S3E4: Bridging Bonds: The inseparable connection of CACs and MDTs

Podcast Season 3: Igniting Your Drive: Invisible threads that sustain CAC professionals

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S3E4: Bridging Bonds: The inseparable connection of CACs and MDTs

Imagine doing some of the most emotionally challenging work in the world, with a team by your side, offering constant, sometimes invisible support. In this episode, we explore the vital relationship between Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) staff and their multidisciplinary team (MDT) partners—teams that don’t just work together but lean on each other in unseen ways. Joined by Lydia Crivens, Christine Woods, and Johnny Vallejo, we discuss how collaboration, shared values, and everyday acts of appreciation help sustain these teams through the most difficult cases. Discover why strong teamwork is essential in the field of child protection and how it shapes lasting impact for children and families.

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Guests:

Lydia O. Crivens

Deputy Director

Memphis Child Advocacy Center

Johnny Vallejo

Multi-Disciplinary Team (MDT) Coordinator, Volunteer and Intern Manager

The Children’s Advocacy Center – Covina (Main Campus) & Los Alamitos (Satellite Site)

Christine Wood, BA

Former Lead MDT Coordinator

Barren River Area Child Advocacy Center

Show Notes:

In this episode of The SRCAC Exchange, host Christina Rouse leads a powerful discussion on the importance of teamwork and supportive relationships within the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) network. This season centers on the “invisible threads” that strengthen the dedication and resilience of professionals working in child abuse prevention. Christina is joined by guests Lydia Crivens, Christine Wood, and Johnny Vallejo, who are all deeply involved in the CAC movement and share insights into creating a supportive and connected work environment. They explore topics such as the value of multidisciplinary team (MDT) partnerships, fostering resilience, and building trust through natural interactions, which together contribute to the sustainability of this challenging yet essential work.

Throughout the conversation, each guest shares inspiring stories that highlight the collaborative power of CACs. They discuss examples of their teams coming together in difficult cases, the ways they build rapport and support among MDT members, and the small yet impactful gestures, like shoutouts and awards, that reinforce team cohesion and individual motivation. The episode closes with a reflection on how collective strength and unity are central to the CAC mission, and that teamwork is key to creating positive outcomes for children and families. Hit the subscribe button now!

Key Quotes:

“When you see someone and you talk with them regularly, you trust their perspective because you know them a bit more than someone you hadn’t reached out to.”- Lydia Crivens

“When you get to hear words of encouragement from your team, it just reassures you that you’re doing this work and that others see it, which pushes you forward.” -Christine Wood

“Coming to the CAC is actually a really nice experience for our partners because they know they’re in good company and working with a team that genuinely cares.”- Johnny Vallejo

Resources:

“Team Functioning and Performance in Child Advocacy Center Multidisciplinary Teams,” McGuier, E. A.; Rothenberger, S. D.; Campbell, K. A.; Keeshin, B.; Weingart, L. R.; & Kolko, D. J. (2022) [Article]

Host:

Christina Rouse, MSW

Program Manager, CAC Development

Southern Regional CAC

Season Resources: