Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey

Theresa Carpenter is an active-duty Navy Commander where she has served for the past 25 years. Her passions include helping military women succeed and the professional development of the craft of public relations. As an introspective writer, she muses about the human experience for her blog, Theresa's Tapestries. Tapping into her love of storytelling through the visual medium, she runs a YouTube channel with her husband where they share their experiences with saving money, DIY projects, traveling, and enjoying time together. Her latest endeavor launched last April is her podcast S.O.S (Stories of Service), which features ordinary people from all walks of life who show up in service to their communities. She is also the best-selling co-author of Complicated Alliances, which tells the stories and struggles of women who serve in the military and those married to one who serves. She lives in Norfolk, Virginia with her husband Harry and their Boxer dog Jayda, who also has her own social media presence on Instagram. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Find them on the web Justin's Podcast: Rose from Concrete Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Chaney Fletcher's Bio: Hey there I'm Chaney Fletcher I'm 28 years old, married and I have five biological and two bonus children, one who is an angel. I have lost both of my parents, my father at 12 from brain cancer and my mother at 24 from her alcoholism. I entered foster care at 16 and aged out at 18. My journey hasn't been easy but because of a small seed of hope, I found EMDR therapy. I have worked on healing my trauma and now I can live in the present and enjoy creating my happiness and chasing my dreams. Now I focus on sharing my story of how childhood trauma can affect you even as an adult but that it's also possible to heal and have a life after. It's led me to start my business Fostering New Hope LLC to help others overcome whatever they are facing and create their own happiness as well through Life Empowerment Coaching and writing books. You can find her book Surviving to Thriving on amazon Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com

Shannon is a former therapist turned COO, as well as an amateur podcaster. Her career started in child welfare and made a series of twists and turns leading her to where she is today running clinical trials. Growing up, Shannon always wanted to "help other kids". As a five year old, she wanted to be a "pediatric surgeon", but quickly realized she was not good at neither science nor math. Entering college at the University of Georgia, Shannon set out to be a teacher, but was told the "kids would beat her up", so she finished with a degree in Educational Psychology and went on to pursue a Master's degree in Counseling. In 1998, Shannon took her first job at a large group home where she changed job titles 5 times in just as many years. Post group home life, Shannon began to work in the addictions field where she work at local, state and Federal levels making her way to The White House Office of National Drug Control Policy. Desiring to return home to North Carolina, Shannon left DC in 2014 and has since experienced new found friendships, job loss, a total left turn in her career path, moved too many times, a global pandemic, and started her own podcast, launching February 5, called 126 Days: Stories on Life & Work. She is the human to a dog named Edie and aunt to two nieces. Her favorite food is cheese and her favorite color is green. Find Shannon: IG: @126dayspod Email: [email protected] You can find Shannon's podcast page on Instagram. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Jill has over 30 years of experience as a minister. She has served as both lead pastor and staff pastor over the years as well as been a part of planting three churches. She now works with the Evangelical Covenant Church. As a business consultant and leadership coach, Jill has worked extensively in the areas of leadership development and strategic planning. Jill has first-hand knowledge of issues concerning mental health as she has struggled with mental illness for the majority of her life. She has Complex PTSD, depression, anxiety, and dissociative disorder. A published author and editor, Jill is now a full-time blogger, journalist, and podcaster. She is working and writing to break the stigmas around mental illness and open conversation about mental health in the Church. Her podcast is Post Traumatic Faith. You can find out what she is all about at www.jillriley.com Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Ever wonder about college money for kids who have been in care, are currently in care, or your adopted kids? Brad Baldridge specializes in just this sort of thing!! You can find all about him on his website tamingthehighcostofcollege.com Brad's podcast blog and email can also be found there. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Anastasia Lee volunteers with FundFC. Check out their website to see how you can help! Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Lindsey and her husband decided at a young age that they felt called to serve as foster parents. She tells of their journey working with older youth in the foster care system. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Lily's story has foster care and adoption at the beginning, middle, and in her future. She is on the board for The Mockingbird Society. Check them out if you are interested in youth advocacy. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Sandra's life journey is the result of her brother's mental health issues that ended in his suicide at the age of eighteen. Sandra was determined to find solutions for other families that her family could not find, and she succeeded! She moves forward with determination and focuses to bring her parenting program to national awareness as she reminds herself and others who are struggling that, "It doesn't have to be this way." The Pillars for Success reflects her lifelong search for answers, healing, and balance in relationships that can prevent never-ending challenges and repeated crises that are traumatic for everyone. Sandi on the web: https://www.pillarsforsuccess.com/ People can contact me via email at: [email protected] Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Michael hosts the Think Unbroken Podcast. His life led him through trauma and a truly unique path through the world of foster care! His story can help all of us begin to see