Best Fosteradopt Podcasts (2024)

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Episode 186: Vacation Planning & Tips - Vehon Style 41:16

4d ago41:16

41:16

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 …

1
Episode 185: Consider Yourself a Mandated Supporter 37:24

19d ago37:24

37:24

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 famil…

1
Episode 184: The Link Between Foster Care and Social Disparities 39:25

1M ago39:25

39:25

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…

1
Episode 183: A Single Mom’s FosterAdopt Journey 41:55

2M ago41:55

41:55

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…

1
Episode 182: Life-Changing Connections in Foster Care 37:53

2M ago37:53

37:53

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…

1
Episode 181: It's OK to Say, "I'm Not OK." 48:12

3M ago48:12

48:12

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 d…

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Episode 180: How Caregiver Stress Impacts Our Bodies 48:12

3M ago48:12

48:12

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, lea…

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Episode 179: What is Critical Memory Integration and How Can it Help? 56:49

4M ago56:49

56:49

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 …

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Episode 178: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 2 30:14

4M ago30:14

30:14

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. 🌱 Last time, you had the pleasure of meeting some of our incredible presenters. This …

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Episode 177: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 1 22:29

5M ago22:29

22:29

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 t…

1
Episode 176: All You Need is Love (Not!) 39:53

5M ago39:53

39:53

Summary: It’s officially Hallmark’s week of love! 🌟 When it comes to parenting kids with trauma, we often hear the words, “All You Need is Love.” But is that really true? This week, we dive deep into this question. We’re thrilled to have Estefana Johnson joining us in the conversation. Estefana, a clinical social worker, began her career working wi…

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Episode 175: I Want to Foster! Now What? 45:21

6M ago45:21

45:21

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 li…

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Episode 174: Moms Get Real 46:12

6M ago46:12

46:12

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…

1
Episode 173: Kids’ Perspective on Foster Care and Adoption 39:56

6M ago39:56

39:56

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…

1
Episode 172: Foster Care Land Between: Planning Your Future in the Unknown 43:49

7M ago43:49

43:49

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 …

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Episode 171: Laughing all the Way: Vehon Christmas Traditions 31:27

7M ago31:27

31:27

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 tradit…

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Episode 170: A Look Into Tribal Foster Care 39:56

8M ago39:56

39:56

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.…

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Episode 169: Talking Adoption with an Adoption Attorney 52:06

8M ago52:06

52:06

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 i…

1
Episode 168: Mental Health: Where do I go from Here? 39:17

9M ago39:17

39:17

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…

1
The Last Hug 1:09:39

9M ago1:09:39

1:09:39

This is a unique one off episode. It is a conversation with 3 other dads and authors who wrote their story of grief in the book The Last Hug. You can purchase the book Here

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Episode 167: Trauma’s Impact on Marriage 40:30

9M ago40:30

40:30

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 honore…

1
Episode 166: Journey to Becoming a Foster Parent 37:07

10M ago37:07

37:07

Summary: In this episode we delve into the transformative journey of becoming a foster parent. Join us as we sit down with Katie O’Dell, the passionate Executive Director of AZ127, a steadfast advocate for fostering life within a supportive community. AZ127 firmly believes that children require families, and families thrive with a strong support ne…

1
Episode 165: Celebrating 10 Years of Impact 44:02

10M ago44:02

44:02

Summary: Today is all about celebration as Foster Arizona turns 10 years old. Join us as we take a delightful trip down memory lane, reflecting on the invaluable lessons and heartwarming joys we've encountered throughout this incredible journey. In this special episode, we're honored to have Al Moore, one of our founding board members and the curre…

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Episode 164: All Things School - When you Need an Advocate 43:20

11M ago43:20

43:20

Summary: As we continue exploring the return to school season, today's discussion delves into a crucial topic. Join us as we sit down with Amanda Glass, an esteemed legal professional with a passion for advocating for children's rights. Amanda's journey, post-graduation from the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, led he…

1
Episode 163: All Things School - IEP /504 47:11

12M ago47:11

47:11

Summary: Join us in celebrating the return to school as we dive into an enlightening discussion on IEPs and 504s with the incredible Nancy Williams. Our guest, Nancy, brings a wealth of expertise to the table as the Executive Director of the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents, an organization that has personally touched our lives. …

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Episode 162: An Adoptee's Story - The Blessing; the Heartbreak 35:39

12M ago35:39

35:39

Summary: In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the world of adoption through the eyes of Mea Han Fajardo, an extraordinary international adoptee and the visionary behind FostAdopt Connections. Join us as we explore Mea's deeply personal journey and how she has transformed her experiences into a powerful platform, fostering meanin…

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Episode 161: Real Talk - Self Care with Matthew Blades 45:19

1y ago45:19

45:19

Summary: Matthew Blades is a familiar and friendly voice known to many in Arizona from the successful Matthew and Priscilla in the Morning show on Mix 96.9 FM. Matthew's own journey of battling physical and mental health challenges led him to step away from broadcasting and embark on a healing journey. Now, he sits in front of the podcast mic, host…

1
Episode 160: Real Talk - Parents of Foster Care 35:25

1y ago35:25

35:25

Summary: At just 25 years old, Lindsey found herself pregnant and the parent of two children in the custody of the Department of Child Safety. She endured a heartbreaking struggle with homelessness, residing in motels and even living on the streets, surrounded by others in similar desperate circumstances. Desperate for change, Lindsey discovered a …

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Child Welfare from a Case worker and Therapist with Avni Panchal 1:01:43

1y ago1:01:43

1:01:43

Avni Panchal is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has her own private practice in the Bay Area. In addition to therapy services, she provides training to social workers in the field, teaches at San Francisco State University and is the Clinical Advisor for Kaya. She continues to facilitate dialogue circles on various topics in both the public a…

1
Episode 159: The Way Home - How Kids Return to Their Families with Judge Colleen McNally 38:03

1y ago38:03

38:03

Summary: In honor of national reunification month, in this episode we have a conversation with Judge Colleen McNally about what reunification means for kids and their families. Before retiring, Judge McNally served the people of Arizona for over 16 years in the Maricopa County Superior Court of Arizona. Since retiring, she has devoted her time and …

1
Life After Trauma with Phillip Harter 1:08:24

1y ago1:08:24

1:08:24

I have never told this story in public and I have not told everything that is here, probably ever. I have always felt a pulling to the children and families who are or have been involved in this system, or have suffered in the darkness of our world. I’m going to include a bio that is taken from the first chapter of my book. That first chapter is a …

1
Episode 158: Recovery - Why Does it Work? 32:53

1y ago32:53

32:53

Summary: What comes to mind when you think about Recovery and Recovery spaces? Often the images that come to mind are uncomfortable and we think of these spaces as the last place we would ever want to be, but what if we told you that Recovery…Is For Everybody! Join us in a conversation as we talk to Jillian about her journey into recovery and why t…

1
Supporting the Supporters with Nikki Hertzler 53:53

1y ago53:53

53:53

Nikki Hertzler resides in northern Nevada. She and her husband have lived in several states before settling with their three children in Nevada. Nikki is an elementary teacher and as a speaker, she speaks on the importance of early childhood development as well as on foster care. Her family enjoys participating in their church ministries and being …

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Autistic Me with Christopher Scott Wyatt 49:46

1y ago49:46

49:46

Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate while researching online education for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Wyatt consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organi…

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Episode 157: Real Talk: Substances (Mark’s Story) 45:32

1y ago45:32

45:32

Summary: Today there are so many people, humans like you and me, struggling because of varying hurts, habits or hang-ups, and they may be at the end of their rope. Today we have a conversation with Mark as he shares his story on substances and addiction and how connection helped him get to his space of recovery. Trigger Warning: Today’s episode dea…

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Episode 156: Fighting the Fear of Stigma in Foster Care and Adoption 42:13

1y ago42:13

42:13

Summary: What happens when you choose to put your comfort space aside and open up your heart and home to a child in foster care? Spoiler alert, it can be humbling, messy, and chaotic at times, but it can also be the most rewarding experience that will change your life and the life of another, forever. Join us as we have a conversation with Stacy Br…

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Your Trauma is NOT My Trauma with Maccabee Griffin 54:07

1+ y ago54:07

54:07

Imagine the stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and the audience is waiting with bated breath. This is where my journey began - in the theater. I spent over two decades honing my craft, perfecting my skills, and pouring my heart and soul into every performance. But in 2005, I knew it was time to step away from the spotlight and serve something gre…

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Episode 155: Real Talk, Connecting When Connection is Hard 43:24

1+ y ago43:24

43:24

Summary: Truth…Parenting is hard, but those little moments of sweetness can make the tough days bearable. But what happens when those moments feel few and far between? Often in our foster care and adoption journeys the struggle to connect with our children can be an all too frequent reality. Join us as we welcome Chris and Caitlin and have a real c…

