she began working for McElligott Ewan & Hall PC as an associate attorney. She practices primarily in the area of family law. She is currently a member of a number of legal organizations, including the American Bar Association, the Missouri Bar Association, the Kansas City Metropolitan Bar Association, the Eastern Jackson County Bar Association, and the Association of Women’s Lawyers. Tamara has served on numerous boards and committees for these organizations. She is currently on the Board of Directors as Vice President for...

C.A.S.A. Training with Hope House

CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocates) Volunteers are community volunteers, just like you, who stand up and speak out to help children who have experienced abuse or neglect.

Jackson County CASA recruits, trains, and supports these CASA Volunteers to advocate for the best interests of children who are in the Jackson County Family Court system until they have a safe and permanent home.

Guests: Meg, Director of Clinical Services & Tracey, Adult Therapist

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle

Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a...

Crissy Del Percio has been working with survivors of domestic violence for more than a decade. She is a graduate of the University of Missouri- Kansas City School of Law, and obtained her undergraduate degrees from the University of Kansas. Although she loves working with Hope House, she looks forward to the day when her services are no longer needed because Kansas City has overcome the issue of domestic violence.

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle

Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into...

Guardian Program

Supervised Visits & Monitored Exchanges of Custody

A secure, off-site facility where custodial parents safely exchange custody of their children and/or children participate in supervised visits with their non-custodial parent.

Guests: Randa, Director of Outreach Services & Serena, Guardian Program Manager

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle

Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal...

Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle

Welcome to Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House. In the series Advocating Justice: The Legal Battle, we dive into the legal battles that shape the fight for domestic violence survivors. In each episode, we bring you powerful conversations with the legal teams, court advocates, and changemakers working tirelessly to bring justice, protection, and hope to survivors of domestic violence.

From the courtroom to policy changes, from survivor rights to legal strategies, we uncover the critical role the justice system plays in breaking cycles of abuse. Whether you’re a su...

Let's talk physical, sexual and reproductive abuse!

Welcome to Understanding Domestic Violence: Knowledge Is Empowerment, the podcast series dedicated to uncovering the truth about domestic violence and empowering you with the tools and knowledge to create change.

In this series, we’ll explore the many dimensions of domestic violence, physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and beyond. Each episode is designed to educate, challenge misconceptions, and provide actionable insights for individuals, families, and communities.

Because the more we understand, the more equipped we are to recognize the signs, support survivors, and prevent domestic violence.

...

February is Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month, a time to shed light on an issue affecting so many young people. That's why we're re-publishing this important episode—to continue the conversation and ensure teens, parents, and educators have the tools to recognize unhealthy relationships and promote safe, respectful love. Awareness leads to prevention, and prevention saves lives. Stay tuned as we revisit this crucial discussion.

Welcome to Understanding Domestic Violence: Knowledge Is Empowerment, the podcast series dedicated to uncovering the truth about domestic violence and empowering you with the tools and knowledge to create change.

In...

Welcome to Understanding Domestic Violence: Knowledge Is Empowerment, the podcast series dedicated to uncovering the truth about domestic violence and empowering you with the tools and knowledge to create change.

In this series, we’ll explore the many dimensions of domestic violence, physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and beyond. Each episode is designed to educate, challenge misconceptions, and provide actionable insights for individuals, families, and communities.

Because the more we understand, the more equipped we are to recognize the signs, support survivors, and prevent domestic violence.

Today's guests are Hope House Therapist Tracey.

...

Julia Holtemeyer (MPP) is the Resource & Training Specialist for SPARC (the Stalking, Prevention, Awareness, & Resource Center), an AEquitas initiative. In her role, she provides training and technical assistance, develops original resources, and collaborates with partners to enhance the ability of multidisciplinary professionals to recognize and respond to stalking. Julia’s work in gender-based violence began more than 15 years ago as a college student, when she worked at a rape crisis center and as a peer health educator. Since then, she has worked as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Tanzania, in gender integration in global health with USAID, and to im...

Welcome to Understanding Domestic Violence: Knowledge Is Empowerment, the podcast series dedicated to uncovering the truth about domestic violence and empowering you with the tools and knowledge to create change.

In this series, we’ll explore the many dimensions of domestic violence, physical, emotional, psychological, financial, and beyond. Each episode is designed to educate, challenge misconceptions, and provide actionable insights for individuals, families, and communities.

Because the more we understand, the more equipped we are to recognize the signs, support survivors, and prevent domestic violence.

Today's guests are Hope House Therapists Jenny & Tracey.

Qiana Thomason draws from over twenty years of leadership at the intersections of health and behavioral healthcare, corporate healthcare payment, health policy, health philanthropy and business. This aerial command of the political, private market, and social factors that shape health uniquely positions Qiana to impact the wellbeing and prosperity of communities. Qiana’s “self to systems” leadership practice, her commitment to organizational care and accountability, and her practice of centering people in driving change and managing transitions makes her a trusted executive in ensuring the effectiveness and sustainability of the organizations and movements she supports. Further, Qiana’s prowess in strat...

