Fostering Voices Podcast

Summary: In this episode we peel back the curtain and take a look into tribal foster care. Joining us are Brad and Karin Dahlman, a remarkable couple who have dedicated themselves to fostering children for many years. Through tribal foster care, they've opened their hearts and homes to dozens of kids, making an immeasurable impact on our community. Karin sits on the board of Foster Arizona, and Brad is one of those people we can call to rally troops or step into a problem. We absolutely love them and are really grateful we all get to learn from them today. Tune in as we dive deep into their incredible journey as foster parents and explore the vital role of tribal foster care in the lives of children. Join us for an inspiring and informative conversation that sheds light on the challenges and rewards of this vital work. Resource Links: The Importance of ICWA Foster Homes: A Personal Account | American Indian Policy Institute For Families & Service Providers » NICWA Foster a Future for American Indian Child

Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast with Kim and Brian! In celebration of Adoption Awareness Month this November, join us for a special episode dedicated to all things adoption. Our guest, Ed Johnson, a revered local attorney deeply embedded in foster and adoption circles, brings a wealth of experience to the discussion. In this insightful episode, Ed shares his years of knowledge, shedding light on crucial aspects of the adoption journey. If you're on the path to adoption in Arizona, don't miss the opportunity to connect with Ed—his contact information will be in the resource notes. As advocates for informed parenting, we emphasize the importance of understanding the unique spaces of loss associated with adoption. Education is key, and the more you empower yourself with knowledge, the better equipped you'll be to support your children, present or future. We hope today's conversation sparks valuable insights and encourages ongoing discussions about adoption. Tune in for a heartfelt explorati

Summary: In this episode, we dive deep into the crucial topic of mental health and finding a path forward when you're grappling with the question, "Where do I go from here?" Today, we are thrilled to have Carol Melim join our conversation. Carol is not only a Licensed Clinical Social Worker but also a specialist in trauma therapy, certified in EMDR and EMDRIA, with a unique perspective. She brings a wealth of book knowledge and invaluable lived experience to the table, making her exceptionally attuned to the distinctive challenges faced by foster and adopted children, as well as their families. Throughout this episode, we'll explore the intersection of mental health and family dynamics, drawing on Carol's expertise and personal insights. Whether you're a parent seeking guidance, someone interested in mental health, or simply curious about the experiences of foster and adopted children, this conversation will provide valuable insights and practical advice. Join us as we navigate this important conversation, of

Summary: Today, on our 20th wedding anniversary, we embark on a meaningful journey, delving deep into the intricate layers of marriages affected by trauma. Join us as we explore the profound impact that caring for children with special needs has on marital relationships, acknowledging the challenges without getting lost in statistics. We are honored to be joined by Perry Emerick, an ordained minister and EMDR trained counselor and supervisor. With 26 years of marriage and three children under his belt, Perry brings a wealth of personal and professional experience to our discussion. Together, we unpack the complexities of trauma, relationships, and family dynamics, focusing on the ways past traumas can influence our present connections. In this episode, Perry shares invaluable insights on how to strengthen marriages and families, especially when past traumas cast their shadows. His expertise and compassionate approach offer guidance on shoring up relationships, emphasizing the resilience and transformative pow

Summary: In this episode we delve into the transformative journey of becoming a foster parent. Join us as we sit down with Katie O’Dell, the passionate Executive Director of AZ127, a steadfast advocate for fostering life within a supportive community. AZ127 firmly believes that children require families, and families thrive with a strong support network. Together, we explore the profound steps, challenges, and rewards on the path to becoming a foster parent. Katie shares her invaluable insights, highlighting the vital role that community plays in this process. Tune in as we embark on this inspiring journey, discovering the power of love, compassion, and unity in building a brighter future for children in need. Resource Links: https://az127.org/ Foster & Adopt Foster Cooperative   Connect with us! Email: info@fosteraz.org Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @FosteringVoices Web: www.fosterarizona.org   Chapters: 00:08 - On Today's Episode 00:35 - Welcome Katie O'Dell! 01:03 - Katie's Story 04:12 -

