Fostering Voices Podcast

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. 🌟

Resource Links:

Your Mental Health Today Test / Quiz

31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health

11 Ways to Find and Make Friends as an Adult

Foster Cooperative

The Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

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 accumulated stress have taken their toll on both Brian and me. Dr. Jaime's genuine empathy and understanding resonate deeply as she navigates the delicate balance between caring for others and prioritizing self-care. Her remarkable ability to meet people where they are, infused with love and encouragement, is something we're excited to share with you today. Tune in as we explore simple yet impactful changes that can lead to stress relief and better health. 🎙️🌟

Resource Links:

Caregiver stress: Tips for taking care of yourself - Mayo Clinic

Bali Blue Wellness (Dr. Jaime Parker)

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Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

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 survival analysis examining maltreatment experiences prior to entry into care.

How We Feel

Atlas of the Heart - Brené Brown

Lighthouse Psychiatry

Lt. Col Mann TEDx on Generosity of Scars

The Generosity of Scars | Scott Mann | TEDxSantaBarbara

Elizabeth Feldmann Barrett How Emotions are made

How Emotions are Made (Cinematic Lecture)

Luiz Pessoa: "The Entangled Brain: Integration of emotion, motivation, and cognition"

Luiz Pessoa: "The Entangled Brain: Integration of emotion, motivation, and cognition"

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Chapters:

00:00 - Opening

00:33 - Intro

02:03 - Dr. Brian Livesay

03:40 - Connection is Fundamental

04:35 - Dr. Diego Hernandez

05:23 - Did I Make a Difference?

06:38 - We Did Everything Together

08:07 - Estefana Johnson

09:57 - You were Made to Fly!

10:46 - It Starts with the Therapist

13:20 - Clinicians are more than Technicians

15:42 - Survival is not Enough

16:34 - Critical Memory Integration

18:24 - The Deepest Conversations

19:00 - We are Designed for Play

19:47 - Getting Through the Bad Feelings

21:54 - Recognizing the Signals

22:59 - Tactical Disclosure

25:02 - Power in Relatability

28:55 - Where does CMI Fit?

32:20 - Integrating CMI

35:08 - Critical Memories

36:14 - The Stories Movies Tell

37:15 - Full Access to your Emotions

40:21 - Teaching Kids to Experience Emotions

43:33 - Stories are Wisdom

44:18 - How to get this new Therapy

47:10 - New Understanding

48:03 - A Hub for Training

50:18 - Resources

51:15 - Final Thoughts

55:10 - Conclusion

55:40 - Thank You!

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 week, get ready to hear from three more remarkable human beings. They'll share their stories, insights, and passion for fostering. 🎙️

So, without further ado, let's dive into this enriching conversation! Buckle up, because here we go! 🚀

Resource Links:

Foster Cooperative

PAX Arizona Initiative – PAXIS (Frances Holguin)

Mercy Care (Nichol Khan)

Bali Blue Wellness (Dr. Jaime Parker)

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

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 (Wade Cordell)

Lighthouse Psychiatry (Carol Melim)

Internet Safety | Arizona Attorney General (Jillian Ashby)

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

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 with youth in residential treatment facilities. She's a mover and a shaker, bringing innovative approaches to trauma therapies. Plus, she's a favorite trainer at our semi-annual Foster Cooperative training events. And let's not forget, she's one of the most loving people we know. Tune in for insightful discussions and heartfelt stories! ❤️🎙️

Resource Links:

Trainings

Arizona Council of Human Service Providers – Neurosequential Model in Caregiving© Webinar Series

History | ChildTrauma Academy

[email protected]

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Chapters:

00:12 - Opening

00:35 - Welcome!

01:41 - Estefana's Journey

03:39 - Radical Acceptance

04:46 - Moving Beyond Fear

06:31 - Being Curious

06:59 - Therapy

08:07 - The Hero Complex

09:58 - What is Love?

11:00 - If you Loved them Better...

13:10 - "We're on Your Team"

14:35 - Rose-Colored Glasses

17:40 - Your Purpose is Greater

19:01 - The Heart Connection

21:17 - Handling Trauma

24:07 - Drip Drip Drip

26:00 - Self-Judgment

28:09 - It is not a Fault

30:17 - Deep Connections

32:01 - Choosing to Show Love

36:34 - Gratitude

36:55 - The Takeaway

37:58 - Resources

39:09 - Connect with Us!

39:33 - Thank You!

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 episode aims to inspire and inform, encouraging listeners to consider making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

Resource Links:

Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety

Arizona - StepStone Family & Youth Services

Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt

Foster Care: Avoiding Foster Parent Burnout | Justice Resource Institute

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

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: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Chapters:

00:34 - Welcome!

01:13 - Elisia's Story

04:32 - Ally's Story

09:37 - What have you Learned

13:24 - Filling in the Gaps

15:28 - Momma Joy Moments

21:43 - Challenging Spaces

30:05 - Tag You're In!

32:47 - Tag You're Out!

34:11 - Keeping Your Sanity

39:47 - Filling Your Own Cup

41:26 - Saying No in Love

42:36 - Resources

45:11 - Connect with Us!

45:50 - ThankYou!

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: [email protected]

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 and provides insights into the often overlooked aspects of this journey.

Resource Links:

Foster Cooperative

National Foster Care & Adoption Directory | Child Welfare Information Gateway

Connect with us!

Email: [email protected]

Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast

Instagram: @FosteringVoices

Web: www.fosterarizona.org

Chapters:

00:09 - On Today's Episode

00:55 - Welcome!

01:32 - In the Thick of the Crazy

03:22 - What is the Land Between?

06:20 - Handling the Phases

08:10 - Managing Emotions

12:13 - Emotional Roller Coaster

15:05 - Being Fully Invested

17:09 - It Affects More than Just Us

20:48 - Bringing in the Family

22:17 - Pre Foster Training

23:04 - Us vs. Them

25:56 - It's not About the Socks

29:53 - Controlling what you Can

34:02 - Connect with Community

36:04 - Create a Memory

39:21 - Don't be Afraid to Connect

41:36 - Resources

42:11 - Connect with Us!

43:16 - Thank You!