Podcasts about Kinship care

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Raising kids while caring for aging parents is more common than ever—and often overwhelming. We talk with Robyn Wind, the GRAND Voices Support Coordinator for the National Center on Grandfamilies at Generations United, about the realities of sandwich generation caregiving and practical ways foster, adoptive, and kinship families can find support. In this episode, we discuss:Can we start with a working definition of the term “sandwich generation”?How have you seen that definition evolve in recent years? From your work with the National Center on Grandfamilies and Generations United, what are you seeing right now that suggests this is becoming a bigger issue? What are the most common pressures you hear caregivers talk about?Where do you see caregivers feeling the most “pulled apart” between generations for whom they are caring? What are the moments when they feel like they can't meet everyone's needs at once?Are there differences in how this shows up for: Parents of young children vs. teens? Kinship caregivers or grandparents raising grandchildren? Many of our listeners are already parenting children with trauma or complex needs. How does that layer onto sandwich caregiving? Do you see unique challenges for kinship caregivers who may already be caring for grandchildren and are now also caring for aging spouses or siblings? What are some ways systems unintentionally fail these families? Where do they tend to fall through the cracks? What would better support look like if systems were truly designed for multigenerational families? What are the early signs that a caregiver is stretched too thin and at risk?What does realistic self-care actually look like in this season of life? How do you advise the caregivers you support to balance guilt or feelings of inadequacy, given that there is SO much need on both sides of their sandwich?What supports should caregivers try to put in place early? How can families share this sandwich-caring experience more effectively, instead of having one person carry it all? What resources or programs from Generations United should caregivers know about? What strengths do you see in sandwich generation families that we don't talk about enough? Resources:'Sandwich generation' caregivers caught between two generations in needCaring for Those Who Are Caring for Everyone: The Sandwich Generation Generations UnitedGrandfamilies.orgGKSNetwork.orgGrandfamilies & Kinship University - Generations UnitedSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent thrust into the role of primary caregiver, managing the relentless stress, marriage challenges, and behavioral transitions that come with raising your grandchildren? Do you wonder how to move from surviving daily crises to building a sanctuary in your home—one where healing and hope are possible for both you and your grandchildren? Has your retirement story taken an unexpected detour, leaving you to mourn lost dreams while navigating the high-stakes world of kinship caregiving?I'm Laura Brazan, and welcome to "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren–Nurturing Through Adversity." In this episode, we sit down with resilience expert Steven Wagstaff, a retired pastor and C5 quadriplegic, whose life-altering journey offers tools for managing caregiver burnout, strengthening your marriage, and understanding the messy realities of raising kids affected by trauma. Together, we'll discuss how to normalize feelings of isolation, use humor and hard-earned wisdom as powerful tools, and make space for grief without letting it become your ceiling. For more information on Stephen, his ministry and his podcast, please visit "Swagability".Each week, we bring you authentic conversations and expert advice on trauma-informed childrearing, emotional wellness, marriage, legal and financial support, and building real community. You'll discover strategies for leading with intention, connecting with your partner, and embracing your own story of unexpected resilience.Join our supportive community.Send us Fan MailDr. Jennifer Brunton holds a Ph.D. in sociology from Columbia University and has a career spanning from college professor to high-level editor and writer for brands like Forbes and Random House. But it is her identity as a proudly Autistic parent of an Autistic son and grandmother/primary caregiver to two neurodivergent granddaughters, 2- and 3-years-old, that fuels her deepest mission. I recently interviewed her for an episode that will be live the end of August 2026.  Jill Bryant has spent years researching the deep complexities of counseling and the lived reality of kinship care as a professor and a grandparent raising a grandchild. Her work, focusing on the complete subjective well-being of kinship caregivers. Taking this 10-minute survey gives our advocates the timely, real-world data they need to fight for the funding and structural support your family deserves right now.  Kinship care—stepping up to raise your grandchildren—can often feel like an incredibly lonely journey. When custody happens unexpectedly, it's easy to feel like you are the only one navigating the trauma, the system, and the sheer exhaustion.But you aren't alone. And that is exactly why your story matters. Your unique experience holds the power to change the system for the next family. Share your story with us at laurabrazan@grandparents-raising-grandchildren.orgThank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Are you considering residential treatment for your adopted child? We speak with Daniel Hochstetler of Fair Play Camp in South Carolina about preparing our families for residential treatment, navigating the programs, and how to set our families up for success after treatment. In this episode, we talk about:Pursuing residential treatment is one of the hardest decisions adoptive families can face. Based on your experience, how should we think about residential treatment within the broader picture of supporting our adopted kids? (i.e., exists on the spectrum of resources and interventions)Before we get into the details, what do you want adoptive families to hear right away if residential treatment is something they think they may need to consider?When we say residential treatment in this conversation, what does that mean?How is it different from other supports families may have already tried, like therapy, out-patient programs, or in-home services?What kinds of needs is residential treatment for adopted kids designed to meet?In your experience, how can residential care be helpful for kids and families who are really struggling?What are some misunderstandings that make this option feel more frightening or confusing than it needs to be?This is where many parents feel stuck. What are some signs that a family may need to start thinking about a higher level of care?Who should be part of making this decision? How can adoptive parents make sure they're not making it in isolation?When a family finds it necessary to move forward to placement in residential care, how can they talk with their child about residential treatment in a way that keeps the relationship intact?What reactions should parents expect, and how can they respond in ways that don't escalate their child's fear or shame?How can families stay connected while their child is in care?What helps parents partner well with the treatment team?Coming home is an important goal for parents and their kids to work toward. But it's not a reset button that magically clears the cache. It is, however, another transition. And transitions can be hard on everyone.What can you help our listeners understand about the transition home from the child's perspective?How should we be talking with our kids before leaving the residential program?What are realistic expectations for those first few weeks?What supports should already be in place before a child comes home? (work with caseworker from treatment, get recommendations, referrals, etc.)What are some simple ways to rebuild a connection without overwhelming the child?When old behaviors resurface—and they often do—how should parents respond?What does progress actually look like in real life during this phase?This experience affects everyone in the home. How can parents support siblings who may have been impacted by what's happened?Parents are often exhausted by this point. What does realistic, doable support look like for caregivers themselves?If a parent listening today feels like they're nearing this decision, what's one step they can take to feel more grounded and prepared for the experience?Resources:Parenting Children with Challenging Behavior (Resource Page)Accessing Residential Treatment Care for AdopteesExploring Medication for Adopted ChildrenDoes Your Child Need Residential TreatmentGet Residential Treatment for Your ChildSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent, caregiver, or child impacted by generational trauma? Do you wrestle with questions of connection, healing, and the hope to break repeating patterns? Are you searching for authentic guidance to rewrite your family's future after abuse or neglect? I'm Laura Brazan, and in this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' we confront the realities of trauma and healing. Our guest, therapist and author Johnzelle Anderson, shares his powerful story as a grandchild raised by his grandmother—the very person who both nurtured and wounded him. Together, we unpack how generational abuse cycles can be disrupted with love, boundaries, and self-awareness. Learn practical tools for auditing your family's “trauma soundtracks,” building genuine connection, and fostering resilience in your grandchildren.Johnzelle is a licensed therapist by trade, and believes in the power of storytelling to heal, imagine, disrupt, and inspire. His writing focuses on mental health, race, relationships, and identity. In his book Mixtape: A Memoir, therapist and storyteller Johnzelle Anderson weaves a raw, lyrical portrait of resilience, identity, and healing. Send us Fan MailDr. Jennifer Brunton holds a Ph.D. in sociology from Columbia University and has a career spanning from college professor to high-level editor and writer for brands like Forbes and Random House. But it is her identity as a proudly Autistic parent of an Autistic son and grandmother/primary caregiver to two neurodivergent granddaughters, 2- and 3-years-old, that fuels her deepest mission. I recently interviewed her for an episode that will be live the end of August 2026.  Jill Bryant has spent years researching the deep complexities of counseling and the lived reality of kinship care as a professor and a grandparent raising a grandchild. Her work, focusing on the complete subjective well-being of kinship caregivers. Taking this 10-minute survey gives our advocates the timely, real-world data they need to fight for the funding and structural support your family deserves right now.  