Podcasts about fasd

Send us a textWhat if mental health and behavior weren't just about the brain, but also about the body? In this fascinating conversation, Jeff sits down with Dr. Tamara Bodnar, a biological scientist and researcher at the University of Calgary, whose work is changing how we understand FASD from the inside out.Dr. Bodnar studies the gut–brain axis — the constant communication between our digestive system and our brain — and how prenatal alcohol exposure can disrupt that balance for life. Her groundbreaking research reveals how gut health, inflammation, and stress all shape behavior, mood, and regulation in ways caregivers see every day.Together, Jeff and Dr. Bodnar explore how small, realistic shifts like balanced meals, hydration, and consistent routines can support both body and brain. They also talk about what's next in FASD science, including probiotics, personalized medicine, and new collaborations that bring caregivers and researchers together.In this episode you'll learn how prenatal alcohol exposure affects gut health and stress regulation, why inflammation can amplify mood and behavior, and how to make simple, guilt-free choices that help create calm from the inside out.This episode reminds us that behavior isn't just communication — it's biology. When we understand how the body and brain talk to each other, we can replace frustration with compassion and find hope in small, steady changes. Dr. Bodnar's work validates what families have always known in their gut: small steps matter, and progress starts from the inside out.You're not alone. You're doing better than you think.Resources and LinksJoin our FASD Success Facebook Group: facebook.com/groups/FASDforever Subscribe to our YouTube Channel: @FASDSuccess Listen on Spotify or Apple Podcasts Follow Jeff on Instagram: @FASDSuccess Full show notes: fasdsuccess.com/podcastSupport the show

“And the ransomed of the LORD shall return and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain gladness and joy, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away.” -Isaiah 51:11   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode host Sandra Flach talks with Dr. Jerrod Brown about attachment from a neuroscience lens.    Jerrod Brown, Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.S., M.S., is a professor, trainer, researcher, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. Jerrod is also the founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies (AIAFS). Jerrod has also provided consultation services to a number of caregivers, professionals, and organizations pertaining to topics related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), confabulation, suggestibility, trauma and other life adversities, alexithymia, executive dysfunction, criminal recidivism, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and youth firesetting. Jerrod has completed four separate master's degree programs and holds graduate certificates in Medical Biochemistry, Exercise Prescription, Neuroscience and the Law, Neuropsychology, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Other Health Disabilities (OHD), and Traumatic-Brain Injuries (TBI). In 2021, Jerrod completed a post-doctoral certificate in Leadership and Organizational Strategy from Walden University and a Professional Certificate in Forensic Psychology from San Diego State University Global Campus. In 2023, Jerrod completed a diabetes care and education certificate from Central Arizona College. Currently, Jerrod is pursuing his fifth master's degree in Applied Clinical Nutrition from Northeast College of Health Sciences.  Jerrod has also conducted over 300 workshops, webinars, and on-demand trainings for various organizations and professional and student audiences. Jerrod has published several articles and book chapters, and recently, co-edited the book Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals (Brown & Weinkauf, 2018) with Erv Weinkauf. Jerrod has also been quoted in various magazines, newspapers, and other professional outlets. Jerrod is also regularly featured on several national and international podcast programs.   Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Dr. Brown on Episode 501 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon RePlanted Conference Filled Retreat

Send us a textTrigger Warning: This episode includes discussions around mental health challenges and suicide. Please listen when you feel ready and take care of yourself as needed.What if everything you thought you knew about mental health and behavior was flipped on its head? In this powerful conversation, Jeff sits down with Dr. Jacqueline Pei, psychologist, professor at the University of Alberta, and senior research lead with CanFASD, to explore how mental health really shows up for individuals with FASD and how reframing what we see changes everything about how we respond.Dr. Pei explains why up to 90% of individuals with FASD experience mental-health challenges, how anxiety and depression often hide behind behavior, and why understanding the brain through a “nervous-system-first” lens can completely transform care.Together, Jeff and Dr. Pei talk about what it means to “sit in the frustration,” the danger of misunderstanding in schools and systems, and the power of empathy to calm chaos and restore hope.In This Episode You'll HearWhy mental health challenges are so common in FASD — and what's really driving them How anxiety and depression often disguise themselves as “defiance” or “bad   behavior” Why traditional definitions of depression and anxiety don't always fit How to use the “Pause and Reframe” tool to see behavior through a nervous-   system lens The emotional toll of systemic misunderstanding on caregivers and families Guidance for recognizing mental-health signs and supporting emotional stability A compassionate, science-backed discussion about suicidality and safety   planning • Why connection, purpose, and relationships are the strongest protective factors • The future of FASD research — and how collaboration between families and scientists is changing everythingWhy It MattersThis episode is a reminder that behavior is communication, not defiance — and that healing starts with understanding. Through Dr. Pei's research and Jeff's lived experience, you'll walk away with tools to replace judgment with curiosity, fear with empathy, and burnout with hope.Dr. Pei's message is clear: we can't fix everything, but through connection, compassion, and collaboration, we can help individuals with FASD — and their families — thrive.

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." Ephesians 2:10   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   It's September—International FASD Awareness Month! All month long we will focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach continues the FASD conversation with Julia Rivera. Julia is a retired attorney and co-founder of the Texas FASD Network. After years of unsuccessfully seeking interventions for her son's perceived behavioral issues, he was finally diagnosed with the underlying problem—Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Implementing the FASCETS Neurobehavioral Model for FASD revolutionized her parenting and saved her son. When she's not advocating for FASD awareness, you can find Julia at her home in the Kansas City area with her 3 boys—her hubby Angel, her son who is now 22, and her cat, Buster.    Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Julia Rivera on Episode 499 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon fasdunited.org https://texasfasd.org FASCETS.org

"For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." -Ephesians 2:10   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   It's September—International FASD Awareness Month! All month long we will focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach continues the FASD conversation with adult adoptee, Emily Twomey. Emily was adopted at age two and diagnosed with an FASD. She is currently married and the mom of two boys and three bonus kids. Emily also created and runs a small business—Natures Glow Candle Company based in Maryland.   Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Emily Twomey on Episode 498 HERE.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon fasdunited.org naturesglowcandlecompany.com

