Fostering Voices Podcast

Summary: As summer blazes in Arizona, we’re constantly on the move, seeking cooler escapes to preserve our sanity. Traveling with a family of nine is no small feat, and we’ve gathered a treasure trove of tips and tricks to make it smoother. In this episode, we dive into Intentional Travel. Fresh from a recent timeshare presentation, we discuss the joys and challenges of discovering new experiences together and the importance of adventure in our family. We’ll share our favorite adventures and how we align them with our family goals. Next, in The Planning Behind the Fun, we break down the essentials of gearing up for family trips. From our favorite Shacke Paks to specific bags for medications, bug spray, sunscreen, and more, we cover it all. Learn how we manage kid bags, hygiene kits, and day bags to keep everyone organized. We’ll also share tips on cooler prep, using Stasher Bags and Mason Jars, and our go-to kitchen bucket. Our clothing plan includes an emergency washing kit and a portable clothing rack, plus

Summary: In this week's episode, we continue the important conversation started in Episode 184 “The Link Between Foster Care and Social Disparities”. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to it yet, we highly recommend checking it out to gain a deeper understanding of today’s discussion. June is Family Reunification Month, a time to celebrate families coming back together after separation due to child protective services. But what if reunification wasn’t necessary? What if we could focus more on prevention and support within our communities to keep families together in the first place? This week, we explore these critical questions with our returning guest, Claire Louge. Join us as we examiine how every one of us can play a role in supporting our neighbors and fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Don’t miss this insightful and thought-provoking episode! Resource Links: “Considering Yourself a Mandated Supporter” training: For Mandated Reporters - Prevent Child Abuse Arizona  Arizona - Triple P Pare

Summary: In honor of June being Family Reunification Month, today's episode sheds light on a crucial yet often overlooked issue in our community: the challenges and misconceptions surrounding birth families involved in the foster care system. As foster parents, we initially held unfair biases towards these families. However, through our journey, we've learned that various factors make some families more at risk of system involvement than others. To deepen this conversation, we are thrilled to welcome Claire Louge, the Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Arizona. Claire is dedicated to strengthening families and protecting children. She is passionate about creating a supportive and welcoming community where everyone can access the resources they need. Her insights and dedication to family reunification will inspire and inform our discussion. Join us as we explore the complexities of the foster care system, challenge our preconceptions, and learn how we can all contribute to a more understanding and suppo

Summary: In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month, join us for an inspiring episode featuring a heartfelt conversation with my sister-in-law, Tara Armstrong. Tara played a pivotal role in our family's foster care journey, guiding us as we transitioned from having two kids to seven. Now, she has embarked on her own remarkable path. As a single mom of two, Tara opened her heart and home, adopting two children from the foster care system who were searching for their forever family. This episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of fostering and adoption, offering real talk and personal insights that highlight the profound impact one person can make. Tune in to hear Tara's story of love, resilience, and the transformative power of family.   Resource Links: Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt Foster Cooperative Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents ASA Now Families | Arizona 1.27 Connect with us! Email: info@fosteraz.org Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @FosteringVoices Web: www.fost

Summary: In today's episode, we explore the profound impact of connections on well-being, particularly in the context of foster care. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the pivotal role of social connections in fostering healthy choices and better mental and physical health outcomes. However, many children entering foster care face profound disconnection from their familiar support networks, exacerbating challenges like stress, anxiety, and depression. In Arizona, where the average foster child experiences two or more placements, the need for stable, nurturing relationships is starkly evident. Our guest, Freddie Hernandez, a former foster youth, shares his remarkable journey of resilience and transformation. With a degree in Digital Film and Video Production from The Art Institute of Phoenix, Freddie defied the odds, emerging as a beacon of hope in his community. Join us as Freddie sheds light on how one caring adult can alter the trajectory of a young person's life. Through his passion

Summary: Today, it’s just the two of us, engaging in a candid conversation about mental health. Ironically, we find ourselves easing into a month dedicated to both mental health and foster care awareness. For those who have experienced life within the foster care system, the intricate connection between these two realms becomes evident. So, let’s dive into the spaces where our mental well-being has been profoundly affected and the valuable lessons we’ve gleaned along the way. With that, let’s begin this authentic conversation.