Kinship care—stepping up to raise your grandchildren—can often feel like an incredibly lonely journey. When custody happens unexpectedly, it's easy to feel like you are the only one navigating the trauma, the system, and the sheer exhaustion.But you aren't alone. And that is exactly why your story matters. Your unique experience holds the power to change the system for the next family. Share your story with us at laurabrazan@grandparents-raising-grandchildren.orgThank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: The school thinks my foster son may have ADHD, but I know he's been through a lot of trauma. How do I know what's driving his behavior and how to advocate for the support he actually needs?Resources:The Grandparents' Guide to Back to SchoolHow Do Teachers Understand Adoption and What Can Parents Do About It?A Parent's Guide to Working with the Schools on BehaviorBack to School with Foster and Adopted KidsUnderstood.orgSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent who finds yourself stepping back into the exhausting world of parenting, unexpectedly raising your grandchildren in the wake of family upheaval? Do you ever mourn the peaceful retirement you imagined, longing for slow mornings and carefree days, only to wake up facing a mountain of responsibilities you didn't choose? Does the gap between the life you hoped for and the reality you're living sometimes feel like a weight you carry in solitude?I'm Laura, and like you, I've wrestled with the emotional complexities of kinship caregiving. There was a time I imagined being the picture-perfect grandmother—apron neat, stories at bedtime, the house always warm and welcoming. But I've endured losses, illness, and heartbreak. I know the ache of wishing for rest and the fear for what would become of our grandchildren if we weren't there for them. The transition from simply doing the right thing to wholeheartedly accepting the role has been my most powerful shift.Welcome to "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity." Here, we peel back the layers of duty, grief, resilience, and acceptance. You'll find expert guidance—including the wisdom of world-renowned psychologist Dr. Anthony Silard—real stories from the trenches, and a community that understands the unique challenges of raising children after trauma or family rupture. To order any of Dr. Silard's books and to find out more about his work, please visit his website. We'll talk about the difference between fighting our reality and embracing it—why acceptance is not passive surrender but a source of strength. You'll hear how to let go of outdated ideals and anchor yourself in the life you have, nurturing your grandchildren and yourself at the same time.You are not alone in this. Together, we'll explore the tools, resources, and mindsets to help you—and your grandchildren—grow, heal, and thrive. This is your boardroom, your community, and your story to author anew.Send us Fan MailDr. Jennifer Brunton holds a Ph.D. in sociology from Columbia University and has a career spanning from college professor to high-level editor and writer for brands like Forbes and Random House. But it is her identity as a proudly Autistic parent of an Autistic son and grandmother/primary caregiver to two neurodivergent granddaughters, 2- and 3-years-old, that fuels her deepest mission. I recently interviewed her for an episode that will be live the end of August 2026.  Jill Bryant has spent years researching the deep complexities of counseling and the lived reality of kinship care as a professor and a grandparent raising a grandchild. Her work, focusing on the complete subjective well-being of kinship caregivers. Taking this 10-minute survey gives our advocates the timely, real-world data they need to fight for the funding and structural support your family deserves right now.  Kinship care—stepping up to raise your grandchildren—can often feel like an incredibly lonely journey. When custody happens unexpectedly, it's easy to feel like you are the only one navigating the trauma, the system, and the sheer exhaustion.But you aren't alone. And that is exactly why your story matters. Your unique experience holds the power to change the system for the next family. Share your story with us at laurabrazan@grandparents-raising-grandchildren.orgThank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: We are seriously considering becoming foster parents.  We have 2 children by birth, and I am really worried about how this will affect them and what I can do to prevent some of the negative effects.Resources:The Impact of Fostering and Adoption on Kids Already in the Family (Resource)Talking with your Resident Kids about Foster Care or Kinship Care (Resource)What You Should Know About Disrupting Birth Order in Adoption & 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Have you lost a child to the fentanyl crisis and now find yourself raising a grandchild while navigating profound grief, financial upheaval, and relentless societal judgment? Are you searching for understanding, practical support, and a community that truly sees the struggles and resilience of grandparents in kinship care? You're not alone.I'm Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this episode, we sit down with guest Laurel Exner, a grandmother who survived the unimaginable loss of not one, but two children to fentanyl overdoses. Laurel shares her raw, inspiring journey—how she and her husband built a sanctuary for their traumatized grandson, managed the crushing administrative and financial weight of kinship care, and learned to overcome the shame and isolation that so many of us feel.If you're yearning for practical resources, emotional healing, or simply a sense of community and hope, this podcast brings together real stories from grandparents who are living it, expert insights on trauma and childhood grief, and strategies to help you protect both your home and your heart. Tune in and join a supportive movement 2.7 million strong. You don't have to walk this path alone—together, we will nurture, survive, and thrive.Send us Fan MailJolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: I'm new to raising my grandchild and still learning about trauma. People keep saying it changes a child's brain, but I don't really understand what that means. What does trauma actually do to the brain, and how does that show up in behavior at home or school?Resources:The Three Es: Understanding the Impacts of TraumaA Conversation with Dr. Bruce Perry About TraumaHow Trauma Impacts a Child's DevelopmentMeeting Children Where They Are: The Neurosequential Model of TherapeuticsSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent overwhelmed by the high-paced chaos of raising grandchildren, trying to break cycles of crisis and create lasting stability? Do you find yourself burning out, reacting to emergencies instead of building a resilient, nurturing home for the children in your care? Are you searching for practical ways to slow down, reconnect, and find the “campfire moments” that bring warmth and peace to your family?I'm Laura Brazan, and after becoming the primary caregiver to my grandchildren, I discovered how demanding and isolating kinship care can be. Together with special guest Jake Knox, author of Oak Logs and Gasoline, we'll explore how to move from the quick fixes of “gasoline” parenting to the steady, reliable warmth of “oak logs.” This episode dives into real stories, trauma-informed strategies, and grounded mentorship for grandparents navigating the unexpected landscape of kinship caregiving. You can read more about Jake and the message of Oak Logs & Gasoline which he brings to life through talks and workshops, on his website. You can also order his book on Amazon. Welcome to “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: A Guide to Raising Resilient Kinship Families.” Tune in for compassionate conversations, actionable advice on slowing life's pace, and the support you need to nurture your family through adversity. Join our community—because Send us Fan MailJolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: How do I delicately share information about my child's birth parent with my child, when we know their biological parent has a long history of arrest? They are not a safe adult for my child to maintain a relationship with. Our family is struggling with how to balance the message that the adoption plan was made out of love for the child and not wanting to cast a negative message about the child's birth parent, even though we know there is a history of some very violent acts. We want this child to know and understand why the birth parent is not part of their life.Resources: Talking with Young Children about Adoption and Birth ParentsUsing Lifebooks to Explain Complex Issues in Adoption to KidsBuilding the Framework for Adopted & Foster Children to Process the Hard Parts of Their StoriesSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Join us for this interview with former NFL Running Back and Super Bowl Champion Ricky Watters. He is an adoptee, an adoptive dad, and author of a new children's book on adoption, A Gift Called Shane.In this episode, we discuss:How old were you when you learned you were adopted and how did you find out?When you discovered you were adopted, you mentioned in your NFL movie that it put a big chip on your shoulder. How has that chip served you well as an adoptive dad? How has it been a detriment?Why did you decide to adopt?Why did you decide to adopt internationally?Did your experience with finding out late that you were adopted affect the way you discussed adoption with your son?Do you see any signs of a similar “chip” in your son that you had when you found out you were adopted? How do you help him navigate it for his own success?How did you prepare your biological son for the adoption of his brother? How do you support your adopted son in his questions about identity, birth family, etc.?Are you in reunion with your biological family?How has your adoptive family handled your reunion with your birth family?How excited were you for fellow hometown boy Shady McCoy to get into the Eagles Hall of Fame?What was your experience with playing at Notre Dame? 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Tonight on The Mark White Show, I'll be talking with Karen Belcher, Co-Founder and Director of Clinical Operations for The Adoption and Foster Care Clinic in Birmingham. Karen is a registered nurse and TBRI practitioner who has spent more than two decades working with children and families navigating adoption, foster care, and kinship care. What started at UAB Children's Hospital has grown into a standalone nonprofit focused on meeting the real, often unseen needs of these families through medical care, mental health support, and guidance for caregivers. We're going to take a closer look at what these children and families are truly facing, the misconceptions that often surround their journeys, and why understanding and support from the community matters more than most people realize. Join me for a conversation that brings insight, compassion, and a better understanding of how we can all be part of the support system. Real stories. Real people. Real impact. News That Unites!™️