Send us a textTurning Pain Into Purpose: Malgorzata's FASD AdvocacyWhat if the child you were promised was “healthy” — and the real story didn't show up until years later? What if the diagnosis you fought so hard to get didn't open doors but instead left you standing in another long hallway?In this episode of The FASD Success Show, I sit down with Malgorzata from Poland. Her journey takes us through judgment, grief, and exhaustion, but also resilience and advocacy. From being told by her pediatrician sister that she was a “bad mom” to realizing a diagnosis doesn't guarantee support, her story is one caregivers around the world will recognize.Malgorzata turned pain into purpose by founding FASmisja, a national organization that is shifting awareness across Poland. She speaks in schools, prisons, and communities, using relatable tools like the flu analogy and diamond activity to reframe FASD and build self-esteem for kids. And in one of the most moving moments, she shares how her son once dismissed as “angry and difficult” saved a stranger's life.Meet the Guest: MalgorzataMalgorzata is the founder of FASmisja, an advocacy and training initiative that grew out of her personal journey as a parent. What began as searching for answers in isolation has grown into a national mission that is opening eyes, training professionals, and giving families hope.In this episode you'll hear• The grief of false expectations when adoption and reality don't match • How judgment from family, teachers, and professionals adds to the pain • Why a diagnosis doesn't always open doors and what actually makes the difference • Simple teaching tools — like the flu analogy and diamond story — that shift understanding and self-esteem • How personal advocacy grew into FASDmisja and a national movement • A powerful story of hope: Malgorzata's son saving a stranger's life • Breaking News: The U.S. Senate has passed the SUPPORT for Patients and Communities Reauthorization Act of 2025, which includes the FASD Respect Act. This legislation authorizes $12.5 million annually through 2030 for FASD prevention, awareness, diagnosis, and services.Why It MattersMalgorzata's story is one of courage and purpose. She reminds us that grief and judgment are real, but so is hope. Knowledge reframes behaviors, advocacy ripples out beyond our own homes, and kids with FASD can shine in ways nobody expects.

In this episode of Regulated & Relational, hosts Julie Beem and Ginger Healy sit down with two fathers on a mission to transform the way families and schools understand neurodiversity—Carl Young and Joel Sheagren.Carl and Joel are the co-creators of Embracing Hope: A Caregiver's Guide to Neurodiversity, a groundbreaking book that bridges lived experience, creative storytelling, and research-based strategies to empower families raising children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), and trauma.

Send us a textRelationships and Resilience: Reinier & Kate on Love and FASDWhat does love look like when FASD is part of the story? And how do you play the long game when milestones come later than expected?In this episode of The FASD Success Show, I sit down with my friends Reinier deSmit and Kate Kristiansen for a real and vulnerable conversation about partnership, conflict, and resilience.Reinier was diagnosed with FASD at 56. Now in his 60s, he describes that diagnosis as a gift  finally giving him language to replace a lifetime of confusion. Kate, his partner, brings two decades of communications and marketing experience, plus a heart for boundaries, structure, and connection. Together, they model what it means to live and love interdependently.Meet the Guests: Reinier & KateReinier is a photographer, life counsellor, and lived-experience advocate with Fetal Alcohol Nova Scotia, where he helps create clearer language and kinder systems.Kate has led national campaigns for Cirque du Soleil and DreamWorks Live, teaches marketing at St. Lawrence College, and runs Hummingbird Studios, a creative retreat space in Ontario. In their relationship, she brings the communication chops and the perspective of being a partner, not a caregiver.In this episode, you'll hear:Why Kate's line “I don't want to be his caregiver, I want to be his partner” is a game-changer for caregivers thinking about their kids' futures.The simple but powerful conflict strategy they use when things get heated (and why it's transferable to parenting).How Reinier describes transitions as “motion sickness” — and why sameness and structure afterward help stabilize life.What interdependence really looks like in adulthood, and why it's healthier than chasing complete independence.Why their relationship itself offers hope and a “sneak peek” of what's possible for individuals with FASD.Why It MattersMilestones are milestones no matter the age. Whether it's buying a house at 65, learning to ride a bike at 25, or mastering a new daily living skill later in life — late wins still count. This episode shows that progress looks different, takes longer, but always matters.

"Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, and before you were born I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations." -Jeremiah 1:5   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   It's September—International FASD Awareness Month! All month long we will focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach continues the FASD conversation with adoptive mom and passionate FASD advocate, Michelle Trager.   Michelle is a parent of 4 school-aged kids through both adoption & birth. She is a passionate advocate for children & young adults with special needs—particularly in raising awareness about Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders among policymakers, educators, mental health professionals, the justice system, and caregivers & families. Michelle's personal & professional experiences have equipped her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by vulnerable populations.   With experience in youth crisis, foster placement stabilization, community mental health, and school social work, Michelle developed a deep understanding of the intersectionality of various support systems. As a parent navigating these systems, she has firsthand knowledge of their complexities and frequent shortcomings. She is a certified facilitator of the FASCETS NB model and is trained in TBRI. Additionally, she completed an intensive caregiver training program focused on FASD through Jeff Noble & served as a parent mentor to others in that community.   Michelle contributed to policy development as a member of the Advancing Transformations in Juvenile Justice Committee and continues to participate on the Illinois Dept. of Juvenile Justice Family Advisory Committee. She provided testimony at the Illinois Behavioral & Mental Health Committee Hearing in 2021 & remains a vocal advocate for addressing the mental/behavioral health crisis for children and young adults in Illinois, including those with severe disabilities who lack resources. She has presented several times for the Illinois Council for Children with Behavioral Disorders winter conference, sharing her expertise on FASD. In July 2023 shows invited to join Congresswoman Lauren Underwood's Community Advisory Council, where she continues to bring information to and advocate for her community.    Michelle holds a BA in Psychology from the Univ. of Notre Dame & an MSW with school social work certification from aurora Univ. She is actively engaged in the Chicago-area FASD parent support community, providing legislative updates and organizing advocacy efforts, including those related to the proposed federal bipartisan SUPPORT ACT, which includes crucial language addressing FASD programs.   Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Michelle Trager on Episode 497 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon fasdunited.org trager.FASDIllinois@gmail.com 

Kurt is joined by Professor Anita Gibbs, of the University of Otago, New Zealand and Julie Flanagan. NOFASD's National Projects and Communications Manager. Together they discuss a research article based on the outcomes of the Families Linking with Families program and the benefits of the program as confirmed by participating caregivers.. The Families Linking with Families program is an online support group developed by NOFASD Australia in conjunction with Professor Gibbs, to provide education and peer support for those who are caregivers for individuals living with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD).Key points about the Families Linking with Families program:- It is a structured and guided 7-week online support group which is led by trained facilitators, each of whom is a parent or caregiver for an individual with FASD.The main benefits include:- Enabling caregivers to connect with others who are going through similar experiences, thereby lessening the sense of loneliness experienced by many carers.- Providing a safe and confidential space for caregivers to share their specific situation and challenges without judgement- Increasing caregiver knowledge about FASD, effective parenting/caregiving approaches and FASD-informed strategies.- Empowering caregivers and building their resilience.The online format makes the program accessible across Australia, even for those in remote areas. The program is delivered several times a year and is refined based on participant feedback and issues of concern tabled during meetings. Australians interested in participating in a future support group should contact the NOFASD Australia helpline on 1800 860 613 or visit our website through this link to express interest.The research article discussed in this episode is: “An Australian Online Training and Support Program for Caregivers of Children and Youth with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder: Families Linking with Families” by Anita Gibbs, Julie Flanagan and Louise Gray is freely accessible. It's an open access article in the Journal of Intellectual and Developmental Disability. The full article can be read at: https://doi.org/10.3109/13668250.2023.2271757. For more information about FASD, please go to: https://www.nofasd.org.au/Producers: Kurt Lewis, Julie Flanagan and Louise GrayNarrator: Frances PriceInterviewer: Kurt LewisInterviewees: Professor Anita Gibbs & Julie FlanaganThe copyright is owned by NOFASD Australia.All rights reserved - No reproduction or use of this content without written consent of Kurt Lewis and NOFASD Australia.The views expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewees. NOFASD makes every effort to ensure all content is free from judgement and stigma. NOFASD's mission includes reducing stigma for families and individuals impacted by FASD.

Die Ausstellung „Starke Geister“ macht sichtbar, was oft verborgen bleibt: die Persönlichkeiten junger Menschen mit FASD.Mein kostenloses E-Book "Kompaktes Wissen über FASD" bietet dir in 7 Schritten Anregungen zum Verstehen der Diagnose, Finden von Unterstützung und Erkennen typischer Verhaltensmuster. Meine persönlichen Erfahrungen als Pflegevater von Zwillingen mit FASD fließen mit ein.Melde dich jetzt für meinen Newsletter "Chaos im Kopf - FASD Insights" an und erhalte sofortigen Zugriff auf das E-Book. Profitiere von regelmäßigen Updates und hilfreichen Tipps für den Alltag mit FASD.[Hier klicken zur E-Book-Seite]

The cost of alcohol abuse in this country is absolutely phenomenal. Worldwide, I can't even imagine what it would be, but here in this country it's bad enough. A report that came out last year from the New Zealand Institute of Economic Research, the first of its kind since 2009, found that: The cost of alcohol abuse in terms of alcohol harm based on disability adjusted life years is $9.1 billion. $4.8b associated with disability-adjusted life years from Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) $1.2 b associated with disability-adjusted life years from alcohol use disorder $281m - intimate partner violence (for alcohol use disorder alone) $74m - child maltreatment (for hazardous drinking alone), $2.1b in societal cost of road crashes where alcohol was a factor $4b in lost productivity associated with alcohol use, including FASD, crimes and workplace absenteeism $810m, predominantly in health and ACC spending. Peter Dunne, in an article in Newsroom this week, argues that these costs are a result of a decades-long failure in policy. He says when he was working for the Alcoholic Liquor Advisory Council way back in the late 70s, they undertook the first national survey of New Zealanders' alcohol consumption and drinking patterns. The most dramatic finding, he says, was that 9% of drinkers were responsible for two-thirds of the alcohol drunk. Of all the alcohol consumed in the country, 9% of drinkers drink two-thirds of it. He says that told you there were binge drinkers, problem drinkers, who made up a minority of the population, and a minority of the drinking population, but consumed the most, and that's where education and policy should have been directed. However, around the same time that survey came out, the World Health Organisation came up with its own policy and advised that government interventions should focus on reducing alcohol consumption levels overall to reduce the number of alcohol-related problems, rather than focus on specific groups. So you've had broad-brush, once over lightly programmes, you know, general, ‘hey guys, you know, it's not what you drink, it's how you're drinking', the general programs. And that, he says, has failed. Most people do know how to drink sensibly. They'll enjoy a glass or two of wine occasionally, and that'll be that. A couple of beers on a hot day after a surf. Fantastic. Then there are those of us who board a sky-sailing pirate ship to whiskey Valhalla and it's hoots way hay and off as Caitlin Moran put it. And sometimes that's fine, and sometimes that's not. When you set out to lose control, chuck everything in the air and see where it all lands, sometimes it lands you in a police cell, or hospital, or in the bed of someone you shouldn't be with. And that's when the trouble starts. Peter Dunne argues that we need to do away with the broad-brush approach and focus on the binge drinkers, the problem drinkers. Targeted policies for that 9 to 10% of the population who cannot drink sensibly, who do not drink moderately, and who are causing all of the harm. Do you need to be told how much you should drink, when you should drink it, like not when you're pregnant? Do you need to be told that? Do you just switch off when you drink and think, oh for heaven's sake, who on earth are they talking to? I know all of this stuff. Do we need to be focusing on the people who need to hear the message, all that money going into general education, redirected to those groups who need to hear the message most, and putting more of the money into the rehabilitation and the turning around and the changing of dangerous drinking behaviours? That is a hell of a lot of money to spend on disordered drinking, on problem drinking. And it's not you, probably, or you. But over there in the corner, it's us. And we're the ones that need to hear the message, not them. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today is International FASD Awareness Day, a day that deserves our full attention. On this powerful episode of Fostering Change, host Rob Scheer is joined by Patricia (Patti) Kasper, a Neurobehavioral Coach and Trainer who discovered she had FASD as an adult.Patti's story is one of resilience and advocacy. After learning about her diagnosis, she shifted her work to focus on the 15 million U.S. adults living with undiagnosed FASD, bringing awareness, education, and hope to those who may not even realize how deeply FASD affects their lives.In this conversation, you'll hear:✨ Patti's personal journey of discovery and healing✨ The hidden challenges of adults living with undiagnosed FASD✨ How Rob's own connection to FASD fuels Comfort Cases' mission✨ The importance of spreading awareness on International FASD Awareness DayPatti is also the host of the podcast Living with FASD and author of Sip by Sip: Candid Conversation with Adults Living with FASD. You can find her book here: books.by/yourfasdcoach.

In this unforgettable episode, Ginger and Julie sit down with the one and only Barb Clark—a powerhouse trainer, parent, and advocate known for saying the things most people are too afraid (or too tired) to say out loud. With her signature honesty, humor, and hard-earned wisdom, Barb opens up about raising kids with complex needs, navigating Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD), and what it really takes to help families thrive—not just survive.Barb shares her own parenting journey—including the very recent revelation of her own FASD diagnosis at age 56—and how it's reshaped her perspective on everything from behavior to burnout. Together, we explore why traditional parenting strategies often backfire with neurodivergent kids, and how brain-based, compassion-rooted approaches can shift the entire family dynamic.This episode is a must-listen for educators, caregivers, and anyone supporting children impacted by trauma, prenatal exposure, or hidden disabilities. It's filled with relatable stories, regulation strategies you can use today, and more than a few laugh-out-loud moments.Because as Barb says, “There is always hope—even if it's buried under a pile of unfolded laundry.”What FASD really is—and why it's more common than most people thinkHow emotional regulation and brain-based strategies change the game for kids and caregiversWhy traditional behavior charts and consequences often fail neurodivergent kidsBarb's personal journey—from raising a child with FASD to discovering her own diagnosisTips for educators and leaders working with students impacted by trauma or prenatal substance exposurePractical, real-world advice you can use immediatelyWhy humor, honesty, and connection are essential parenting toolsBarb's book, Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family Thrive, will be released October 21, 2025.In This Episode, We Explore:Preorder Barb's Book: https://a.co/d/eDc38tv

Today is International FASD, or Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder Awareness Day. The annual awareness day aims to raise awareness of the condition and to support those trying to conceive or already pregnant The ninth day of the ninth month of the year was chosen for the annual awareness day, to represent the 9 months of pregnancy. FASD Ireland, who are headquartered in Ennis, are holding an awareness event in the Buttermarket today. They are also marking the day by publishing their year-long research with the Royal College of Surgeons Ireland. To find out more, Alan Morrissey was joined by Tristan Casson Rennie, CEO of Ennis-based FASD Ireland.

