Thriver Stories

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Madeline Villagrana discuss the complexities of lived experience in foster care, the importance of support systems, and the challenges faced by those advocating for others. They explore mental health issues, the need for self-advocacy, and the systemic flaws that impact foster youth. The conversation emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries, the role of community, and the necessity for empathy in support roles. Madeline shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's own needs while helping others.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Alejandro Rocha, a college student who shares his journey through the foster care system and juvenile justice. Alejandro discusses his early life, family dynamics, and the challenges he faced as a child provider and protector. He recounts his experiences entering the foster care system, the harsh realities of group homes, and the impact of institutionalization on his life. The conversation delves into the struggles of seeking validation and connection amidst trauma, and Alejandro's reflections on the justice system's failures. This episode highlights the resilience of youth in the face of adversity and the importance of community support.

In this powerful episode of Thriver Stories, host Isabel Stasa sits down with youth advocate Jamarri Kane-White for an unfiltered conversation about the heart of foster care advocacy. Jamarri opens up about his personal journey, the challenges of tokenization in the movement, and why knowing your "why" is the key to sustainable change. They dive into the delicate balance of self-care and service, discussing why "healthy selfishness" is essential for long-term impact. Jamarri also shares his take on the nature vs. nurture debate, redefining success beyond accolades, and how to create space for authentic voices in advocacy work. Whether you're in the foster care community or an ally, this episode offers raw insights on purpose, resilience, and making change that lasts.

This week on Thriver Stories, Isabel Stasa sits down with Karla Padilla for a powerful conversation about:🚧 The real obstacles foster youth face in higher ed💡 Programs changing the game🔧 Fixing a broken system💛 How YOU can helpKarla’s journey from foster care to academia proves: With the right support, every young person can thrive.📚 Education is liberation. Tune in & be inspired to act! For more content like this, please join our community at https://community.fostergreatness.co/home#ThriverStories #FosterYouthEducation #BreakingTheCycle #FosterGreatness

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Elliott Hinkel discuss the pressing issues facing the LGBTQ community. They explore the importance of visibility, support for LGBTQ youth, and the significance of gender-affirming care. The conversation also delves into the impact of recent executive orders on LGBTQ rights, the resources available for community support, and Elliott’s June event 'Visible and Unstoppable.' Elliott emphasizes the power of affirming identity in youth and the role of meaningful allyship in advocating for LGBTQ rights. 

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest host Rimy Morris engage with the Foster Greatness Storyteller Collective ambassadors, who share their experiences in foster care and the impact of storytelling. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, mental health awareness, community support, and the importance of taking control of personal narratives. The Storytellers reflect on their journeys, the challenges of sharing their stories, and the power of community in fostering growth and resilience. They discuss the role of social media in advocacy and the lessons learned throughout their collective experience, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and connection in their storytelling efforts. In this conversation, participants reflect on their experiences in the Storyteller Collective, discussing the valuable mindsets and habits they've developed. They emphasize the importance of community, validation, and the need for ongoing advocacy in foster care. The discussion includes hot takes on various aspects of advocacy, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by foster youth. Participants express their hopes for the future and the impact of their work, underscoring the significance of sharing stories and continuing the dialogue around foster care.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, Isabel Stasa and Antoinette Gutierrez discuss the emotional journey of revisiting court records as a foster care alumni. They explore the healing process, the importance of understanding family dynamics, and the impact of foster care on identity and relationships. Antoinette shares her experiences of vulnerability, self-compassion, and the significance of establishing non-negotiables in self-care. The conversation emphasizes the need for forgiveness, self-worth, and finding joy amidst challenges, while also providing tools for processing trauma and building resilience.

In this inspiring new episode of Thriver Stories, host Isabel Stasa sits down with Abril Leonyvelez from the Storyteller Collective for an unforgettable conversation about turning struggle into strength.

Abril shares her powerful journey from foster care to becoming a fierce advocate, highlighting how storytelling transformed her pain into purpose. Discover how the Guardian Scholars program offered Abril vital support, helping her overcome barriers and empowering her to become a voice for change.

In this candid talk, Abril emphasizes why storytelling can be lifesaving, offering advice on how to reclaim your narrative and live unapologetically. She also sheds light on the importance of year-round support for foster youth, because advocacy shouldn't just be limited to Foster Care Awareness Month.

Abril’s story is a testament to the incredible strength foster youth possess when given the community and courage to thrive.

✨ Listen now and get inspired to rewrite your own future!

#ThriverStories #FosterGreatness #FosterYouthVoices #StorytellerCollective #SC25

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa interviews Majd Abdallah, a member of the Foster Greatness Storyteller Collective and founder of Foster Friendz.

Majd shares his personal journey as a foster care advocate and the inspiration behind his business, Foster Friendz, which provides stuffed animals to children in foster care.

The conversation explores the importance of storytelling, community, and authenticity in advocacy, as well as practical advice for those looking to share their own stories.

Majd emphasizes the need for boldness in taking steps toward change and the significance of understanding one's motivations in the storytelling process.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Taylor Rockhold discuss the importance of storytelling in the context of foster care awareness. They explore Taylor's personal journey through foster care and incarceration, the healing power of sharing one's story, and the challenges of vulnerability in a public space.

The conversation also addresses the risks and rewards of using social media for advocacy and the significance of community support in personal growth and empowerment. In this conversation, Taylor Rockhold shares her journey from adversity to achievement, emphasizing the importance of accountability in relationships and the true meaning of resilience.

She reflects on her experiences in foster care, the misconceptions surrounding resilience, and the significance of having a supportive figure in her life. Taylor's story is a powerful testament to the idea that one's current situation does not define their future, and she encourages others to pursue their dreams despite challenges.