There is little time to think behind-the-scenes. Make-up people, hair stylists, production assistants, and others who look important vie for your attention. As your image in the mirror becomes a television-reality version of yourself, you suddenly realize, "Holy cr*p! I'm gonna be on the Dr. Phil Show!!".

Your mind races as a busy person with a headset opens the door to your dressing room. She gives you the once-over, while someone else rolls you with a lint-brush, then it's showtime, better known as "try not to freak out while you wait backstage".

Most guests of the show know little about what to expect, and I was no exception. But the topic I was there to discuss, based on my experience as a non-custodial mother, was more important to me than my fears.

While I sat behind the audience, waiting for Dr. Phil to introduce me, I watched the monitor, breathed deeply, and prayed. Then a video clip of my story was shown to the live and television audience, and I was led to the chair next to Dr. Phil.

As the two of us shook hands, my idea of him vanished and was replaced by the real person. He seemed genuinely interested, formal but accessible, and I will always be grateful to him for engaging in the conversation. ♥