"The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is insight." -Proverbs 9:10   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   It's September—International FASD Awareness Month! All month long we will focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach continues the FASD conversation through a neuroscience lens with Dr. Jerrod Brown.    Jerrod Brown, Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.S., M.S., is a professor, trainer, researcher, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. Jerrod is also the founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies (AIAFS). Jerrod has also provided consultation services to a number of caregivers, professionals, and organizations pertaining to topics related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), confabulation, suggestibility, trauma and other life adversities, alexithymia, executive dysfunction, criminal recidivism, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and youth firesetting. Jerrod has completed four separate master's degree programs and holds graduate certificates in Medical Biochemistry, Exercise Prescription, Neuroscience and the Law, Neuropsychology, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Other Health Disabilities (OHD), and Traumatic-Brain Injuries (TBI). In 2021, Jerrod completed a post-doctoral certificate in Leadership and Organizational Strategy from Walden University and a Professional Certificate in Forensic Psychology from San Diego State University Global Campus. In 2023, Jerrod completed a diabetes care and education certificate from Central Arizona College. Currently, Jerrod is pursuing his fifth master's degree in Applied Clinical Nutrition from Northeast College of Health Sciences.  Jerrod has also conducted over 300 workshops, webinars, and on-demand trainings for various organizations and professional and student audiences. Jerrod has published several articles and book chapters, and recently, co-edited the book Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals (Brown & Weinkauf, 2018) with Erv Weinkauf. Jerrod has also been quoted in various magazines, newspapers, and other professional outlets. Jerrod is also regularly featured on several national and international podcast programs.   Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Dr. Brown on Episode 496 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon fasdunited.org

Kurt is joined by Dr Jeffrey Wozniak; a clinical paediatric neuropsychologist at the University of Minnesota and Dr Blake Gimbel; also a paediatric neuropsychologist and Assistant Clinical Professor at Nationwide Children's Hospital and the Ohio State University. They discuss their recent research which includes using brain imaging techniques, using online cognitive assessment tools to aid in FASDdiagnosis, and examining the role of sleep disturbances in FASD. One promising intervention they have studied is choline supplementation, which has been shown to have small, but measurable benefits in improving memory and cognitive function in young children with FASD. Overall, the researchers emphasise the importance of hope and continued research to support those living with FASD and their families.For more information about FASD, please go to: https://www.nofasd.org.au/ Producers: Kurt Lewis and Julie FlanaganInterviewer: Kurt LewisInterviewees: Dr Jeffrey Wozniak and Dr Blake GimbelNarrator: Frances PriceThe copyright is owned by NOFASD Australia.All rights reserved - No reproduction or use of this content without written consent of Kurt Lewis and NOFASD Australia. The views expressed in this podcast are those of the interviewee. NOFASD makes every effort to ensure all content is free from judgement and stigma. NOFASD's mission includes reducing stigma for families and individuals impacted by FASD.

Send us a textFASD Awareness Month Special: CanFASD Updates + See Jeff LiveAwareness isn't just hashtags or red shoes. It's what we do with that awareness that counts.In this special episode of The FASD Success Show, I sit down with Kathy Unsworth (the new Executive Director of CanFASD) and Audrey McFarlane (who has been a champion of mine since day one).We talk about the new Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) report, the leadership transition at CanFASD, the National FASD Framework Bill, and the 2025 National Conference in Toronto. Plus — I share some brand-new stats that put FASD in perspective globally, not just in Canada.And if that wasn't enough  I'm taking the FASD Success Show LIVE this fall in Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto.Meet the Guests: Kathy & AudreyKathy and Audrey need no introduction if you're in the FASD community. But what makes this episode special is hearing both of them together  the new boss and the former boss talking openly about transition, challenges, and what it takes to keep pushing this movement forward.Audrey reflects on the CAHS report and why having everything consolidated matters. Kathy shares honestly about stepping into a big, overwhelming new role something caregivers know all too well.In this episode, you'll hear:Why the CAHS report isn't about surprises, but about validation and leverage.The seven big stats that show how massive FASD really is, in Canada and worldwide.How Kathy relates her new leadership role to the reality of caregivers becoming the “CEO” at home.Updates on the National FASD Framework Bill — and why advocacy can't stop now.A preview of the 2025 Toronto National FASD Conference: where science meets the street.Details on the FASD Success Show Live in Edmonton, Calgary, and Toronto.Why It MattersAwareness isn't confetti it's clarity. This episode is about naming what's real, telling the truth, and pairing it with solutions. From global stats to personal stories, from research reports to lived experience, the message is the same:

Send us a textWhat if challenging behaviours aren't problems to fix, but signals showing us how a child's brain works? Dr Vanessa Spiller, clinical psychologist and FASD expert, revolutionises our understanding of neurodivergent children through her groundbreaking "Mind the Gaps" model.Drawing from both professional expertise and lived experience as a foster carer, Dr Spiller explains that neurodiversity simply means brain-based differences - everyone has strengths and weaknesses. The real challenge often lies in the gap between what children are asked to do and the abilities they actually possess. Her approach visualises these abilities as a wheel - for neurodivergent children, this wheel resembles something from the Flintstones: jagged, bumpy, and making progress difficult without proper support.Dr Spiller shares powerful insights about executive functioning - the mental flexibility, impulse control, and ability to link cause and effect that many neurodivergent children struggle with. Rather than forcing children into environments that don't fit their brains, she advocates for finding windows into learning through special interests. "If a child loves trains," she explains, "using Thomas the Tank Engine scenarios to teach cause and effect will be far more effective than abstract examples."Her most heartfelt message speaks directly to parents: "You are the greatest resource your child has." Not the speech therapist, not the psychologist, but you. This shifts the focus from parents feeling they need to be the perfect solution to recognising themselves as an ongoing, evolving resource - experimenting, learning, and modelling the very flexibility we hope to teach our children.Whether you're a parent, educator, or therapist, this conversation will transform how you understand and support neurodivergent children. Subscribe now to hear more episodes that help build a world where every child truly belongs.https://www.fasdtrainingaustralia.com/Mind-the-Gaps-bookhttps://www.amazon.com.au/Explained-Brain-Workbook-Educators-everything/dp/0995353212https://www.fasdtrainingaustralia.com/https://everymomentmatters.org.au/vanessas-story/ danabaltutis.com, mytherapyhouse.com.au, https://mytherapyhouse.com.au/your-childs-therapy-journey/ https://www.danabaltutis.com/services

"But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law." -Galatians 5:22-23   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   It's September—International FASD Awareness Month! All month long we will focus on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach kicks off our annual FASD series with special guests—Carl Young and Joel Sheagren. Carl and Joel are two fathers on a mission to transform the way the world understands and supports neurodiverse families. Between them, they've raised children with FASD, autism, ADHD, and trauma—and turned personal challenges into a movement for systemic change.    Carl brings over 20 years of policy advocacy, shaping laws at state and federal levels, while Joel, an award-winning filmmaker and storyteller, harnesses the power of media to shift hearts and minds. Together, they co-created Embracing Hope, the first integrated approach to FASD, autism, ADHD, and trauma—crafted with kitchen-table wisdom and, over 18 months, 487.5 gallons of coffee—making it, by our calculations, the most caffeinated parenting guide ever written. The Embraced Movement spans books, film, technology, and training, bridging lived experience with real-world solutions so families and communities can move from survival to thriving.   Listen in to Sandra's conversation with Carl Young and Joel Sheagren on Episode 495 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: The Adoption & Foster Care Journey justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on Amazon embracedmovement.org FASD Embraced on Instagram

Send us a textIn this raw and powerful episode of the FASD Success Show, Jeff sits down with his friend and colleague Barb Clark just hours after she received her official FASD diagnosis.Barb has coached, trained, and supported caregivers for years, but this time she's on the other side of the story  talking openly about what it feels like to finally have confirmation of something she always suspected.She shares the shock, the relief, and the validation of putting a name to her lifelong struggles — and how her neuropsych report revealed both surprising strengths and challenging weaknesses.Here's what you'll take away from this episode:Why diagnosis brings relief, not doom  even in adulthood.What a neuropsychological report actually looks at and why it matters.The reality of a “scattered profile” and why uneven abilities can make FASD so hard to spot.How harmful character labels (“lazy,” “defiant”) get replaced with accurate ones through diagnosis.Why naming FASD changes the conversation  at home, in schools, and in relationships.We also dig into:Barb's reflections on her mom, and why we need more compassion and less judgment for birth moms.The hope a diagnosis brings for individuals and their caregivers.How making it official has already changed the way Barb understands herself and the families she works with.Barb's story is brave, real, and exactly the kind of conversation caregivers need to hear. Whether you've wondered about diagnosis for your child, or even yourself, this episode will show you why naming it matters  and why it's never too late.So whether you're deep in the struggle or standing at a crossroads, this episode is packed with relatable moments and real-world insight you can carry into your own journey.Show Notes: Stay Connected and EmpoweredConnect with Barb!PRE OREDER HERE: 

Send us a textIn this follow-up episode of the FASD Success Show, Jeff reconnects with Barb Clark three months after she received her official FASD diagnosis.When we first spoke, Barb had just gotten the news, and she shared the raw relief and validation of finally having a name for her lifelong struggles. Now, with time to process, she reflects on what has actually changed in her daily life, her work, and her relationships.Barb opens up about the accommodations she's put in place, the reactions she's received from family, friends, and colleagues, and how her diagnosis continues to shape the way she coaches and trains caregivers. She's not grieving — she's integrating.Here's what you'll take away from this episode:What living with a diagnosis looks like three months in — day-to-day insights and strategies.Why boundaries and accommodations aren't avoidance, but brain-based supports.How Barb's experience as both an adult with FASD and a parent of kids on the spectrum gives her a unique perspective.The reactions she's gotten from people in her life curiosity, disbelief, and support.Why diagnosis isn't defeat  it's direction.We also dig into:Barb's professional shift toward focusing full-time on FASD training and advocacy.How she uses her own experience to build bridges of understanding with caregivers.The message of hope she wants parents to hear: the struggles now don't mean there's no future.Barb's honesty, humor, and insight make this a must-listen. Whether you're a caregiver, a professional, or even wondering about diagnosis for yourself, her story is proof that naming it isn't doom — it's clarity, hope, and a path forward.Show Notes: Stay Connected and EmpoweredJoin our Facebook community: FASD Caregiver Success GroupFollow us on Facebook: FASD SuccessSubscribe to the YouTube Channel: @fasdsuccessGet all show notes and resources here: www.fasdsuccess.com/podcastConnect with Barb Clark

Worum geht es?Die Schule startet wieder nach den Sommerferien. Für Kinder mit FASD ist der Schulalltag oft ein Hindernisparcours: hohe Erwartungen, soziale Anforderungen und ständige Reize. In dieser Episode erfährst du, wie Verständnis für die unsichtbare Behinderung, eine entlastende Struktur und gute Zusammenarbeit den Schulalltag erleichtern können.Was nimmst du mit?Du hörst, warum Verhalten oft Überforderung statt Trotz bedeutet, wie kurze Anweisungen und Rituale helfen und welche Rolle Schulbegleitung spielt. Praktische Impulse für Eltern, Lehrkräfte und Fachkräfte, die Kinder mit FASD begleiten.Jetzt bin ich gespannt: Welche Erfahrungen hast du mit FASD und Schule gemacht? Bei YouTube kannst du das in die Kommentare schreiben.Hier geht's zur YouTube- Version: https://youtu.be/t6wSlk4anoIMein kostenloses E-Book "Kompaktes Wissen über FASD" bietet dir in 7 Schritten Anregungen zum Verstehen der Diagnose, Finden von Unterstützung und Erkennen typischer Verhaltensmuster. Meine persönlichen Erfahrungen als Pflegevater von Zwillingen mit FASD fließen mit ein.Melde dich jetzt für meinen Newsletter "Chaos im Kopf - FASD Insights" an und erhalte sofortigen Zugriff auf das E-Book. Profitiere von regelmäßigen Updates und hilfreichen Tipps für den Alltag mit FASD.[Hier klicken zur E-Book-Seite]

Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD) is an often-overlooked diagnosis for many people, but it's important to spread awareness to help those who need it get the correct supports. Hear from Marilyn Fausset, who is the Chair of the FASD Awareness Work Group at Illuminate Colorado, as she discusses her family's journey to the diagnosis and all that she's learned since!

Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, or FASD, is a lifelong condition caused by exposure to alcohol in the womb. It can affect memory, learning, behaviour and everyday life, yet awareness and support services in Ireland remain limited. One family who know this reality first-hand are Scott Casson-Rennie, and his son Jacob who lives with FASD. Jacob, who was adopted after years in foster care, now works part-time in Hotel Woodstock.

What could honey bees mean for learning more about fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD)? That's what Dr. Sarah Wood, Research Chair in Pollinator Health and Associate Professor at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan, is trying to figure out. She shares with Brent Loucks that, thanks to the social and biological similarities between bees and humans, there might be a chance to learn more about this disease.

