Real Talk with Kayla and Dawne’
This series of brief microlearnings offers ongoing, accessible and engaging learning experiences for peer partners, including youth partners, parent partners and Tribal partners who support children, youth and families. Hosted by Kayla Granderson of the California Department of Social Services and Dawne’ Lynch of the Resource Center for Family-Focused Practice, the series creates a conversational space designed to strengthen how peer partner roles are applied and integrated across California.
Bite-sized but mighty
Designed with busy human services professionals in mind, each episode breaks down complex topics into manageable segments so learners can quickly understand and apply new concepts to strengthen their skills and expand their knowledge to the benefit of the children, families and communities they serve.
Ready to stream?
We hope you enjoy Real Talk with Kayla and Dawne’. Check back regularly as new episodes are added.
Meet Kayla
Kayla Granderson is an Analyst at the California Department of Social Services, specializing in supporting Wraparound and Peer Partner programs. With over 14 years of experience working with youth and families, she brings both personal and professional life experience to her work, using her insights to inform programs, lead change at the state level, and drive innovative solutions.
During her four years with the Sacramento City Unified School District (SCUSD) as a Foster Youth Services Program Associate, she provided support to foster youth transitioning to adulthood. Before that, she dedicated 10 years to Uplift Family Services (formerly EMQ Families First), serving in various roles, including youth partner, administrative assistant, and administrative supervisor. These experiences have given her a deep understanding of the challenges faced by individuals and families, helping her provide meaningful and informed support.
Kayla remains passionate about creating positive change, using her expertise and lived experiences to uplift communities and inspire lasting impact.
Meet Dawne'
Dawne’ Lynch is a passionate leader, strategist and connector in the field of human services, currently serving at UC Davis Continuing and Professional Education. Having served as a parent partner, parent partner supervisor and Wraparound fidelity coach, she brings both professional expertise and insight into the systems she now supports, which allows her to center real-world impact in every project. Her journey has included deep involvement in California’s Wraparound movement, contributing to statewide training, technical assistance and systems change efforts. She currently works closely with partners at the California Department of Social Services (CDSS) and the Department of Health Care Services (DHCS), where she supports cross-system leaders in advancing practices that center youth and families. She actively serves on several key committees, including the Statewide Wraparound Steering Committee, the Parent Partner Advisory Committee (PPAC), the Peer Hubs, and others focused on workforce development.
Known for translating complex policies and practice into tools that empower professionals and elevate lived experience, Lynch leads with authenticity, integrity, and compassion.