The Bold and the Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast

Hosted by The National Parent Leadership Institute

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Apr 2026

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The parenthood journey can be as beautiful as it is challenging. Politics and policies can make it even more difficult to help our children and families thrive in this ever-changing country. As parents, there are ways we can use our lived experience and expertise to raise up issues and solutions that can improve practices, programs, and policies for the benefit of our families and communities. But how? Join two parent leaders from the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI) as they share stories and tips on how to use your voice as a parent and caregiver in the change-making space.

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14 recent

April 3, 202646 min

The Ongoing Democracy Experiment: Civic Learning, Dialogue, and Family Voice | The Bold & The Brave

What does democracy look like 250 years after the signing of the Declaration of Independence?Recorded in Philadelphia as the country approaches its 250th anniversary, this special roundtable episode of The Bold & The Brave brings together members of the National Parent Leadership Institute team to reflect on civic learning, youth voice, and the role families play in shaping a more inclusive democracy.Drawing from conversations at the Civic Learning Forum, the team explores how dialogue across differences, nonpartisan civic participation, and lived experience contribute to stronger communities and more responsive systems.This conversation looks at how democracy is practiced in everyday life, not only through voting, but through community connection, advocacy, and shared leadership across generations.Topics discussed include:Why civic learning must include familiesThe importance of youth voice in shaping the future of democracyDialogue across differences and issue-based participationHow civic participation happens in everyday spacesWhat the next chapter of democracy could look likeLearn more about our work at: https://parentswholead.org

December 19, 202542 min

Changing Spaces, Changing Lives: Diane Silva on Accessibility, Advocacy, and Family Leadership

In this episode of Bold & The Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, we sit down with Diane Silva, a Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI) graduate and parent leader from Rhode Island, to talk about accessibility, advocacy, and systems change.Diane shares how her lived experience as a caregiver led her to advocate for universal changing stations in public restrooms, a need that too often goes unrecognized. Through her leadership and community organizing, Rhode Island passed legislation requiring universal changing stations in new and renovated public buildings beginning in 2027.We talk about Diane’s PLTI journey, how she learned to navigate policy and media advocacy, and what it takes to move from identifying a problem to shaping real solutions. Diane also reflects on the importance of designing public spaces with dignity in mind, expanding access in healthcare settings, and modeling leadership for the next generation.This conversation highlights the power of family leadership and why families belong in decision-making spaces that shape policies, systems, and communities.To learn more about Diane's work with the Changing Spaces Campaign, visit their website here.

October 30, 202550 min

What SNAP Really Means for Families: Stories from Hawai‘i, Memphis, and Beyond

In this episode of The Bold & The Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, Carlos and Hobson sit down with Zee (Hawai‘i), Anthony (Memphis), and Carolyn (Share Our Strength) to talk about SNAP, food assistance, and the power of lived experience in shaping fairer systems. Although this conversation was recorded before the federal government shutdown, it feels more urgent than ever. As families across the country worry about delayed or halted SNAP benefits, the stories shared here remind us why advocacy, policy understanding, and community action are critical.🎙 Highlights:• Zee and Anthony share how SNAP shaped their journeys and why stigma still hurts families• Carolyn explains how states manage food assistance and what’s changing in policy• Real talk on inclusion, power sharing, and what advocacy looks like day to dayListen, reflect, and share. When systems fail us, communities rise.🔔 Subscribe for more episodes that lift up parent voices and community power.

May 15, 202536 min

Fathers Lead Too: Fatherhood, Leadership & Real Talk on Representation

In this powerful episode of The Bold & The Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, we explore the lived experiences of fatherhood and leadership with special guest Joshua Vaughn, a father of five, entrepreneur, and PLTI graduate.Carlos Maldonado steps in front of the camera for the first time to co-host alongside Melvette Hill as they reflect on presenting at the New England Fathering Conference, discuss the importance of intentional outreach to dads, and share real stories of growth, stretch, and purpose.🎧 Topics include:Fatherhood as leadershipEconomic mobility for dadsPLTI’s impact and representationTips for supporting and recruiting fathersJosh’s upcoming June event for men in Connecticut✨ “Leadership has to be organic.” ✨ “Hope is nurtured daily.” ✨ “Sometimes, just showing up is enough.”📲 Follow Joshua Vaughn on Instagram @VaughnSignatures and visit www.vaughnsignatures.com#TheBoldAndTheBrave #FatherhoodLeadership #ParentVoices #PLTI #ParentLeadership #CivicEngagement

February 27, 202538 min

A Conversation on Housing Inequities & Black History Month - The Bold & The Brave

In this episode of 'The Bold and the Brave, Parent Leader Podcast,' co-hosts Hobson McCain and Melvette Hill discuss the significance of Black History Month and its theme focused on African Americans and labor. The podcast also highlights the National Parent Leadership Institute’s initiatives, like the Hidden Figures series, which celebrates lesser-known African American leaders. Key topics include the historical context of housing inequities, redlining, and segregation, as well as their implications on modern-day housing and economic disparities. Julie, a parent leader from Colorado, shares insights on local efforts to combat housing crises and the impact of state and federal policies on housing availability and affordability. The discussion underscores the importance of advocacy, staying informed, and leveraging local action to address systemic issues. They encourage a balanced approach to understanding complex policies and their ripple effects on communities.