Are you a grandparent or kinship caregiver navigating the maze of IEPs, 504 plans, and medical decisions while advocating for a child impacted by trauma and neglect? Do you feel overwhelmed by failing systems, mislabeled as a troublemaker simply for demanding the support your grandchild needs to heal? You're not alone.I'm Laura Brazan, host of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this powerful episode, legal social worker Paula Yost joins us to break down the essential legal framework every kinship caregiver needs. Discover how to confidently advocate for your grandchild's educational and medical rights, overcome the isolation and guilt of fighting the system, and turn “troublemaker” into a badge of honor.Hear real stories, actionable advice on IEP and 504 meeting survival, and learn why your advocacy is the most vital document in your grandchild's life. For more information on Paula Yost please visit her website. Purchase a copy of Paula's new book "Tumbleweeds", which I believe everyone should have in their resource library! Also! For Paula Yost's- "Tools For Knowledge From A Seasoned Mother" visit our Resource Library.Join our supportive community—because you deserve more than just survival. You deserve to thrive while cSend us Fan MailJolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: I'm an intern therapist working with kids involved in DHS and the foster system. Could you guys talk about what a kid in the system needs from therapy? Or like what helped them, what didn't, what they needed in that space that their therapist didn't provide?Resources:Trauma-Informed Therapy: Finding the Right Fit for Your FamilyTherapists: Parents Should Be With Their Kids for Adoptive or Foster Therapy SessionsFinding an Adoption Competent TherapistSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Could you use a few new strategies to help your child improve misbehavior? Listen to this conversation with Dr. Casey Call, the Associate Director of Education at the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development at TCU and Associate Professor of Professional Practice in the TCU Department of Psychology. She will help us understand how to maintain connection while correcting challenging behaviors.In this episode, we discuss:Why and how should parents and caregivers work toward secure attachment with kids impacted by trauma? What does it mean when we say we are rewiring the child's brain for connection?What is the purpose of discipline? How can parents and caregivers set a firm foundation of secure attachment if they also need to correct misbehavior or inappropriate behavior?Why do traditional or punishment-based disciplinary approaches not work for children impacted by trauma? Why do kids impacted by trauma tend to respond better (meaning an improvement in behavior) to discipline that guides them to think about their choices and consequences?How can parents and caregivers maintain a safe, loving connection with firmness and kindness while still holding the goal of retraining a behavior?In this process, what does it mean to share our power?What is the “IDEAL” approach?What is a re-do? Why is it so powerful for re-training?What are a few practical ways that parents and caregivers can maintain attachment during these disciplinary or re-teaching processes?What are some of the common behaviors that drive parents crazy? How can parents and caregivers maintain the intensity and pace of disciplining a child who has been impacted by trauma, without burning out?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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: My 2nd grader, adopted domestically, has some pretty big, hard behaviors, like tantrums, clingy whining, and difficulty cooperating or sharing. We know there was prenatal substance exposure. I feel stuck to help them with their big feelings and big behaviors — what do I do to help them day to day?Resources:5 Tips to Save Your Sanity While Raising Kids with Prenatal Substance ExposurePrenatal Exposure, Part 1: Parenting Babies Through Elementary AgesTantrums, Meltdowns, Whining, Oh My! How to Parent Challenging BehaviorsFree E-Guide: Navigating Challenging Behaviors - Practical Strategies for FamiliesSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Join us for a conversation about why men in foster and kinship care matter - to the family unit, to the system, and most importantly, to the kids. Our guest is Tony Craddock, a Prevention Social Worker in Wake County, NC, with more than 25 years of experience supporting families. For the past decade, he has engaged kinship families and fathers through his co‑facilitation of the Kinship In Action Support Group.In this episode, we talk about:What first drew you to working with families, and later to engaging fathers and kinship caregivers?Why is it so important that we intentionally engage and celebrate men — fathers, grandfathers, uncles, mentors — in foster and kinship care spaces?What positive differences have you seen in children's lives when men are actively supported and involved in caregiving?What unique strengths do men bring to families in foster and kinship roles?What are some ways that normalizing men as caregivers helps not just families, but the larger community?What are some of the reasons you hear men sharing about their hesitation to step into these caregiving roles or to seek support when they take on such a role?Do you see common themes of how they describe their experiences of being welcomed — or not — into support spaces?What strategies have you found most effective for inviting and retaining men in support groups and similar caregiving networks?What role do their peers who are already plugged into their roles as caregivers play in encouraging or retaining engagement with newer father figures in your groups?What have you noticed in children's emotional, behavioral, or developmental well-being when there's consistent male involvement?How does having a balanced caregiving network, one that includes a multi-generational approach and welcomes both men and women, strengthen a family's resilience?Who are the men — in your work or your life — who inspire you as caregivers and supporters?What advice would you give to a man who may already be a foster or kinship caregiver, but who also wants to step more intentionally into that role to make a difference for their child?If you could change one thing about how the system engages men in foster and kinship care, what would it be?Looking ahead, what gives you the most hope about supporting men in these spaces?What's one message you'd like every listener — caregiver, professional, or community member — to walk away with today?ResourcesFather Engagement StrategiesThe Vital Role of Men in Foster CareFinding Male Role Models for Kids of Single MomsSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent raising grandchildren while trying to balance compassion with structure in your home? Do you find yourself reverting to “because I said so” parenting, only to meet resistance, trauma triggers, or confusion from the children in your care? Are you yearning for practical guidance, emotional support, and a framework to help you navigate this unexpectedly challenging season of life?I'm Laura Brazan, and like you, I was thrust overnight into the world of kinship caregiving for my grandchildren, suddenly responsible for guiding young hearts through adversity. In this episode, join me as I welcome Dr. Lindsay Emerson, a leading expert in trauma-informed parenting, to unveil the 5C's Framework—an evidence-based approach blending warmth, boundaries, and repair that works for both traditional and modern families. Together, we dissect how to communicate, remain consistent, offer choices, set consequences, and check in with yourself—all essential skills for “amazing parenting." To find out more about, please Send us Fan MailIf you are raising grandchildren who are neurodivergent—or navigating the complexities of an FASD diagnosis—you know that traditional parenting advice often falls short. You aren't just looking for tips; you're looking for a strategy.That's why I want to invite you to a special, FREE conference designed specifically for families like ours.https://www.grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org/ If you had an extra hour of 'found time' tomorrow morning—time that belonged only to you—what is the one thing you'd do that you haven't done in months?Seriously—hit pause, or wait until you're parked, and email me at laurabrazan@grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org. I'm collecting these stories to make sure this book solves the real-world burnout we're all feeling. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Question: I love my child so much, but lately I feel emotionally worn down and shut down in my parenting. Someone mentioned they recently learned about blocked care, and now I'm wondering if that's what's happening. What is blocked care, and what can a parent do about it?Resources:Understanding and Overcoming Blocked CareWhat Is Blocked Care? How Do I Overcome It?Trauma-Informed TherapyBuilding Rhythms of Self-Care Into Our ParentingMaking Self-Care a Priority for the New YearSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Drop us some Fan Mail. Thanks!Are you raising a child with known or suspected prenatal opioid exposure? Understanding the impacts and how to parent them will help you set your child up to thrive! We are joined by Lenette Serlo, an adoptive mom of four children impacted by prenatal substance exposure and the founder of Generation O, a nonprofit focused on creating understanding and support for children with prenatal opioid exposure and their families.In this episode, we talk about:What are opioids, and what does it mean when a child has been exposed to opioids before birth?What are some of the short-term and long-term ways prenatal opioid exposure can affect a child's brain, body, and development?What were some of the earliest things you noticed that helped you understand that your kids might experience the world differently?How can parents make the shift from asking “What's wrong with this child?” to “What does this child need?”When a child has prenatal opioid exposure, what practical ways can parents help support emotional regulation and nervous system balance for these kids?What are some everyday challenges families might see at home?  And what strategies can parents and caregivers try to support their kids with those challenges?What tools or routines can help kids succeed with things like organization, memory, and follow-through?How could a parent or caregiver partner with teachers or schools so that children impacted by prenatal opioid exposure can succeed academically and behaviorally?What have you learned about helping children build friendships and navigate social situations successfully?In the baby and preschool years, what supports or parenting approaches can make the biggest difference?What challenges tend to emerge during the elementary school years, and how can caregivers support learning, independence, and confidence during that stage?As children move into adolescence, what new challenges can appear, and how can parents continue supporting identity, independence, and life skills?What is one small change parents or caregivers can make tomorrow that could have a big impact?You founded Generation O to support families navigating prenatal opioid exposure. What gaps did you see that made you want to start this organization? What's giving you hope right now? What is one message would you most want our listeners to take with them about helping their kids with a history of opioid exposure thrive now and into their futures?Resources:Prenatal Substance Exposure Workshop for Foster, Adoptive & Kinship ParentsRaising a Child with Prenatal Substance ExposurePSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent raising grandchildren who struggle with dyslexia, ADHD, or other learning challenges, feeling the pressure of school evaluations and overwhelming labels? Are you questioning how to advocate for your grandchild in a world that expects you to fit the 1950s stereotype of a calm, apron-clad grandmother? Do you find yourself navigating kinship care, facing not only academic hurdles but also painful family secrets, wondering how to nurture your grandchild's unique brain while keeping your own spirit alive?I'm Laura Brazan, and my journey as a kinship caregiver changed forever when my granddaughter was diagnosed with dyslexia. Through the wisdom of former trial lawyer Nancy Lasater, I learned to see neurodiversity as a different wiring schematic, not a defect. ‘Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity' brings you real stories, expert advice, and practical resources for kinship families tackling learning disabilities, trauma, and systemic challenges.For more information about Nancy Lasater, and to order your copy of "Farmer's Son", please visit her website.In this episode, we tear up outdated stereotypes and embrace the warrior heart, fighting for your grandchild's future while honoring your own messy, authentic path. Learn how to foster resilience, advocate in the Kinship Classroom, and rewrite the script for the next generation.Join me as we unite 2.7 million strong, sharing truth, building community, and leading with imperfection—because your journey matters, and together, we are reshSend us Fan MailA listener Ruthie Shofi wrote in after I shared about a tough week before Easter. Your needs matter to me; to all of us; and especially to God. https://www.grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org/ Parenting Is Too Short to Spend It Stressed.Learn how to turn everyday moments into joyful connection — with zero guilt and zero gimmicks. Visit Parenting Harmony. I recently started listening to your podcast on Amazon Music. I'm addicted! You have validated so many of my feelings associated with raising young kiddos at an older age. No one in our life really gets it. Our girls are not blood related as their mom was a friend of our daughter and we wanted to get them out of a shelter. 6 years later...thank you! Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: Should I tell my nephew that by the time he turns 18, he has to be in school and passing his classes, or have a job, to continue living with us? He will turn 18 at the end of this school year and will inherit a small amount of money that could get him started. He is currently in school, and he doesn't have a job or any interest in getting one. Anytime someone asks him about his goals or future plans, his answer is “I don't know” or “I don't care.” I know that he is depressed and apprehensive about growing up, so part of me worries about pushing him too hard, but on the other hand, without a push, I worry his situation will continue to deteriorate. Resources:Prenatal Exposure, Part 2: Parenting Tweens and TeensPractical Ways to Connect with Your Tween or TeenSupporting Kids with Prenatal Exposure in the Transition to Adolescence and BeyondRaising Resilient KidsRaising Kids for a Lifelong Parent/Child BondSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Helping young adults in foster or kinship care transition toward adulthood can feel overwhelming for foster parents and relative caregivers. Join us today for a conversation with Vernell Gore of Youth Villages and Nick Sgarlata of Bridge to Brighter, for practical ways to prepare and equip your foster or kin youth for adulthood.In this episode, we discuss:What makes this stage of life uniquely challenging for youth in foster or kinship care compared to their peers?What does a successful transition to adulthood actually look like?What are some common misconceptions that caregivers or professionals have about youth who are nearing adulthood?When you think about a young person leaving care and thriving in adulthood, what key elements need to be in place?Why might a young person leaving foster care or relative care at the same time they are leaving high school feel the weight of this uncertainty more than their peers? How and where can foster parents or kin carers help youth explore different career paths and possibilities?What are some practical ways they can research those options and make informed decisions?What types of programs or pathways will help youth develop skills, discipline, or career direction?What are the most important money skills young people need before they leave care?What are some simple ways to start teaching these skills while the youth are still at home?What are some everyday adult responsibilities that youth may struggle with? What are some of the benefits of mentors for a young person transitioning out of foster care? How can they begin finding mentors or supportive role models?Beyond practical skills, what character traits or skills do young people need to develop to succeed in adulthood?Many youth in foster care or living with a grandparent or relative are carrying trauma from earlier experiences. How important are healing and identity development in preparing them for adulthood?How might a foster parent or relative caregiver support their young person toward healing?What are a few common mistakes adults make when trying to prepare youth for adulthood?What practical steps can foster or kinship carers start today to prepare their youth for adulthood? Resources:Raising Kids with Neurodiversity (ADHD)Maintaining a Healthy Perspective When Parenting Tweens & TeensPrenatal Exposure, Part 2: Parenting Tweens and TeensSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are you a grandparent wondering if the small, steadfast acts of love you give truly shape your grandchildren's future? Do you ever feel invisible, pouring your heart into healing generational wounds and wondering if your impact will last? Are you navigating the complexities of kinship care, trauma, and family resilience, looking for inspiration and validation along the way?I'm Laura Brazan, host of Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity. In today's episode, “More Than a Grandmother—Kevin Lowe on the ROI of Kinship Love,” we bring you the heartfelt story of Kevin Lowe, a motivational speaker and podcaster whose life was transformed by the love of his grandmother after losing his sight at 17. Kevin shares how his Nana's unwavering support became the launch pad for a limitless life—proof that what grandparents do matters, even on the hardest days.For more information on Kevin Lowe- his podcast, public speaking and music, please visit his website. Click on this link to listen to his beautiful song, "More Than A Grandmother".You'll hear honest conversations about trauma, legacy, and the multigenerational power of love, including original music that captures what words often cannotSend us Fan MailThe 750% gap is real, but it doesnt have to be your family's destiny. We are gamifying the 'motherboard' to bring our partners and grandchildren back into the center of the mission!Join us in The Grand Challenge! Kids on the specturm have the most imaginative minds. They can say the silliest things. My world can get way too serious. Sometimes the best thing to do is "get on the train" with them! Here's another fun Self-care tip with Jeanette Yates! In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