Hello, and welcome! Today, we’re thrilled to share a heartwarming story of generosity and holiday spirit. Hope House has a compassionate family from our community that organizes a Secret Santa to bring gifts, joy, and hope to survivors and families impacted by domestic violence.

This thoughtful gesture is a beautiful reminder of the kindness that exists around us and how acts of kindness and generosity can make a big difference.

To Mark, Mary and their family and everyone who’s joined in to support, thank you for making this season brighter for those who need...

Welcome to Illuminating Hope a podcast of Hope House. Hope House wants to pause to extend a heartfelt thank you to each and every one of our supporters—our donors, community partners, and listeners.

Your dedication to ending domestic violence is truly inspiring. Through your generosity, we are able to extend resources, hope, and empowerment to those who need it most.

You are not just supporters; you are change-makers, and we’re so grateful for all that you do. Let’s continue this journey together, building a future free of domestic violence.

The journe...

Welcome to this episode of Prevention: A Paradigm Shift - Empowerment Through Education. Today, we’re focusing on the transformative role of education in preventing domestic violence within our communities and beyond. We’ will explore how knowledge and awareness empower individuals to recognize red flags, challenge harmful norms, and find pathways to safety and support. Join us as we equip you—and those you serve—with the tools to shift mindsets, build resilience, and create lasting, positive change.

Together, we’re redefining prevention through the lens of education, empowerment and hope.

If you are in an emergen...

Dr. Sara Brammer began working as an overnight victim's advocate in the field of family violence in 1994. She continued working as a therapist for victims and offenders as she completed her Master and Doctoral Degrees in Counselor Education and Counseling Psychology at the University of Missouri. While in her doctoral program, her research and dissertation focused on love relationships and batterer intervention treatment. She is currently the Vice President of Family Violence Services at Synergy Services where she has worked for 23 years. She supervises the Domestic Violence Center, the Children’s Center, the Domestic Violence Housing Program, the Batterer In...

Domestic Violence 101: Empowerment Through Education is a podcast episode designed to shed light on the often-overlooked realities of domestic violence. Join Hope House CEO MaryAnne Metheny and Director of Community Engagement Tina Johnson as they dive deep into critical topics like identifying early warning signs, breaking free from the cycle of abuse, and providing resources for both victims and allies.

By educating listeners on the dynamics of domestic violence, we aim to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools to recognize, prevent, and take action against abuse.

Whether you're a survivor, a concerned friend, or...

Nancy McCormick has been in private practice at Unity since October 2013. Before joining Unity, she accumulated 17 years of experience in domestic violence, working at Hope House and Rose Brooks. Additionally, she spent 5 years facilitating contract groups for individuals with substance use disorders and for family members of those affected by these disorders.

Nancy firmly believes in the power of collaboration to address life’s challenges. She understands that taking the first step—finding a counselor and making the initial call—can be the hardest part of the journey. She commends those who reach out for support and help...

Meg Nelson holds a Master of Science in Counseling Psychology and is credentialed with the State of Missouri as a Licensed Professional Counselor (LPC) and Clinical Supervisor. Employed with Hope House since 2022, Meg brings extensive experience working with children, adults, and families, with a specialization in trauma, substance use, and severe and persistent mental illness. She is thoroughly trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), Crisis Prevention/De-Escalation, and Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR).

If you are in an emergency, call or text 9-1-1.

For information about our services and how Hope House...

Dr Bridget McCandless is a passionate about her community! She started her career serving medically under resourced families living in Eastern Jackson County. As an internist, her career and volunteer efforts focused on providing high quality, evidence-based, culturally competent care to adults without insurance. Earning her MBA allowed her to expand efforts to affect durable public policy change at local and state levels. She is fortunate to have been part of the Health Forward Foundation in its early years and later as CEO, to use public funds and advocacy to strengthen communities in the greater metropolitan KC area. She...

Dr. Dowd graduated from Rockhurst University with her bachelors of science degree in mathematics. She then received her doctor of chiropractic from Cleveland Chiropractic University in Overland Park, KS. She has focused intensively for the past several years specializing in spinal decompression. She compliments this with a passion for helping people understand what causes their pain and helps them have power over this. She firmly believes that PAIN is never random. There is always an answer.

https://grainvalleychiro.com/new-home/

https://www.instagram.com/grainvalleychiro/

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal justice system, where compassion meets the pursuit...

Ana Nubia Duin is originally from Hidalgo, Mexico. She moved to the United States when she was 14 years old, and graduated from Sylmar High School in California in 1991. Following graduation, she moved to Arkansas and began her career in radio. In 1999, Ana moved to Kansas City, where she helped open the first 24-hour Spanish radio Station, La Zeta. Here, she met her husband of 22 years, Yvan. In 2015, Ana and her husband had the idea to open their own radio station, and La Mega KC was born. Ana and her husband have 3 amazing daughters, Dominique, Yvanna and Yvanka.

...

TRIGGER WARNING: The following podcast mentions domestic violence homicide. Please take care of yourself while listening.