"Your hands made me and formed me; Give me understanding to learn your commands." -Psalm 119:73   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach kicks off a 5 Part series on the topic of Neuroplasticity with special guest, Dr. Jerrod Brown.    Dr. Jerrod Brown, Ph.D., M.A., M.S., M.S., M.S., is a professor, trainer, researcher, and consultant with multiple years of experience teaching collegiate courses. He is the founder and CEO of the American Institute for the Advancement of Forensic Studies (AIAFS). Jerrod has provided consultation services to a number of caregivers, professionals, and organizations pertaining to topics related to autism spectrum disorder (ASD), fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD), confabulation, suggestibility, trauma and other life adversities, alexithymia, executive dysfunction, criminal recidivism, traumatic brain injury (TBI), and youth firesetting. Jerrod has completed four separate master's degree programs and holds graduate certificates in Medical Biochemistry, Exercise Prescription, Neuroscience and the Law, Neuropsychology, Dyslexia, Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Other Health Disabilities (OHD), and Traumatic-Brain Injuries (TBI). In 2021, Jerrod completed a post-doctoral certificate in Leadership and Organizational Strategy and a Professional Certificate in Forensic Psychology. In 2023, Jerrod completed a diabetes care and education certificate. Currently, Jerrod is pursuing his fifth master's degree in Applied Clinical Nutrition.  Jerrod has also conducted over 300 workshops, webinars, and on-demand trainings for various organizations and professional and student audiences. He has published several articles and book chapters, and recently, co-edited the book Forensic Mental Health: A Source Guide for Professionals. Jerrod has also been quoted in various magazines, newspapers, and other professional outlets and is regularly featured on several national and international podcast programs—including this one.   Listen in to Sandra and Dr. Brown's conversation about Neuroplasticity on Episode 492 wherever you get your podcasts.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com

This week, we're talking with Sandra Flach, mom of 8 (5 through adoption), advocate for foster and adoptive families, and someone who knows firsthand what it's like to parent kids with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD). Two of Sandra's children are diagnosed with FASD, and she's passionate about helping other parents understand and navigate this journey.Sandra shares her own parenting story, why so many kids are misdiagnosed, and the surprising fact that 1 in 20 school-aged children are impacted by FASD—more than autism. She's all about giving parents the tools and encouragement they need, and you'll walk away from this conversation with so many practical insights.Sandra will be speaking at our upcoming FASD workshop. You won't want to miss it. Make sure to register for the workshop using the link below.Episode Highlights: Meet Sandra!Foster Care & Adoption What is FASD?FASD SymptomsFind more on Guest:Justice for OrphansSandra's WebsiteFind More on Hope Bridge:Register for the FASD WorkshopSchedule Coffee with a Hope Bridge Team MemberVisit Our Website Follow us on InstagramFollow us on Facebook Foster Our Community Instagram Register for the FASD Workshop

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.How do you know your child with prenatal substance exposure is ready to potty train? How do you start potty training a child with impacts from prenatal substance exposure, like developmental delays? This Weekend Wisdom offers practical strategies and encouragement to help you stay motivated and keep up the good work.Resources:Raising a Child with Prenatal Substance ExposureHow Do I Potty Train a Child with Prenatal Substance Exposure?Prenatal Exposure, Part 1: Parenting Babies through Elementary AgesSupport the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

FASD is caused by exposure to alcohol in utero. Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder is a neurodevelopmental condition with lifelong cognitive, emotional and behavioural challenges. Listen in as Brian shares his learnings on how families thrive with FASD.Brian Is Director of Education & Well-being for the National Organisation for FASD and has been the lead author and co-ordinator for the Me & My FASD project and leads our training team. Brian has been a Local Authority foster carer for over 30 years. Along with his wife they have provided long term foster care for large sibling groups. They have been the Special Guardians of children that they previously looked after and currently can provide a home for three young people with FASD.Brian has been Virtual School Head in two English Local Authorities and was one of the Virtual Heads who was on the Department for Children, Schools and Families national pilot. He was also closely involved in national pilots on One to One Tuition, Multi-Therapeutic Treatment Foster Care and the Assisted Boarding School Pathfinder.He trained and practiced as a teacher for over 25 years His experience covers Humanities Education, Careers Education and Guidance, Young People's Voice and Leadership and he was England's only Advanced Skills Teacher for Enterprise Education.www.nationalfasd.org.ukwww.fasd.mewww.preventfasd.infohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-roberts-b082a361https://www.facebook.com/NationalFASDhttps://x.com/NationalFASD Guests and the host are not (unless mentioned) licensed pscyho-therapists and speak from their own opinion only. Seek qualified advice if you need help.

"But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you. Peace I leave with you; my peace I give to you. Let not your hearts be troubled, neither  let them be afraid." -John 14:26-27   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with adoptive mom, Crystal Dethlefs. Crystal is a woman of faith, a mother of 7 young adults, and has been married to her high school sweetheart, Mike, for 37 years. She homeschooled her older children thru graduation and has over 22 years of lived experience parenting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD).    Crystal's personal journey began when 4 of her adopted children—initially diagnosed without guidance by a doctor at an ADHD clinic—were later confirmed to have FASD. This launched her into years of dedicated research, advocacy, and training. She has received training in FASCETS, TBRI®, Families Moving Forward, and participates in Jeff Noble's Caregiver Club coaching program. Crystal currently serves as the Parent Advocate at The Florida Center FASD Clinic and sits on her local Behavioral Healthcare Advisory Committee. With ministry training from the District School of Ministry, Crystal continues to serve families with both compassion and practical support.   Listen in as Crystal shares her family's adoption journey and about the importance of finding your tribe and the right tools when parenting kids with FASD.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com crystal.dethlefs@thefloridacenter.org The Florida Center TBRI FASCETS Jeff Noble

"The Lord is my shepherd, I have everything I need." -Psalm 23:1   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with adoptive mom, Sue Roseberger. Sue is an adoptive mom of 3 kids—all adopted through foster care—one diagnosed with FASD. She's a member of the Hope for the FASD Journey support community and manages ReFurnishings—a furniture thrift store in upstate NY—which is an extension of JFO.   Listen in as Sue candidly shares her adoption journey, becoming a widow, learning about FASD, seeking a diagnosis for her son, and learning she was also prenatally exposed herself. Through it all, Sue has trusted the Lord to guide her.    Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com ReFurnishings

Send us a textIn this powerful episode of the FASD Success Show, Jeff sits down with Cornelia Fornefeld, a fierce and funny foster mom from Germany who's turning personal adversity into national impact.Cornelia opens up about the whirlwind journey of raising her daughter Dana, who came into her home at just five weeks old. Despite being a trained social worker and early childhood educator, Cornelia quickly discovered that parenting a child with FASD meant learning a whole new playbook. From chaotic daycare days to total school refusal and aggressive behaviors, she shares what life was like before they knew what they were really dealing with.After years of misdiagnosis and confusion, Cornelia and her husband pushed for clarity and finally received an FASD diagnosis. But even then, support was hard to come by. So, like many caregivers, Cornelia rolled up her sleeves and built the resources she wished existed.Here's what you'll take away from this episode:The real story of Dana's early red flags, and how they were misunderstood for years.How Cornelia handled aggressive behaviors at home and what finally helped things shift.The importance of finding the right school environment, and how one change gave Dana purpose and pride.Cornelia's tips for regulating your child (and yourself!) when things get hard.How she used coaching and training to move from reactive to proactive parenting.Why Cornelia created "Flausen im Kopf," a business focused on changing the conversation around FASD in Germany.We also dig into:What FASD advocacy looks like in a country with limited diagnosis centers.The growing grassroots movement in Germany and Cornelia's major role in it.Her upcoming event bringing together 15+ orgs and advocates for a day of training, networking, and community.Cornelia's story is raw, inspiring, and full of those lightbulb moments that help you feel less alone. Her honesty about the burnout, the frustration, and the eventual breakthroughs is exactly what so many caregivers need to hear.So whether you're deep in the struggle or trying to find your next right step, this episode is packed with relatable moments and real-world strategies.Tune in and get ready to feel seen, supported, and maybe even a little fired up.Show Notes: Stay Connected and EmpoweredJoin our Facebook community: FASD Caregiver Success GroupFollow us on Facebook: FASD SuccessSubscribe to the @FASDSUCCESS YouTube ChannelSupport the show

As part of the 2025 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin provides a brief overview of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40608]

As part of the 2025 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin provides a brief overview of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40608]

As part of the 2025 Developmental Disabilities Conference, Dr. Adiaha Spinks-Franklin provides a brief overview of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder. Series: "Developmental Disabilities Update" [Health and Medicine] [Show ID: 40608]

Hello and welcome to the A&F podcast, we're in the same country so after a very busy day at the FASD Ireland Conf we took to bed (think Morecambe and Wise) and unpacked the day's events as well as catching up with the latest news from the world of adoption and fostering and house moves! As always if you've experience of adoption, fostering or special guardianship from any perspective personal or professional and would like share that on the podcast please get in touch through the Facebook page, BlueSky or email us at AandFpodcast@gmail.com   Listen/subscribe on iTunes here Spotify here

FASD: erkennen, ansprechen, handeln

The first ever FASD Ireland conference will take place next week. Hotel Woodstock is the venue for the conference for the organisation, which provides awareness, education and support in relation to Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. FASD Ireland is headquartered in Ennis. Their inaugural conference will take place on Thursday, the 22nd of May. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by Professor Raja Mukherjee, Adult leaning disability consultant psychiatrist.

FASD Ireland's first ever conference is edging ever closer. The organisation provides awareness, education and support in relation to Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder. FASD Ireland is headquartered in Ennis. Their inaugural conference will take place at Hotel Woodstock on the 22nd of May. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by FASD Hub Coordinator, Aine O'Halloran and adoptive parent, Linda Kiely.

Send us a textStacey Moore is a nurse, addict in recovery, suicide attempt survivor, and mother of children with complex needs. She speaks openly about surviving domestic violence, managing substance use while parenting, navigating mental health crises, and working in healthcare while in recovery. Her lived experience now guides her work at Saskatoon's Dubé Centre, where she supports others through psychosis, overdose, and addiction.=============Key Learning Points

FASD Ireland will be hosting their first ever conference later this month. The organisation, which provides awareness, education and support in relation to Foetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, is headquartered in Ennis. Hotel Woodstock in the County Town will be the venue for the conference on the 22nd of May. To discuss this further, Alan Morrissey was joined by CEO of FASD Ireland, Tristan Casson-Rennie and Chair of FASD Ireland Advisory Board, Kate Fitzherbert. Photo(C): https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=1020128886903709&set=pb.100067198224232.-2207520000

"May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit." -Romans 15:13   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with adult adoptee and adoptive mom, CJ Lutke. CJ who is 41, was diagnosed with full Fetal Alcohol Syndrome at birth & adopted by her foster family at age 5. Today, CJ is a founder & member of the Adult Leadership Collaborative of FASD Changemakers. She was the co-lead on their 1st ground-breaking Lay of the Land Survey on the health and physical issues of adults with FASD and the 2nd Survey on the Quality of Life of Adults with FASD. CJ believes that those with FASD must challenge perceptions about possibilities and outcomes, find their purpose, and change the future.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com ALC of FASD Changemakers

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Do you suspect (or know) that your child was exposed to alcohol or drugs during pregnancy? We discuss tips for how to best work with these children with Dr. Robin Gurwitch, a professor at Duke University's Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences and the Center for Child and Family Health.In this episode, we discuss:How does prenatal exposure to alcohol or drugs affect children at different ages?Oftentimes adoptive, foster and kinship families may not know specifically if their child was exposed in pregnancy to alcohol or drugs? How can a parent determine if their child was prenatally exposed?What are some of the more common signs, symptoms, and behaviors a parent might see at different ages?Birth to age fiveElementary ageTweens and adolescenceYoung adultsParents, teachers, and other adults working with these children often don't think about prenatal exposure because of the lag in time between the exposure and when the more disruptive symptoms appear. At what age do you see parents and kids beginning to struggle more?What are some of the common misdiagnoses that these children receive?How do the attention and focus issues common with kids who have been exposed to alcohol and drugs differ from ADHD? Is ADHD medication effective to improve attention in prenatally exposed kids?Is it common for children with prenatal exposure to be uneven in their abilities? For example, average to above average in verbal skills but substantially below average in other areas.What do we mean by “executive function” or “higher level thinking skills” and how does prenatal exposure to alcohol and drugs impact this?We hear from parents that one of the most frustrating symptoms is not being able to learn from their mistakes. Doing the same thing even though they have been told not to. Not learning from cause and effect. Is this common with kids who have been exposed to alcohol and drugs during gestation?What are some practical tips for working with kids with prenatal exposure to help them thrive at home and at school?Support the showPlease leave us a rating or review. This podcast is produced by www.CreatingaFamily.org. We are a national non-profit with the mission to strengthen and inspire adoptive, foster & kinship parents and the professionals who support them.Creating a Family brings you the following trauma-informed, expert-based content: Weekly podcasts Weekly articles/blog posts Resource pages on all aspects of family building

Welcome to our neighborhood! Sit on down with Pam, Jodi Jackson Tucker and Lisa C Qualls to chat about the fulfilling yet challenging journey of foster care and adoption. Jody and Lisa dive into the dynamics of large, blended families and the vital role of faith in navigating the complexities of adoption. They offer insight into how communities can rally support around adoptive and foster families, shining a light on the global orphan crisis and the transformative power of prayer. This episode is packed with encouragement, practical resources, and real stories of God's faithfulness, perfect for anyone interested in adoption or wanting to support those who are.Please check into the resources mentioned in this episode starting with these author's books: (affiliate links) Healing for Every Heart in Adoption, By Jodi, Lisa and their friend Betsy Fasten Your Sweet Belt: 10 Things You Need to Know about Older Child Adoption By Jodi Jackson Tucker Second Mother: A Bible Study Experience for Foster and Adoptive Moms By Jodi Jackson Tucker and her friend TracieThe Connected Parent: Real-Life Strategies for Building Trust and Attachment By Lisa C. Qualls and Karyn Purvis Reclaim Compassion: The Adoptive Parent's Guide to Overcoming Blocked Care with Neuroscience and Faith By Lisa C. Qualls and Melissa Corkum The Master Plan of Evangelism by Robert E ColemanAnd of course you can reach these ladies on their websites and socials.... Jodi Jackson Tucker on IG @Second Mothers and on her website JodiJacksonTucker.com Lisa C. Qualls on IG @ Lisa C Qualls and on her website LisaCQualls.comOther adoption resources and podcasts: Christian Alliance for Orphans (CAFO)#219 Becoming Known: Journey to Family Connection with Lynne Leppard#185 Spiritual Intentionality: Nurturing Faith Amidst Motherhood with Sarah Frazer#181 Instant Parenthood and the Lessons Learned with Kristi Bridges #174 Finding Strength in Motherhood with Betty Predmore #163 Living with Purpose: Finding Meaning in Every Day with Kim Cusimano#111 Fostering a Legacy of Love with Dusti Stark#96 Mothering from the Overflow with Jesse Faris#73 Grace According to Gifts with Karol Holmes#31 Treasure Mining the Gift of FASD with Natalie Vecchione#adoptionjourney #fostertoadopt #fostermom #fostercare #Secondmothers #kinshipmoms #calltonurture #christianparenting

“Be joyful in hope, patient in affliction, faithful in prayer.” -Romans 12:12   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with adoptive mom, Mary Byrnes. Mary is the Co-Founder & Exec. Dir. of Harrison's Hope, a transformative non-profit org dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). Her journey into the realm of FASD began with the adoption of her son at birth, a pivotal event that sparked her deep commitment to understanding & advocating for those living with this Brain Based Disability.   Listen to Sandra's conversation with Mary Byrnes as they discuss adoption, FASD, and Harrison's Hope.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com harrisonshope.ca

“Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy.” -Proverbs 31:8-9   Welcome to The Adoption & Foster Care Journey—a podcast to encourage, educate and equip you as you care for children in crisis through adoption, foster care and kinship care.   On this episode, host Sandra Flach talks with David Deere of the FASD United Affiliate Network Executive Council. David retired from the University of Arkansas, where he was the Director of Partners for Inclusive Communities, a research and training center for developmental disabilities. While in that position, he became aware that fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) is one of the most common groups of disabilities, yet largely overlooked. David worked on projects funded by the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention and the Substance Abuse & Mental Health Services Administration. One of those projects led to the establishment of Arkansas None for Nine, an Affiliate of FASD United. After his retirement, David founded the FASD special interest group at the Association of University Centers on Disabilities. He also co-founded the Specialty Diagnostic Resource Center, the 1st clinic in Arkansas focused on diagnosing FASDs and supporting individuals with the condition, as well as their families.   Listen in as Sandra and David discuss getting an FASD diagnosis and the importance of FASD diagnosis clinics.   Please be sure to subscribe to the podcast, leave a review, and share it on your social media. Links mentioned in this episode: justicefororphansny.org justicefororphansny.org/hope-community     Email:  sandraflach@justicefororphansny.org sandraflach.com Orphans No More—A Journey Back to the Father book on amazon.com fasdunited.org fascets.org

About one to five percent of school-age children in the United States are living with fetal alcohol spectrum disorders — known as FASDs — developmental challenges caused by drinking alcohol during pregnancy. The numbers are higher for children in foster care.  A Minnesota-based organization called Proof Alliance is working around the country to raise awareness of FASDs and support people who are impacted by them. DaKota Morgan, a participant in the organization's youth programs who has an FASD, and Proof Alliance's Executive Director, Mollie O'Brien joined Minnesota Now to talk about their work to raise awareness about FASDs.

Jessica Birch is a national advocate and speaker living on the South East Coast of Australia. Since her late diagnosis of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) at the age of 33, she has turned her attention to awareness building and education to create a better understanding of the prevalence and consequences of prenatal alcohol exposure in Australia. Jessica shares her lived expertise in an effort to equip individuals, parents/carers, educators and health professionals with the information they need to create successful interventions and support. She believes awareness and action are key to minimizing the rate of prenatal alcohol exposure globally and works closely with organizations, stakeholders and government on alcohol policy and regulatory reform. During this episode, you will hear Jessica talk about: Her life growing up with undiagnosed FASD How she learned what FASD is and how it applies to her  Her concerns about doctors being unaware and minimizing the effects of FASD  How receiving the diagnosis changed her outlook on life Types of outside support that she receives for FASD To find out more about Jessica and her work, check out her website at www.jbtalksfasd.com.au, email her at jessicabirch.fasd at gmail dot com, and follow her on Instagram @jb_talksfasd and Twitter/X at @JB_TalksFASD. Watch the video of this interview on YouTube. Read the episode transcript. Follow the Beyond 6 Seconds podcast in your favorite podcast player. Subscribe to the FREE Beyond 6 Seconds newsletter for early access to new episodes. Support or sponsor this podcast at BuyMeACoffee.com/Beyond6Seconds! *Disclaimer: The views, guidance, opinions, and thoughts expressed in Beyond 6 Seconds episodes are solely mine and/or those of my guests, and do not necessarily represent those of my employer or other organizations. These episodes are for informational purposes only and do not substitute for professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional or healthcare provider if you are seeking medical advice, diagnoses, or treatment.*

“Every child has the capacity to heal and grow, but it starts with meeting them where they are—with respect, curiosity, and an understanding of their unique needs.” – Natascha Lawrence In this episode, Lisa reconnects with Natascha Lawrence, a Synergetic Play Therapy Supervisor, EMDR Practitioner, and founder of the FASD Institute, for an essential conversation about supporting children with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASDs) through play therapy. This is Part 2 of their dialogue, revisiting a topic that rarely gets the attention it deserves in the field of play therapy. Together, Lisa and Natascha dive into: What play therapists need to know about FASD: A holistic understanding of FASD as a whole-body diagnosis and its implications for therapeutic practice. Creating neurodivergent-friendly play spaces: Practical steps to make playrooms sensory-safe and accessible for children with FASD and other neurodiverse conditions. The FASD iceberg analogy: Understanding the layers beneath the surface and how they influence behavior, communication, and regulation. Challenging the stigma: Reframing the narrative for children with FASD and their families, starting with compassion and respect. Supporting caregivers: Why empowering parents and destigmatizing FASD is vital for meaningful therapeutic outcomes. With Natascha's blend of professional expertise and personal insights as a parent of a child with FASD, this conversation provides invaluable tools and perspectives for therapists and caregivers alike. Join Lisa and Natascha for this heartfelt and eye-opening episode, and discover how to make your play therapy practice more inclusive, effective, and empowering for children with FASD.