19: From Cradle to Career: Ensuring a Successful Start for Every Child with Beth Houghton

In this episode, Dr. Tonjua Williams sits down with Beth Houghton, CEO of the Juvenile Welfare Board of Pinellas County (JWB), for an eye-opening discussion about supporting children and families. Beth shares JWB’s mission to create brighter futures by focusing on critical areas like early childhood development, mental health, and family well-being. From the astonishing fact that 80% of brain development occurs by age three to JWB’s innovative programs that bridge gaps in childcare, education, and wellness, this episode dives deep into what it takes to nurture a thriving community. Beth also offers actionable advice for pursuing a purpose-driven career and highlights the importance of understanding the unique needs of those you serve. Whether you’re passionate about child welfare, community leadership, or personal growth, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t want to miss. Tune in to explore how bold leadership and strategic initiatives are transforming lives one child at a time. KEY POINTS:  [1:25] Beth's career background and transition to the Juvenile Welfare Board  [2:43] JWB’s three main ways of engaging with the community [4:00] On learning JWB's five strategic pillars  [5:05] The importance of early childhood brain development [09:10] Key efforts to provide resources and support for parents [13:07] JWB's focus on early mental health interventions [17:07] Heart in service: Beth on being a CPA to CEO [21:32] Challenges and responsibilities faced as a CEO [24:26] Beth's legacy to stand in the gap – JWB in caring for children & families [26:15] The need for better pay and support for early childhood educators QUOTABLES:  "Stay focused on where you want to go in the long run, and some of the chapters won't be as good — but if you're focused out there on the right things, you'll see opportunities as you go." – Beth Houghton   "We engage in the community. We fund programs that exist in the community [or] programs that are developed for kids and families. We want to see this in Pinellas County. We also borrow or create campaigns within the community where educating all parents or all folks who take care of kids is our goal." – Beth Houghton GUEST RESOURCES: Beth Houghton LinkedIn | @beth-houghton RESOURCES: St. Petersburg College Website | St. Petersburg College Facebook | @stpetecollege  IG | @stpetersburgcollege YouTube | @SPC  LinkedIn | @st-petersburg-college  X | @spcnews  Standing In The Gap is produced by EPYC Media Network | Visit at https://www.epyc.co/