Life's a wild ride, isn't it? Kind of like fostering and adopting, which is the heart and soul of our podcast, From Foster to Forever. We dive into the ups and downs of non-traditional families, sharing heartfelt stories that are anything but ordinary. In this latest episode, I pop in to give a shout-out after a little break from the mic. I know, I know, it’s been a minute, but hey, life (and surgery!) happens. Whether you’re a new listener or a seasoned vet, I’m stoked to have you here with me.

I also take a moment to thank all you lovely folks who’ve been tuning in and leaving those golden five-star reviews. Seriously, they help get our stories out there for others who might need a little hope or support. Plus, I’m super excited to announce that I’ve joined the ranks of columnists at Fostering Families Today, a sweet publication all about foster care. My first piece drops online soon, where I discuss how my CrossFit journey helped me tackle the tough times during fostering. It’s all about that mental toughness, and trust me, it’s a game changer. So, stay tuned, because I’m gearing up for season three and I want to hear from you! Got a story to share or know someone who does? Hit me up. Let’s keep this conversation rolling and make some magic happen!

Takeaways:

• This episode welcomes newcomers and reminds longtime listeners about the journey so far.
• Rachel expresses gratitude for every review, emphasizing their importance in spreading awareness.
• The podcast announces a new column by Rachel in Fostering Families Today Magazine, a must-read for foster care enthusiasts.
• Rachel discusses her first article, which ties her personal story of fostering-to-adopt, with her passion for CrossFit and mental toughness.
• Listeners are encouraged to share their own foster to adopt stories for potential podcast features.
• The episode wraps up with Rachel's summer wishes for health, safety, and joy for all listeners.