A Foster Arizona podcast featuring Authentic Conversations with Real People talking all things Foster Care and beyond. Hosted by Kim and Brian Vehon.
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Foster care is truly an unparalleled experience. This is our journey as a foster and adoptive family that has seen and experienced a lot! We want to share our joy and heartbreak with the world to inspire others to join in our mission of providing strength to the weakest among us. We are sharing our personal experiences as a foster and adoptive family and the stories that other brave souls are willing to generously share with us. Our goal is to help potential foster families take that next st ...
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Episode 192: Now What? How to Support Your LGBTQ Youth
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Summary: In this episode, we’re diving into an essential conversation about the role we all play—parents, caregivers, and community members—in supporting the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth. Even if you don’t feel this is directly relevant to your life, we encourage you to listen. Statistically, more than one in five Gen Z adults and one in ten millennia…
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Summary: In this episode, we are honored to sit down with Mari Ramsey, whose inspiring journey began when he and his brother entered foster care at the age of 14. While many teens in his situation end up in group homes, Mari was fortunate to find a loving foster family where he could thrive. Through the challenges he faced, Mari discovered his pass…
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Episode 190: Real Talk: Group Homes in Arizona
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Summary: In today’s episode, we dive into the world of group homes for children in foster care. When family or foster families aren't an option, group homes become the next step for many kids. But what is life really like inside these homes? We’re joined by Shevaun Sullivan, Director of Group Home Relations at OCJ Kids, who shares her insights from…
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Episode 189: Learning & Growing Together - On Location @ FC Training Day
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Summary: Join us on location at Central Christian Church in Glendale, Arizona, for Foster Arizona’s semi-annual Foster Cooperative Training. This episode is packed with insightful talks from experts dedicated to empowering caregivers and community champions. Discover valuable knowledge and practical tools to better support the children who need us …
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Episode 188: How Art Helps Build Resilience
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Summary: In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of building resilience, particularly in children. We often hear about the importance of resilience, but what does it really mean? And more importantly, how can we help our kids develop this crucial skill? Resilience isn’t just about surviving challenges—it’s about learning to bounce ba…
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Episode 187: Behavior Interventions that Work for Us
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Summary: In our last episode, we shared how our family embraces summer adventures. This time, we're diving into the real struggles we face, not just in summer, but every day. Join us as we explore the challenges and interventions that work for us. We tackle road trips and outings, discussing how the struggle is real and how we manage in-car and out…
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Episode 186: Vacation Planning & Tips - Vehon Style
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Summary: As summer blazes in Arizona, we’re constantly on the move, seeking cooler escapes to preserve our sanity. Traveling with a family of nine is no small feat, and we’ve gathered a treasure trove of tips and tricks to make it smoother. In this episode, we dive into Intentional Travel. Fresh from a recent timeshare presentation, we discuss the …
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Episode 185: Consider Yourself a Mandated Supporter
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Summary: In this week's episode, we continue the important conversation started in Episode 184 “The Link Between Foster Care and Social Disparities”. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to it yet, we highly recommend checking it out to gain a deeper understanding of today’s discussion. June is Family Reunification Month, a time to celebrate famil…
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Episode 184: The Link Between Foster Care and Social Disparities
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Summary: In honor of June being Family Reunification Month, today's episode sheds light on a crucial yet often overlooked issue in our community: the challenges and misconceptions surrounding birth families involved in the foster care system. As foster parents, we initially held unfair biases towards these families. However, through our journey, we…
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Episode 183: A Single Mom’s FosterAdopt Journey
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Summary: In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month, join us for an inspiring episode featuring a heartfelt conversation with my sister-in-law, Tara Armstrong. Tara played a pivotal role in our family's foster care journey, guiding us as we transitioned from having two kids to seven. Now, she has embarked on her own remarkable path. As a single mom of…
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Episode 182: Life-Changing Connections in Foster Care
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Summary: In today's episode, we explore the profound impact of connections on well-being, particularly in the context of foster care. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the pivotal role of social connections in fostering healthy choices and better mental and physical health outcomes. However, many children entering foster care…
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Episode 181: It's OK to Say, "I'm Not OK."