January 18, 202535 min

Navigating Policy and Civic Engagement

In this episode of 'The Bold and the Brave,' Zulema Gomez welcomes back Hobson, who will join the podcast as a regular co-host. Hobson discusses his background in legislative advocacy, political campaigns, and civic engagement. The duo explores current events affecting local and national policy, including extreme weather impacts in Atlanta and California. They discuss the significance of cabinet appointments in the new administration, the upcoming inauguration, and its implications for federal governance. The conversation also highlights the importance of advocacy, community engagement, and factual research in today's socio-political landscape. Additionally, the episode touches on the work being done at the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI), including advocacy training and the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI). The holiday of Martin Luther King Day and its relevance to both personal and community practices is also discussed.

December 23, 202428 min

Post-Election Conversations on Civic Leadership

In this episode of The Bold & The Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, hosts Zulema Gomez and Melvette Hill discuss the post-election climate and its implications for parent leaders, democracy, and the work ahead. Drawing from their own experiences and recent conferences, they explore how to navigate uncertainty, build inclusive communities, and turn challenges into opportunities.Key Highlights:🎙 Reflections on the post-election mood and its impact on marginalized communities🎙 Exploring civic health: What it means and why it matters🎙 How parent leaders can channel fear and frustration into action🎙 The role of language in civic engagement and democracy🎙 Sneak peek: Exciting changes for the podcast in 2025Whether you're a parent leader, community advocate, or just someone passionate about creating change, this episode will inspire you to approach leadership with hope and purpose.Links & Resources Mentioned:National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI): https://parentswholead.orgFacing Race Conference:National Conference on Citizenship (NCOC):🎧 Subscribe and leave a review to support our mission!

September 20, 202447 min

The Vital Role of Judges and Civic Actions in Elections

Join parent-leader hosts Melvette Hill and Zulema Gomez in a dynamic conversation on the importance of civic engagement ahead of the upcoming November election. This September episode of our podcast covers a range of topics, from the influence of presidential candidates Kamala Harris and Donald Trump to the crucial role of local and state judges in shaping future policies. Special guests Donna Thompson Bennett and Hobson McCain from the National Parent Leadership Institute (NPLI) join the conversation this month to discuss everything from voter registration to the importance of local elections and the lasting impact of judicial appointments.The episode concludes with a discussion on the significance of early voting, voter education, and encouraging community participation. Tune in for tips on how to engage as a parent leader, the importance of poll workers, and how to make sure your vote counts. Don’t miss out on this timely and important discussion!

August 16, 202434 min

Presidential Debates, Supreme Court Decisions, & Civic Engagement

Join parent leader hosts Melvette Hill and Zulema Gomez on The Bold & The Brave Podcast as they dive into the current state of affairs, including the recent presidential debate between former President Donald Trump and current President Joseph Biden. They discuss the importance of debates in the democratic process, the implications of recent Supreme Court decisions, and the need for civic engagement at every level. Zulema and Melvette also touch upon their experiences at the most recent American Public Human Services Association (APHSA) conference where they presented on the importance of Language Justice. Additionally, they reflect on the complexities of celebrating Juneteenth and the 4th of July, especially in the context of the ongoing struggles for true freedom and equality. Zulema and Melvette close out the podcast discussing the role of libraries as civic spaces, and upcoming summer plans. Tune in for a thoughtful conversation on civic responsibilities, historical reflection, and future initiatives.

June 11, 202432 min

Career Milestones, Civic Duties, and Finding Common Ground

In this episode of The Bold and the Brave: A Parent Leader Podcast, parent leaders Zulema Gomez and Melvette Hill discuss recent developments in their careers and lives, and the power of parent leadership. The conversation also explores the impact of parent leadership training initiatives like the Parent Leadership Training Institute (PLTI), the importance of bipartisan civic engagement, and the significance of participating in the democratic process through voting and jury service.Melvette announces her new role as the Executive Director of the Connecticut General Assembly's Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity, and Opportunity (CWCSEO), sharing her journey from a parent leader and PLTI graduate to this Executive Director position.Zulema and Melvette also recount their experiences and insights from national gatherings advocating for family policy and education such as the UPLAN National Gathering and the Children's Defense Fund Freedom School National Training, emphasizing the power of collective advocacy and finding common ground despite political differences. The conversation also touches on the recent historic conviction of former President Donald Trump and the importance of civic duties like voting and jury service.The discussion concludes with a call to stay informed on school board activities, and recent Supreme Court decisions, and to maintain civic duties even during the summer.00:00 Introduction and Greetings01:25 Career Updates and Exciting New Role03:36 Journey to Leadership08:30 UPLAN National Convening and Policy Advocacy10:35 Finding Common Ground Despite Political Differences17:10 Children's Defense Fund Freedom School National Training19:30 Historical Conviction and Civic Duties and Responsibilities28:09 Summer Engagement and Supreme Court Watch30:09 Conclusion and Upcoming Events