Summary: Today is all about celebration as Foster Arizona turns 10 years old. Join us as we take a delightful trip down memory lane, reflecting on the invaluable lessons and heartwarming joys we've encountered throughout this incredible journey. In this special episode, we're honored to have Al Moore, one of our founding board members and the current board chair, as well as Ashley Shick, one of our earliest lead team volunteers and a dedicated board member. Their stories and insights will inspire you as we share our love and gratitude for these incredible individuals. Get ready for a heartfelt and enlightening conversation as we celebrate a decade of fostering hope and change. Stay tuned! Resource Links: https://fosterarizona.org/get-involved/#events Please submit your story (and photos if you’d like) to: development@fosteraz.org Register for the celebration event!: https://rock.fosterarizona.org/registration/10YearBash Connect with us! Email: info@fosteraz.org Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast Instagram: @Fo

Summary: As we continue exploring the return to school season, today's discussion delves into a crucial topic. Join us as we sit down with Amanda Glass, an esteemed legal professional with a passion for advocating for children's rights. Amanda's journey, post-graduation from the Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University, led her to a groundbreaking Equal Justice Works fellowship at the Arizona Center for Disability Law, supported by Greenberg Traurig, LLP. Her impactful project focuses on enhancing accessibility to special education and mental health services for children with invisible disabilities within Arizona's child welfare system. Through legal expertise, community education, and collaborative efforts with existing organizations, Amanda strives to uplift children facing emotional or unseen challenges. In this insightful conversation, Amanda sheds light on the invaluable role collaboration and connection play in ensuring every child's needs are met. If you're a parent or guardian en

Summary: Join us in celebrating the return to school as we dive into an enlightening discussion on IEPs and 504s with the incredible Nancy Williams. Our guest, Nancy, brings a wealth of expertise to the table as the Executive Director of the Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents, an organization that has personally touched our lives. With a remarkable 30-year career in education, including roles as a special education teacher and administrator, Nancy's insights are invaluable. As a volunteer Surrogate Parent through the Department of Education, Nancy advocates passionately for youth in group homes who require special education services. She's a dedicated champion for families navigating the complex school system and fighting for their children's rights. In this episode, we'll delve into the intricacies of Individualized Education Plans (IEPs) and 504 plans, gaining essential knowledge and strategies for supporting children with diverse needs. Nancy's dedication and expertise shine through as we

Summary: In this thought-provoking podcast episode, we delve into the world of adoption through the eyes of Mea Han Fajardo, an extraordinary international adoptee and the visionary behind FostAdopt Connections. Join us as we explore Mea's deeply personal journey and how she has transformed her experiences into a powerful platform, fostering meaningful opportunities and connections for children in foster care and group homes. Throughout the conversation, Mea opens up about the unique challenges and joys of being an adoptee, offering valuable insights that shed light on the intricacies of the adoption process. Her heartfelt reflections inspire empathy and understanding, as we gain a profound appreciation for the resilience and strength of those touched by adoption. Mea's passion for making a positive impact in the lives of vulnerable kids shines through, and we express our sincerest gratitude for her willingness to share her remarkable story with our listeners. So tune in and join us in this moving discussion

Summary: Matthew Blades is a familiar and friendly voice known to many in Arizona from the successful Matthew and Priscilla in the Morning show on Mix 96.9 FM. Matthew's own journey of battling physical and mental health challenges led him to step away from broadcasting and embark on a healing journey. Now, he sits in front of the podcast mic, hosting the insightful "Learn From Those Who Lived It" podcast, where he engages in conversations with individuals who have overcome unimaginable circumstances and found their path to healing. Matthew's commitment to spreading joy continues with his new podcast, "I Needed That," co-hosted with Fitness Expert Chris Powell. Drawing from his personal experiences, Matthew shares valuable lessons in his workshops and speaking engagements, touching the lives of others. Today, we dive into an important topic: self-care. This discussion resonates with everyone, particularly those involved in the foster care world. Get ready to join us as we explore the significance of self-care

