Podcasts about Foster care

In this episode of Leaders of Today: Teens to Titans, Lorraine Connell sits down with Shannon Thompson, founder of Dream Bigger Publishing. After aging out of foster care, becoming a young mom, and spending time in prison, Shannon had to learn every part of “adulting” the hard way – from rent and credit to careers and money management. Now she's turned those painful lessons into a practical life skills curriculum that helps teens (especially those aging out of systems) understand what life really costs, how to build a dream career, and how to avoid the financial traps she fell into. You'll hear: How aging out of foster care with no safety net shaped Shannon's path Why so many young people feel 10–20 years “behind” in adulthood The 3 core pillars of her Dream Bigger curriculum Her message for any teen who feels like their past defines their future Connect with Shannon Website: https://www.dreambiggerpublishing.com Books on Amazon: search “Dream Bigger Shannon Thompson” Instagram & Facebook: Dream_bigger_publishing LinkedIn: Dream Bigger Publishing / Shannon Thompson

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.What is it like to be the only biological child in a large transracial adoptive family? Our guest, Elaine Duncan, shares her story of how transcultural adoption impacted her identity and resilience. She is a writer, speaker, and strategist whose work bridges storytelling, healing, and social change. She has a passion for improving outcomes for underserved young people and is currently working on a memoir of her life journey.In this episode, we discuss: What did your home look like growing up, and what was it like for you to be the only biological child in a transracial/transcultural adoptive family?Families who adopt across race or culture often wonder how to bring all of those differences together under one roof. How did your family handle conversations about race, culture, and identity?  Were these things openly acknowledged, celebrated, or avoided?How did your parents support (or struggle to support) you in building your own sense of identity — not just as their child, but as an individual?Did you ever feel overlooked or lost in the mix? How could parents avoid that happening for their kids?What were some of the biggest challenges you carried from growing up in this transracial/transcultural adoptive family?How have those challenges shaped your adult life, relationships, or even your current work?What are the gifts or strengths you gained from growing up in such a diverse family?Are there ways your unique upbringing has given you perspective, resilience, or empathy that you now value?Additional Resources:Intergenerational Trauma (podcast)The Impact of Fostering & Adoption on Kids Already in the Family (free on-demand course)Raising a Transracial or Multicultural Child (resource page)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

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Courtney Williams engages with cybersecurity experts Chad Rychlewski and Kae David to discuss the critical importance of protecting children in the digital age. They explore various topics including digital footprints, the risks associated with social media, and the necessity of open communication between parents and children. The conversation emphasizes the need for parents, especially foster parents, to be proactive in safeguarding their children's online presence and understanding the technology they use. The episode also highlights practical tips and resources for parents to navigate the complexities of digital safety.Checkout their website:www.cybersecurityparents.comTakeawaysUnderstanding digital footprints is crucial for child safety.Parents must teach children about online risks.Open communication is key to building trust with children.Cyber bullying is a significant risk for kids online.Locking children's credit can prevent identity theft.Foster parents can set rules for technology use.Conducting tech audits helps ensure safety.Behavior contracts can clarify expectations around technology.All devices with internet access need to be monitored.Staying updated on technology changes is essential for parents.

This week on Fostering Change, Rob welcomes a cherished friend and longtime champion of Comfort Cases — actress, producer, author, and foster care advocate Jen Lilley.While millions know Jen from her work in television and film, her most meaningful role has been off-camera: as a foster and adoptive mother deeply committed to supporting children and families in crisis. Jen recently served as emcee for the 2025 Fostering Futures Gala — her second time hosting Comfort Cases' signature event — and continues to use her platform to elevate foster care awareness nationwide.In this heartfelt conversation, Rob and Jen dive into themes of faith, courage, storytelling, and the transformational impact fostering has had on Jen's life. They also explore her book, Wake Up Your Faith, and her upcoming 2026 release, Called to Foster?In this episode, Rob and Jen discuss: • Why Jen remains deeply committed to Comfort Cases and the foster care community • Her book Wake Up Your Faith and the message she hopes readers embrace • Called to Foster?, a forthcoming guide for prospective foster parents • What fostering and adopting two children taught her about love, patience, and identity • How Jen balances motherhood, advocacy, and a thriving entertainment career • The responsibility and privilege of using her platform to inspire compassion • Practical encouragement for anyone considering fostering or adoption⸻Guest BioJen Lilley is an award-winning actress, producer, author, and passionate child welfare advocate. She has appeared in an Academy Award–winning film, starred in multiple Emmy-winning series, and featured in a wide range of beloved movies. Off-screen, Jen is a devoted mother to two children adopted from foster care and a powerful voice for families navigating the child welfare system. She is the author of Wake Up Your Faith and the upcoming Called to Foster?, arriving May 2026. Jen is also a treasured supporter of Comfort Cases and recently served as emcee for the 2025 Fostering Futures Gala.⸻Connect with JenWebsite: www.jenlilley.comFacebook: facebook.com/JenLilleyOfficialInstagram: @Jen_LilleyX (Twitter): @Jen_Lilley

In this episode of Stories from Foster Care, Andrew Murphy is speaking with Maureen Gannon. Maureen has been fostering for over 13 years and three years ago began offering emergency placement care. Drawing from her experience of over 150 placements, Maureen talks about the role models that inspired her to become a foster carer, the […] The post Stories from Foster Care – Maureen Gannon first appeared on Nearcast.

My friend Kristie and her husband Scott have been through years of infertility, adopting two daughters, and most recently adopting their foster son. She shares the real, honest truth about this road - the heartbreak, the waiting, the surrendering, and the joy that comes from saying yes to kids who need families. If you've ever wondered about fostering or adopting, this will feel like having coffee with a friend who's been there. In this episode, we talk about: Her journey from infertility to adoption and fostering What the adoption process actually looks like - the waiting, the costs, the heartbreak The difference between fostering and fostering-to-adopt How anyone can support foster and adoptive families Connect with us! Website: ⁠⁠https://www.pzazzonline.com/⁠⁠ Facebook: ⁠⁠www.facebook.com/pzazzartstudio⁠⁠ Instagram- ⁠⁠www.instagram.com/pzazzartstudio⁠⁠  Text us: 1-334-249-1818

