Self Care Bestie Podcast

I'm answering your foster care questions today on the podcast, including what to do when your kids need more of you than you can give, how to prepare for a new placement, and how to process the grief of goodbye. Learn more about my Fearless Fostering group and join here: https://fearlessfostering.selfcarebestie.com/fearless-fostering

There's a moment in nearly every foster mama's journey that hits harder than expected. It usually doesn't happen during licensing classes or even during the first hours of welcoming a new child. It happens after a few days, when the adrenaline wears off and real life kicks in. When the child starts showing signs of trauma. When your biological kids start acting out. When the caseworker misses their visit or when the bio parent sends a letter that leaves you in tears. It's then that you realize: no one prepared you for this. If you're there right now—or you remember it vividly—I want you to know you're not alone. I created this post because I wish someone had sat me down before my first hard week and told me what to expect, what to ignore, and what to lean into. So here it is—my honest list of what I wish every foster mama knew before her first really tough week. Apply HERE for the Fearless Fostering Group: https://forms.gle/UAtaNxBNHJfyc3hF7

Pediatric dietician and foster mama Madison Tyler joins me on this week's episode to share some signs that your foster or adoptive kiddo might be struggling with trauma-related food issues and how to solve them. If you'd like to learn more from Madison, you can follow her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/nourishwithconnection/

If you're a foster mom, chances are you've found yourself in emotionally charged, high-stakes moments more than once—moments where your child is melting down, or a visit doesn't go as planned, or something triggers your own trauma. These are the moments when your nervous system goes into overdrive, and every part of you wants to react. But here's the truth: Regulation always comes before connection. And that means you must be grounded before you can effectively support your child. In this post, I want to walk you through five trauma-informed grounding techniques specifically for foster moms navigating tough moments. These aren't fluffy feel-good suggestions—they're practical tools you can use when it feels like everything is spiraling out of control. Apply HERE for Fearless Fostering: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfF8P5eedeg3Wd7xdwaTOISWoyXX3LyZEsWsjjx11sI9bZUkQ/viewform

Foster care isn't static — it's a system that's constantly shifting based on politics, policy, funding, research, and public awareness. And in 2025, we're already seeing some significant changes that every foster parent (especially moms on the frontlines) should be aware of. Whether you're new to fostering or have had multiple placements, these updates matter. They impact how long kids stay, the kind of support you receive, and how you advocate for your family and your foster child. Let's break down what's new in foster care policy this year — and more importantly, what it means for you as a foster mama. APPLY for Fearless Fostering HERE: https://forms.gle/KXbNKLUUEynwU2fy8

APPLY for the Fearless Fostering Group: https://forms.gle/HR8pem1G6Wx4dAhbA Learn more about Fearless Fostering here: https://fearlessfostering.selfcarebestie.com/fearless-fostering Foster care is never linear. If you're reading this, you probably already know that. You know the wild swings from hope to heartbreak, the late-night worries, the unspoken fears. You know how it can feel like everything is happening at once — or not at all. And in the thick of all of that? There's the messy middle. It's the part that doesn't get as much attention: ✨ When the honeymoon phase of a new placement fades and the real work begins. ✨ When reunification plans shift and change, leaving everyone reeling. ✨ When your child's trauma shows up in ways you didn't see coming. ✨ When you're doing everything you can — and it still doesn't feel like enough. This “messy middle” is where most of foster care actually happens. And it's also where so many foster mamas feel stuck. Today, I want to share why this season feels so hard, and some gentle, real-life ways to find your calm — even when it feels like the chaos will never end.

Absolutely LOVED this talk with my pal and former Fearless Fostering member, Christi Chatman. In addition to being a foster mama, Christi is a therapist and big believer in therapy (especially embodied therapy for all that we hold in our bodies) for foster mamas. She shares her foster care journey thus far, what was painful and frustrating, as well as encouragement for how to persevere and heal from the wounds of foster mama trauma. You can find Christi on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/christi_chatman/ Learn more about my Fearless Fostering Program and apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1dDWEAyUJFNC6gQj4R7bBb9bFZKcFWCl-yTY8pW2NZfA/edit#response=ACYDBNh_D4bXIebgjtBJjip3XwLSi-s24mCfEL9UiioWUgIo-D9Fp0mdpM1ekqlzMcjtGJc

Charell Star is a former foster youth, lifelong advocate, and brilliant storyteller - she joins me in conversation on this episode to share her story and her debut memoir: Trashbag Tales & Other Stories From An Accidentally Happy Life. Find Charell's book here: https://charellstar.com/ Connect with her on social media here: https://www.instagram.com/charellstar/#instagram

When you begin your foster care journey, you prepare for a lot of things. You prepare your home. You prepare your heart. You prepare for trauma, transitions, and the unknown. But almost no one prepares you for one of the most sacred, painful, complex, and often overlooked relationships in foster care: The relationship between you and your child's biological mother. Join the Foster Mama Lifeline here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/reclaimed-mama-community-pfdw5q2k Free Resources here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

If you've ever stood face-to-face with a child in full-blown meltdown mode—screaming, hitting, crying, or shutting down—you know the pressure. Your heart races. Your brain scrambles for the “right” response. And suddenly, you're the one feeling completely dysregulated. This is one of the hardest truths about parenting—especially in foster care: You can't support a dysregulated child unless you know how to regulate yourself. And that's not easy when the moment feels personal, chaotic, or just plain exhausting. Let's break it down: What regulation actually is (and what it's not) Why foster parents are more prone to dysregulation Real strategies you can use in the moment What to say when you freeze And how to recover when it doesn't go well (because sometimes, it won't) First 5 Scripts Freebie: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering Foster Mama Lifeline Community: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/reclaimed-mama-community-pfdw5q2k

When I first started parenting kids from hard places, I thought I was prepared. I had read the books. I had attended the trainings. I had even practiced my calm voice in the mirror (true story). But nothing fully prepared me for the moment I was in the middle of a screaming match with a 6-year-old who had flipped a table over, while my heart was racing, my voice was shaking, and I was thinking, “What am I doing wrong?” The truth is, nothing. I wasn't doing it wrong—I just didn't know what I know now. If you're navigating frequent meltdowns, power struggles, or total shutdowns, you're not alone. These behaviors can feel overwhelming and even scary at times. And most of us were never taught what to do with them—especially in the context of trauma. So today, I want to share with you the 3 things I wish I knew sooner about handling hard behaviors. These lessons have completely shifted how I show up as a foster mom and a therapist—and they might just do the same for you. Join the Foster Mama Lifeline here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/reclaimed-mama-community-pfdw5q2k More freebies and resources here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

If you're a foster or adoptive mom, there's a good chance you've felt it. That deep, nagging guilt that whispers: You're not doing enough. You should have handled that better. You shouldn't feel this way. They deserve more than you can give. I call it the guilt spiral—and it's a space so many of us end up in, often without even realizing it. It starts small, with a moment of self-doubt. But it snowballs quickly, pulling us into a pit of shame, anxiety, and relentless pressure to be everything for everyone. I've been there—more than once. And I want to talk about it today because I know how lonely and exhausting it feels to carry guilt silently. I also know that it doesn't have to be this way. In this post, I'm sharing why the guilt spiral happens so often in foster and adoptive motherhood, how it affects us (and our families), and most importantly—how to get out of it. Let's breathe some truth and grace into this together. Join the Foster Mama LIfeline Here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

When I began fostering, I felt like I had prepared as much as any human possibly could. I read all the books. I watched the webinars. I went to the trainings. I talked to seasoned foster parents. I even practiced “holding space” for imaginary scenarios in my head. I was ready—or so I thought. But no amount of preparation can fully equip you for the lived experience of foster parenting, especially in that first raw, vulnerable year. Now, years later, as a therapist who supports foster and adoptive moms, I can look back on that time with a bit more grace. I see the mistakes I made—not with shame—but with curiosity and compassion. Because those missteps were also my greatest teachers. Here are the biggest mistakes I made in my first year of fostering—and the lessons they taught me. Join the Foster Mama Lifeline here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/reclaimed-mama-community-pfdw5q2k Find free resources + more support here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As a former school social worker and someone currently serving as a long-term social work sub in a public school, I've had a front-row seat to how schools function behind the scenes. I've also witnessed how challenging it can be for foster mamas to advocate for their children in the school system. Many foster children enter school carrying the weight of trauma, attachment challenges, and emotional stress, all of which can affect their ability to learn and thrive in a traditional classroom setting. Join my Foster Mama Lifeline Here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/reclaimed-mama-community-pfdw5q2k Get more support and freebies here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Fact: Foster care disproportionately affects families of color. In this episode, I'm having a SUPER raw and real conversation with foster mama and foster care advocate Gaile Osborne. Gaile is the executive director of the Foster Family Alliance of North Carolina and has learned firsthand that most of us well-meaning foster mamas DO have work to do when it comes to being anti-racist and educating our extended family and friends to do the same. Learn more about the Alliance here: https://www.ffa-nc.org/ Get more support, including my Foster Mama Lifeline Community here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As a foster mama, you carry a weight that few truly understand—the sleepless nights worrying about your child's emotional well-being, the endless advocacy to ensure they get the right support, and the deep emotional investment in their healing. You're juggling doctor's appointments, IEP meetings, sibling visits, birth parent relationships, and behaviors that other parents don't have to navigate. And through it all, you're expected to keep going. But have you ever stopped to think about what it costs you to stay in this cycle of exhaustion? Most of us don't. We push through, telling ourselves that our kids need us. That we'll take a break later. That we don't have time for self-care. That we just need to be stronger. But burnout isn't just a bad day or a rough week. It's a long-term depletion—and it has real consequences for your health, your family, and your ability to show up as the mom you want to be. Get the Foster Mama Survival Kit here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/solutions-for-foster-care-stress

When you become a foster or adoptive parent, you enter into a world that is filled with love, challenges, joy, and, at times, pain. It's a journey that requires constant learning, compassion, and understanding as you help your child navigate their own emotions, identity, and relationship with their biological roots. Get my FREE coping skills class here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Winter brings a unique opportunity for families to slow down, cozy up, and create meaningful memories together. Between the chilly weather and shorter days, it's the perfect season to focus on strengthening your bond with your children. Whether you're a foster parent, adoptive parent, or biological parent, prioritizing connection can bring warmth to your home and deepen your relationships. Here are five practical and heartfelt ways to connect with your kids this winter. Join our STEP BET walking challenge: https://step.bet/D4SfR1jebQb Need more support on your foster care journey? Check out my free resources here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As a foster mom, you may find yourself navigating a mix of joy, heartbreak, hope, and uncertainty. Managing your emotions effectively is crucial not only for your well-being but also for providing the best care and support for the children in your home. Today, we'll explore actionable strategies to help foster moms manage their emotions, maintain resilience, and foster a sense of stability for themselves and their families. Apply for Fearless Fostering (before December 31st) here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfF8P5eedeg3Wd7xdwaTOISWoyXX3LyZEsWsjjx11sI9bZUkQ/viewform

What does the enneagram have to do with foster care? Turns out, quite a lot! On this episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I'm chatting with Ashton Brye of @ashton.creates about how the enneagram gave us insight into our experience as foster mamas. From how we processed (vs. our husbands!) to how we have grown and changed because of our foster care journeys, we don't hold back. Find Ashton's art and foster care journey here: https://www.instagram.com/ashton.creates/ To apply for one of the remaining 2 spots of my Fearless Fostering group, click here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfF8P5eedeg3Wd7xdwaTOISWoyXX3LyZEsWsjjx11sI9bZUkQ/viewform

Reunification is at the heart of foster care, embodying the primary goal of bringing children back to a safe, stable, and loving home with their biological families. For foster moms, this process can be emotionally complex, filled with moments of joy, heartache, and profound learning. Whether you're preparing for your first experience with reunification or navigating its aftermath, understanding the truth about this process can help you approach it with empathy, resilience, and clarity. Apply for Fearless Fostering HERE: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfF8P5eedeg3Wd7xdwaTOISWoyXX3LyZEsWsjjx11sI9bZUkQ/viewform

Between managing the emotions of your kids, navigating family gatherings, and trying to create a joyful atmosphere, the holidays can feel overwhelming. I've been there, and I know how heavy it can feel to balance the joy of the season with the complexities of foster care or adoption. The good news is that you don't have to just survive the holidays—you can thrive. That's what this episode is all about! Apply here for the next round of Fearless Fostering: https://fearlessfostering.selfcarebestie.com/fearless-fostering Get your FREE Holiday Planner here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As a foster or adoptive mom, one of the most heart-wrenching yet meaningful moments comes when your child begins to ask about their story. Questions about their biological family, their past, and their identity can bring up a whirlwind of emotions—not only for them but for you as well. Here's a guide to help you navigate these moments with empathy, clarity, and openness. Need more support on your journey? Check out my Foster Mama Essentials Bundle and 1:1 sessions for foster and adoptive mamas here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Many people outside the foster care community have this misconception that fostering is a way to make money. I've heard it before, and I'm sure many of you have too—"Oh, you must be getting paid a lot to take care of these kids!"But the truth, as you all know, is that foster care is anything but a moneymaker. In fact, for 60% of foster parents, it brings more financial strain than they anticipated. Grab the PLR bundle here to start your digital product journey today: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Join me for an inspiring conversation with Beth Hewitt, a passionate advocate in the foster care community. In this episode, we discuss the challenges and triumphs of fostering, share valuable insights on supporting foster children and families, and explore ways to create a nurturing environment for all. Don't miss out on this opportunity to connect with others in the community! Join my Foster Care Support Group this Thursday, October 17 at 8 pm eastern for an open discussion and support. Save your spot here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/foster-mama-support-group Be sure to follow Beth on Instagram for more encouragement and inspiration: https://www.instagram.com/bethnhewitt/

When it hurts to hope, remember that hope is holy, foster mama. This short but sweet episode is one I hope you will return to time and again when you feel tired, weary, and overwhelmed by the weight of your foster care journey, or just plain frustrated. And if you're looking for more foster care resources, you can find them here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Today's guest is Abby Mortensen, a mama who entered the world of foster care after being a victim of adoption scams. Since becoming foster parents, she and her husband have fostered many children in two states. Abby shares about how her faith plays a vital role in her ability to keep fostering, despite how difficult it can be, and encourages us all to get support, ask for help, and make self-care a priority. You can follow Abby's journey here: https://www.abbymortenson.com/ AND, I'm now accepting applications for my 6 month Fearless Fostering group and retreat! You can learn more and apply here: https://fearlessfostering.selfcarebestie.com/fearless-fostering

I absolutely couldn't wait to share this conversation I had with former foster youth, adoptee and advocate (and Ivy League college student!!) Melody Welles. Melody was so gracious to share vulnerably about the trauma she endured growing up in an adoptive home where she didn't feel part of the family or wanted, and how she is today using her platform to show foster youth what is possible when they believe their story is just part of their experience and it doesn't define them. She also shares amazing wisdom for foster and adoptive parents, so you don't want to miss this episode!! Follow Melody here: https://www.instagram.com/melody.adoptee/ Get more support on your foster care journey here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

On today's episode, former foster youth and Court Appointed Special Advocate Joan Ulsher shares her experience and expertise on two different sides of the foster care system. Particularly passionate about advocating for teens, Joan highlights the influence a CASA can have in the life of a foster youth and their family. You can connect with Joan and read her book here: https://www.joanulsher.com/ For more support on your foster care journey click here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

What do you do when bio parents do a little at the last minute and the case drags on and on? How do you handle burnout in foster care? And how do you keep the faith when it seems like everything is SO broken about the system and the world? I'm answering all these questions and more on this episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast. Sign up for your FREE 15 minute call with me right here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

In today's episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I'm sharing a live Q+A I did on Instagram: feeling pressure to adopt, hoping to spread the word about foster care, feeling like you're ready to be done but the end is nowhere in sight. Find info on my free resources and groups here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

No matter which part of the foster care triad we embody, it's important to recognize that our own lived experience is valid AND so are the experiences of the other members of the triad. We cannot say one voice is more important than another without invalidating and tearing another part down. What are your thoughts on this? Find more support on your foster care journey here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Join the BETA group of Fearless Adoption, a deeply connected community for mamas who have adopted from foster care. This group is for you if you're looking to: Connect with other adoptive mamas who get what you're going through Empower yourself by making space for all of your emotions (and process through them!) Learn skills that will enhance your connection with your child and manage difficult behaviors HAVE FUN and bring some levity to this journey! The program starts Thursday, May 2nd and ends Thursday, July 25th. The program includes: One weekly email newsletter full of wisdom and encouragement for handling difficult behaviors, difficult feelings, and difficult people! Plus ways to take care of you and connect with your kids. One monthly "office hours" call where you can pop in and ask questions LIVE (via zoom) One monthly "happy hour" call where you can bring your fave snack and bev and simply connect with me and other adoptive mamas - get a chance to know each other as people, not just mamas! (via zoom) The happy hours and office hours will be held on Thursday evenings at 8 pm eastern/7 pm central/6 pm mountain/5 pm pacific. A full schedule of calls will be sent out via email on May 2nd. Questions? Email cathleen@fearlessfostering.com or dm me on Instagram! This is the only group I'm offering at this price (it will go up to $597 for every successive round!), so don't delay! I can't wait to support you on your adoptive mama journey. Learn more or sign up here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

On this episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, Dr. Kate Truitt shares her wisdom as a psychologist and neroscientist. Focusing on the different types of trauma that both foster mamas and kids in care might encounter, she also shares practical (and easy to remember!) ways to stop trauma triggers in their tracks. Follow Dr. Truitt here and check out her new book, Keep Breathing: https://drtruitt.com/ Get more support on your foster or adoptive journey here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Such a huge fan of my guest today, foster and adoptive mama (and former Fearless Fostering member!) Erika Vance. Erika shares how she got started fostering, ultimately ended up adopting, and how she manages 4 young kiddos as a single foster mama. She recently began work in the world of foster care as well, so she is a wealth of knowledge! You can follow Erika's journey here: https://www.tiktok.com/@erikathefostermom?_t=8lXvfd2MOxq&_r=1 Find more foster care support here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Today, I'm speaking with Cassie Stroman, a foster and adoptive mama who has recently closed her home after the adoption of her two little boys. Cassie didn't set out to adopt from foster care, but shares her decision making around saying "yes" when her boys needed permanency through adoption. She also shares valuable wisdom about her time as a single foster mama that anyone can benefit from! Learn more about Cassie here: https://www.instagram.com/cassie_stroman/ Post-adoption connection boxes: https://www.postresource.com/ FREE QUIZ: What type of foster care support do you need most right now:https://quiz.tryinteract.com/#/660d8ff2d0fb737ec769fa82

On today's episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I'm joined again by foster/adoptive mama and TBRI practitioner Jules Thompson. Jules shares the importance of educating churches and schools about trauma and how it can impact kids from hard places so there can be more spaces willing to welcome these kids and families with openness and understanding. For foster care support and freebies, visit: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Picture this: a home filled with laughter, love, and children. It's the ideal image of foster care, but it's not always the reality. There's a side to this story that often goes untold: the unseen struggle of foster mamas. The glossy image of happy, harmonious families is frequently just a veneer the shields the true reality. Behind closed doors, foster mamas grapple with a myriad of challenges. It's a constant tug of war between providing love and care and dealing with the emotional and mental strain that inevitably accompanies the role. The silent battles of these brave women are often overlooked. The sleepless nights, the worry, the constant state of hypervigilance - it can take a toll. Download my Foster Mama Coping Skills Class here:https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/foster-mama-coping-class

magine the dread and uncertainty that comes with stepping into the unknown, especially when it involves caring for a child who's not your own. It's a journey filled with a unique set of challenges and yes, fears. Fears that are as real as the child's need for love and support. Perhaps you fear becoming too attached to a child who might leave. Or maybe you're worried about dealing with a child's trauma, not being equipped to handle their hurt, their past. And then there's the daunting pressure of meeting the child's needs and being everything they need when you're still figuring it all out yourself. These fears, these struggles - they are common. THey are shared. You are not alone. Get your FREE Foster Mama Guide here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Imagine the feeling of being judged, misunderstood, or even criticized for the way you handle situations in your foster home. It's a common misconception: this idea that there's one, and only one right way to be a foster mom. It's a myth that's been perpetuated, creating undue pressure and judgement on the very shoulders of those who've chosen to open their hearts and homes to children and families in need. As a foster mom, you've probably felt the sting of scrutiny, the weight of expectations pressing down on you, the guilt creeping in when your methods differ from those of others. I'm here to tell you it's ok. It's ok to be different, to have your unique approach. Get your Healthy Boundaries Guide here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

My guest today is Tina Bauer, a mama, former foster youth, adoptee, and foster and adoptive parent consultant. Tina generously shares her perspective with us and gives many helpful tips for foster and adoptive mamas, especially those wondering if they are "doing it right." Follow Tina on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/tinaa_bauerr/ Find her consulting services here: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.experiencecareconsulting.com%2F&e=AT0rO6PAq1xG8n4qqS8gUkAed0heIxf39CA2l3k6MRtgi4Pr_UBsafOourdTjgpah9pq2wd0Qa43yR-nzRSCWcYeujzsNgVRLl96WSM3TsRVXr-1an5HBw

On this episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I sit down for a chat with Mark Daley, author of Safe: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and the Risks We Take For Family. Mark shares about his time as a foster dad, and why he felt the need to write this book. He shares how the broken system is failing kids and first families and what foster families (and EVERYONE else) can do to help. Find Mark's book (out January 30th) here: www.amazon.com/Safe-Memoir-Fathe…1706476702&sr=8-1 Find Mark on Instagram here: www.instagram.com/markdaley00/

As foster and adoptive mamas open their hearts and homes to kids from hard places, they often find themselves neglecting their own well-being. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, self-care often takes a backseat. However, it's crucial for us to recognize that our own self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. In this episode, we'll delve into the importance of self-care for foster and adoptive mamas and how planning out self-care routines can be a game-changer. Get your FREE weekly self-care planner here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As you navigate the ups and downs of foster care, you may find yourself wanting to share your experiences on social media. Whether it's to connect with other foster parents, raise awareness about fostering, or simply document your personal growth, telling your story online can be a powerful and meaningful endeavor. In this episode, we'll explore some valuable tips for foster mamas who are considering sharing their journey on social media. Additionally, make sure to check out my free checklist, where I share all the tools I use to support foster mamas online: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

The world of foster care is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges that can leave you feeling stressed and worried about your kids' cases. It's crucial to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. In this episode, we'll explore ways to maintain peace and calm on your foster care journey, no matter what curve balls come your way. Get your personalized foster care audit here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/book-your-11-session-with-me

Dear Foster and Adoptive Mamas, As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it's a profound moment to reflect not only on the challenges we've overcome but also on the intentional choices we're making for our future selves. The daily labor of love, the vulnerability of attachment, and the unique journey of foster and adoptive parenting are not easy feats. In this letter, let's explore the power of grace, intentional living, and the transformative impact of small, consistent changes. You can check out the whack-a-doo sales in my shop (that change every day in December!) right here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

In the hustle and bustle of the holiday season, it's easy for foster and adoptive mamas to get caught up in the whirlwind of preparations, expectations, and extra responsibilities. Amidst the chaos, it's crucial to take a step back and remember the true essence of the season and how precious the gift of time and presence is for our children. In this episode, we'll explore why these gifts are the most precious offerings we can give, especially to the incredible souls we've welcomed into our homes through foster care and adoption. Shop WHACK-A-DO daily deals on all my trainings, groups + 1:1 support right here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As foster and adoptive mamas, navigating the complex landscape of trauma is an integral part of our parenting journey. The term “trauma” carries weight, often evoking a sense of fear and concern for the well-being of our children. In this episode of the Fearless Fostering podast, we're going to delve into the clinical definition of trauma, emphasizing its nature as a nervous system response rather than a fixed event. Understanding this crucial distinction allows us to approach parenting from a place of knowledge, compassion, and resilience. Click here to see the daily deals in my shop all month long: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering Click here to read more about trauma on my blog: https://selfcarebestie.com/blog/#about Register for the Good Grief LIVE training here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As foster mamas, we navigate the complex terrain of caregiving, often finding ourselves caught up in the whirlwind of daily tasks and responsibilities. The holiday season, with its festive chaos and endless to-do lists, can exacerbate the already demanding nature of our roles. However, what if this December became the month we collectively committed to slowing everything down? What if we embraced the idea that true peace and joy are within our reach, contingent upon our willingness to care for our minds, bodies, and souls? In this episode, we'll explore the concept of slow living and delve into practical ways foster mamas can intentionally slow down during the holiday season. Additionally, we'll discuss an upcoming opportunity for growth and support with the Good Grief Live Training on December 11th at 8 pm eastern, as well as an exciting month-long celebration featuring daily sales on valuable resources in the Fearless Fostering community. Register for the Good Grief LIVE training here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering Shop DAILY wild + crazy deals in my shop here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

The holiday season is often portrayed as a time of joy, warmth, and togetherness. Yet balancing the excitement of the festivities with the uncertainties of the foster care journey requires resilience and coping strategies. Let's explore practical ways to navigate the holiday season, finding joy amid the challenges. Get the Embrace the Unknown Support Bundle and Good Grief Live Training info here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

This conversation with Dr. Danisha Keating was truly a gift -Dr. Keating shares her journey from time in foster care as a teen to aging out of the system to obtaining guardianship of her siblings who were also in care. She defied all odds and purused higher education, ultimately her PhD. In this candid conversation, Dr. Keating shares advice for foster and adoptive mamas and what she wish would have been different when she was in care. You can find out more about Dr. Keating's journey here: https://www.instagram.com/drdanishakeating/