    Slam the Gavel welcomes Nicole DeGregorio to the podcast. She is the significant other to Christopher Stevens. Christopher is a non-accused parent currently incarcerated for exposing DCF in stealing his child in Franklin County, Massachusetts. DCF has violated his rights under the general Massachusetts Law 119 Section 1. This was also about retaliation, kidnapping for profit and erasing a father.https://youtu.be/ziAyzcpVz3U?si=5zcxWYDVjRle5i8Thttps://youtu.be/ziAyzcpVz3U?si=5zcxWYDVjRle5i8T   chris documentaryhttps://givesendgo.com/forgottenfather?utm_source=website_share&utm_medium=sharelink&utm_campaign=forgottenfather   To Reach Nicole DeGregorio: ndegregorio46@outlook.comTo Reach Sylvia Beachy/Rescue The Fosters:  sbeachy@pm.meSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)Maryann Petri: dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.comhttps://www.tiktok.com/@maryannpetriFacebook:  https://youtube.com/@slamthegavelpodcast?si=INW9XaTyprKsaDklhttps://substack.com/@maryannpetri?r=kd7n6&utm_medium=iosInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/guitarpeace/Pinterest: Slam The Gavel Podcast/@guitarpeaceLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maryann-petri-62a46b1ab/  Twitter https://x.com/PetriMaryannEzlegalsuit.com   https://ko-fi.com/maryannpetrihttps://www.zazzle.com/store/slam_the_gavel/aboout*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 shall be held harmless and indemnified from any and all legal liability.Support the showSupportshow(https://www.buymeacoffee.com/maryannpetri)http://www.dismantlingfamilycourtcorruption.com/