Summary: In honor of Stress Awareness Month, our podcast delves into the crucial topic of stress reduction and self-care. While this is important for everyone, it holds even greater significance for caregivers of children with special needs and those working in social services fields. The toll of constant stress can adversely affect our health, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, inadequate sleep, lack of physical activity, and imbalanced diets. These factors increase the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes. But how do we address this challenge? Today, we’re thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jaime Parker, a seasoned expert with over 25 years of experience in health and wellness. Dr. Jaime wears multiple hats as a holistic health coach, fitness instructor, certified personal trainer, nutrition educator, and certified Pilates instructor. She has personally triumphed over numerous health obstacles. Recently, I sought Dr. Jaime’s guidance in my own healing journey. The years of ac

Summary: Today, we’re delving into an exciting new therapy modality called Critical Memory Integration. This groundbreaking approach focuses on healing trauma by exploring unresolved critical memories and integrating them with neutral memories, fostering resilience in individuals. At the forefront of this creation, our incredible team of panelists joins us today. You might recognize one of our team members—Estefana Johnson—who shared her insights in our Valentine’s episode. Estefana is a cherished friend of Foster Arizona. Alongside Estefana, we have two remarkable psychologists: Dr. Brian Livesay and Dr. Diego Hernandez. Both experts bring extensive backgrounds in trauma care and post-traumatic stress disorder. Over the past two years, I’ve eagerly followed the progress of this project, and it’s truly remarkable to witness its practical implementation locally and globally. Resource Links: Critical Memory Integration (CMI) - ARISE Alliance Institute The trajectory of PTSD among youth in foster care: A surviva

Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! In today’s episode, we’re picking up where we left off last week. Our microphones are live on location at Foster Cooperative’s first training day of 2024, where we’re soaking up knowledge and growing together.

Summary: Today is all about something extra special! We've packed our gear and hit the road to bring you an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Right now, we're on location at Foster Cooperative's training day, immersing ourselves in a day of learning and growth. Foster Arizona, a beacon of support and empowerment, hosts these training events twice a year. And let me tell you, each time is a unique journey filled with eye-opening insights. Today, we're not keeping those gems to ourselves – we're bringing you along for the ride! Join us as we dive into various topics and explore valuable resources that shape the fostering landscape. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey, there's something for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on this enlightening adventure with us. Are you ready? Let's go! Resource Links: Foster Cooperative Learn From People Who Lived It  (Mathew Blades)  I Needed That Podcast - Chris Powell   (Mathew Blades)  Shift Happens Transformative Counseling

Summary: It’s officially Hallmark’s week of love!

Summary: Discover the profound journey of becoming a foster parent in a nation grappling with a staggering shortage. In this episode, we explore the critical issue of the national decline in foster parent numbers, intensified by a 60% drop since the onset of the pandemic. Arizona, mirroring this trend, has witnessed a drastic decrease from 5,559 licensed foster homes in 2019 to a mere 2,798 as of November 2023 – marking a nearly 50% loss. Against this backdrop, our guests, Elisia and Jade from Step Stone Youth Agency, shed light on the challenges and rewards of foster parenting. At a time when Arizona is fervently working to address the shortage through extensive recruitment initiatives, this podcast provides a timely and insightful conversation. If you've ever wondered about the complexities, triumphs, and heartaches involved in fostering, join us as we explore the untold stories and experiences that shape the journey of these unsung heroes. The need for foster parents has never been more urgent, and this ep

Summary: Welcome to the Fostering Voices podcast with your host Kim! Join us as we shake things up in this episode by delving into some authentic mom talk. We've given Brian the boot for now to bring you a heartfelt discussion on the joys and challenges of parenting within the realms of foster care and adoption. As a mom personally touched by these experiences, connecting with others who share similar journeys has been both empowering and deeply meaningful. In today's episode, we're joined by the wonderful Elisia and Ally, fellow moms navigating the unique landscape of foster care and adoption. Tune in for an honest and relatable conversation that sheds light on the beauty and complexities of building families through love and compassion. Resource Links: MOMnation® AZ Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents Foster Cooperative Three Precious Miracles Connect With Us! Email: info@fosteraz.org Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @FosteringVoices Web: www.fosterarizona.org Chapters: 00:34 - W

Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! Happy 2024, everyone! We're thrilled to kick off another year of heartfelt conversations and insightful stories. In today's episode, we have a special discussion with our 'bigs'—Maisey, Liesey, and Sam—sharing their unique perspectives on foster care and adoption. Join us as we delve into their experiences, gaining valuable insights into the world of fostering and adoption through their eyes. Thanks for tuning in, and let's embark on this journey of understanding and empathy together! Resource Links: Authentic Voices Video Series: Sharing Our Perspective - Center for States - Child Welfare Capacity Building Collaborative Educate | Foster Arizona Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety Connect with us! Email: info@fosteraz.org Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @FosteringVoices Web: www.fosterarizona.org  