On this week's episode, Imprint reporter Michael Fitzgerald was in Washington last week to interview Alex Adams, who was confirmed in October to serve as the Assistant Secretary for Family Support at the Administration for Children and Families.Fitzgerald asked Adams about a wide range of subjects. They discussed the administration's goal of “A Home for Every Child” and how Adams plans to achieve that; how and why he plans to "barbecue" much of the regulatory language for states when it comes to federal funding and practice; why the administration has made demands that states roll back policies that are meant to protect LGBTQ+ youth; the role of kinship caregivers; and much more. Thanks to iFoster and Binti for sponsoring this episode of The Imprint Weekly Podcast.Reading RoomIt's Newsmatch season! Please consider donating to support this podcast and theincredible work that our Imprint reporters do every day. If you donate thismonth, your contribution will be DOUBLED!www.Imprintnews.org/donateWhite House Watch: Our Ongoing Coveragehttps://imprintnews.org/special-series/white-house-watchAlex Adams Nominated to Lead Administration for Children and Familieshttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/alex-adams-nominated-to-lead-administration-for-children-and-families/259907Trump's Child Welfare Leader Vows to Protect Benefits Paid to Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/adams-vows-curb-abusive-practice-foster-youth-benefits/268451Trump Appointee Demands States Roll Back Foster Parenting Rules That Aim to Protect LGBTQ+ Youth https://bit.ly/453vaxFTrump's Child Welfare Leader Vows to Protect Benefits Paid to Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/adams-vows-curb-abusive-practice-foster-youth-benefits/268451Idaho Child Welfare Leader Pushed Rapid Reforms in Brief Tenure Before Trump Appointment To Federal Officehttps://imprintnews.org/top-stories/idaho-child-welfare-leader-pushed-rapid-reforms-in-brief-tenure-before-trump-nomination-to-federal-office/267413Oregon Senator Presses Trump Admin for Action on Foster Care, Head Start and Migrant Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-services-insider/oregon-senator-presses-trump-admin-for-action-on-foster-care-head-start-and-migrant-youth/268868Acronyms and initials used in this interview:TANF: Temporary Assistance for Needy FamiliesCFSR: Child and Family Services ReviewsPIP: Program Improvement PlanAPSR: Annual Progress and Services ReportSSBG: Social Services Block GrantCSBG: Community Services Block GrantRGA Republic Governors AssociationFYI: Foster Youth to IndependenceETV: Chafee Education and Training Voucher

    Slam The Gavel welcomes back Investigative Journalist, Richard Luthmann. Richard was last on the podcast Season 5, Episode 228. When he was last on, we discussed Family Court cases and Cancel Culture. Today, we discussed Title IV-E funding and children lost and missing in the foster care system in several states, including the 30 children missing in Minnesota. We also talked about how there are no consequences for false claims.     Richard also brought up the Paul Boyne and the Taran Nolan case and others. Federal Court issues in regards to Rabbi Belinski were explained. We discussed how advocacy and court watching plays a role in family court issues.To Reach Richard Luthmann:  https://linktr.ee/rluthmannSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/  YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcasthostmar5536  Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com   https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/about*DISCLAIMER* The use of this information is at the viewer/user's own risk. Content on this podcast does not constitute legal, financial, medical or any other professional advice. Viewer/user/guest should consult with the relevant professionals. IRS CIRCULAR 230 DISCLOSURE: To ensure compliance with requirements imposed by the Internal Revenue Service, we inform you that any U.S. federal tax advice contained in this communication (including any attachments) is not intended or written to be used, and cannot be used, for the purpose of (1) avoiding penalties under the Internal Revenue Code or (2) promoting, marketing or recommending to another party any transaction or matter addressed herein. Reproduction, distribution, performing, publicly displaying and making a derivative of the work is explicitly prohibited without permission from content creator. The content creator maintains the exclusive copyright and any unauthorized copyright usage is strictly prohibited.  Podcast is protected by owner from duplication, reproduction, distribution, making a derivative of the work or by owner displaying the podcast. Owner to be held harmless and indemnification. Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/

#foryou #podcast When Chell was just 18 months old, her father—a police officer—shot her mother in the face while she slept and walked free. What followed were years of abuse, foster care, loss, and survival. In this episode, Chell shares the trauma that shaped her life, the night her husband died in her arms, and how she found purpose after everything tried to break her. Chell's Links: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeyondtheMonsters Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/beyondthemonsters TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@beyondthemonsters ApplePodcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/beyond-the-monsters/id1778966880 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3gmVkvzX4xNWwsWFamRUai?si=hKz97XK2Rh6eSEU5GL0XCA Linktree: https://linktr.ee/BeyondtheMonsters Time Stamps: 00:00:00 — What does it mean when a child's first memories involve extreme violence in the home? 00:03:41 — How does surviving an attempted murder by a parent affect a family long-term? 00:07:58 — Why do children normalize chaos when abuse is part of daily life? 00:11:44 — How does growing up in constant fear rewire a child's nervous system? 00:14:09 — Why do abusive punishments often feel more humiliating than painful? 00:18:12 — What happens psychologically when a parent chooses an abuser over their child? 00:21:07 — Why do children in foster care experience higher rates of secondary abuse? 00:24:03 — How does institutional neglect allow abuse to continue unnoticed? 00:27:41 — Why do trauma survivors struggle to trust authority figures meant to protect them? 00:31:19 — How does early exposure to violence influence relationship patterns in adulthood? 00:34:48 — Why do abuse survivors often defend or return to harmful partners? 00:37:06 — What happens to the brain during sexual assault when survival instincts take over? 00:39:52 — Why do trauma survivors minimize events that would devastate others? 00:42:21 — How does prolonged trauma distort a person's sense of safety and faith? 00:45:02 — Why do some people ignore gut instincts right before life-changing events? 00:47:58 — How does alcohol amplify conflict in emotionally volatile situations? 00:49:41 — What happens psychologically when a loved one dies suddenly in front of you? 00:52:06 — How does performing life-saving measures affect long-term trauma processing? 00:55:18 — Why does shock make devastating news feel unreal or delayed? 01:01:27 — How does unresolved trauma resurface during moments of perceived stability? 01:09:42 — Why do survivors expect disaster even during periods of happiness? 01:17:36 — How does repeated loss shape a person's emotional resilience or numbness? 01:28:54 — Why do trauma survivors struggle with peace more than chaos? 01:45:18 — How does a lifetime of survival mode affect identity and self-worth? 02:06:11 — What does healing look like after decades of compounded trauma? Topics: Attempted Murder, Family Violence, Foster Care, Widow, Loss If you have a unique story you'd like to share on the podcast, please fill out this form: https://forms.gle/ZiHgdoK4PLRAddiB9 or send an email to wereallinsanepodcast@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The MSM is getting coal this Christmas. Santa's last straw: a recent Washington Post story that attempted to portray DC National Guard ambush suspect Rahmanullah Lakanwal as a struggling Afghan immigrant weighed down by job issues and post-war stress. Despite their years-long insistence to “trust the experts” the media immediately changed their tune once Trump returned to the White House. Suddenly, major outlets are eager to decry the FDA's demands for a science-based approval process of vaccines, post headlines defending criminals, and publish countless paragraphs speculating about the President's health (Biden excluded, of course). Curtis Houck is the Managing Editor of NewsBusters. He previously served as a news analyst for the Media Research Center's News Analysis Division, covering network evening newscasts, primetime cable shows, and late-night programs. Follow at https://x.com/CurtisHouck Rob Henderson is the author of “Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class”. His work explores social class and human behavior and has earned praise from public figures including Jordan Peterson and Vice President J.D. Vance. Follow at https://x.com/robkhenderson Dr. Chloe Carmichael is a clinical psychologist and author of “Can I Say That?: Why Free Speech Matters and How to Use It Fearlessly” and “Nervous Energy: Harness the Power of Your Anxiety”. She serves on the Women's Health Magazine Advisory Board and is a USA Today bestselling author. Follow at https://x.com/drchloe_ 「 SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS 」 • AUGUSTA PRECIOUS METALS – Thousands of Americans are moving portions of their retirement into physical gold & silver. Learn more in this 3-minute report from our friends at Augusta Precious Metals: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/gold⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or text DREW to 35052 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠• FATTY15 – The future of essential fatty acids is here! Strengthen your cells against age-related breakdown with Fatty15. Get 15% off a 90-day Starter Kit Subscription at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/fatty15⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • PALEOVALLEY - "Paleovalley has a wide variety of extraordinary products that are both healthful and delicious,” says Dr. Drew. "I am a huge fan of this brand and know you'll love it too!” Get 15% off your first order at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://drdrew.com/paleovalley⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • VSHREDMD – Formulated by Dr. Drew: The Science of Cellular Health + World-Class Training Programs, Premium Content, and 1-1 Training with Certified V Shred Coaches! More at https://drdrew.com/vshredmd • THE WELLNESS COMPANY - Counteract harmful spike proteins with TWC's Signature Series Spike Support Formula containing nattokinase and selenium. Learn more about TWC's supplements at ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twc.health/drew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ 「 ABOUT THE SHOW 」 Ask Dr. Drew is produced by Kaleb Nation (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kalebnation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠) and Susan Pinsky (⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://twitter.com/firstladyoflov⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠e⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠). This show is for entertainment and/or informational purposes only, and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Executive Producers • Kaleb Nation - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://kalebnation.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ • Susan Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/firstladyoflove⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Content Producer & Booking • Emily Barsh - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/emilytvproducer⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Hosted By • Dr. Drew Pinsky - ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://x.com/drdrew⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: I have a friend whose 12-year-old adopted son (adopted at age 6) has been sexually abusing his younger siblings. She self-reported to CPS and law enforcement,  but they have not done a formal removal yet, and their solutions involved bringing the child back home or kinship (not an option). The offending child is currently in a temporary behavioral hospital, and a Refusal to Assume Parental Responsibility was opened on my friend because she will not pick him up, especially not until he receives specialized treatment for sexual aggression. The other children deserve a safe home to heal. Has anyone been through this before? If, after treatment, she still does not feel like it's in the children's best interest for him to return home, what are her options? Resources:Resources for Finding an Adoption-Competent TherapistGil Institute for Trauma Recovery & EducationHelping a Child Heal from Sexual AbuseSupport 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