1
Episode 154: A Look Into Aging Out of Foster Care 27:55

1+ y ago27:55

27:55

Summary: Life can be tough sometimes, but for a young adult aging out of foster care the transition can be life altering and either set them up for success or leave them without a connection or direction. Join us as we have a conversation with Zack, a young adult with lived experience, and how connection and having a community changed his trajector…

1
Complex Trauma with Andrea Hanson 59:34

1+ y ago59:34

59:34

Andrea has worked with clients across the globe who are seeking a deep recalibration from a state of trauma response to a state of self-love, creativity, wholeness, and flow. Andrea has dedicated years training to become highly specialized and effective in artfully blending a mosaic of techniques from body movement, somatic release, integration, br…

1
Walking Out of The Sex Trafficking Industry with Hannah Spanke 53:51

1+ y ago53:51

53:51

Hannah is a passionate advocate for authentic happiness, and sustainable healthy relationships, starting with the one we have with ourselves. She is a Licensed Authentic Tantra Practitioner, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Relationship & Life Coach specializing in helping individuals become their happiest selves through inner & outer work …

1
Episode 153: Finding Connection, Finding Your People 37:25

1+ y ago37:25

37:25

Summary: Community is what gets us through life. In today's conversation we talk with Anika Robinson about finding your people and the importance of community and connection in our everyday lives. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 0:26 – Welcome Anika! 1:44 – Advocacy for Children 3:10 – Establishing Connections 8:38 – ASA Now 14:04 – Finding Hope in Dark Tim…

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Growing Through Unhealthy Adoption with Michelle McGough 1:09:58

1+ y ago1:09:58

1:09:58

Michelle McGough is an adoptee and individual who survived the foster care system as an infant. After being placed with a family she endured constant abuse until she reached adulthood. Left with only the coping mechanisms she developed to survive, she entered the military followed by the private sector before working through the trauma. Once she go…

1
Episode 152: Interracial Adoption and Finding Your Identity 42:40

1+ y ago42:40

42:40

Episode 152: Interracial Adoption and Finding Your Identity Summary: A personal look into an adoptees story involving interracial adoption and her journey to discover her personal identity along the way. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 0:52 – Welcome Ann! 1:32 – Ann's Work and Focus 12:00 – A Position of Learning 16:44 – Ann's Journey 24:33 – Wanting Kids t…

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Foster and Adoptive Mom Angie Grandt 48:24

1+ y ago48:24

48:24

I am a mom of 2 very different children – in regard to their biology, their needs, their attachment, their experiences. I have worked in the special education field for more than 2 decades intimately hearing, seeing, and feeling parents struggle to connect with their children who have developmental delays. https://linktr.ee/connectedparentswithangi…

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Episode 151: Meet the Vehons 30:03

1+ y ago30:03

30:03

Meet your new hosts, Kim and Brian Vehon and learn a little bit about the heart behind their why and their vision for the Fostering Voices podcast. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 0:25 – Welcome Back In!! 1:43 – Creation of Foster Arizona and Community 21:34 – Our Mission at Foster AZ 27:19 – Thank you!!! Links: https://fosterarizona.org/ https://www.aecf.o…

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Interracial Adoption with Zachary Daniel 55:35

1+ y ago55:35

55:35

Zachary Daniel is a Midwest native. He comes to Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey to discuss how his adoption experience shaped himself and his family. He graduated with a degree in Nuclear Medicine but eventually founded his own investment firm Digital Edge Wealth Management. He draws his energy from family and friends. Zach recently authored h…

1
Episode 150: Goodbye from Chris and Jihae 15:47

1+ y ago15:47

15:47

Friends, as we FINALLY wrap up season 8, we are also wrapping up our time as your hosts of the Fostering Voices Podcast. We have loved the 5 years that we were the hosts, but we are so excited for your new hosts to take over, Brian and Kim Vehon of Foster Arizona! Chapters: 0:00 - Intro 13:54 – Good Word of the Day!!! Good Word of the Day!!! Eccles…

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Heal Thrive Dream with Karen Robinson, LCSW 45:30

1+ y ago45:30

45:30

Karen Robinson, MSW, ACSW, LCSW Trauma Recovery Expert I'm a licensed therapist with 24 years of clinical experience specializing in trauma recovery, anxiety, and depression. I provide holistic care to create transformation and healing for trauma survivors. https://www.Karenrobinson360.com https://www.healthrivedream.com/ Heal Thrive Dream Podcast …