On today's episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I'm joined again by foster/adoptive mama and TBRI practitioner Jules Thompson. Jules shares the importance of educating churches and schools about trauma and how it can impact kids from hard places so there can be more spaces willing to welcome these kids and families with openness and understanding.

For foster care support and freebies, visit: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Picture this: a home filled with laughter, love, and children.

It’s the ideal image of foster care, but it’s not always the reality.

There’s a side to this story that often goes untold: the unseen struggle of foster mamas.

The glossy image of happy, harmonious families is frequently just a veneer the shields the true reality.

Behind closed doors, foster mamas grapple with a myriad of challenges. It’s a constant tug of war between providing love and care and dealing with the emotional and mental strain that inevitably accompanies the role.

The silent battles of these brave women are often overlooked. The sleepless nights, the worry, the constant state of hypervigilance - it can take a toll.

Download my Foster Mama Coping Skills Class here:https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/foster-mama-coping-class

magine the dread and uncertainty that comes with stepping into the unknown, especially when it involves caring for a child who’s not your own. It’s a journey filled with a unique set of challenges and yes, fears.

Fears that are as real as the child’s need for love and support.

Perhaps you fear becoming too attached to a child who might leave. Or maybe you’re worried about dealing with a child’s trauma, not being equipped to handle their hurt, their past.

And then there’s the daunting pressure of meeting the child’s needs and being everything they need when you’re still figuring it all out yourself.

These fears, these struggles - they are common. THey are shared. You are not alone.

Get your FREE Foster Mama Guide here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

Imagine the feeling of being judged, misunderstood, or even criticized for the way you handle situations in your foster home.

It’s a common misconception: this idea that there’s one, and only one right way to be a foster mom.

It’s a myth that’s been perpetuated, creating undue pressure and judgement on the very shoulders of those who’ve chosen to open their hearts and homes to children and families in need.

As a foster mom, you’ve probably felt the sting of scrutiny, the weight of expectations pressing down on you, the guilt creeping in when your methods differ from those of others.

I’m here to tell you it’s ok. It’s ok to be different, to have your unique approach.

Get your Healthy Boundaries Guide here: https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

My guest today is Tina Bauer, a mama, former foster youth, adoptee, and foster and adoptive parent consultant. Tina generously shares her perspective with us and gives many helpful tips for foster and adoptive mamas, especially those wondering if they are "doing it right."

Follow Tina on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/tinaa_bauerr/

Find her consulting services here: https://l.instagram.com/?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.experiencecareconsulting.com%2F&e=AT0rO6PAq1xG8n4qqS8gUkAed0heIxf39CA2l3k6MRtgi4Pr_UBsafOourdTjgpah9pq2wd0Qa43yR-nzRSCWcYeujzsNgVRLl96WSM3TsRVXr-1an5HBw

On this episode of the Fearless Fostering Podcast, I sit down for a chat with Mark Daley, author of Safe: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and the Risks We Take For Family. Mark shares about his time as a foster dad, and why he felt the need to write this book. He shares how the broken system is failing kids and first families and what foster families (and EVERYONE else) can do to help.

Find Mark's book (out January 30th) here:

www.amazon.com/Safe-Memoir-Fathe…1706476702&sr=8-1

Find Mark on Instagram here: www.instagram.com/markdaley00/

As foster and adoptive mamas open their hearts and homes to kids from hard places, they often find themselves neglecting their own well-being. In the hustle and bustle of daily life, self-care often takes a backseat. However, it’s crucial for us to recognize that our own self-care is not a luxury but a necessity. In this episode, we’ll delve into the importance of self-care for foster and adoptive mamas and how planning out self-care routines can be a game-changer.

Get your FREE weekly self-care planner here:

https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

As you navigate the ups and downs of foster care, you may find yourself wanting to share your experiences on social media. Whether it’s to connect with other foster parents, raise awareness about fostering, or simply document your personal growth, telling your story online can be a powerful and meaningful endeavor. In this episode, we’ll explore some valuable tips for foster mamas who are considering sharing their journey on social media. Additionally, make sure to check out my free checklist, where I share all the tools I use to support foster mamas online:

https://stan.store/fearless_fostering

The world of foster care is filled with twists, turns, and unexpected challenges that can leave you feeling stressed and worried about your kids’ cases. It’s crucial to acknowledge these feelings and seek support. In this episode, we’ll explore ways to maintain peace and calm on your foster care journey, no matter what curve balls come your way.

Get your personalized foster care audit here:

https://stan.store/fearless_fostering/p/book-your-11-session-with-me

Dear Foster and Adoptive Mamas,

As we stand on the threshold of a new year, it’s a profound moment to reflect not only on the challenges we’ve overcome but also on the intentional choices we’re making for our future selves. The daily labor of love, the vulnerability of attachment, and the unique journey of foster and adoptive parenting are not easy feats. In this letter, let’s explore the power of grace, intentional living, and the transformative impact of small, consistent changes.

You can check out the whack-a-doo sales in my shop (that change every day in December!) right here:

https://stan.store/fearless_fostering