Summary: At just 25 years old, Lindsey found herself pregnant and the parent of two children in the custody of the Department of Child Safety. She endured a heartbreaking struggle with homelessness, residing in motels and even living on the streets, surrounded by others in similar desperate circumstances. Desperate for change, Lindsey discovered a lifeline—a housing program for pregnant women with substance use disorders. This pivotal moment led her to the Family Involvement Center, igniting her path to healing and the reunion of her fractured family. Now, Lindsey is an active force in her city, advocating for change through various organizations such as the Parent Advisory Board, the Prevention Advisory Collaborative, and the Family Navigation Action Team. Her passion for improving child welfare has brought her before community audiences, the governor's office, and dependency judges. Lindsey's dedication to serving her community is truly inspiring. Join us as we delve into Lindsey's extraordinary journey, he

Summary: In honor of national reunification month, in this episode we have a conversation with Judge Colleen McNally about what reunification means for kids and their families. Before retiring, Judge McNally served the people of Arizona for over 16 years in the Maricopa County Superior Court of Arizona. Since retiring, she has devoted her time and efforts to supporting families that have experienced the foster care system and continues to advocate for better systems in Arizona. Resource Links: How did Cradle to Crayons adapt the Safe Babies Court Team™ approach in Maricopa County, Arizona? On the Road to Reunification: Experiencing Foster Care with My Sister by My Side By D'Artagnan Caliman American Bar Association - Celebrating Reunification Month Foster Cooperative Prevent Child Abuse Arizona   Foster Arizona  PO Box 20787  Mesa, AZ 85277   Connect with us! Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast  IG: @FosteringVoices www.fosterarizona.org   Chapters: 0:00 - Open 0:33 - Intro 1:32 - Who is Judge McNally? 3:39 -

Summary: What comes to mind when you think about Recovery and Recovery spaces? Often the images that come to mind are uncomfortable and we think of these spaces as the last place we would ever want to be, but what if we told you that Recovery…Is For Everybody! Join us in a conversation as we talk to Jillian about her journey into recovery and why the room of recovery can be the most freeing, accepting. and healing space around. Resource Links: Celebrate Recovery Grief Share Mending the Soul Alcoholics Anonymous Narcotics Anonymous Chapter Markers: 00:01 - On Today's Episode                00:34 - Introduction                      01:20 - Jillian's Story                   05:19 - Enter Celebrate Recovery          05:47 - It Stuck                          07:34 - A Journey of Recovery             11:22 - Being a Leader in Recovery        14:05 - What are the Misconceptions?      16:45 - Recovery is for Everyone          18:48 - More than Just a Meeting          19:16 - The First Steps                   20:34 -

Summary: Today there are so many people, humans like you and me, struggling because of varying hurts, habits or hang-ups, and they may be at the end of their rope. Today we have a conversation with Mark as he shares his story on substances and addiction and how connection helped him get to his space of recovery.   Trigger Warning: Today’s episode deals with topics including addiction and suicide ideation. We encourage you to be aware of yourself while listening to this episode and please take time to pause if needed and reach out for support if any of today’s topic affects you. Chapters: 0:00 - Start                             0:48 - Introduction                      1:03 - Today's Topic                     1:07 - Introduce Today's Guest Mark Gill 1:42 - Set Up Today's Topic              1:58 - Mark's Testimony                  5:53 - The Denial                        6:37 - Peer Pressure                     8:18 - The Next Level                    8:38 - The Big Moment                    10:56 -

Summary: What happens when you choose to put your comfort space aside and open up your heart and home to a child in foster care? Spoiler alert, it can be humbling, messy, and chaotic at times, but it can also be the most rewarding experience that will change your life and the life of another, forever. Join us as we have a conversation with Stacy Bradley on Fighting the Fear of Stigma in Foster Care and Adoption. Stacy is an adoptive mom and former foster parent who has gone on the journey, advocated hard for her kiddos, and is a pretty cool person to boot!   Chapters: 0:02 - Introduction                      0:31 - Welcome                           0:45 - Introduce Stacy Bradley           1:22 - Get to Know Stacy Bradley         3:08 - Learning Experiences              4:40 - Sharing the Journey               5:25 - Learning to Compromise            7:01 - Fear Associated with Stigmas      8:57 - Getting the Wrong Impression      11:28 - The Response to the Wrong Impression 13:09 - What are the Different Sti

