Guest Bio:

Suzanne Bendick is the Co-Executive Director, co-founder, and former board member of Roots Family Collaborative, a highly respected and deeply impactful organization she has helped shape over the past nine years. A devoted mother of two, Suzanne is a visionary nonprofit leader known for her thoughtful approach, deep listening, and unwavering commitment to improving community health and wellbeing.

Her professional background includes formal training as a Postpartum Doula, Certified Lactation Counselor, and Montessori Teacher, and she is currently expanding her expertise as a student of Somatic Experiencing. Grounded by a love of nature and a passion for meaningful connection, Suzanne brings both heart and skill to her work supporting families.

Episode Description:

In this inspiring episode of the LIFTS Podcast, host Emily Freeman talks with Suzanne Bendick, Co-Executive Director of Roots Family Collaborative in Bozeman, about how one mom’s personal experience of isolation led to a movement supporting families across Montana.

Suzanne shares the origin story of Roots, the creation of the powerful “Moms Like Me” storytelling project, and how storytelling can heal, connect, and transform communities. Through honest reflection, she highlights the importance of listening, collaboration, and grassroots action in building strong perinatal mental health support systems — especially in Montana’s rural and frontier communities.

Highlights include:

• How Roots Family Collaborative was born from lived experience
• The origins and impact of the Moms Like Me storytelling project
• Why listening is a radical act of support for new parents
• Tips for communities wanting to start similar efforts in their own areas

Suzanne’s message:
“You don’t have to have a plan. Just start by coming together — ask questions, listen, and build from there.”

Learn more:

• ROOTS Family Collaborative: www.rootsfamilycollaborative.com
• Moms Like Me storytelling project: https://www.rootsfamilycollaborative.com/moms-like-me

Enjoying the podcast? We’d love your feedback and ideas for future episodes! Take our LIFTS Podcast Listener Survey at hmhb-mt.org/survey.

Connect with Healthy Mothers, Healthy Babies

• Website
• Facebook
• Instagram

For statewide resources to support Montana families in the 0-3 years of parenting, check out the LIFTS online resource guide at
https://hmhb-lifts.org/