Anna Newsom is a resilient single mother of two daughters who has faced numerous life challenges. As a single mom dealing with mental health issues and the trauma of her parents' murders, she has endured significant hardships. Through her mother's tragic death, an abusive marriage, and a co-parenting relationship marked by narcissistic abuse, Anna has emerged with a renewed dedication to advocating for women who cannot speak for themselves. She is committed to raising awareness about domestic violence and providing support...

Julie Ross is Vice President of Client Services – Segment Head for Empower. In her role, she serves as head of Client Service Managers, supporting associates, ERISA consultants, and project managers who serve clients in the large, mega, and not-for-profit segments.

Julie joined the organization in 2000 and has 23 years of experience managing diverse teams across operations, sales, and client services. She is an active member of the company’s Business Resource Groups (BRGs) and serves as Executive Sponsor of the Empowering Young Professionals BRG.

Julie holds a bachelor’s degree from Baker University. She currently maintains the Pr...

Michael Mackie a proud Midwesterner. Growing up, he always knew he wanted to be in TV. Or on TV. Or watching TV. (He's not picky.) "I even got my degree in broadcasting from the University of Iowa to prove to the world I was not only educated, but well-versed in sitcoms, game shows, and Oprah," he says. "Also, I got minors in French and acting as well. Someday, that will enable me to write, produce, direct, and star in a straight-to-video project in Quebec."

Not only is Mackie an Aries with a Pisces rising, he's an eight-time...

Hope House highlighting Metal Health Awareness Month!

Hannah earned her master's degree in clinical counseling from Emporia State University. Over the past three years, she has been a dedicated member of the HH team, initially serving as a Permanent Housing Advocate. Apart from her professional pursuits, Hannah finds joy in baking and staying active, whether it's hitting the gym or preparing for her next 10k run!

Elizabeth is dedicated to enhancing the well-being of her clients through the application of evidence-based methodologies. She possesses expertise in various therapeutic modalities such as Internal Family Systems (IFS...

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal justice system, where compassion meets the pursuit...

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal justice system, where compassion meets the pursuit...

Trigger Warning: Domestic Violence Cases

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal...

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal justice system, where compassion meets the pursuit...

Illuminating Hope, a podcast of Hope House brings you Voices of Justice, a series of podcasts where law enforcement officials, judges, and advocates come together to unravel the entangled web of domestic violence. Join us as we dive into the complex challenges faced by those on the front lines of justice, exploring real-life stories, legal nuances, and the human side of these cases. In each episode, our guests share their experiences, insights, and perspectives, shedding light on the multifaceted nature of domestic violence. Tune in for a compelling journey into the criminal justice system, where compassion meets the pursuit...

Wine enthusiasts and aspiring sommeliers will soon get their chance to show everyone what they’ve got!

Who will be crowned Kansas City’s Sage of Wine 2024?

March 6, 2024

For details visit: https://sailawaywine.com/sommelier-showdown-2024/

Katie Hendley

CSW, Resident Sommelier, Sail Away Wine

Katie Hendley fell in love with wine when she studied in Florence, Italy in 2001.  She’s been hooked ever since and decided to make it official in 2008 with a diploma from the International Sommelier Guild and, in 2014, a Level 2 Certification from the Court o...

Each February, young adults and their loved ones nationwide raise awareness about teen dating violence through Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month (TDVAM). This annual, month-long effort focuses on advocacy and education to stop dating abuse in teens before it starts. Approximately 1 in 3 U.S. teens will experience physical, sexual, or emotional abuse from someone they’re in a relationship with before becoming adults. Many teens who experience unhealthy relationships often carry these unhealthy patterns into future adult relationships.

How you can talk to your teen about Teen Dating Violence

Talking to teens about teen dating vi...

Illuminating Hope welcomes former professional boxer Christy Martin! 

Martin founded Christy’s Champs.  

Christy’s Champs is a growing movement of leaders who work to ensure those who suffer emotional and physical abuse in their families have an outlet to receive the education and support that they need to report, share and overcome violence and live a life free of threats, blackmail, shame and fear. 

Christy’s Book: 

Fighting for Survival: My Journey through Boxing Fame, Abuse, Murder, and Resurrection 

https://www.amazon.com/Fighting-Survival-Journey-through-Resurrection/dp/1538153580

If you were ri...

Did you know this January is the 20th anniversary of National Stalking Awareness Month? Stalking is a type of abuse that consists of a pattern of behavior directed at a specific person that could cause a reasonable person to feel fear and/or suffer substantial emotional distress.

Host: MaryAnne Metheny, CEO, Tina Johnson, Manager of Community Partnership and Randa Hager, Director of Outreach Services.

Trigger warning: sensitive information.

If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence and for information about domestic violence please visit hopehouse.net or call our 24-hour hotline...

Chris Walden, President

As a certified USA Boxing official in the ring and President of the KC Gloves, Chris Walden stays involved with amateur boxing because of its unique ability to grow kids into outstanding men and women. He works as an Investment Advisor at Heartland Capital Advisors.

Missy Fitzwater, Director of Marketing & Athlete Representative

Missy is a boxer and coach at Turner Boxing Academy. As a two-time KC Golden Gloves Champion, she made history in 2018 when she became the first female boxer from KC to enter the ring at the National Golden...