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Summary: Today, it’s just the two of us, engaging in a candid conversation about mental health. Ironically, we find ourselves easing into a month dedicated to both mental health and foster care awareness. For those who have experienced life within the foster care system, the intricate connection between these two realms becomes evident. So, let’s d…
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Episode 180: How Caregiver Stress Impacts Our Bodies
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Summary: In honor of Stress Awareness Month, our podcast delves into the crucial topic of stress reduction and self-care. While this is important for everyone, it holds even greater significance for caregivers of children with special needs and those working in social services fields. The toll of constant stress can adversely affect our health, lea…
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Episode 179: What is Critical Memory Integration and How Can it Help?
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Summary: Today, we’re delving into an exciting new therapy modality called Critical Memory Integration. This groundbreaking approach focuses on healing trauma by exploring unresolved critical memories and integrating them with neutral memories, fostering resilience in individuals. At the forefront of this creation, our incredible team of panelists …
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Episode 178: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 2
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Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! In today’s episode, we’re picking up where we left off last week. Our microphones are live on location at Foster Cooperative’s first training day of 2024, where we’re soaking up knowledge and growing together. 🌱 Last time, you had the pleasure of meeting some of our incredible presenters. This …
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Episode 177: Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 1
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Summary: Today is all about something extra special! We've packed our gear and hit the road to bring you an exclusive behind-the-scenes experience. Right now, we're on location at Foster Cooperative's training day, immersing ourselves in a day of learning and growth. Foster Arizona, a beacon of support and empowerment, hosts these training events t…
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Episode 176: All You Need is Love (Not!)
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Summary: It’s officially Hallmark’s week of love! 🌟 When it comes to parenting kids with trauma, we often hear the words, “All You Need is Love.” But is that really true? This week, we dive deep into this question. We’re thrilled to have Estefana Johnson joining us in the conversation. Estefana, a clinical social worker, began her career working wi…
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Episode 175: I Want to Foster! Now What?
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Summary: Discover the profound journey of becoming a foster parent in a nation grappling with a staggering shortage. In this episode, we explore the critical issue of the national decline in foster parent numbers, intensified by a 60% drop since the onset of the pandemic. Arizona, mirroring this trend, has witnessed a drastic decrease from 5,559 li…
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Summary: Welcome to the Fostering Voices podcast with your host Kim! Join us as we shake things up in this episode by delving into some authentic mom talk. We've given Brian the boot for now to bring you a heartfelt discussion on the joys and challenges of parenting within the realms of foster care and adoption. As a mom personally touched by these…
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Episode 173: Kids’ Perspective on Foster Care and Adoption
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Summary: Welcome back to the Fostering Voices podcast! Happy 2024, everyone! We're thrilled to kick off another year of heartfelt conversations and insightful stories. In today's episode, we have a special discussion with our 'bigs'—Maisey, Liesey, and Sam—sharing their unique perspectives on foster care and adoption. Join us as we delve into their…
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Episode 172: Foster Care Land Between: Planning Your Future in the Unknown
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Summary: As we wrap up 2024, we're diving into the complexities of foster care planning. Unlike the conventional New Year's resolutions, the foster care journey is a unique landscape filled with uncertainties. In today's raw and unfiltered discussion, it's just the two of us sharing our personal experiences without any guests. We want to pull back …
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Episode 171: Laughing all the Way: Vehon Christmas Traditions
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Summary: Welcome to a festive episode of our podcast, where we dive into the heartwarming world of holiday traditions and intentional joy. As we usher in the holiday season, we're joined by some special guests – the Vehon kids! In this intimate conversation, we explore how our family of 9 embraces the spirit of togetherness and crafts unique tradit…
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Episode 170: A Look Into Tribal Foster Care
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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.…
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Episode 169: Talking Adoption with an Adoption Attorney
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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 i…
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Episode 168: Mental Health: Where do I go from Here?
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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…
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This is a unique one off episode. It is a conversation with 3 other dads and authors who wrote their story of grief in the book The Last Hug. You can purchase the book Here
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Episode 167: Trauma’s Impact on Marriage
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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 honore…
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Episode 166: Journey to Becoming a Foster Parent
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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 ne…
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Episode 165: Celebrating 10 Years of Impact
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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 curre…
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Episode 164: All Things School - When you Need an Advocate
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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 he…
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Episode 163: All Things School - IEP /504
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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. …
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Episode 162: An Adoptee's Story - The Blessing; the Heartbreak
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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 meanin…
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Episode 161: Real Talk - Self Care with Matthew Blades
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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, host…
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Episode 160: Real Talk - Parents of Foster Care
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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 …
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Child Welfare from a Case worker and Therapist with Avni Panchal
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Avni Panchal is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker who has her own private practice in the Bay Area. In addition to therapy services, she provides training to social workers in the field, teaches at San Francisco State University and is the Clinical Advisor for Kaya. She continues to facilitate dialogue circles on various topics in both the public a…
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Episode 159: The Way Home - How Kids Return to Their Families with Judge Colleen McNally
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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 …
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Life After Trauma with Phillip Harter
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I have never told this story in public and I have not told everything that is here, probably ever. I have always felt a pulling to the children and families who are or have been involved in this system, or have suffered in the darkness of our world. I’m going to include a bio that is taken from the first chapter of my book. That first chapter is a …
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Episode 158: Recovery - Why Does it Work?
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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 t…
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Supporting the Supporters with Nikki Hertzler
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Nikki Hertzler resides in northern Nevada. She and her husband have lived in several states before settling with their three children in Nevada. Nikki is an elementary teacher and as a speaker, she speaks on the importance of early childhood development as well as on foster care. Her family enjoys participating in their church ministries and being …
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Autistic Me with Christopher Scott Wyatt
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Dr. Christopher Scott Wyatt is an autistic self-advocate and father of two neurodiverse daughters. He earned a doctorate while researching online education for students with autism spectrum disorders. His experiences living with physical and neurological differences shape his parenting. Wyatt consults with schools, businesses, and non-profit organi…
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Episode 157: Real Talk: Substances (Mark’s Story)
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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 dea…
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Episode 156: Fighting the Fear of Stigma in Foster Care and Adoption
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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 Br…
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Your Trauma is NOT My Trauma with Maccabee Griffin
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Imagine the stage is set, the lights are dimmed, and the audience is waiting with bated breath. This is where my journey began - in the theater. I spent over two decades honing my craft, perfecting my skills, and pouring my heart and soul into every performance. But in 2005, I knew it was time to step away from the spotlight and serve something gre…
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Episode 155: Real Talk, Connecting When Connection is Hard
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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 c…
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Episode 154: A Look Into Aging Out of Foster Care
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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 trajector…
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Andrea has worked with clients across the globe who are seeking a deep recalibration from a state of trauma response to a state of self-love, creativity, wholeness, and flow. Andrea has dedicated years training to become highly specialized and effective in artfully blending a mosaic of techniques from body movement, somatic release, integration, br…
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Walking Out of The Sex Trafficking Industry with Hannah Spanke
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Hannah is a passionate advocate for authentic happiness, and sustainable healthy relationships, starting with the one we have with ourselves. She is a Licensed Authentic Tantra Practitioner, Board Certified Clinical Sexologist, and Relationship & Life Coach specializing in helping individuals become their happiest selves through inner & outer work …
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Episode 153: Finding Connection, Finding Your People
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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 Tim…
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Growing Through Unhealthy Adoption with Michelle McGough
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Michelle McGough is an adoptee and individual who survived the foster care system as an infant. After being placed with a family she endured constant abuse until she reached adulthood. Left with only the coping mechanisms she developed to survive, she entered the military followed by the private sector before working through the trauma. Once she go…
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Episode 152: Interracial Adoption and Finding Your Identity
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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 t…
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