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Raising kids impacted by adoption, foster care, or kinship care can do a number on your marriage or life partnership. Join us for a conversation with Jeremy & Jara Walden, authors of The Heart Work of Foster Care: A Hopeful and Honest Guide to Foster Parenting, about strategies to re-prioritize and strengthen your most significant relationship.In this episode, we discuss:How can raising kids together enhance a marriage or relationship? Why are kids in our community often harder to parent?Trauma, loss, neglectPrenatal substance exposureChallenging behaviors that come from those experiencesWhy and how might our kids' needs test our adult relationships?What are some of the additional stressors our relationships may face when fostering or adopting kids who've been exposed to trauma?  What are some challenging behaviors kids who've experienced trauma can bring that might be particularly difficult for the marriage?What are some signs that we may be neglecting or at least not maintaining our significant relationship?How does your history impact your marriage, while raising kids with trauma impacts?Can you offer specific strategies for “going back,” healing, or re-prioritizing our marriages or partnerships if we are listening to this and realize we haven't done so?How do single parents prioritize the adult relationships that they value?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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Are parenting strategies from decades past falling short with your neurodiverse grandchild? Do meltdowns and anxiety leave you feeling overwhelmed, disconnected, or questioning your instincts as a caregiver? Are you searching for actionable solutions to soothe trauma-driven behaviors, foster emotional health, and rebuild the bonds in your family?I'm Laura Brazan, and as both a seasoned mother and a grandparent unexpectedly raising my granddaughter Athena, I know firsthand the struggle of navigating sensory processing challenges and emotionally charged mornings. In "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity," we go beyond old-fashioned advice—this episode offers neuroscience-backed tools for mastering co-regulation with children who are strong-willed, deeply feeling, or navigating neurodiversity.Join us for authentic stories, expert guidance from Board Certified Behavior Analyst Melissa Schulz, and practical steps for addressing big behaviors while honoring your own emotional journey. You'll gain insights on mindfulness, polyvagal theory, and a trauma-friendly approach that helps you ditch the compliance battle and buildSend us Fan MailThe 750% gap is real, but it doesnt have to be your family's destiny. We are gamifying the 'motherboard' to bring our partners and grandchildren back into the center of the mission!Join us in The Grand Challenge! What's your #1 survival tool? Listener Tina Patrick Pastorelli commented that after 6 years of raising her children that are not even biologically hers, "Just be the family they never had". It's a simple reminder that we don't need a perfect biological connection to create a perfect sense of belonging for these kids we're raising #kinshipcare #kinshipcaregivers #grandparentsraisinggrandchildren In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: We have two children adopted through the foster care system as infants - an almost 10-year-old (AudHD) and a 4.5-year-old (neurotypical). They both come into our room every night in the middle of the night, and it really disturbs my sleep and my husband's sleep. It seems like we've tried everything to get them to stop. Recently, we told them we were going to start locking our door, but then they just come and knock and knock until one of us gets up. If we try to put them back in their own beds, they make us lie down with them until they fall asleep - then I can't get back to sleep after that. Not sure how to handle this situation.Resources:Sleep Issues with Adopted, Foster, or Relative ChildrenWhy Won't My Child Sleep?! (And What Can I Do?)Help! My Newly Placed Child is Regressing on SleepSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Would you like to learn how to build a culture of joy, connection, and healing in your home? Join us for a conversation with Bryan Post, an adoptee and therapist specializing in child behavior, adoption trauma, and love-based parenting. He's the founder of Fear to Love LLC, Bondify.ai, and Leaf Wraparound, and the author of several books, including From Fear to Love.In this episode, we discuss:Bryan's journey as an adoptee and how that shaped his work with families today.What do we need to know about trauma, its impacts on the kids, and how it shows up day to day?Why might we as parents be tempted to misinterpret those behaviors and expressions as defiance, manipulation, or disrespect? When a child is melting down, shutting down, or pushing adults away, what's actually happening in their brain and nervous system?In a very real-life parenting moment — like a slammed door, eye rolls, a screaming match, a refusal to comply — what does the shift from fear-based reactions to love-based responses actually look like?Can you share two or three concrete strategies parents can start practicing immediately that reflect that mindset shift?Could you give us an example of words or scripts a parent might use in that moment? How can a parent calm themselves first when their child's behavior is triggering them? What might a “culture of love and joy” actually look like inside a home — especially one that has experienced a lot of chaos?What are some of the small, daily practices that build trust over time?What does growth look like in a trauma-impacted home?One or two examples of how-to or where to capture JOY in the moments when we are feeling challenged about when or where healing may happen. Resources:Learn more about Bryan PostIntroduction to Attachment - Online Parent Education courseRaising Kids for a Lifelong Parent/Child Bond - PodcastSupport 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 podcastsWeekly articles/blog postsResource pages on all aspects of family building

Have you noticed the unequal load—both seen and unseen—that grandmothers often carry, while searching for ways to bring grandfathers more fully to the caregiving table? You're not alone. The gender gap in kinship care is real and significant, often leaving women overwhelmed and resentful, while men struggle to find their place and purpose in the caregiving journey.I'm Laura Brazan, and on "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity," we get real about the deeply rooted neurobiology, social norms, and emotional dynamics that shape our family roles—especially in times of crisis. In this powerful episode, Dr. Anthony Silard, renowned researcher and author, helps us unpack the 750% disparity in household labor, the science behind why men and women approach caregiving differently, and—most importantly—how we can rewrite these scripts with compassion and creativity.Together, we'll explore actionable strategies to foster greater empathy, assertiveness, and active involvement from grandfathers, from creating men's caregiving groups to launching fun, family-based competitions that root every member in connection and legacy. You'll discover not just the challenges, but the life-changing social and emotional advantages of stepping up as a grandparent leader—regardless of gender.Ready to build a more supportive, joyful, and resilient home? Join our thriving community of caregivers as we share candid stories, expert advice, and game-changing resources. Let's transform resentment into teamwork and break the silence around caregiving inequality.Send a textThe 750% gap is real, but it doesnt have to be your family's destiny. We are gamifying the 'motherboard' to bring our partners and grandchildren back into the center of the mission!Join us in The Grand Challenge! Jolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference.Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined.Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences.We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know!CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook 

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Do you worry about what is normal in your child's sexual development? Join us to talk with Roy Van Tassell, a Licensed Professional Counselor in Oklahoma and Director of Trauma and Evidence-based Interventions for Centene Health. He co-chairs the National Child Traumatic Stress Networks' subcommittee on children with problem sexual behaviors.Warning: We will be using anatomically correct words and talking about sex, so if this offends you or triggers you, you may want to skip this podcast.In this episode, we discuss:Typical Sexual Development / PlayWhat is typical sexual development in children as they age?What type of sexual play is considered “normal?”How should parents manage a child's natural sexual development?Problematic Sexual BehaviorWhat are Problem Sexual Behaviors in Children?What causes kids and youth to act in socially unacceptable or destructive sexual ways? What factors influence the development of these behaviors?Child vulnerabilitiesBehavior problemsEmotional difficultiesDevelopmental delaysLow impulse controlFamily vulnerabilitiesPoor supervisionSingle caregiverModeling of coercionHarsh parenting practicesPhysical abuseDomestic violenceModeling of sexualitySexual abuseModeling/exposureNudity or poor family boundariesHow common are problematic sexual behaviors?Suggestions for professionals and parents and how to respond to behaviors.What should parents and caregivers do?Rules for younger kidsHow effective is therapy?How to find a therapist?What training have they had in this area?Child development expertise (including sexual development)ResourcesTaking Action booklets (two booklets) – for children with problematic sexual behaviors (age 12 and younger) and one for 13+Resources at the National Center on Sexual Behavior of Youth – really good resources for caregivers and parents.National Center for Exploited Children—for kids to understand safety—teaching them safety skills to protect their own bodyAmaze.org—videos for childrenNational Child Traumatic Stress NetworkA.J.'s Story— A Book About Not OK TouchesSupport 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