Summary: As we wrap up 2024, we're diving into the complexities of foster care planning. Unlike the conventional New Year's resolutions, the foster care journey is a unique landscape filled with uncertainties. In today's raw and unfiltered discussion, it's just the two of us sharing our personal experiences without any guests. We want to pull back the curtain on the challenges and emotions that come with navigating the foster care land between. As we all contemplate what the coming year holds, those entrenched in foster care face a different set of considerations. Planning takes on a whole new meaning. Join us as we explore the intricacies of making decisions in the midst of uncertainty, reflecting on the hurdles, and finding the courage to move forward. Whether you're part of the foster care community or simply curious about the realities, this episode aims to resonate with you on a profound level. Tune in for an honest conversation about the uncharted territories of fostering, hoping it sparks a connection

Summary: Welcome to a festive episode of our podcast, where we dive into the heartwarming world of holiday traditions and intentional joy. As we usher in the holiday season, we're joined by some special guests – the Vehon kids! In this intimate conversation, we explore how our family of 9 embraces the spirit of togetherness and crafts unique traditions that redefine the meaning of festive celebrations. Discover the magic of intentional joy and connection as we unpack the Vehon family's approach to the holidays. From crazy traditions that spark laughter to thoughtful rituals that deepen family bonds, this episode offers a glimpse into the joyous tapestry we’ve woven. If you've ever been curious about what holiday festivities can look like in a bustling household, this is the perfect episode for you. Join us in celebrating the season with the Vehon kids’ first-ever podcast recording. Whether you're seeking inspiration for your own festivities or just love a good holiday story, this episode is sure to fill your

Summary: In this episode we peel back the curtain and take a look into tribal foster care. Joining us are Brad and Karin Dahlman, a remarkable couple who have dedicated themselves to fostering children for many years. Through tribal foster care, they've opened their hearts and homes to dozens of kids, making an immeasurable impact on our community. Karin sits on the board of Foster Arizona, and Brad is one of those people we can call to rally troops or step into a problem. We absolutely love them and are really grateful we all get to learn from them today. Tune in as we dive deep into their incredible journey as foster parents and explore the vital role of tribal foster care in the lives of children. Join us for an inspiring and informative conversation that sheds light on the challenges and rewards of this vital work. Resource Links: The Importance of ICWA Foster Homes: A Personal Account | American Indian Policy Institute For Families & Service Providers » NICWA Foster a Future for American Indian Child

Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast with Kim and Brian! In celebration of Adoption Awareness Month this November, join us for a special episode dedicated to all things adoption. Our guest, Ed Johnson, a revered local attorney deeply embedded in foster and adoption circles, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. In this insightful episode, Ed shares his years of knowledge, shedding light on crucial aspects of the adoption journey. If you're on the path to adoption in Arizona, don't miss the opportunity to connect with Ed—his contact information will be in the resource notes. As advocates for informed parenting, we emphasize the importance of understanding the unique spaces of loss associated with adoption. Education is key, and the more you empower yourself with knowledge, the better equipped you'll be to support your children, present or future. We hope today's conversation sparks valuable insights and encourages ongoing discussions about adoption. Tune in for a heartfelt explorati

Summary: In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of mental health and finding a path forward when you're grappling with the question, "Where do I go from here?" Today, we are thrilled to have Carol Melim join our conversation. Carol is not only a Licensed Clinical Social Worker but also a specialist in trauma therapy, certified in EMDR and EMDRIA, with a unique perspective. She brings a wealth of book knowledge and invaluable lived experience to the table, making her exceptionally attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by foster and adopted children, as well as their families. Throughout this episode, we'll explore the intersection of mental health and family dynamics, drawing on Carol's expertise and personal insights. Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, someone interested in mental health, or simply curious about the experiences of foster and adopted children, this conversation will provide valuable insights and practical advice. Join us as we navigate this important conversation, of

Summary: Today, on our 20th wedding anniversary, we embark on a meaningful journey, delving deep into the intricate layers of marriages affected by trauma. Join us as we explore the profound impact that caring for children with special needs has on marital relationships, acknowledging the challenges without getting lost in statistics. We are honored to be joined by Perry Emerick, an ordained minister and EMDR trained counselor and supervisor. With 26 years of marriage and three children under his belt, Perry brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to our discussion. Together, we unpack the complexities of trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, focusing on the ways past traumas can influence our present connections. In this episode, Perry shares invaluable insights on how to strengthen marriages and families, especially when past traumas cast their shadows. His expertise and compassionate approach offer guidance on shoring up relationships, emphasizing the resilience and transformative pow