our world through the lens of healing wounds. https://www.ThinkUnbrokenPodcast.com You can find him everywhere online @michaelunbroken Michael was born to a hyper-abusive drug addict mother who cut his finger off at 4 years old, a step-father you pray you never have, and a racist grandmother that pushed him into an identity crisis. By the time he was 9, his family was in poverty and often homeless all while being a member of the Mormon Church. At twelve, he was adopted by his grandmother and quickly turned to drugs and alcohol to survive the continuing abuse. Despite multiple learning disabilities and not graduating high school on time, Michael found success in Corporate America in his early twenties. However, success only made things worse. Michael found himself morbidly obese, high and drunk daily, and ultimately self-sabotaging everything around him. It was not until finding his inner power through his Mirror Moment and choosing to do whatever it took to work through childhood trauma that his life really began. Michael Anthony is the author of the best-selling book Think Unbroken and is a coach, mentor, and educator for adult survivors of child abuse. Michaels spends his time helping other survivors get out of "The Vortex" to become the hero of their own story and take their life back. Michael hosts the Think Unbroken podcast, teaches at Think Unbroken Academy and is on a mission to create change in the world. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Parenting and educating children is one of the greatest experiences in life, but it comes with plenty of emotionally draining challenges. Join behavioral health specialist Lauren Spigelmyer each week as she discusses strategies and tips for how to hack your brain, build and strengthen relationships, and teach people how to recognize and neutralize their emotional states. If you aren't happy with a child's behavior, are feeling stressed out, or just want to learn more about emotions and the brain. Over the past 10 years, I've helped SOOOO many people learn about the brain and how it impacts learning and emotional well-being, which in turn changes behavior. With my master's degree in education, professorship at University of Pennsylvania and running The Behavior Hub, I thrive on building brain and research-based, child-driven trainings and courses with the whole child in mind. Being an adventurer, I love to find nontraditional solutions and make sure that boundaries are pushed. You won't get anything ordinary from me! Links: @thebehaviorhub https://www.thebehaviorhub.com/ Discovery call: https://www.thebehaviorhub.com/courses Courses: https://www.thebehaviorhub.com/courses Podcast: https://www.thebehaviorhub.com/press Blog: https://www.thebehaviorhub.com/blog Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

"The Bond" is a powerful memoir that chronicles the strength of the relationships formed among a collection of unrelated siblings who forged a remarkable, separate, and permanent family within a foster home. Kirkus.com calls it: "A poignant, infuriating, informative, and ultimately triumphant account of an unusual clan." BookLife.com wrote: "Grotticelli's unsparing honesty about his birth and foster families will make readers wince and keep them marveling at the indomitability of these children. That the foster siblings were able to forge familial bonds with each other is extraordinary." OnlineBookClub.com said: "This is a book about real people, real lives and real feelings. It is the story of their triumph over adversity and their struggle to find the kind of family love that many of us take for granted." Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Shannon Ketchum is a wife of 18 years, fur mom, foster mom sister and introvert! She has been dealing with infertility for 18 years due to endometriosis, hypothyroidism, PCOS and a pelvic spasm condition. She's the founder of Embrace Bravery, a support ministry for women with infertility, a blogger, author and speaker. And the most recent part of her journey is of her stepping into foster parenting almost 2 years ago. Her desire is to support others dealing with infertility and those in their foster parenting journey know that they aren't alone, but have someone in their corner. Her BOOK is right here. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com