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: As a single mom, how do I find good role models for my kids?Resources:Finding Male Role Models for Kids of Single MomsCreating a Support Network as a Single Adoptive Foster or Kinship Parent1 Yes, 4 S's: How a Post-Adoption Support Group Changed My LifeSupport 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

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Are you raising a child with known prenatal exposure to alcohol? Does your child have a diagnosis for Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder? Listen to this conversation with Barb Clark, Founder and CEO of FASD Mosaic. She offers coaching, training, and consulting on Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD), trauma, neurodivergence, and challenging behaviors, and is the author of Raising Kids and Teens with FASD: Advice and Strategies to Help Your Family to Thrive!In this episode, we discuss:In your experience, what do caregivers most misunderstand about FASD at first?”How does prenatal alcohol exposure impact brain development?What is the difference between FAS and FASD?Do the timing, frequency, and amount of alcohol all matter in the outcomes experienced by the child? Are there other factors at play?Why is FASD still so often missed or misunderstood?Primary neurological impacts on a child who has FASDSecondary behaviors – which, when viewed through that brain-based lens, are adaptive responses that help them process and cope with their environmentWhat are a few practical strategies parents and caregivers can implement to help them reframe how they support their child with FASD?Tantrums or raging as an example of challenging behaviors – how it may look differently across these ages and developmental levelsWhat are a few of the typical strengths seen in individuals with FASD?Why do these strengths often emerge inconsistently?How our home environment and culture set a child with FASD up for successCan you offer practical suggestions for how parents or caregivers would implement a strengths-based approach to raising a child with FASD?Practical strategies that parents and caregivers can implement right away when raising their child with FASDHow do you recommend a parent or caregiver handle the process of repair and reconnection with a child with FASD? What should parents and caregivers consider in planning for the future?Prioritizing self-care and reframing it as interdependence and community care.Resources:Prenatal Substance Exposure Workshops for ParentsPrenatal Substance Exposure resource pageFASD MosaicSupport 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 heartfelt episode of *Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity*, host Laura Brazan, welcomes Ellie Moss, creator of the whimsical world of Lickity Pop, to explore the healing power of softness and sanctuary for families navigating trauma. Drawing on personal experience and creative resilience, Ellie Moss shares how she built Lickity Pop—not from a business plan, but as a survival strategy to soothe overwhelmed minds and restore nervous systems stretched thin.Together, Laura Brazan and Ellie discuss why quiet imagination is a strategic tool for caregivers, especially grandparents raising their grandchildren after traumatic events. They touch on sensory architecture in the home, the importance of gentle communication for neurodivergent children, and how magical story worlds like Lickity Pop offer restorative escapes for both kids and adults.You'll learn practical tips for lowering sensory input, fostering predictable routines, and creating safe spaces—even cozy corners—for emotional decompression. The episode is a celebration of the everyday magic that helps families reconnect, heal, and avoid burnout. Whether you're grappling with loud chaos or seeking new ways to build connection, this conversation invites you to choose softness over volume, and wonder over exhaustion. You can visit the enchanting world of Lickity Pop . Order Ellie's new book, Dibs the Dragon and the Marshmallow Rescue- it's not just for kids!Discover actionable ideas for transforming your home, office, or classroom—and be reminded that magic isn't just for kids; it's essential for the grownups on the frontlines too.Send a textJolene Thiessen has been with us since the beginning of our podcast. She wrote in to thank us for our 100th episode! She looked for help online and found us- the only podcast that came up when she searched for help. I live to help these children have better lives and to be sure that all our pain doesn't go to waste for you grandparents and kinship caregivers out there! I love hearing your stories and comments. Keep sharing! Your stories make a difference.Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Is the idea of attachment parenting new to you and your family? Or could you use a refresher on what secure attachment is and why it matters? Listen to this conversation with Samantha Farris, LMSW, from the Karyn Purvis Institute of Child Development. She's helping us understand the basics of building secure attachment between parent and child to strengthen our families.In this episode, we talk about:How would you describe attachment in the simplest, most hopeful way for a caregiver who's new to the idea of parent/child attachment? Or who may feel overwhelmed by what they've heard and are unsure where to start or start over?Can you walk us through an overview of the attachment cycle and how it typically develops in infancy and early childhood?What are some everyday signs caregivers would see that indicate a secure attachment is developing? (even if it's not “perfect”)Why does attachment matter so much — not just in childhood, but across a person's lifespan?What happens in the brain or nervous system when a child feels securely connected versus chronically disconnected?How does adding the practice of being “trauma-informed” change a parent or caregiver's approach to forging that connection with their adopted or foster child?What are the types of experiences or stressors that kids in our (adoptive, foster, relative caregiving) community may interrupt the natural flow of attachment development?What are the different attachment profiles or styles, in addition to secure attachment?What are three common signs that a child might be struggling with attachment?How might attachment challenges show up differently in toddlers vs school-age children vs. teens?When a child comes with a history of instability, what helps establish a sense of safety and a foundation of trust? What are three things newly adoptive or foster parents can do to nurture attachment in the early days of meeting or welcoming a child home?When a child needs professional help for attachment challenges, what kinds of therapy or supports have you seen be most healing?If a parent feels disconnected, what are two things they can do starting today to begin building attachment?What is one piece of advice you'd give to a brand-new parent or caregiver who has never had to think intentionally about forming attachment before listening to this?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

What happens when a visionary leader is brought to their knees by a family crisis? In this heartfelt episode, Laura Brazan welcomes Brad Hoffman, pastor and grandparent raising his grandchildren after the loss of his daughter, to explore the transformational power of integrating personal adversity with leadership.Together, they discuss the unique challenges grandparents face as primary caregivers, reveal practical strategies for self-care, and unpack the shifting nature of identity after trauma. This episode dives into reframing success, the importance of presence over productivity, and the necessity of dreaming even in hard seasons. The conversation tackles why leaders must move past compartmentalization, develop a “theology of weakness,” and embrace vulnerability as a core leadership strength. For more information about Brad, please visit his website or listen to his podcast "REimagine" here.If you're navigating a major life transition or searching for community and support while leading through pain, this episode offers honest insight, resources, and permission to breathe. Join us as we rewrite legacies, nurture through adversity, and redefine what it means to run the race set before us.Send a textA grandmother raising grandchildren leaves a review and share her story and how every listener encourages her in her role as a kinship caregiver, one podcast at a time. In this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Should you consider adopting or fostering a child who is older than a child already in your family? Are there things you can do to make it easier for all the children? We talk to Elizabeth Bohlken, Director of Education and Support at Children's Home Society and Lutheran Social Services of Minnesota, to talk about the preparation, joys, and challenges of disrupting birth order.In this episode:What is disrupting birth order?Why is this a topic that prospective adoptive or foster parents should educate themselves about?When combining children by birth and adoption, is it better for the adopted child to be the eldest, the youngest, or in the middle?Is there an age gap that is most recommended or best practice between children when disrupting birth order?Are there similarities between families that have a blend of children by adoption and birth, and families with blended children from divorce and remarriage?How much does age really matter?At what age is a child least affected by having their birth order disrupted?At what age is a child most affected?Is it best to disrupt the birth order of the eldest or the youngest in a family?How should parents handle a situation where the newly adopted child is older in age but younger on an emotional or behavioral level?What steps can prospective adoptive or foster parents take to prepare children already in the home for the adoption of a sibling, especially an older child?What type of sleeping arrangements should parents use in the first couple of months at home when they are adopting a child who is older than their other children?What types of behaviors might a parent or caregiver see in the early stages of this new dynamic?Why is sibling rivalry a common outcome of disrupting birth order?How to handle physically aggressive behavior between children?Practical tips to ease the transition for all the children in the family.Parenting mentalities/techniques to help a family adjust to a disrupted birth order?What is virtual or artificial twinning?What should parents consider before adopting a child of a similar age (within about 9 months) to a child already in the family?What are the warning signs that parents need to get help with an adoption that disrupts birth order or involves virtual twinning?What type of therapies or therapists should families look for to support birth order changes or artificial twinning?What should parents understand about the risk factors of sexual or physical abuse that a child may have experienced before being adopted or placed in this foster home?Where and how do parents get help to support their family in the transitions of disrupting birth order?Resources:Sibling Relationships (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

Are you a single grandparent shouldering the full weight of raising your grandchildren? Are you constantly battling daily chaos—laundry piles, endless paperwork, and legal hurdles—while sacrificing your own sanity? Do you wonder if there's a better way to manage the relentless demands of kinship care, or fear you're failing at the logistics behind the love?I'm Laura Brazan, and after years of navigating trauma, court dates, and school forms, I learned it's not a personal failing—it's a broken system. In this 100th episode of "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity," systems expert Pat Hankin joins me to reveal actionable, fact-based strategies for transforming your home from reactive chaos to proactive sanctuary. We talk about real-world time and energy audits, how to delegate without guilt, the critical value of your own well-being, and why you can—and should—let go of low-level tasks. You can find Pat's book, The Field Guide for Single Parents on Amazon but don't forget to check your local library...if they don't have it, ask them to get it! No library should be without it. If you're craving sanity, practical solutions, and a supportive community that honors your story, you're in the right place. Tune in to join 2.7 million fellow grandparent caregivers as we move past survival mode and lead our families with confidence, clarity, and a little more breathing room each day.Send a textIn this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Did you know that the current reigning Miss Kentucky is a foster alum? We spoke with Ariana Rodriguez about her life leading up to the pageant circuit, what motivates her, and how her foundation, The Lucky Ones, is changing foster care experiences for foster kids in Kentucky.In this episode, we talk about:You made history as the first Miss Kentucky to have been in foster care. Can you start from the beginning and give us the story that led to this title?What was it like living with your grandparents? What were the positive changes? What was hardest about this time of your childhood? How did that time in kinship care help shape who you are today?Were you able to stay in touch with your siblings?What gaps or “pain points” for kids in foster care or kinship care did you experience in those years?How did these lived experiences begin to transform into a passion or mission for advocacy? Was there a pivotal moment when you said, “This is my platform”?What personal strengths emerged from your past that you leaned on (resilience, empathy, leadership, etc.)?How do your childhood and care-system experiences continue to inform your daily life, mindset, or choices?Are there challenges or triggers that still surface for you because of your past experiences? How do you navigate them?What are your relationships with your siblings like now? Tell us more about The Lucky OnesDo you have a specific story you can share that illustrates the impact of your work?Are you gaining new connections and collaborations to help further the mission of your platform?What's next for you, personally (as Miss Kentucky, as an advocate, as a leader)?What's next for The Lucky Ones? Are there new programs to launch, etc?What advice do you have for young people currently in the foster or kinship-care system who may feel uncertain about their future?For foster or relative caregivers?If you could speak directly to the decision-makers (legislators, social services, educators) about one thing to make a meaningful difference for foster/kinship care kids, what would that be?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

Are you a grandparent whose dreams of quiet dinners and sunset walks have been replaced overnight by diapers, carpool lines, and trauma therapy? Are you struggling to balance your own aspirations, marriage, and wellbeing while raising young children in your golden years? You're not alone. There are 2.7 million of us navigating the messy middle of kinship care, facing daunting legal, financial, and emotional challenges that are often overlooked.I'm Laura Brazan, and in this episode of "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity," we share the remarkable story of Ruthie Shofi—a grandmother who put her own retirement dreams on hold to raise three granddaughters after a single phone call changed everything. We dive into real issues like the heartbreak of divided families, the complexity of trauma, and the struggle to advocate for your grandchildren in a system that doesn't always understand kinship care.Each week, you'll hear unfiltered stories of resilience, practical advice on managing the chaos, and strategies for reclaiming pieces of your old dreams—even if it means piling into the minivan with air mattresses. Join our supportive community dedicated to honoring your voice and journey while building a legacy for the next generation. Discover resources, expert insight, and inspiration to help you nurture yourself and your grandchildren, rewriting your family's future together.Send a textIn this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Are you familiar with pathological demand avoidance? Do you need helpful strategies to raise a child with the challenging behaviors that characterize PDA? Listen in to this conversation with Dr. Cynthia Martin, a clinical psychologist, the former Senior Director of the Autism Center at the Child Mind Institute, and founder of CM Psychology in Manhattan, NY.In this episode, we discuss:What is Pathological Demand Avoidance?What makes PDA different from typical defiance or resistance?Is PDA considered an official diagnosis, or is it more of a way to describe a cluster of behaviors that we're seeing in some kids?What do we know about the underlying causes?How does PDA relate to other conditions like autism or ADHD? What are the overlaps with trauma, prenatal substance exposure??What are the types of behaviors parents or caregivers might see?How can a caregiver tell the difference between a child who can't comply and one who won't comply?Where do parents start when considering if their child has a PDA profile?What observations or examples should parents share to help a clinician understand their child's challenges?What kinds of strategies are effective for parenting a child with PDA traits?How can parents reframe their approach so that daily demands — like getting dressed, brushing teeth, or doing homework — don't turn into constant battles?What types of therapies or interventions tend to be most helpful? What do you say to caregivers who are feeling worn down and ineffective? Where do they start?How can a parent or caregiver set their child up for success even if they do have this PDA profile?What words of hope or encouragement would you offer to parents and caregivers just starting to investigate?Resources:Pathological Demand Avoidance (PDA) in Kids - Child Mind InstituteDemand Avoidance: Why Kids Refuse to Follow Directions - Psychology TodaySymptom Tests for Children: Is Your Child Showing Signs of Pathological Demand Avoidance? - ADDitude: ADHD Science & StrategiesUnstuck & On Target - Evidence-Based Curricula and Resources for Professionals and Families to Support Executive Functions.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

Are you a grandparent raising your grandchildren, struggling with feelings of resentment, loss, and the overwhelming challenges of kinship care? Do you find yourself triggered by family trauma or haunted by the fear of repeating old patterns? You're not alone.I'm Laura Brazan, and in this episode of "Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity," we dive deep into the heart of emotional healing with special guest Dr. Anthony Silard, author of "Love and Suffering." Together, we explore how acceptance can transform suffering into love, offering you practical strategies to break the cycle of judgment and resentment that can threaten to derail your family's future. For more information on Dr Anthony Silard and to receive his free books, "The Myth of Happiness" and "The Myth of Friendship", please visit his website. Discover how to address the emotional struggles unique to grandparents raising grandchildren, from navigating broken systems and financial sacrifice to tackling digital addiction and strained family bonds. You'll learn how naming your pain loosens its grip, why judgment holds us back, and how to lead your family from a place of openness and vulnerability, not just authority.Tune in for expert advice, real-life stories, and tangible resources to help you cultivate a supportive, resilient environment for yourself and your grandchildren. Together, let's rewrite the narrative—finding hope, connection, and healing on this challenging but powerful journey.Send us a textIn this special pre-roll segment, I'm sharing a moving letter from a member of our community, Laurel. Her story of loss, resilience, and raising her grandson after the unthinkable is a raw reminder that none of us are walking this path alone.We want to hear from you. If Laurel's story resonates with you, or if you have a journey of your own to share, join our private community. Your story might be the exact lifeline someone else needs to hear today. Thank you for tuning into today's episode. It's been a journey of shared stories, insights, and invaluable advice from the heart of a community that knows the beauty and challenges of raising grandchildren. Your presence and engagement mean the world to us and to grandparents everywhere stepping up in ways they never imagined. Remember, you're not alone on this journey. For more resources, support, and stories, visit our website and follow us on our social media channels. If today's episode moved you, consider sharing it with someone who might find comfort and connection in our shared experiences. We look forward to bringing more stories and expert advice your way next week. Until then, take care of yourselves and each other.Want to be a guest on Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity? Send Laura Brazan a message on PodMatch, here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/grgLiked this episode? Share it and tag us on Facebook @GrandparentsRaisingGrandchilden Love the show? Leave a review and let us know! CONNECT WITH US: Website | Facebook

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Talking about the difficult parts of our child's story, like abuse or prenatal substance exposure, can be overwhelming. Kelly Weidner, the co-founder and Executive Director of Haven Adoptions & Family Services in Ambler, PA. She has 28 years of experience in foster care, residential care, and adoption, which will help us navigate these challenging conversations with our kids.In this episode, we discuss:What kinds of issues do we mean when we say “difficult parts” of a child's story? What are some of the everyday challenging conversations that adoptive parents must tackle?Why is it necessary to introduce these potentially painful, complex issues to our kids?Why are parents reluctant to talk about these issues?What steps should adoptive parents take when choosing to start these conversations? Where do they start?What is a Lifebook, and how can parents use them to introduce and build on the story as their child grows?What should be included?How does a Lifebook differ between the types of adoption?What if your child wants to bring their Lifebook to school or show it to people outside the family?What language can you use with young children to lay the groundwork for later, with more details filled in as they grow?How would a parent start the conversation about being conceived during a rape or abusive relationship, across several ages or stages, to build understanding?As another example, should we tell our kids about abuse or neglect that happened to them if they don't remember it? How?Should you tell a child that her birth mother's use of drugs or alcohol during pregnancy might be the cause of their learning disabilities? How do you help your child understand how much of his story he should share with others outside the family?What if you don't believe the birth mother's story of what happened? What if you don't know the details of what happened, just that something “big” did happen?How can adoptive parents help their children understand that they are more than the difficult parts of their history and that they are not doomed to repeat their birth parents' mistakes?What are some practical tips for supporting our kids after we've had to share hard-to-hear information?Resources:Suggested Books for Adoptive FamiliesUsing Lifebooks to Explain Complex Issues in Adoption to KidsBuilding the Framework for Adopted & Foster Children to Process the Hard Parts of Their StoriesSupport 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

Are you raising a grandson who struggles to express his emotions, acts out in anger, or suffers from aches and pains you can't explain? Do you worry about protecting the emotional future of the boys in your care, yet feel unsure how to break generational cycles of silence? You're not alone—and it's not too late to create lasting change.I'm Laura Brazan, and welcome to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity.' In this episode, we're joined by New York Times bestselling author Dr. Gloria Vanderhorst, who brings 50 years of wisdom in child development, trauma-informed care, and emotional intelligence. Discover the powerful three Rs framework—Read, Reflect, Respond—that's transforming how grandparents help boys and young men develop a healthy emotional vocabulary and resilience.Hear real-life stories, practical strategies, and expert insights designed for grandparents unexpectedly raising grandsons through adversity. Learn how to decode your grandson's behavior, address emotional pain before it becomes physical, and nurture strong, confident men even when resources are stretched.Join our supportive community as we explore how to move beyond discipline, foster deep connection, and break the patterns that limit emotional growth. Together, we'll rewrite your family's future and provide hope for the next generation. Subscribe now to 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren' for the tools, compassion, and guidance you need on this life-changing journey.Send us a textIf you had an extra hour of 'found time' tomorrow morning—time that belonged only to you—what is the one thing you'd do that you haven't done in months?Seriously—hit pause, or wait until you're parked, and email me at laurabrazan@grandparents-raising-grandchildren.org. I'm collecting these stories to make sure this book solves the real-world burnout we're all feeling. Hello! Thank you for creating this podcast. It is a blessing to my life in this season

Are you a grandparent unexpectedly navigating the complexities of raising your grandchildren? Are you overwhelmed by childhood trauma, legal challenges, and the grief of lost family dreams? Do you struggle to balance the physical demands of caregiving with the wisdom and love only you can offer?I'm Laura Brazan, and after more than three decades as a mother, I was called to step in as the unexpected CEO of my family when my grandchildren needed me most. In “Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,” we offer a lifeline for kinship caregivers like you—bringing real stories, expert advice, and the compassionate voice of Dr. Dale Atkins, a renowned psychologist specializing in family trauma and healing. Discover practical strategies for emotional regulation, fostering resilience, and building safe, nurturing environments for children who've experienced disruption.To find out more about Dr. Dale Atkins and her lastest book, "The Turquoise Butterfly", please visit her website.Join a community that honors your journey, validates your struggles, and helps you rewrite the future for your grandchildren. Together, let's uncover moments of hope, healing, and connection—because you are the anchor, the memory maker, and the keeper of your family's legacy.Send us a textHello! Thank you for creating this podcast. It is a blessing to my life in this season

Are you a grandparent considering adoption after fostering, or wrestling with what's truly best for the children in your care? Are you navigating the complex emotional, legal, and financial realities of kinship guardianship, while managing the challenges of parenting later in life? If you've ever wondered how to create a loving, secure future for your grandchildren against all odds, you're not alone.I'm Laura Brazan, and on this episode of 'Grandparents Raising Grandchildren: Nurturing Through Adversity,' we dive deep into the foster-to-adopt journey—sharing honest stories of heartbreak, resilience, and creativity in the face of a system often stretched to breaking. Special guest Rachel Fulginiti spent more than a decade navigating infertility, fostering, and adoption, ultimately building her family through unwavering determination and hope. Together, we'll discuss the hard truths of adopting when you're an older caregiver, building a supportive “tribal village,” facing trauma, and learning to let go of expectations to embrace what's truly possible.Whether you're grappling with permanency, searching for resources, or simply seeking community, this podcast is your guide. Tune in for practical strategies, healing conversations, and inspiration from grandparents who are rewriting their family stories—one courageous step at a time. Join us and discover you're part of a community 2.7 million strong, still nurturing, still here, and still shaping the future.Send us a textHello! Thank you for creating this podcast. It is a blessing to my life in this season

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Join us to learn about family rituals—how to create and why they can help build strong families. Our guest will be Elizabeth Barbour, the author of a new book, Sacred Celebrations: Designing Rituals to Navigate Life's Milestone Transitions. She's also a reunited adoptee and an adoptive mom.In this episode, we discuss:Why are rituals important for families? Define the culture of family-this is who we areThis is what we doWhat's the difference between rituals and routines?What's the difference between rituals and habits?Examples of family rituals. Family meetings, kid/parent dates, game nightsgratitude practicesprayer and meditationfamily altarstravelvolunteering togetherWhen families are created through adoption, any specific rituals that can help them?TipsKeep it simpleGet input from all members of the familyConsistencySupport 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

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Question: We have been matched with an expectant mom due in a couple of months. She is having twins. As we are preparing for the next steps, sleep training has come up frequently in newborn care books. What research is there on the cry-it-out method or other popular sleep training methods in relation to adopted children? We want to make sure they know their needs will be met and build a strong adoption bond, but we also want to eventually work towards them being able to sleep through the night.Resources:Did Denmark Actually Ban "Cry it Out?"Video: The Attachment Cycle - Empowered to ConnectSleep Issues with Adopted, Foster, or Relative ChildrenBalancing Attachment with Getting SleepSupport 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

Click here to send us a topic idea or question for Weekend Wisdom.Are you looking for practical ways to build your child's resilience and sense of safety, and to strengthen your family's connectedness? Listen to this conversation with Ginger Healy, MSW, LCSW, director of programs for the Attachment & Trauma Network and host of the podcast “Regulated and Relational.” Ginger speaks across the nation on trauma-informed schools, therapeutic parenting, and community engagement.In this episode, we discuss:What made you decide to write a book for educators?What were you observing about children's needs around emotional language, self-regulation, and connection?Knowing that at home we often deal with a different rhythm, different dynamics (for example, one caregiver rather than teacher + many students), what initial advice do you have for parents and caregivers to translate this book's classroom tools into a home context? Why is it essential that children learn social/emotional language — not just “feelings words” but the capacity to talk about self, other, relationships, safety?How does having more social/emotional language help a child feel “seen, safe, valued” in a family environment?What are the risks when children don't have that language or opportunity to practice it?We often hear culture around us say, “Kids are resilient.” Why is that a misconception, especially in our community of adopted, foster, or relative children?Why does a child who has experienced trauma need specific, intentional scaffolding to develop their social/emotional language and build their capacity for emotional strength?What are the themes of the workbook that parents or caregivers can bring into their everyday conversations at home?Understanding my story within my family structureReframing my narrative: navigating family challenges and conflictBuilding confidence, hope, and a positive futureCan you suggest a few strategies to get families started with the conversations?What if we are struggling with or lacking these skills ourselves? How do we learn them so we can teach and model them?What practical strategies can we use to integrate these skills into our daily rhythms?How do we know our kids are ready for adjustments in how we practice these skills, or to “level up”?How will they know if these strategies are effective? Do you have practical tips for families that want to strengthen their family dynamics but already feel overwhelmed by the long list of To-Dos? 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