Summary: Truth…Parenting is hard, but those little moments of sweetness can make the tough days bearable. But what happens when those moments feel few and far between?  Often in our foster care and adoption journeys the struggle to connect with our children can be an all too frequent reality. Join us as we welcome Chris and Caitlin and have a real conversation about connecting when connection is hard. It’s a tough conversation to have, but one that many of us need to face. Chapters:  0:00 – Intro 1:15 – A Beginning in the World of Foster Care 4:12 – The First Experience with a Placement 8:35 – The Beginning of the Real Journey 9:35 – The Mixed Emotions of Adoption Day 10:40 – An Amazing Creative Beginning 11:25 – Day One of 'Now I'm Mom' to this Amazing Person 17:17 – Managing School Life and Home Life 21:04 – Connecting With Teachers and Making Them Part of the Team 23:09 – Setting Expectation as a Parent 34:58 – Let's Have a Little Fun With This! 35:56 – Understanding in the Community 36:25 – Tactics That W

Summary: Life can be tough sometimes, but for a young adult aging out of foster care the transition can be life altering and either set them up for success or leave them without a connection or direction. Join us as we have a conversation with Zack, a young adult with lived experience, and how connection and having a community changed his trajectory in life. Chapters:  0:00 – Intro 0:26 – Welcome, Zack! 1:10 – What Brought Zack To Foster Arizona 3:43 – Becoming An Adult In Foster Care 5:38 – Embracing A New Situation 9:52 – Having Pride And Satisfaction In Accomplishments 11:16 – Showing The Way To Those Struggling Through 18:18 – Excitement Moving Forward 29:55 – One Takeaway 27:06 – Connect With Us! Links: Aging Out Institute Foster Arizona Housing Project ChildWelfare.gov https://fosterarizona.org/get-involved/ Connect With Us! www.fosterarizona.org

Summary: Community is what gets us through life. In today's conversation we talk with Anika Robinson about finding your people and the importance of community and connection in our everyday lives. Chapters:  0:00 – Intro 0:26 – Welcome Anika! 1:44 – Advocacy for Children 3:10 – Establishing Connections 8:38 – ASA Now 14:04 – Finding Hope in Dark Times 20:39 – The Powerful Impacts of Community 27:50 – The Need For Community 29:55 – One Takeaway 33:27 – Community Connections 37:02 – Connect With Us! Links: Supporting Infants, Toddlers and Families Impacted by Caregiver Mental Health Problems, Substance Abuse, and Trauma – A Community Action Guide PDF Foster Cooperative ASA Now Connect With Us! Foster Arizona

Episode 152 - Interracial Adoption and Finding Your Identity Summary: A personal look into an adoptees story involving interracial adoption and her journey to discover her personal identity along the way. Chapters:  0:00 – Intro 0:52 – Welcome Ann! 1:32 – Ann's Work and Focus 12:00 – A Position of Learning 16:44 – Ann's Journey 24:33 – Wanting Kids to Experience More Individuals Like Themselves 32:00 – Accepting a Child With Hands Open 35:01 – One Takeaway 37:21 – Kids at Risk 38:18 – Links in the Show Notes 41:36 – Connect With Us! Links: https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/racial_disproportionality.pdf https://www.abc15.com/news/region-phoenix-metro/central-phoenix/study-finds-extreme-racial-disparities-in-dcs-cases-phoenix-family-says-they-were-stereotyped Connect With Us! www.fosterarizona.org

Meet your new hosts, Kim and Brian Vehon and learn a little bit about the heart behind their why and their vision for the Fostering Voices podcast. Chapters: 0:00 – Intro 0:25 – Welcome Back In!! 1:43 – Creation of Foster Arizona and Community 21:34 – Our Mission at Foster AZ 27:19 – Thank you!!! Links: https://fosterarizona.org/ https://www.aecf.org/blog/child-welfare-and-foster-care-statistics https://www.childwelfare.gov/pubPDFs/trafficking_caseworkers.pdf https://www.law.georgetown.edu/poverty-journal/blog/child-welfare-and-the-criminal-system-impact-overlap-potential-solutions/ https://www.samhsa.gov/homelessness-programs-resources/hpr-resources/supporting-teen-mothers