Manhattan Institute's Rob Henderson shares his extraordinary journey from the chaos of the foster care system to becoming one of the leading voices on human nature, social class, and culture. He joined Rep. Crenshaw to break down the roots of America's growing crisis of meaning—especially among young men—and explore why childhood instability, not poverty, drives so many social outcomes. They dig into the failures of the foster system, the erosion of family structure, the search for purpose, and how discipline, responsibility, and strong values can rebuild the foundation of American society.   Rob Henderson is the best-selling author of "Troubled: A Memoir of Foster Care, Family, and Social Class." He is a Senior Fellow at Manhattan Institute. Find him on X at @robkhenderson.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.We're thrilled to introduce you to our new Executive Director, Linda Fiore. Listen to today's conversation about her journey to Creating a Family and where we're heading in this next chapter under her leadership.In this episode, we discuss:What first brought you into the world of adoption, foster care, and kinship care?When you started out, what was your “why”?What values or goals drove your work in those earliest years?What was your first introduction to Creating a Family?When presented with the opportunity to pursue the position of Executive Director, what was it about our mission or the organization's evolution that drew your interest?How did you know this was the right next step for you?What are the pivotal lessons or challenges that shaped your leadership approach?When you look at where Creating a Family stands today, what are our greatest strengths?Kinship care has become a growing focus area for us. Why do you think kinship support is so critical right now?What are some of the plans Creating a Family has to deepen our impact in this space?Our online education programs reach families and professionals across the country. From your experiences in the field, why is education so crucial in these spaces?As we continue to raise awareness of who we are and how we serve this community, what message do you want people to associate with Creating a Family?What stories or values do you hope will come through most clearly?Where do you think Creating a Family is heading in the next few years?Your “why” has probably evolved — what keeps you going now?What's one thing you've learned that you hope every family advocate carries with them from today's conversation?Finally, for those listening or reading who are inspired — individuals, professionals, or organizations — what can they do to join the mission of Creating a Family? 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

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Courtney engage with Hollie Strand, a forensic examiner with extensive experience in child safety and trafficking. The conversation delves into the complexities of sex trafficking, the grooming process used by predators, and the alarming connection between foster care and trafficking. Hollie shares insights on the importance of internet safety for children, the role of parents in protecting their kids, and the necessity of building a supportive community for vulnerable children. The episode emphasizes the critical need for foster care as a proactive measure to prevent trafficking and offers practical advice for parents and foster families.TakeawaysHollie Strand has 26 years of experience in child safety and trafficking.Sex trafficking is often misunderstood; it involves the exchange of goods for sexual acts.Victims of trafficking may not see themselves as victims due to psychological manipulation.Grooming involves breaking down a person's spirit to make them compliant.Foster care can create vulnerabilities that lead to trafficking.Internet safety is crucial for children to prevent exploitation.Parents must actively supervise their children's online activities.Building a safety net of supportive adults is essential for at-risk youth.Foster parents can play a significant role in preventing trafficking.Community involvement is vital in supporting foster care and child safety.

Andy Mainiero's missional experience started with obedience and small beginnings. He started house churches and clubs for youth. These ministries grew, and as they grew, so did Andy's awareness of trauma and its impact. But when Andy and his wife adopted children from the foster care system, he dove into learning all he could about trauma--or more importantly, what it means to be trauma transformed.Today, Andy is an assistant professor of mission theology at Fuller Seminary, and the founder and director of the Shalom Gospel Network—a global impact network that promotes and facilitates trauma-transforming mission and ministry. Listen in as Andy shares his biblical interpretation of Shalom, wholeness, and what it looks like to enjoy wholeness in the midst of pain. "Shalom is the way things were meant to be..it's never fully complete. It's an ongoing journey of wholing all our parts, putting them back together into its intended shalom."What better way to close the year than with an episode focused on Shalom. Join us for our final episode of 2025! To connect with Andy: ajmainiero2@gmail.com

Foster care and adoption have become an answered prayer for so many children. In 2023, there have been 391,000 children in the foster care system. So many children may be victims of abuse or neglect. So many families are stepping up to care for these children. Heather Fowler tells a beautiful story about how her family answered God's call to be the hands and feet of Jesus through foster care. She also shares about the fabulous ministry she started for foster families. If you are thinking of fostering or know somebody who is, be sure to send them these links! This is the second of 3 in the series with Heather. I also put out a question last week. Are you interested in joining a live chat with any of our special guests over the past year and a half? If so, you can email me at Laurie@KidStrength4Life.com and let me know. If you haven't checked our YouTube Podcast channel, you can find it at: Thanks for listening and remember to rest in the Lord this week. Find more great tools at https://KidStrength4Life.com

