How much of your adult life is shaped by the family you grew up in?
In this episode of Coached Soul, Dr. Steve Hudgins welcomes Yvette Leal, an experienced high school educator from Texas, for an honest conversation about growing up in a blended, or “mosaic,” family and the lasting impact of childhood divorce, attachment, and generational trauma.
Drawing from her own life experiences, Yvette reflects on navigating family separation, changing parental roles, and the emotional challenges that came with growing up between different households and cultural backgrounds. Together, she and Dr. Steve explore how childhood experiences often shape our relationships, identity, and emotional wellbeing well into adulthood.
Key Learnings:

  • How childhood divorce can influence adult relationships
  • The emotional realities of growing up in a blended family
  • What transgenerational trauma looks like across families
  • The role of attachment and early experiences in shaping identity
  • Why therapy and self-awareness are powerful tools for healing
  • How resilience can emerge even from difficult family experiences

Key Moments:

04:47 Challenges of teaching high school kids
09:35 Parents disciplining with spanks
11:38 Dealing with family and relationships
13:55 Admiring an older sister
17:18 Family history and heritage tensions
21:34 Mom’s unusual weight gain
26:37 Discussing transgenerational trauma effects
Whether you grew up in a blended family, experienced divorce as a child, or are working to break unhealthy family patterns, this episode offers compassionate insights and practical encouragement for your healing journey.
Tune in and discover how understanding your past can help you build healthier relationships and a stronger future.

About the guest :
Yvette Leal, MS
Coauthor, Educator, and Student Leadership Advisor
Yvette Leal is an educator, student leadership advisor, and coauthor of The Journey Companion Workbook. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Sociology, bringing a unique perspective on human development, family dynamics, and resilience. Drawing on her experience working with parents, children, and students, Yvette is passionate about helping people build confidence, navigate life’s challenges, and develop meaningful connections. Through her work in education and leadership, she empowers young people to discover their voice, serve others, and create positive change in their communities.