Jennifer tells her story of writing a book all about her adoptive daughter's story and Jennifer's journey to her. You can find her online at https://journeytomydaughter.com/ Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

I am an international adoptee from Colombia who was adopted at 9 months with Ataxic Cerebral Palsy. My story is one of perseverance and the power of adoption to not only change lives but also highlights some of the traumas/struggles inherent in being an adoptee even when things go "right" as it were. I would like to speak on the work adoptive or foster parents should do to ensure they're balancing their needs/wants/comfort with the perspectives of an adult adoptee reflecting on their experience growing up unaware of their adoption until they were in adolescence. Lastly, I'd like to share about my work in ed-tech & publishing for kids through the lens of these experiences and especially how they resonate for those who are also transracial (raised a different culture/ethnicity than their own.) Jonathan's Little Red Fashion website Or find him on Instagram Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Cheryl Williams was born in Chicago, Illinois, but currently resides in Austin, Texas. She obtained a degree in early childhood education and has over 20 years of experience working with non-profit organizations before building Fundamentals for Foster Care. She has previously been a part of the Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA). Cheryl has also worked with care communities that provide practical support for those with terminal illnesses. She has also participated in Restoration Blessings, an organization that gives practical aid for single mothers in Pflugerville, Texas. Her website is www.fundfc.org You can find her on FaceBook as well Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/ hVvneX4XWXlbxcUi7I0b

Natasha (a foster mom) and Rachel (a mentor to kids in care) are co-hosts of the Just As Special podcast which is the place to learn about foster care from diverse perspectives. Each episode, sisters Natasha and Rachel bring you a deeply personal interview with a former kid in care, foster care professional or non-traditional foster family so we can all learn how to give kids in care a better tomorrow. Just As Special also offers foster parent training, a statewide database of foster care resources, and other foster care tips for parents, volunteers, and those looking to get involved. You can find them us on all social media platforms @JustAsSpecial. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

I decided to talk to my son this week about his feelings on Foster Care and Adoption since he is a subject matter expert (even though he is only 8). He is brutally honest sometimes and even though I don't always like the "brutal" part of his honesty, I am proud that he feels free to tell me what he really thinks! Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Merch! http://tee.pub/lic/RwiARsuuDHs Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

In the foster care system, the bio dad is often the forgotten parent. In our experience bio dads have had the highest rate of reunification. How can we support bio dads through this difficult process? Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Call the Voicemail Line 413-foster 3 (413) 367-8373 Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

My website is www.journeytomydaughter.com. I can be found on all social media by searching Jennifer Rose Asher. I am listed under this name on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn, and I think I am the only one with this name. You can also get to my website with the address www.jenniferroseasher.com. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

An up-and-coming content creator, marketer, playwright/screenwriter, and columnist who is a fast learner, comfortable working with an array of different personalities, and passionate about advocacy through storytelling (check out my portfolio: www.HerOddSelf.com) Featured in 89.3 KPCC, PBS SoCal, Education Week, Los Angeles Female Playwright Initiative (LAFPI), and the Santa Monica Daily Press (SMDP), and Good News Radio Magazine. Not only am I an award-winning playwright via my one-woman show that I wrote, produced, and performed in during the Hollywood Fringe Festival about my life before, during, and after foster care entitled "SugarFree: Foster Care Cognitive Dissonance". I am also a former foster youth passionate about writing and storytelling for social change who is inspiring people to "Thrive Not Just Survive" through writing, keynote speaking, thought-leadership blogging, and podcasting, and whose superpower is leading with empathy. Currently advancing my skills in marketing, communication, branding, and copywriting. Social Media Anchor/Spotify: https://anchor.fm/heroddself Website: https://heroddself.com/ Podcast: https://anchor.fm/heroddself Blog: https://medium.com/@HerOddSelf Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heroddself/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/HerOddSelf Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Scott Mason shares his story of navigating through biracial adoption while being a part of the LGBTQ+ community. He is also a podcaster himself. You can find his podcast on his WEBSITE or by searching for "Purpose Highway" on your podcast platform of choice. FaceBook Instagram Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Today's guest was Darren Fink (from Transfiguring Adoption), the author of Gruhit's Hope. It is about a group of siblings that are placed in a foster home and (spoiler alert) there are a few magical creatures involved! It isn't all fantasy - there are some real questions that this book forces you to ask yourself. Get a copy on their website at: https://transfiguringadoption.com/store-2/?model_number=gruhits-hope-paperback Listen to the episode to hear what Darren is offering if you get the book from their website! If you are totally committed to Amazon for everything, you can find it here: https://www.amazon.com/Gruhits-Hope-Magical-Creatures-Around/dp/0578889722 Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Darius Kimberling is a former foster youth (FFY) and a current foster parent as well. He and his wife of 8 years are helping kids in more than one way. His goal is to connect with each kid that comes through his organization while they are building their own custom-made Noble Goal. You can find him on his FB page OOTW Creations (link below). https://www.facebook.com/OOTWCreations/ Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