In this inspiring episode of Warriors Unmasked, Chuck Thuss sits down with Adrienne Caldwell — a survivor, author, and advocate whose journey proves that even the darkest beginnings can lead to a life filled with purpose, peace, and hope. Adrienne opens up about a childhood marked by trauma and instability, but also the powerful turning point that set her on a path toward healing, rebuilding, and reclaiming her voice. Today, she uses her story to help others feel seen, supported, and empowered in their own healing. This conversation is emotional, courageous, and ultimately uplifting — a reminder that no matter what you've been through, it's never too late to rise, heal, and write a new chapter. Guest Bio Adrienne Caldwell is the author of the forthcoming memoir Unbroken: Life Outside the Lines — a raw and unflinching account of her journey through trauma, survival, and ultimately, healing. The book sheds light on the darkest corners of the human experience, including untreated mental illness, homelessness, foster care abuse, incest, addiction, and sexual violence, and emerges with a message of fierce resilience and unbreakable hope. More than a chronicle of pain, Unbroken is a story of identity, family, love, and finding your voice when the world refuses to listen. It's about reclaiming power and choosing purpose over despair. You'll hear About The childhood trauma that shaped Adrienne's early life How repression, addiction, and self-medicating became survival tools The moment that changed her healing journey How writing her book forced her to face decades of buried trauma Finding peace, stability, and purpose after a lifetime of hardship   Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction 01:10 Adrienne's Mission and Early Life 02:14 Trauma Beginning at Age Five 04:39 Suicide Attempts and a Life-Changing Moment 07:01 Growing Up with Mental Illness in the Home 09:23 Moving Homes, Instability, and Emotional Repression 11:51 Attachment Disorder and Numbing the Pain 13:50 The Psychiatric Ward Epiphany 16:41 Discovering the Truth in Her CPS Files 18:49 Emotional Abuse in Foster Care 20:53 Beginning the Writing and Healing Process 23:36 Overcoming Grief, Loss, and Hardship 26:07 Family Patterns and Lack of Awareness 28:30 Gratitude, Stability, and a New Life 30:53 Living with Purpose and Inspiring Others 33:20 A Message to Anyone Who Feels Hopeless 35:42 Chuck's Closing Reflections Chuck's Challenge This week, take one honest step toward facing something you've been avoiding. Stop the numbing, stop the running, and give yourself permission to feel what needs healing. You don't have to do it alone — just start with one step. Connect with Adriene Caldwell Book: https://www.unbrokencaldwell.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/UnbrokenCaldwell Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/UnbrokenCaldwell/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnbrokenCaldwel/ Connect with Chuck Check out the website: https://www.thecompassionateconnection.com/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-thuss-a9aa044/ Follow on Instagram: @warriorsunmasked Join the Warriors Unmasked community by subscribing to the show. Together, we're breaking stigmas and shining a light on mental health, one story at a time.

This episode features Corree Roofener—an accounting firm owner, podcast host, nonprofit founder, and fierce advocate for youth in foster care.A wife, mother of six, and Nana, Corree has spent more than thirteen years alongside her husband, Chad, opening their home and hearts as foster parents. Their journey revealed both the heartbreak and the hope within the foster care system—and inspired them to co-found Fostering the Summit, a nonprofit dedicated to ensuring no teen ages out of care without family, belonging, and support.

Wife Cheated With Man Who Put Our Real Son in Foster Care for 18 YearsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-cheating-wives-and-girlfriends-stories-2025-true-cheating-stories-podcast--5689182/support.

On this week's podcast Maddy Day of Maddy Day and Associates joins to talk about what it takes to provide stability on college campuses for youth who have experienced aging out of foster care, homelessness or both. She is helping to coordinate a Congressional briefing planned for 2026 on the subject. It's Newsmatch season! Please consider donating to support this podcast and the incredible work that our Imprint reporters do every day. If you donate this month, your contribution will be DOUBLED!www.Imprintnews.org/donateMaddy Day is the founder of Maddy Day and Associates. She co-founded the University of Washington Champions Program, in 2010, and directed the Fostering Success Michigan statewide initiative at Western Michigan University until 2018.Reading RoomWhy Isn't Community College Working for So Many Foster Youth?https://imprintnews.org/podcast/why-community-college-not-working-so-many-foster-youthMaking my Dream of Attending College Possiblehttps://imprintnews.org/youth-voice/making-my-dream-of-attending-college-possible/64932Grieving the Loss of Housing and My Mother While Navigating College as a Foster Youthhttps://imprintnews.org/youth-voice/grieving-the-loss-of-housing-and-my-mother-while-navigating-college-as-a-foster-youth/65080The Imprint's Archive of Educationhttps://imprintnews.org/topic/education

Many churches struggle with community ministry that feels disconnected from making disciples. In this episode, we break down how adoption and foster care ministry serves as a powerful evangelistic tool—not just a "feel good" initiative. From reaching biological parents to discipling children in Christian homes, Pastor Andrew and Pastor Landon share practical insights from helping 200+ families engage in foster care and adoption. Plus: why knowing your church's unique gifts matters more than copying another church's model. Perfect for pastors wanting mission-aligned community impact.Chosen Book: andrewphopper.com/chosen

Send us a textJust in time for the holidays, we whisk away on a cozy, magical journey through the enchanting world of The Snowman Code with Simon Stephenson. Warm yourself with this comfortable conversation about friendship, mental health, inner strength, and the transformative power of empathy as Simon shares the creative process behind his debut middle grade novel. SummaryThis week on the Adventures in Learning, Dr Diane Jackson Schnoor welcomes author Simon Stephenson, who unveils the American publication of his debut middle-grade realistic fantasy The Snowman Code. Simon shares his journey from being a children's doctor to writing for films like Luca and Paddington 2. Discover how his experiences with foster care children influenced The Snowman Code, a story about friendship, magic, empathy, resilience, depression, and finding your inner strength. We explore Simon's familial inspirations for the pompous and loving Albert the Snowman. Learn more about the artistic brilliance of illustrator Reggie Brown, whose rich multicultural illustrations add depth and unexpected surprises into this heartwarming story. Plus we envision how the book translates into a potential cinematic adaptation. Timestamps:01:02: The Author Behind The Snowman Code03:26:Blessing, Foster Care, Trauma, and Resilience07:28:Familial Origins of Albert the Snowman12:20:Themes of Empathy, Kindness, Compassion, and Sacrifice15:30:UK Reaction to The Snowman Code18:21:Exploring the Insightful, Layered Illustrations of Reggie Brown20:43:Imagining The Film Version23:52:What Brings You Hope?Links:Purchase The Snowman CodeFollow Simon Stephenson on InstagramDiscover more about Illustrator Reggie BrownSupport the showSubscribe & Follow: Stay updated with our latest episodes and follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn, and the Adventures in Learning website. Don't forget to subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts! *Disclosure: I am a Bookshop.org. affiliate.

