Fostering Voices Podcast

Summary:

Today is a special day on Fostering Voices! A couple of episodes ago, we celebrated our 200th episode and reflected on how this podcast began—not with us, but with a powerful vision. Fostering Voices started as an idea to spark meaningful conversations and raise awareness about the urgent need for community engagement in foster care. It all began with Chris and Jihae Watson, a microphone, and their living room.

Two years ago, Foster Arizona was gifted this incredible platform, and we thought it was the perfect time to check in with the Watsons to see where life has taken them. In this episode, we reconnect with Chris and Jihae, reminiscing on the journey that led to this podcast's creation and exploring what they've been up to since passing the torch.

Join us for an inspiring conversation filled with gratitude, reflection, and the shared passion for making a difference in the foster care community. Welcome back, Watsons—we're so glad you're here!

Resource Links:

Learn more about Fostering in Arizona

Foster & Adopt

Inside Look at Fostering - Liz and Travis' story

https://vimeo.com/118157857?share=copy

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

In this episode, Brian and Kim dive into the theme of love—not just for others, but for ourselves—by exploring the power of healthy boundaries.

First, we break down Boundaries 101, discussing what boundaries really mean, why they aren't about being mean, and how they help us navigate relationships with clarity and confidence.

Then, we get real about balancing life's demands—from managing time and energy in our most important relationships to setting boundaries at work, home, and even with our kids. Because guess what? Parents are people too! We also tackle boundaries in romantic relationships, the importance of difficult conversations, and how financial issues and lack of communication contribute to divorce.

Finally, we lean into the crazy, asking the hard questions: What's causing stress? What issues keep resurfacing? Are we truly at peace?

Join us as we unpack the power of boundaries in fostering healthier relationships and a more balanced life. Let's get into it!

Resource Links:

Boundaries with Kids - Boundaries with Kids: How Healthy Choices Grow Healthy Children: Cloud, Henry, Townsend, John: 9780310243151

Set Boundaries, Find Peace - a guide to reclaiming yourself

Amazon.com: Set Boundaries, Find Peace: A Guide to Reclaiming Yourself

Healthy Boundaries Worksheets

14 Worksheets for Setting Healthy Boundaries

Visualizing Your Boundaries Exercise

​​https://positive.b-cdn.net/wp-content/uploads/2022/11/Visualizing-Your-Boundaries.pdf

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

Welcome to an extra special episode of Fostering Voices as we celebrate our 200th milestone! This journey wouldn't have been possible without the vision and dedication of Chris and Jihae Watson, who worked tirelessly to create this impactful educational space. We're deeply grateful to continue fostering authentic conversations within our community, tackling real issues with compassion and honesty.

In this episode, we take on a critical and urgent topic: sex trafficking. What risks do our children face? Who is most vulnerable to victimization? And what can we do to protect our communities?

To guide this vital conversation, we're joined by Heidi Chance, a retired law enforcement professional with over 27 years of experience combating human trafficking. Heidi is not only a seasoned advocate but also an author and trainer dedicated to raising awareness and creating lasting change.

Tune in for a powerful discussion, as we learn more about the realities of sex trafficking and the actionable steps we can take to make a difference. Together, let's continue fostering hope, education, and community.

Resource Links:

The Bark Blog

Life 360: How Does Life360 Work? | Location Tracking Guide

Gabb: Gabb.com Blog

Book: Talk To Them: Navigating Difficult Conversations With Youth In The Digital Age: Heidi Chance

Sex Trafficking in America (full documentary) | FRONTLINE

Heidi Chance Website: A Chance For Awareness

Victim Services and Resources in Arizona: Human Trafficking and Exploitation | Arizona Attorney General

Website: National Human Trafficking Hotline

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

Happy New Year, and welcome to 2025! While the start of a new year often brings talk of resolutions, research from Pew shows that 70% of Americans skip them—mostly because they're too easy to break. So, how can we approach personal growth in a way that truly sticks?

In this episode, we explore realistic ways to make incremental changes toward the life you envision. Joining us are Toni and James McSwain, parents of six sons and founders of Divine Movement, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping individuals with the tools and mentorship needed to achieve their goals. Toni, a certified life coach and founder of "Thee Growth Coach," also works directly with youth to help them unlock their potential.

Together, we discuss actionable strategies for setting and pursuing meaningful goals, overcoming obstacles, and staying motivated throughout the year. Whether you're aiming for personal, professional, or community growth, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to make 2025 your best year yet.

Let's dive in!

Resource Links: Divine Movement in the News: Divine Movement Track Club Competing at Nationals

Thee Growth Coach

Hive - List of Goal Tracking Apps: 15 Goal-Tracking Apps & Tools To Succeed in 2024 | Hive

Dream-Design-Define Handout 11x17 (PDF)

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

In the final episode of our mini-series, we explore the transformative power of community support and how it can truly change and uplift lives. Over the last two episodes, we heard from two inspiring individuals who have directly benefited from the incredible work of Foster Arizona. Now, we're flipping the script.

Today, we're thrilled to spotlight Christian and Patrick Andrew, two dedicated supporters who exemplify how we can all make a difference in our own unique ways. Often, we think creating impact means making big, life-altering commitments like opening our homes. But the truth is, each of us has the power to change lives by simply sharing our gifts, skills, and influence to create opportunities for others.

Join us as we dive into their stories and discover how small acts of support can lead to big changes, inspiring all of us to find our own ways to contribute to our communities. This heartwarming episode will leave you motivated to take action and see the ripple effect of community care.

Tune in and be inspired!

Resource Link:

Foster Arizona

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

In this episode of our mini-series on the transformative power of community support, we dive into another inspiring story of connection and resilience. Last week, we heard from Joseph, who shared how the community shaped his journey from foster care to adulthood. This week, we're thrilled to continue the conversation with Jenny Montgomery.

Jenny brings a wealth of experience as someone who has dedicated her professional life to supporting children and families in the community. But her perspective is especially meaningful because she's also been on the receiving end of that support during pivotal moments in her own life.

Join us as Jenny shares her powerful story, offering insights into how community support can be both life-changing and life-giving. Her journey reminds us that we all have the ability to make a difference and that receiving help can be just as transformative as giving it.

Tune in for an uplifting discussion that will leave you inspired to foster connection and support in your own community.

Resource Links:

Foster Arizona

Foster Cooperative

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

Welcome to our podcast mini-series, where we dive into the transformative power of community support. Join us as we explore how fostering connections can truly change lives. To kick things off, we're thrilled to welcome Joseph Layton to the show. Joseph has been a vital part of Foster Arizona's housing initiative for over a year and a half, working tirelessly toward his goals and aspirations.

Guided by host Ashley, a dedicated Foster Arizona board member and longtime advocate, we'll uncover the inspiring journey of someone who's making big strides toward a brighter future. Ashley's insight into Foster Arizona's mission brings a unique perspective, helping us better understand the impact of communal support on those who need it most. Joseph's story offers a firsthand look at what's possible when people come together to create positive change.

Tune in as we discuss Joseph's path, the challenges he's faced, and the powerful role of organizations like Foster Arizona in helping individuals thrive. Get ready to be inspired by the stories, the resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a community that cares.

Resource Links:

Foster Arizona: Foster Arizona

Foster Arizona Housing Project: Get Involved

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

Welcome to today's episode, where we dive into the important and often misunderstood topic of refugee and international foster care in Arizona. Misinformation around this issue tends to spread, especially around election seasons, making it hard to separate fact from fiction. Our goal is to shed light on the realities of refugee and international foster care and to offer you practical ways to support those involved.

We're thrilled to welcome two special guests to help us unpack this topic: Erin Pelley and Adan Benitez. Together, we'll explore the unique challenges and inspiring stories within the foster care system for refugee children, as well as the ways community members can provide support and make a lasting impact. Tune in to learn, dispel myths, and discover how you can be a part of positive change.

Resource Links:

Catholic Charities: Unaccompanied Minor Program | Catholic Charities.

Best Practices for Working with Unaccompanied Migrant Children - UNICEF: Best Practices for Working with Unaccompanied Migrant Children in Humanitarian Contexts

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

In this episode, released during Invisible Disability Awareness Week, we shine a light on the often-overlooked challenges of living with invisible disabilities. We share our personal experiences navigating a world where assumptions are based on what can be seen. From expectations about how a child should behave to judgments about what adults are capable of, these perceptions can create unintentional barriers for those with invisible disabilities.

Join us as we explore how our interactions and assumptions affect others and discuss what it might look like to shift our approach. How can we create space for more understanding, allowing people to be seen for who they truly are? What happens when we let down our guards and give each other room to breathe? This episode invites listeners to reflect on how we can cultivate a more compassionate society—one that acknowledges the realities of invisible disabilities and fosters more mindful, inclusive connections.

Resource Link:

Programs 4 People - Invisible Disabilities® Association

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Summary:

In this episode, we're diving into an essential conversation about the role we all play—parents, caregivers, and community members—in supporting the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth. Even if you don't feel this is directly relevant to your life, we encourage you to listen. Statistically, more than one in five Gen Z adults and one in ten millennial adults identify as LGBTQ+. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a significantly higher risk for homelessness, substance abuse, trauma, and suicide, with even greater risks for those who've experienced the foster care system.

These youth could be our neighbors, friends, children, or our kids' friends, making it crucial for us to put down our guard and open our hearts.

To guide this discussion, we're joined by Rochelle Rippy and Hira Ismail from one•n•ten, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ youth and young adults ages 11-24. They provide critical services that promote self-expression, self-acceptance, leadership development, and healthy life choices. Let's explore how we can all play a part in creating a more supportive, inclusive world for the LGBTQ+ youth in our lives.

Resource Links:

one•n•ten: one•n•ten

Tips for Parents of LGBTQ+ Youth: Tips for Parents of LGBTQ Youth | Johns Hopkins Medicine

Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say: Sprinkle, Preston: 9780830781225: Amazon.com

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org