Welcome back to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie — adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach — and today’s guest is someone whose voice and impact in the foster care space cannot be overstated.

I’m honored to sit down with Dr. John DeGarmo, founder and director of The Foster Care Institute, international speaker, best-selling author of 10 books, and foster/adoptive dad to over 60 children. Dr. DeGarmo has worked alongside child welfare agencies across the globe and is a leading voice for system change and trauma-informed parenting.

In this conversation, we dive into the realities of foster care that few are willing to talk about — from the mental health crisis and over-medication of foster youth to the growing burnout among caregivers. We also talk about practical tools and mindsets that can help foster and adoptive parents stay grounded, effective, and full of hope even in the hardest seasons.

Whether you’re currently fostering, considering it, or simply want to better support foster families in your community, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and truth.

☕ So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in.

XO, Christine Marie

🎧 In this episode, we cover:

The over-medication crisis in foster care

How trauma shows up in children and how to respond with connection

The importance of mental health support for foster families

What foster parents need most (and why many are walking away)

Dr. DeGarmo’s personal journey and why he still believes in the system, despite its flaws

About Dr. John DeGarmo:

International keynote speaker and trainer

Connect with Dr. DeGarmo:

💕 Join Our Free Community of Christian Foster & Adoptive Moms:

This one is for the foster and adoptive parents carrying the weight no one sees—who keep showing up, even when it feels like everything is falling apart.

Today, I’m sitting down with Devin Schubert—an adoptive dad of three—for a conversation about the cost of obedience, the depth of trauma, and the God who restores what we thought was lost forever.

After adopting his son, Devin walked through five years of chaos:

When his wife left, Devin stepped into solo fatherhood, determined to fight for his son—alone.

Flat on his back, ready to give up, Jesus walked in and said:

And now—four years later—his son is being reunited with him and moving back home in just 4 months.

This episode is a story of resilience, radical love, and full-circle redemption for every parent who’s ever wondered, “Is it worth it?”

Tune in now and be reminded:

☕ Grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in.

📌 Connect with Devin:

🎥 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting

Today, I’m joined by the incredible DJ Noble, a former radio host, teacher, and long-time foster parent with a powerful 15-year journey that spans across Virginia and Kansas. In this episode, we’re talking about the REAL side of foster care—the emotions, the relationships, the red tape, and the redemption.

Together, we unpack:

DJ brings so much wisdom—not just from his professional background in sociology, urban affairs, and theology—but from living this life every single day. With his wife, Sanna, they’ve raised two biological sons and fostered dozens more. Right now? They’ve got three boys in their home and are still showing up with heart, humor, and purpose.

This conversation is full of real talk, practical insight, and encouragement for anyone currently fostering or considering the call.

Listen now to hear how DJ balances faith, family, and fostering—and why the way we view biological families could change everything.

Check out DJ’s podcast “Off The Grid” at www.IndiesCollective.com for more of his powerful voice and mission.

☕ Grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

📌 Follow for more faith-based foster care conversations: @cortisol_coach

Welcome back to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast — a Christ-centered space for foster and adoptive moms navigating the complex, beautiful, and often messy journey of parenting children from hard places. I’m Christine Marie, an adoptive mom and certified Biblical mindset coach, and I’m so thankful you’re here.

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Nicole Barlow — fellow adoptive mama of six, Host of Foster Parent Well podcast, TBRI® practitioner, and wellness coach — as we dive into the heart of trauma-informed parenting. Nicole shares her family’s story of adopting through foster care and how Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) became the game-changer in helping her children heal.

If you’re new to TBRI, it’s a trauma-informed, connection-centered parenting model designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or trauma. It helps parents build trust, strengthen attachment, and bring safety and regulation to kids from hard places.

Nicole offers practical tools, mindset shifts, and powerful encouragement for adoptive and foster moms who are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to help their children heal. Whether you're considering foster care, currently fostering, or in the thick of post-adoption life, this episode will bring hope, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose.