Steve Gonyea, an advocate and foster parent from New York, shares his journey from seeking help for his son with autism and other disabilities to becoming a statewide leader in disability advocacy. Initially struggling to find proper diagnoses and services, Steve began helping other families and eventually served on agency boards, fostering over 170 children with complex needs. He highlights systemic issues such as long wait times for evaluations, lack of oversight in medication management, and inadequate dental care access, advocating for creative, out-of-the-box solutions like building sensory spaces and collaborating with local providers. Steve emphasizes the importance of parent-driven advocacy, networking through support groups, and pushing for legislative changes, such as ombudsman programs, to improve oversight and services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Wife Cheated With Man Who Put Our Real Son in Foster Care for 18 YearsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/true-cheating-wives-and-girlfriends-stories-2025-true-cheating-stories-podcast--5689182/support.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: Help for a youth dealing with being bullied because they are in foster care?Resources:5 Steps to Effectively Advocate for a Child Who is Being BulliedAre Transracial Adoptees More Likely to Be Bullied?Helping Our Kids Cope with Bullies at SchoolStopBullying.govSupport 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

Your Nebraska Update headlines for today, Dec. 4, include: one Lincoln mother describes how she confronted food insecurity while SNAP assistance was paused, ongoing legal challenge to medical marijuana ballot signatures, Foster Care Review Office report shows more kids aging out of care, NU regents face protests over proposed department cuts, three Omaha officers shot in confrontation.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Do you feel like raising a child with a history of trauma has stirred up your own traumatic past? If you wonder how to parent from a position of healing, listen to this conversation with Dr. Robyn Koslowitz. She is a psychologist, trauma expert, and author of the new book, Post-Traumatic Parenting: Break the Cycle, Become the Parent You Always Wanted to Be.In this episode, we discuss:You open your book by saying, ‘It's not you, it's your trauma.' That feels like both a relief and a challenge. Can you unpack that for parents and caregivers who blame themselves for every misstep in their parenting?When you use the term post-traumatic parent, what do you mean? How does that differ from saying ‘parent with trauma' or ‘healed parent'?Many caregivers feel haunted by an internal guilt that says, “How can I give what I never received?” How can parents or caregivers move from guilt to agency—without glossing over the pain?What are the 5 post-traumatic parenting defaults you identify in your book? What do they look like in real-life moments of parenting? How does a parent choose not to opt into those old trauma-driven defaults (e.g., yelling, withdrawal, overcontrol) in the moment? The metaphor of trauma as an appWhat is the concept of cycle-breaking versus cycle-making, and how is it valuable for breaking those unhealthy parenting patterns?What are some practical applications of this post-traumatic parenting reframe? How can a parent create and maintain trauma-responsive routines or rituals that will increase a child's sense of felt safety, without being rigid or feeling like a bunch of rules they must follow?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

In this 2-part episode we are joined by Dr. Hannah Snitzer and Gaby Espino Peralta from the CIRCLE clinic to talk about caring for youth in the foster care system.

In this episode of the Foster Friendly Podcast, host Brian Mavis and co-host Travis Vangsnes welcome Callie Priest, the director of strategic partnerships for WindShape Homes. They discuss the mission of WindShape Homes, which was founded by the founders of Chick-fil-A to support children in foster care. Callie shares her unique journey into the foster care space, emphasizing the importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care and provide support for vulnerable families. The conversation also covers the various programs and services offered by WindShape Homes, including their group care model and partnerships with churches to create supportive communities for foster families. Additionally, they introduce the new WindShape Homes podcast, aimed at raising awareness and sharing stories related to foster care. In this conversation, Callie discusses the barriers to awareness in foster care, the importance of collaboration among organizations, and the challenges of competition in the nonprofit sector. She emphasizes the need for a redemptive narrative in foster care and highlights the essential needs of children in the system, particularly the importance of Christ in their lives. The discussion also touches on the role of organizations in creating a supportive ecosystem for foster care and the necessity of working together to improve outcomes for children.Checkout WinShape Homes' resources and services:Listen to The WinShape Homes Podcast:TakeawaysWindShape Homes was founded to support children in foster care.Callie Priest has a background in nonprofit leadership and church ministry.The importance of mobilizing local churches to engage in foster care.WindShape Homes offers a group care model and foster care services.The organization partners with churches to create a supportive community for foster families.Callie emphasizes the need for clinical care in foster care programs.WindShape Homes has expanded its services to include a child placing agency.The organization aims to provide stability and support for vulnerable families.Callie highlights the complexity of the foster care system.The launch of the WindShape Homes podcast aims to raise awareness and share stories. Awareness is a significant barrier in foster care.A redemptive narrative is needed in foster care discussions.Collaboration among organizations is crucial for success.Competition among nonprofits can hinder progress.Foster care requires a community effort for better outcomes.Children in foster care need stable families and access to the gospel.Organizations should focus on collective impact rather than individual branding.The foster care system is complex and requires diverse expertise.Healthy ecosystems in foster care can lead to better care.Generosity and cooperation are essential in the nonprofit sector.

Are you advocating for your child or change? As every parent knows systems can be very tricky to navigate and change. The better we can understand them, the better we can relate with the people we deal with and more likely we are to get what we want. Listen in asDirector of Foster Care and Permanency Michelle shares her inside knowledge on systems, change and more.Here is a bit about Michelle from her website:"I'm often asked what brought me to this work; child protection, public service, and anti-oppression efforts. The answer is the same for all: my community's needs, desires, and experiences gave my career direction. Describing myself as a mixed kid from the projects doesn't always get a favorable reaction, but it's the truth and holds no shame for me. Neither do any of the other identities that make me the person I am today.I hold a Master's degree in public administration from Metropolitan State University and an undergraduate in psychology and women studies. My public services career started with my first professional job out of college as an alternative response case manager on the east side of Saint Paul. That position was my introduction to child protection; quickly discovering the disparities, I realized the change needed would have to come from within the system causing these poor outcomes. Finding my way to spaces and fighting for a seat at the table among decision-makers was not the solution I thought it would be.As a child protection worker, I found that policies, practices, and statutes interfered with my ability to make decisions in the best interest of families. As a supervisor, I found some of the same challenges, and the team I supported described transgressions in moral code during supervision. As a manager, I started to draw the connection between staff retention and outcomes for families. It became clear that staff supported in making decisions that align with their values remain in high-stakes decision-making positions. The unnamed emotions and blame the system placed on professionals led me to the term Moral Injury. Once I found the name of my experience, I felt empowered, becoming driven to inform the workforce and hold systems responsible."Here are some links for more infohttps://mn.gov/dhs/partners-and-providers/program-overviews/child-protection-foster-care-adoption/african-american-child-well-being/https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-d-seymore-42b0983b/https://www.revisor.mn.gov/statutes/cite/260.692#:~:text=The%20African%20American%20Child%20and,in%20the%20child%20welfare%20system;https://www.michelledseymore.com/ 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.

When the odds are stacked against you, how do you succeed anyway? Foster kid turned NFL athlete, Anthony Trucks shares his 3-step method to upgrade your identity and succeed, even when it seems impossible. Watch my Free Masterclass: Stop Making These 3 Profit Killing Mistakes… Before It's Too Late → https://www.marieforleo.com/freeclass Are you struggling through those moments where your brain just goes, "ugh, not now"... and you can't get moving? Grab my 1-Minute Motivators to get you back on track FAST. → https://marieforleo.com/motivators COME SAY 'HI!' Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/marieforleo Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@marieforleo Facebook: http://www.Facebook.com/marieforleo Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/marieforleo If you enjoyed this episode, please leave us a review!

Jon covers the news pertinent for conservative American Christians including the rise in religious "nones," the new CEO of Christianity Today, Summit Church's continued soft-peddling of illegal immigration, Trump's executive order to help Christian families participate in the Foster Care system, Jonathan Leeman's defense of Mark Dever and acknowledgement that Christians shouldn't vote for pro-choice candidates, and more!Order Against the Waves: Againstthewavesbook.comCheck out Jon's Music: jonharristunes.comTo Support the Podcast: https://www.worldviewconversation.com/support/Become a Patronhttps://www.patreon.com/jonharrispodcastSubstack: https://substack.com/@jonharris?Follow Jon on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jonharris1989Follow Jon on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jonharris1989/Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/conversations-that-matter8971/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

It's our last regular episode of the year and we cap off 2025 with Ultra Chad!In this episode, the hosts welcome Chad Ultra, an elite ultra runner, who shares his journey from road running to ultra marathons. The conversation delves into his experiences in cross-country running, the impact of foster care on his life, and the importance of community support and sponsorships in the running world. The hosts also discuss their live shows, future plans, and the joy of sharing their passion for running with others. In this engaging conversation, Eric and Erika reflect on their podcasting journey, the growth of their community, and the evolution of their experiences in ultra running. They discuss the importance of friendship, support, and humor in the running community, as well as the unique culture that surrounds ultra events. The conversation also touches on personal growth, the joy of themed races, and the role of music in their lives. With a mix of lighthearted banter and heartfelt moments, they celebrate their achievements and look forward to future goals.Chapters00:00 Introduction03:27 Thanksgiving Reflections06:27 Skiing Adventures and Equipment Choices09:26 Camera Gear and Content Creation25:03 Chad Ultra: The Alter Ego28:21 Foster Care and Running as an Escape31:12 Inspirational Moments in Cross Country34:11 Growing Up in Astoria, Oregon37:01 The Bluey Experience and Social Media Insights39:54 Seattle Sports Culture45:56 The Journey into Ultra Running54:45 The Yeti Trail Runners and Friendships01:05:55 The Hilarious Finish Line Antics01:06:54 Post-Race Revelations and Challenges01:09:44 The One Step Closer Race Experience01:13:30 The Ultra Community: Support and Camaraderie01:17:12 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome in Ultra Running01:21:50 Chad Ultra: Creating a Unique Running Culture01:32:04 Future Race Ideas and Creative Concepts01:38:15 Dinner Guests: A Fun and Creative Choice01:54:05 Music Discussions and Hot Takes01:56:22 Sponsorships and Partnerships Overview01:59:16 Fundraising Events and Community Engagement02:02:09 Live Shows and Future Plans02:05:07 Year in Review and Looking Ahead02:07:55 Closing Thoughts and GratitudeStrava GroupLinktree - Find everything hereInstagram - Follow us on the gram YouTube - Subscribe to our channel Patreon - Support usThreadsEmail us at OnTheRunsPod@gmail.com Don't Fear The Code Brown and Don't Forget To Stretch!

The journey to foster care and/or adoption looks different for each one of us. But for the moms on this podcast we all can point to a time when God said "this is what I want you to do." For Kate Rietema, it was about seventeen years ago as she listened to stories from foster parents and felt her heart stirred to say yes. Now, reflecting back on that time, Kate shares her own stories of loving and caring for children not her own and how God met her through them.  Kate Rietema is the author of three children's books including When God Makes Scribbles Beautiful and All the Babies: A First Book About Adoption. She is the bio and adoptive mother of five girls and has been a mom to many others through foster care. Throughout her life, Kate has experienced God's deep kindness, and she loves to share her stories with others. Kate works as a nurse, volunteers at her county jail, and lives at the campground she and her husband operate in West Michigan. You can learn more about Kate at www.katerietema.com. I am a Connected Families certified parent coach offering small groups for moms, individual parent coaching, and workshops. To learn more, head to https://www.lyssastoyko.com/ Help other mamas find encouragement through Moms Take Ten by rating and reviewing this show. That would be a blessing to both them and me. Thank you for your time! Want to say hello? Follow me on Facebook and Insta @lyssastoyko Email me at momstaketen@gmail.com

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: I have been fostering our grandchild since March. It is now almost September. Both biological parents had drug addiction. Bio mom was on a trial home visit, but used this as the reason our grandchild is with us. After the trial home visit ended, bio mom was still getting supervised visits 2x a week. After every visit, the little one was dysregulated and started biting and hitting the daycare kiddos and the provider, and would also act out towards us. She is only 15 months old. Both parents terminated their rights in May, and that is when I put a stop to the visits. We know bio mom was still using while having her supervised visits. I give weekly updates and photos to bio mom. But she keeps pushing for (in-person) visits, and I can't do visits, as I don't know if bio mom is clean or still using. She has had 13 years of using and has found loopholes in the system to keep seeing her other kids, when she doesn't have custody of them. Since we stopped visiting, my grandchild has become more stable and regulated and has stopped biting and hitting. Our caseworker has filed the adoption papers, and we will soon finalize the adoption. Bio mom is still using, and she tells me she is an alienated parent, and that I am keeping her from her child. Am I doing the right thing by not letting her see the child?Resources:How Do You Manage Relationships with Birth Parents with Substance Use Disorders?Open Adoption With Addicted Birth Parents5 Tips for Navigating Sticky Situations with Birth ParentsPractical Help for Shared Parenting in Kinship CaregivingSupport 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

In this emotionally charged part two episode, The Shield Within Podcast and The Spinning Our Gears Podcast continue to talk about their experiences with the foster care and adoption worlds.

A new law means non-Emiratis can now foster children here in the UAE. So, what does it mean for families - and what is the reality of building a family through fostering and adoption here? Helen meets adoptive mums Laura-Jane Hall & Vicki Galloway-Place. Meanwhile, this winter sees a longer school holiday coming after a packed – and for many people, stressful – term of tests, exams and sports. So, how can you use the next four weeks to help your child, tween or teen decompress and relax? Psychologist Maha Cooper has all the advice you need.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Join us for a fun and inspiring conversation with Emily Cole, co-founder and co-owner of Banana Ball, the new sports phenomenon sweeping the country. We're talking with her about Bananas Foster, their non-profit that celebrates foster families all around the nation.In this episode, we talk about:Please tell us the story of how Bananas Foster got started.What was happening in your life that made you say, “We need to do something for foster families”?What was the biggest challenge in getting things off the ground?For listeners who might not know you yet, what's the mission of Bananas Foster?What are some of the biggest everyday needs you hear about from foster, kinship, or adoptive families?How do you see Bananas Foster stepping into those areas of need?What's your big dream for Bananas Foster — say, five or ten years from now?You talk about celebrating and supporting foster families — can you share what that looks like at a typical Banana Ball game day?What kinds of local partnerships do you have in the cities you visit — with churches, agencies, schools, or other groups?Looking ahead, do you have a plan or goal for building on those partnerships or expanding the care you offer with them?The celebrations you host are such a bright spot! What do families tell you after those events — how do they feel when they leave?Is there a particular story, celebration, or family that has really stuck with you?How do you hope those celebrations will grow or change over the next few years?What's one thing you've learned from the families you serve that's changed you personally?For our listeners, how can people get involved or support what Bananas Foster is doing?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

