In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard speaks with Jeanette Yoffe, a psychotherapist and advocate in the field of foster care and adoption. Jeanette shares her personal journey through the foster care system, her experiences with adoption, and the complexities of identity and attachment. They discuss the historical context of adoption, the impact of mental health on family dynamics, and the importance of therapeutic parenting. Jeanette emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion for those who have experienced trauma, and she offers valuable advice for youth navigating similar challenges.

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Jeanette-ically Speaking About 
Foster Care Adoption and Mental Health

If you are experiencing a mental health crisis/emergency, 
please contact the 24 hour-7 day a week, crisis line: 
LA COUNTY ACCESS at 1-800-854-7771

NEW CHILDREN’S BOOKS: 
What is Adoption? for Kids
What is Foster Care? For Kids

In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard introduces Brittany, a guest with a profound story of being a foster youth and an adoptee. Brittany shares her early life in foster care, the challenges she faced in her adoptive family, and her eventual reunion with her biological family. The conversation delves into the complexities of identity, the impact of trauma, and the resilience required to navigate life as an adoptee. Brittany emphasizes the importance of asking questions about one's origins and encourages others to seek their truth. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of love, support, and the journey of healing.

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In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard engages with Shanae who shares her profound journey through the child welfare system. Shanae recounts her early experiences with trauma, her struggles with mental health, and the challenges of motherhood. The conversation delves into the complexities of child welfare involvement, including the emotional toll of court proceedings and the importance of support services. Shanae emphasizes the need for accountability and the value of seeking help, offering insights and advice for parents navigating similar challenges. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.

In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard engages in a deep conversation with Priscilla, an adoptee from New York City, about her experiences in the foster care and adoption system. They discuss the importance of including birth parents in adoption conversations, the complexities of the adoption process, and the need for reform in the child welfare system. Priscilla shares her personal journey of discovering her adoption at a young age, the challenges she faced, and the impact of her experiences on her mental health. The conversation also touches on the importance of reunification and the challenges that come with it, as well as advice for future foster and adoptive parents. 

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In this episode, Karlos Dillard and Tag discuss the often overlooked experiences of men in the foster care system. They explore the stigma surrounding men's mental health, the impact of trauma, and the importance of sharing stories. Tag shares his personal journey through neglect, abuse, and eventual adoption, highlighting the complexities of identity and relationships shaped by his experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue about men's experiences in child welfare and the healing power of therapy.

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In this episode, Karlos Dillard introduces the podcast 'Wards of the State,' focusing on the lived experiences of adoptees and foster youth. The conversation with Ron delves into his traumatic childhood, navigating the foster care system, and the complexities of family dynamics. Ron shares his experiences of abuse, neglect, and the long-lasting effects of trauma, while also discussing the importance of understanding and healing from these experiences. The episode highlights the significance of lived stories in humanizing the statistics surrounding child welfare. In this conversation, Ron shares his journey through foster care, identity struggles, and the impact of religion on his life. He discusses the importance of setting boundaries, the complexities of family dynamics, and the challenges of parenting. Ron emphasizes the need for empowerment and the significance of sharing personal stories to inspire others.

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Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, Karlos Dillard speaks with Patricia about her tumultuous journey through the foster care system. Patricia shares her experiences of being taken from her biological family, the challenges she faced in various foster homes, and her eventual transition to a group home where she found stability and support. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice, the impact of trauma, and the resilience required to navigate life after foster care. Patricia emphasizes the need for foster children to advocate for themselves and take advantage of available resources.

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In this episode of the Wards of the State podcast, host Karlos Dillard speaks with Abner Sage, who shares their harrowing experiences growing up in the foster care system and later being adopted. Abner discusses the challenges they faced, including frequent separations from their siblings, the stigma of being labeled as 'special needs', and the complexities of navigating identity and trauma. They highlight the systemic issues within the foster care and adoption systems, including financial exploitation and the lack of understanding from caregivers. The conversation sheds light on the need for reform and better support for children in these systems.

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In this episode, Karlos Dillard interviews Diana Colon, who shares her harrowing journey from being born in Russia and living in orphanages to being adopted in America. Diana recounts her traumatic experiences in the orphanage, including abuse and neglect, and the challenges she faced in her adoptive home. Despite the struggles, Diana emphasizes the importance of resilience and healing, and she offers valuable advice for future adoptees. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of sharing one's narrative.

Takeaways
Diana's early life in Russia was marked by hardship and neglect. She faced unique challenges as the only black child in her orphanages. Diana experienced severe trauma and abuse during her time in the orphanage. Adoption brought new challenges, including cultural and language barriers. Diana struggled to communicate her past trauma to her adoptive family. Therapy was difficult for Diana as she couldn't open up about her experiences. Diana's relationship with her adoptive mother was complicated and strained. She found solace in her siblings, who provided support during tough times. Diana emphasizes the importance of sharing one's story for healing. She encourages future adoptees to seek understanding and support in their journeys.

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In this episode, Karlos Dillard speaks with Shantel about her experiences as a kinship adoptee. They discuss the challenges of growing up in an adoptive home, the impact of abuse and neglect, and the importance of resilience and support systems. Shantel shares her journey through teenage pregnancy, navigating relationships with her biological family, and the resources available for young parents. They also explore the concept of the 'adoption fog' and the necessity of therapy for adoptive families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sharing lived experiences to create change and support others in similar situations.


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