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of Christian foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is full of real talk, support, prayer, and resources for women walking this road. Join us here:

facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen

Connect with Nicole Barlow:

***SENSITIVE CONTENT WARNING.***

In this powerful episode of the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast, I sit down with Joseph Pedroza, a man whose story will leave you speechless. His journey is one of pain, resilience, and divine transformation—a true testimony to the power of God’s redemption.

Joseph’s childhood was marked by deep trauma—placed in foster care, experiencing horrific abuse after adoption, and facing multiple arrests both as a youth and as an adult. He endured some of life’s darkest moments, but his story didn’t end there. A life-changing encounter with the Holy Spirit radically transformed his life, setting him on a path of healing, faith, and restoration.

Together, we dive deep into faith, healing, and the adoption journey. Joseph opens up about discovering his true identity in Christ and how that revelation brought him incredible breakthrough. If you’re navigating the complexities of foster care, adoption, trauma, or your own healing journey, this episode is for you.

✨ Get ready for a raw, eye-opening conversation about faith, resilience, and stepping into the fullness of who God created you to be.

🎧 Don’t miss this episode! Hit play now and be inspired.

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here:

👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen

📺 Subscribe on YouTube for more faith-filled encouragement:

💬 Want to connect with Joseph Pedroza personally?

🔗 Book a breakthrough session with Joseph:

📺 Follow his journey on YouTube:

📍 Connect on Facebook:

Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie, an adoptive mom and former foster parent, and I’m so glad you’re here.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by James McLamb, the visionary founder and CEO of Generation Youth, known as America’s Youth Coach. With a background in Agricultural Education and Youth Development Leadership, James has dedicated his life to empowering and transforming the lives of young people.

As a dynamic speaker, trainer, and the acclaimed author of Tomorrow’s Youth, James has a remarkable ability to connect with and inspire the next generation. His impact extends even further through The Generation Youth Show, a record-setting podcast where he shares powerful insights and interviews that motivate countless listeners.

Beyond speaking and coaching, James is an innovator in youth development. He has pioneered groundbreaking programs like the Ziglar Youth Certification and the Generation Youth Coach Certification, equipping young individuals with the tools and confidence to thrive.

But today, we’re diving into a deeply personal side of his journey—his experience with private adoption. James opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and unexpected blessings of adopting his two children. This conversation is a powerful testament to faith, trust, and the unconditional love that forms a family.

Join us as we explore the intersection of faith and adoption, offering encouragement and insights for those on a similar path. Whether you’re considering adoption, in the midst of the journey, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is for you!

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here:

👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen

https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting

📩 Connect with James McLamb:

Welcome to my latest episode of the "What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting" podcast.

I’m excited to share this heartwarming conversation with my special guest, Steve Wormer—a proven leader who embodies integrity, strength, and compassion in every area of his life.

Steve’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. He was a proven leader in corporate america, is the executive director of a nonprofit organization, and served in three churches, currently ministering at The Memphis Church. Following Jesus drives everything he does, and he’s dedicated his life to helping others process unhealed emotions like unforgiveness, bitterness, anxiety, and relationship challenges. As a John Maxwell-certified speaker, coach, and trainer, Steve not only shares his powerful personal story but also reveals his eight steps for getting unstuck and taking the next steps toward achieving one’s dreams.

During this episode, Steve opens up about his unique path—from a turbulent youth to becoming a devoted husband, father, speaker, author, and executive director of the nonprofit “Hurt to Hope.” He candidly discusses the heartache he and his wife Rebecca faced, including five miscarriages and six failed adoption attempts, before God blessed them with three amazing children through adoption. His testimony is a moving reminder that prayer, persistence, and faith can transform even the most challenging circumstances into a story of hope.

I am so excited for you to hear his story today and I am confident you will be as inspired as I was.

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here:

Also, check out our YouTube channel: Fostering and Adopting

Connect with Steve Wormer:

• Email: [email protected]

Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast—a space created to provide guidance, encouragement, and real talk for foster and adoptive moms navigating the challenges of the system.