In this episode we answer emails from Grant, Brian, and Mourad.  We unpack Grant's various gambling problems with leveraged ETFs and Bitcoin wrappers, owning gold in CAD or USD for Canadians, the role of preferred shares and Mourad's recent visit to the Father McKenna Center.Links:Father McKenna Center Donation Page:  Donate - Father McKenna CenterChoose FI Podcast #574:  Top Five Regrets of the Dying (Book Club with Frank Vasquez and Ginger) | Ep 574Mary's CASA Case Adoption Story:  The Johnson's Foster Care & Adoption StoryPortfolio Charts Global Analysis:  What Global Withdrawal Rates Teach Us About Ideal Retirement Portfolios – Portfolio ChartsBreathless Unedited AI-Bot Summary:Ever been tempted by a product that promises steady price, double‑digit yield, and exposure to the hottest asset on earth? We take a hard look at leveraged ETFs, Bitcoin‑linked strategies, and engineered income, then draw a clean line between thrill and risk you can actually carry. Grant checks in with a levered twist on the Golden Butterfly, swapping UPRO for TQQQ and TNA, and we explain why the Russell small cap complex often hides junky growth that fails to diversify when you need it most. If you want real balance, pair concentrated growth with genuine value or defensives, not a label that only looks like value on a factsheet.We also break down MicroStrategy's stock behavior versus spot Bitcoin and explore STRC, the “preferred” fund aiming to keep price near par while dialing a high payout. The headline yield is labeled return of capital, which may defer taxes but doesn't manufacture wealth if the underlying can't out-earn distributions. When the tide turns, structures like this tend to leak value, especially if they rely on direction and volatility to cooperate. If your goal is Bitcoin exposure, owning a spot ETF is usually cleaner and more predictable than chasing premium/discount dynamics or engineered yield.For Canadian listeners, we make the case for treating gold as a currency and holding it in CAD to match real-world spending, reducing the noise of USD/CAD swings. Bonds are different: long U.S. Treasuries remain premier crisis ballast thanks to reserve currency demand. We review a thoughtful 50% equity risk‑parity‑style allocation targeting a 5% withdrawal rate, flag why a heavy preferred shares sleeve can be a drag, and suggest shifting part of that into long duration Treasuries, more gold, or a true diversifier like managed futures. Want portfolios that survive the cycle? Favor transparent exposures, honest hedges, and tools like Portfolio Charts to pressure‑test your mix across currencies.If this helped sharpen your plan, follow the show, share it with a friend who loves complex wrappers, and leave a quick review so more DIY investors can find us.Support the show

In this episode of the Foster Friendly podcast, hosts Courtney Williams and Travis Vangsnes welcome Greg and Sam Hollback, a couple who have adopted two Native American daughters through the I Belong Project. They discuss their life in Daytona Beach, their community engagement, and their professional backgrounds in youth advocacy and education. The Hollbacks share their adoption journey, including the challenges and joys of finding their daughters, the importance of cultural considerations in adoption, and how they incorporate Lakota heritage into their family life. They reflect on their experiences as a multicultural family and the significance of belonging and identity for their children.Checkout our free webinars on practical and relevant foster care and adoption topicsFosterCon.orgLearn more about Youth Advocate Programs:https://www.yapinc.org/TakeawaysLiving in Daytona Beach offers a unique lifestyle for families.Adoption processes can take time and require patience.Cultural understanding is crucial in the adoption journey.Incorporating a child's heritage can enrich family life.Community engagement is important for personal fulfillment.Children need time and attention to adjust in new environments.Adopting cross-culturally requires sensitivity and awareness.Language learning can strengthen family bonds and cultural identity.The importance of being accepted as a family in diverse communities.Adoption is about love and connection, not perfection.

Emmy-nominated actress, author, and advocate Victoria Rowell joins Alan for a heartfelt and inspiring conversation in The Locher Room.Victoria opens up about her extraordinary path — from learning ballet on a Maine farm and dancing professionally with ABT II to landing her first daytime role as Nella Franklin on As the World Turns in a story that has to be heard to be believed. She reflects on her iconic years as Drucilla Winters in The Young and the Restless, her powerful connection with the late Kristoff St. John, and the passionate fan base that continues to celebrate her work decades later.Victoria also shares deeply personal memories of her foster upbringing, how it shaped her resilience and advocacy, and what continues to drive her commitment to diversity, representation, and opportunity in the arts.This is a must-listen conversation with one of television's most inspiring and multi-talented voices — full of heart, honesty, and hard-won wisdom.#TheLocherRoom #VictoriaRowell #YoungAndTheRestless #AsTheWorldTurns #DrucillaWinters #DaytimeTV #FosterCare #Representation #Ballet #Inspiration

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In this episode, host Jordan Dillon sits down with Ryan MacDonald from Foster the City for an honest, practical conversation about adoption, foster care, and learning to love vulnerable children as a family and a church. Ryan shares his personal journey into adopting and fostering, how his family is shaped today, and why partnering with organizations like Foster the City matters. Jordan and Ryan talk through the biggest hurdles people face when considering foster care, how to discern if this is the right time for your family, and what healthy preparation looks like for parents stepping into this season. They also discuss the encouraging trends Ryan is seeing in the foster community, the concerns leaders should be paying attention to, and how everyday believers can stay connected and supportive even if they're not fostering themselves. Whether you're exploring foster care, supporting someone who is, or wanting to better understand the needs of vulnerable children, this episode offers grounded wisdom, lived experience, and hope for the future.

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: Do you have trainings for children transitioning from foster care to adoption?Resources:Transitioning a Child to Your HomeWelcoming an Older Child to Your FamilyHelping Your Child Transition Smoothly from Foster Care to AdoptionUsing Lifebooks to Explain Complex Issues in Adoption to KidsBooks about being adopted from foster careSupport 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 By Their Side, everyone! This episode features an interview with David Ambroz, a national poverty and child welfare expert and the author of the bestselling memoir A Place Called Home: A Memoir! Ambroz shares his powerful personal story of growing up homeless and in the foster care system and how those experiences shaped his lifelong mission to help children and families break the cycle of poverty! David explains that for him, "home" as a child was simply wherever he and his family could find shelter at the time - a church basement, a bus stop, or the subway. He describes the trauma of entering the foster care system, where most of the homes he was placed in were not truly "homes" filled with love and safety. As he's gotten older, David has come to define home not by physical walls but rather by the people and mission that sustain him. Our conversation explores how the child welfare and foster care systems have improved over time, with more policies and programs to support vulnerable children. However, David highlights the fact that there is still much work to be done to address the root causes of childhood poverty and homelessness, and he passionately argues that as a society, we need to stop treating these issues as just statistics and start seeing them as a moral necessity that affects the lives of real children. David also shares some inspiring stories of the "occasional angels" - teachers, social workers, and foster parents who made a profound difference in his life, even via small acts of kindness. He stresses that everyone has the power to be an "occasional angel" and make a big impact, whether by becoming a CASA volunteer, hiring a foster youth intern, or simply having meaningful conversations about these issues. The interview closes with David's call to action - for all of us to get involved, get uncomfortable, and do more to end the intergenerational cycle of poverty and trauma. He believes that with collective passion and action, we can create a society in which every child has access to the resources and support they need to thrive! Highlights: [1:45] - Home wasn't a place for David but rather the people and purpose that he chose. [3:38] - David argues that it's important to celebrate progress in child advocacy while continuing the work that remains unfinished. [5:09] - David reminds us that all wins are important, even imperfect ones. ​​ [8:36] - David encourages people to show children the same passion we give sports and celebrities. [9:52] - David believes that communities tend to step up during visible crises, but we need to shift to collective responsibility. [10:58] - David asserts that we need to address immediate crises like hunger while also fixing the systemic causes that create them in the first place. [13:41] - What did it feel like for David, as a small child, to be suffering yet completely ignored? [14:19] - Hear how David learned early on that society ignored his suffering, revealing to him how little his life mattered to others. [16:54] - Everyday "occasional angels" doing small, compassionate acts can drastically impact a child's life! [19:48] - ​​How might David's life have been different if more people had simply helped in small ways? [20:18] - David points out how a consistent adult presence such as a CASA could have guided him and profoundly changed his life trajectory. [23:44] - Hear how a question from David's mother awakened the idea of choice and sparked his first real hope. [26:00] - Having someone show you options and hope can transform survival-focused minds toward seeing a better future. [27:25] - David describes forgiveness as a lifelong discipline that enabled him to survive unbearable circumstances. [30:49] - Illness, not moral failure, explains many troubling behaviors. [32:35] - David argues that people misunderstand foster care and ignore their duty to oversee its power. ​​ [34:33] - David reiterates that kids living in foster care aren't broken and argues that we need to stop judging struggling families and workers. [37:08] - David feels that kids living in foster care aren't broken. [39:58] - The foster-friendly workplace certification encourages employers to support foster parents, and doing nothing is unacceptable. [41:22] - Don't wait for perfect conditions; show up with heart, take action, and always do more! [43:49] - Where can David be reached online? [44:56] - David expresses gratitude toward adults who helped him, but ending child poverty requires all of us to act. Links & Resources: David's Website David's Instagram Page David's Threads Page David Ambroz - A Place Called Home: A Memoir   Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this episode are those of the guests and host and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of Voices for CASA Children or its affiliates. Content Warning: This episode may include discussions of sensitive topics that could be triggering for some listeners.

In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard speaks with Jeanette Yoffe, a psychotherapist and advocate in the field of foster care and adoption. Jeanette shares her personal journey through the foster care system, her experiences with adoption, and the complexities of identity and attachment. They discuss the historical context of adoption, the impact of mental health on family dynamics, and the importance of therapeutic parenting. Jeanette emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion for those who have experienced trauma, and she offers valuable advice for youth navigating similar challenges.Watch the Video Podcast! If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here www.JeanetteYoffe.comYouTube Channel: Jeanette-ically Speaking About Foster Care Adoption and Mental HealthIf you are experiencing a mental health crisis/emergency, please contact the 24 hour-7 day a week, crisis line: LA COUNTY ACCESS at 1-800-854-7771NEW CHILDREN'S BOOKS: What is Adoption? for KidsWhat is Foster Care? For Kids

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Do you sometimes feel that self-care is an impossible goal when you are parenting kids who have experienced trauma? There isn't enough time in the day to do it all, much less take care of yourself. Or is there? Join us to talk about how to find time to take care of yourself. We will talk with Angelica Jones, MSW, Program Director of Intercountry Services and the Intensive Service Foster Care Recruiter and Trainer at Vista Del Mar Child and Family Services.In this episode, we discuss:“Selfcare” or “take care of yourself” are overused but still vitally important terms for foster, adoptive, and kinship parents.Why do all parents but especially parents of kids who've experienced trauma need to practice self-care?What is secondary trauma?Why are kids who've experience neglect, abuse and other childhood traumas harder to  parent?Challenging BehaviorsLearning disabilitiesThe busyness of foster and adoptive parenting.So many appointments (therapy, OT, tutoring, doctors, IEP meetings, social workers, birth family visits, etc.)Helping with education-homework struggles.Dealing with the emotional fallout from early life trauma.What are some of the barriers to taking care of ourselves as adoptive, foster or kinship parents?The importance of respite care and the barriers to parents using it.Practical ideas for providing self-care.Think small when thinking self-care.Ask for help and accept it when offered. If someone offers to help, say “yes” and suggest something specific.Parent Support groupsSupport 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

Dr. John DeGarmo is a leading authority on foster care, an international consultant to legal agencies, and founder of The Foster Care Institute. He has taken in more than 60 foster children and turned two decades of experience into books, talks, and training for families and professionals. He shares the realities behind America's foster care system, addressing trauma, abuse, neglect, and the urgent need for reform. Listeners learn what it truly takes to be a foster parent, why support systems matter, and how anyone can make a difference for children in crisis. In this episode of Marketer of the Day, Dr. DeGarmo explains how he turned personal tragedy into purpose after witnessing child neglect and human trafficking in his community. He describes the emotional and logistical challenges of fostering, the gaps in the system, and why compassion fatigue is real for both parents and caseworkers. Most importantly, he offers simple, practical ways that anyone can help, from donating supplies to mentoring local youth. This conversation is a call to awareness, empathy, and action for the next generation. Quotes: “Foster parenting is the hardest thing I've ever done, but it's also the most rewarding.” “Within a mile of where each of us lives, there's probably a child crying out for help.” “Not everyone can be a foster parent, but everyone can help a child in some way.” “I can't change the world, and you can't change the world, but for those children we help, their world has changed.” Resources: Connect with Dr. John DeGarmo on LinkedIn Visit Dr. John DeGarmo's Website Connect with Dr. John DeGarmo on Facebook Follow Dr. John DeGarmo on X Watch Dr. John DeGarmo on YouTube

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Why do our kids melt down, act out, or regress during the holiday season? Listen to our conversation with Dr. David Adams to learn what is going on and what you can do about it to make this holiday season more enjoyable for you all. He is an adoptive and foster dad, a licensed psychologist, and a licensed professional counselor. He is the Founding Director and President of New Life Psychology Group in Laguna Hills, California, and an expert trainer of Foster and Kinship Care Education (FKCE) at Saddleback College. He has also recently written and released the book, Trauma-Informed Foster and Adoptive Parenting: Methods for Managing Meltdowns, Mishaps, and Maladaptive Behaviors.In this episode, we discuss:What are some of the reasons that holidays are hard for children who are adopted or are in foster care?What kind of behaviors do parents and caregivers commonly see that are likely related to those challenges around holidays?Sleep challengesFeeding challengesIncreased anxiety, fear, insecurityImpulsivityDysregulation (louder than usual, bigger emotional response than normal for this child)How do these behaviors relate to the reasons holidays are hard for our kids? What's the connection between that outward behavior and the internal need or hurt?Can you provide us with a few practical strategies for addressing these behaviors? Let's break them down by age:Toddler and preschoolersSchool-aged childrenTweens and Teens (into young adults)What trauma-sensitive preparations or preventative actions can we take to minimize the challenging behaviors and help our kids feel safe, supported, and able to find healing?What is compassion fatigue? What signs should we look for to help us identify our risk during this holiday season?Strategies to help parents and caregivers plan now for a less-stressful holiday season.Additional Resources:Set Your Family Up for Success This Holiday SeasonTips for Managing Your Picky EaterStrategies to Manage Holiday StressSupport 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

Foster care and adoption can be wonderfully redemptive for needy children, but parents also need to be aware of the loss and trauma these kids have experienced. Of course, not everyone is called to be foster or adoptive parent, but anyone can come alongside these families to encourage and support them. Ryan and Kayla North describe the joys and challenges of foster parenting and adoption. A suitcase bundle is a constant and caring reminder for children in foster care they are very loved and a valuable child of God. Get More Episode Resources If you enjoyed listening to Focus on the Family with Jim Daly, please give us your feedback.