Seen and Heard with Lisa Hunter

Welcome to Seen and Heard. I’m Lisa Hunter, founder of anti-bullying organization Robert’s Wish. I invite you to take part in an open and honest discussion about all aspects of bullying, the impact and possible solutions. Robert’s Wish is a community organisation named after my dear friend. We are a community driven organisation based in the UK, a safe, confidential and non-judgemental platform of discussion, debate and support to all those who are or have experienced bullying. We cover topics from youth bullying, bullying in the workplace to LGBT bullying and the impact on mental health and other aspects of life in general.Robert himself struggled deeply from a lack of support from friends and family, a feeling that there was no community to turn to, and the idea that there was no one who could understand his struggle and ease his isolation and loneliness. Unfortunately, his story is not unique. Through our community and this podcast, my hope is for no one to ever experience those feelings ever again.Today, tune in and learn a bit more about my friend Robert and his hope that no-one would have to experience the same loneliness and isolation. We’ll talk a bit about some ideas to start advocating for those struggling, as well as some excellent resources that can also help. I’ve come to find inspiration and promise in his wish and I hope you can, too.Tune in and listen to the first episode of Seen and Heard. Join me for an open debate and discussion on bullying and the ways we can support those who need it. Robert’s Wish is  built on a foundation of being kind. It’s the connecting thread of everything we do and it doesn’t cost a thing.In This Episode, You Will Learn:A bit about Robert’s story (01:45)What brought me to begin an anti-bullying foundation in Robert’s honor (05:37)Some LGBT+ friendly media and resources (06:43)A few ways you can start to help those struggling with bullying (10:03)A bit about the Robert’s Wish mission statement (12:22)My own journey with being bullied (17:35)Some questions to ask if you believe someone in your life is being bullied (20:35) Let’s Connect!EmailWebsiteFacebookInstagramTwitterLinkedInResources mentioned:The Fosters The Trevor ProjectThe It Gets Better Project Venice: The SeriesPerdona Nuestros PecadosAcacias 38

Chanie Wilschanski talks to Lisa about her experience being bullying in school, as well as, her experience parenting her children through bullying. Chanie was picked on for having red hair in school. It was something to embrace, but she didn't know that at the time because children want to fit in, not stand out. Every child handles bullying differently and the way parents respond has to differ as well. Lisa and Chanie discuss strategies parents can use to support children through these experiences.

In this episode, Vice President Ginni Saraswati talks to Melissa Wilson, founder of The Grass Gets Greener. Melissa works to empower survivors of childhood trauma and abuse. Together the two talk about how bullying and its effects fits into Melissa's story and mission.

Nicholas Costello talks to Lisa about his experience being bullying in school. Nicholas was often made fun of for not acting "black enough" when he attended schools with students from different racial and economic backgrounds. The two discuss coping mechanisms to battle social bullying and talk about the importance of self-confidence.

Mike LeBeau talks to Lisa about his experiences with bullying in school and in his professional work spaces. The two reflect on the importance of having support in work spaces so that all kinds of bullying (physical, mental, and emotional) can be addressed and dealt with properly.

Roddy Biggs talks to Lisa about their experience and perspective on bullying. Roddy opens up about coming out as gay at twelve years old and struggling with bullying throughout middle school and high school. The two have a discussion about the kind support kids and parents in the LGBTQ community need to combat bullying.

Susan Heldsinger talks to Lisa about her experience and perspective on bullying. Susan shares her ideas about bullying in connection with her own children and bullying within her own community. The pair also discusses the importance of supporting the LGTBQ community.

Sarah Ramsay is an educator of over 25 years, a certified counsellor and a victim of school yard bullying. Having mild cerebral palsy on the left side of her body she was continual taunted in high school. A remarkable story unfolds as Sarah used kindness and compassion as the counter to these terrible taunts. The Roberts Wish Podcast is hosted by it's CEO & Founder, Lisa Hunter.