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest struggles in this journey: fear. It’s so easy to let worry and uncertainty take over, but today, I’m sharing how to shift from a fear-based mindset to one grounded in love and trust in Jesus.

With experience fostering 77 children, I’ve learned firsthand how overwhelming this path can be. But I’ve also learned how to surrender control, release the stress, and find true peace in God’s plan—no matter what comes our way.

You’ll walk away from this episode with practical strategies to break free from anxiety, build unshakable faith, and create a home filled with grace and peace. You’re not in this alone—let’s do this together!

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here:

👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen

https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting

Welcome to the "What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting" podcast!

I’m Christine Marie, your host. In addition to being a biblical mindset coach and a former foster parent of 10 years, I’m also an adoptive mom to our two beautiful daughters. I know firsthand the ups and downs of the foster care and adoption journey, and I’m here to help you navigate it with confidence and faith. Having cared for 77 foster children, I’m passionate about sharing real, practical insights to support you on this path.

In today’s episode, I’m sitting down with Rondregus Underwood, also known as Mr. U, who shares his incredible journey of growing up in foster care and aging out of the system. We have a raw and honest conversation about how he defied the odds, avoided becoming another statistic, and overcame unimaginable challenges to become a successful adult, author, and inspirational speaker. He opens up about discovering his passion for fashion and modeling, proving that resilience, faith, and determination can turn adversity into something greater—even when the odds are stacked against you.

We’ll also dive into the importance of breaking cycles, building resilience, and the role of supportive adults in shaping the lives of foster youth. Rondregus’ testimony is a powerful reminder that faith and community have the ability to transform lives.

If you’re in the foster care or adoption world—or even just considering it—this episode is packed with encouragement, hope, and practical wisdom from those who have walked this journey before you.

No matter where you are in your fostering or adoption journey, this episode will give you insight, tools, and encouragement to help both you and your child thrive.

📖 Rondregus is also the author of an incredible book sharing his story. You can grab your copy and learn more about him at iammru.com.

It was truly a blessing to have Rondregus Underwood, "Mr. U," on the podcast today. I pray his story blesses you as much as it has blessed me!

☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in!

XO, Christine Marie

💕 Join Our Community!

https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting

In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Caroline Leaf, a communication pathologist, audiologist and clinical neuroscientist, to explore the powerful concept of neuroplasticity and its impact on healing trauma in children.

Dr. Leaf specializes in psychoneurobiology research, has published 19 bestselling books in 24 languages, has over 50 million downloads on her award winning podcast, "Cleaning up the mental mess," and over 9 million downloads on YouTube. She runs research trials in mental health and publishes in scientific journals. She speaks to diverse audiences around the world including neuroscience and medical conferences and TEDx.

Today, we are discussing mental health diagnosis in foster and adoptive children, if healing is possible for them and ways to help facilitate regrowth of new healthy brain pathways. 

Learn about the groundbreaking techniques outlined in Dr. Leaf's book, "How to Help Your Child Clean Up Their Mental Mess," and discover practical strategies to create a nurturing environment for your child. You can find the book bundle discussed in todays episode by following this link: https://drleaf.com/collections/product-combo-deals/products/how-to-help-your-child-clean-up-their-mental-mess-hardcover-brain-ee-plush-toy-brain-ee-coloring-book

Whether you're new to fostering or have been on this journey for years, this episode provides essential tools and encouragement to help you, and your child thrive. Dive into the conversation and gain insights that will empower you to make a positive impact on your child's mental health and well-being.

The book I personally recommend to foster and adoptive parents, which also helped me in my healing journey is found at this link:  https://drleaf.com/collections/books/products/cleaning-up-your-mental-mess

To see all the incredible resources that Dr. Caroline Leaf has available, this is the link to her website: https://drleaf.com

It was such a blessing to have Dr. Leaf on the podcast today. I pray she blesses you as much as she has blessed me today.

Thank you for being here, Go grab your cup of coffee and let's dig in.

XO-Christine Marie

After you listen to this episode, I would love for you to head on over and join our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas. Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources and connection.

https://www.facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen