In the last episode of this limited edition series, Rachel Harrison shares her personal leadership journey and the lessons she has learned along the way. She also gives insight into her experience hosting the Leadership Evolution podcast and how it has shaped her own leadership style.

Craig Bedard, Deputy Associate Commissioner for the Office of Strategy, Learning, and Workforce Development at the Social Security Administration, joins the show to interview Rachel and discuss the themes of service and self-awareness that emerged from previous episodes. Hear how the COVID-19 pandemic changed Rachel’s leadership approach, the importance of creating a supportive and trauma-informed work environment, the benefits of collaboration within the community, and the concept of being trauma-informed as a leader. 

About Rachel Harrison:

Rachel Harrison, LCPC, NCC has worked in the field of trauma for 24 years as a therapist, trainer and business owner. After working with clients for over 17 years, Rachel founded Trauma Specialists of Maryland, LLC. Over the years, she realized again and again the root cause of so many issues and symptoms came back to an individual’s trauma.  As such, Rachel has spent many of these years training in different treatment models proven to be most effective at dealing with trauma.  Her vision was to develop a practice where all practitioners were trained in specific trauma therapies and could work as a team to treat individuals most effectively. She is passionate about helping people heal from trauma and about growing and developing leaders. 

About Craig Bedard:

In July 2021, Craig Bedard was named the Deputy Associate Commissioner for the Office of Strategy, Learning, and Workforce Development at the Social Security Administration. Craig began their federal career at the United States Air Force Academy where they earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Basic Academics, with a Concentration in Management.  They also earned a Master of Science Degree from McDaniel College in Human Resource Development and a Master’s Certificate in Intelligence Studies (Counterintelligence) from the National Defense Intelligence College. In the Air Force, Craig excelled as a Missile Combat Crew Member, Instructor, Evaluator, Mission Commander, and Strategic Planner.  Their career arc includes military service, small business owner, financial services, the State of Maryland, and 4 federal agencies (DoD/DIA, HHS/CMS, VA, SSA).  

Episode Timestamps:

• How the podcast changed Rachel's leadership journey
• Themes of service and self-awareness
• Rachel personal journey
• Explanation of EMDR therapy
• Balancing community and team needs
• Challenges faced by mental health professionals during the pandemic
• Trauma and its impact on individuals
• Self-love, trust, forgiveness, and self-care
• Collaboration with other organizations within the community 

“The Leadership Frederick County class of 2023 has been an incredible journey of growth and self-discovery. As the host of the Leadership Evolution podcast, I had the privilege of interviewing my classmates and delving into their leadership journeys. Through these conversations, I learned valuable lessons and gained insights that have shaped my own leadership style.”

Connect with Rachel Harrison:

https://traumaspecialistsofmd.com/

https://www.frederickchamber.org/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/trauma_specialist/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100064008974101&mibextid=LQQJ4d

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-harrison-81a4796/