A native of Tacoma, Washington, Jamerika Haynes-Lewis has more than ten years of experience as a journalist and advocate for children in foster care. While growing up in foster care, Jamerika was determined to have a different life than the one she experienced. She put herself through college earning a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Washington State University. As the owner of Clever Jam Communications, Jamerika offers strategic communications guidance, motivational speaking, and facilitation. Currently she is USA Ambassador Ms. 2021 through the USA Ambassador Pageant. Her platform is 'A Chance to Succeed: Empowering Youth in Foster Care.' Instagram: Jamerika Haynes-Lewis (@jamerika_b) • Instagram photos and videos Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/USAAMs/ Website: www.cleverjam.com Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Amber Jewell is a licensed master social worker with over 15 years of experience working with youth and families in child protective services, education, and mental health services. As an educator and an advocate for promoting change for and value within people, Amber works to inspire and motivate others to grasp their own form of hope. She is also a motivational speaker and has experience in the foster system. Facebook LinkedIn Amber's Book FINDING HOPE The 12 Keys to Healing Hardship, Hurt & Sorrow Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Shenandoah Chefalo is a graduate of Michigan State University, holding a Bachelor of Arts with a Major in Interdisciplinary Studies in Social Science, a Core Essentials Graduate from Coach U, and a member of the Foster Leaders Movement. She is a sought after speaker on topics surrounding youth in foster care and the science and impact of trauma and resilience on various social issues; and a trainer/consultant that helps private, governmental and public organizations implement sustainable trauma informed strategies that are focused on learning new skills as well as organizational culture changes and shifts. She has been featured as a consultant and trainer nationally and internationally. After spending nearly 20 years as a Law Office Administrator, Shenandoah became unsettled by the ever revolving door of people into the criminal justice system and set out to find a way to change it. A survivor and alumni of the foster care system, Shenandoah Chefalo is also the co-founder of the #4600andCounting, a grass-roots movement to bring awareness and change to the missing youth of foster care. She is also a faculty member and trainer at The Center for Trauma Resilient Communities a new initiative by the Crossnore School and Children's Home to help organization translate the science of trauma and adversity. In additional to her multiple award winning book, Garbage Bag Suitcase, she also wrote an e-book entitled Setting Your Vision and Defining Your Goals, and is also working on her next manuscript, Hiking for Stillness. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Richard Capriola has been a mental health and addictions counselor for over two decades. He recently retired from Menninger Clinic in Houston Texas where he worked with adolescents and adults diagnosed with mental health and substance abuse issues. He is the author of The Addicted Child: A Parent's Guide to Adolescent Substance Abuse. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Dr. Breanna Gentile, Ph. D. completed her bachelor's in psychology at Gonzaga University. She went on to receive two master's degrees, one from Golden Gate University in Counseling and the second from Palo Alto University in Clinical Psychology. She also received her doctorate in Clinical Psychology from Palo Alto University. Dr. Gentile founded Dr. G's Lab, a trauma-informed design consultancy. She has authored studies that have been published in peer-reviewed journals and has been an invited speaker about trauma-informed practices and design at multiple national conferences and symposiums. Dr. Gentile has spent over 10 years working to improve outcomes for children, teens, and their caregivers working through Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) and toxic stress. Her work with behavioral health providers, communities, and families has allowed her to develop keen insight into the challenges of supporting resilience through trauma-informed practices. She is currently the Director of Product Design at the Center for Youth Wellness. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Tracy tells 2 adoption stories at one time. Her husband found out that he was adopted as an adult and they went on to adopt a young lady who is one of her husband's biological family members! Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Colleen Puckett is the owner of Families' Anchor and Podcast host on The "F" Word: Foster Care. Through her lived experience in the Child Welfare System with her family, Colleen became one of the first Parent Navigators in Georgia mentoring and supporting parents currently walking through the system through partnerships with parent & child attorneys, and parent support groups. Colleen also participates in the Birth Parent National Network, the Birth and Foster Parent Partnership, and member of the Georgia Parent Advisory Council. Lastly, Colleen has presented numerous times at attorney & multidisciplinary national conferences as well as across Georgia. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Ryann Vernetson MA, LPC from Specialized Alternatives for Families and Youth (SAFY) joins us to talk about what children and parents really need throughout the foster care system. SAFY specialize in therapeutic foster care and we dove right into all the things that are often overlooked in the foster care system. You can find SAFY on the web at safy.org Ryann is also on LinkedIn Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Foster Care 101 Free webinar with NO sales pitch! Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Gina Heumann and her hubby adopted two boys from Guatemala... her youngest was neglected by his foster mom, resulting in over a decade of chaos and frustration. Through her love of research, Gina tried and tested many therapies and treatments and finally found a path to healing. She is now the author of Love Never Quits: Surviving & Thriving after Infertility, Adoption, and Reactive Attachment Disorder (gold recipient of the prestigious Parent's Choice Award); and she presented a TEDx on how Childhood Trauma Affects us All. Does parenting a "challenging" child make you feel like a failure? If your child was diagnosed with Reactive Attachment Disorder or another trauma-related mental illness, you don't need to do this alone! Our community will provide guidance and support; comradery and belonging. Our 4-part online course will help you understand why "regular" parenting isn't working and will set you on the right path for healing and connection. https://www.traumadramauniversity.com/ FaceBook Instagram LinkedIn Twitter Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Dr. Marissa, introduced to Oprah as the Asian Oprah, is an organizational psychologist and media personality who speaks and consults all over the world. She's the celebrity host producer of the 2016 Podcast of the Year Top 10 in Health Award-winning CNBC syndicated show "Take My Advice, I'm Not Using It: Get Balanced with Dr. Marissa" and #1 bestselling author "8 Ways to Happiness from Wherever You Are" on 8 Bestseller Lists including #4 Denver Post and #1 Amazon with 4 Book Award Medals. Dr. Marissa is on a Happy88 Mission, helping 88 million more people be 88% happy in the next 8 years. To that end, Dr. Marissa has been interviewed on NBC CBS ABC and FOX in Seattle, San Diego, Las Vegas and was featured on FOX DC as one of their Women's History Month highlights. In her spare seconds, she raises recovering teenagers, races sailboats, and lives out her life motto: No Regrets for the past and Don't Die Wondering for the future. You can find Dr Marissa on her website or on Facebook and IG Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

After spending time in an orphanage and 8 years in foster care, she hopes to give back to the foster care community by highlighting other successful foster care alumni through her platform and future podcast; Belonging Starts Here. Find her on Facebook Here On IG right Here Her business IG Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Shanelle Dupree has deep Midwestern roots. She was born in Nebraska, raised in Oklahoma, and moved to Kansas to attend Washburn University School of Law. Shanelle is a lawyer, author, speaker, administrator, strategic connector, wife of a Pastor and Elected Official, and mama of 4. Shanelle's faith is the thread that connects her life. Attorney Dupree practiced law for nearly a decade representing children as a Guardian ad Litem, Parent's Attorney, and handled numerous high conflict family law and juvenile law cases. Mrs. Dupree is a connector and creator. She successfully created and taught a series of legal and social child welfare informational classes for five years in Johnson County, Kansas. She provided hope, help, and humor to parents struggling to understand the child welfare system. After leaving the courtroom, Shanelle traveled the state interviewing agencies and people running for office about the foster care system. She connected foster care and fashion and produced over 30 videos. Shanelle was appointed as the Kansas City Regional Director of the Department for Children and Families in March 2019. She manages resources and staffing across 5 counties for 450 employees. Mrs. Dupree is a writer and has authored articles in the Johnson County Bar Journal and the Kansas Bar Association Journal. She presents at various conferences and workshops regarding children, family, and equity matters. She is married to her law school sweetheart Wyandotte County District Attorney and Pastor Mark Dupree. Together they serve in ministry at Grace Tabernacle Family Life Outreach Center located in Kansas City, Kansas. Shanelle is the Bible Study teacher and recently published Bible Study Perspectives: Genesis which helps people looking to connect to God's word using a simple and creative system. Shanelle is passionately involved in policies and laws that affect the community. She has served as a campaign director, campaign advisor, and copywriter for multiple successful political campaigns. Shanelle and Mark are the parents of 4 active and brilliant children, Layla, Mark, II, Lilly, and Micah. Shanelle's book Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Natalie Chavis Fisher is a best-selling author, third-generation attorney and executive producer for the feature documentary Foster Care: Perfect Imperfection. She is a leading expert in foster care adoption committed to helping improve the lives of vulnerable children and their caretakers. Natalie believes broken systems break children and has dedicated her life to help foster healing. She has been honored with the Congressional "Angel in Adoption" award for her work in child welfare. Natalie has practiced foster care adoption law for twenty years. Within this time, she has helped thousands of foster children solidify their "forever homes". Natalie previously served as a Deputy Prosecutor in the child support division and as a Public Defender in the dependency and neglect division of the Marion County, Indiana court system. Natalie prides herself in helping adoptive and kinship parents understand the dynamic nuances of foster care adoption. One of the ways she has accomplished this task is through her short novel with a big impact, Adopting Tiger. (https://www.amazon.com/Adopting-Tiger-Chavis-Fisher/dp/0999456008) Natalie received her BS in Business Management from Purdue University, where she was a varsity track and field hurdler and where she became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Natalie received her MBA and JD from Indiana University in Bloomington. Natalie was born and raised in Indianapolis, Indiana. She is married with two step-children. To learn more about Natalie, please visit: www.chavisfisher.com Facebook, Instagram and Twitter: @ChavisFisher Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Patty Waters enjoys bringing people, ideas, and inspiration together and hopes to form a dialogue that shares a unique perspective from an adopted teenager. Patty and her 3 siblings were adopted by the Waters family at the age of 13 and grew up in Austin, Texas. Patty and her siblings were in the foster care system for 5 years. She earned her Masters in Healthcare Administration and a Masters in Business Administration from the University of Houston – Clear Lake and currently works as a Healthcare Management Recruiter. Patty has high hopes to encourage and empower current and former foster care youth to pursue their dreams by sharing her story and is grateful to have the opportunity to be a CASA volunteer. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

This week we hear a story from Tamara Sipp. Her life was turned upside down by an event that could happen to any hard-working single parent doing the best that she could. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Juanita H. Grant known as The Parent Mastermind is a Mother of 5, includes both bio and adoptive. Fostering 30 children in the past 25+ years. A Board Member of MAFF (Mass Alliance for Families). PAYA (Preparing Adolescents for Young Adulthood), MAPP Trainer, Keeping Kids Safe Trainer, Trauma Certified, Financial Educator. Inspire by Juanita the Parent Master Mind which she is the founder and CEO. A Business and Life Coach who offers the following workshops for both Parents and their Youth: Vision Board, Life Skills, Financial Empowerment, Juanita is an Evangelist for Victory Chapel Church in Quincy, MA. Juanita spent her life fighting to enhance the lives of females young and old in the inner cities. From her youth, Juanita has been part of W.O.D.A (Wiping Out Drug Abuse, Inc) and is now one of the directors. Juanita is also a graduate of Southern New Hampshire University, where she earned a Master's of Science in Community Economic Development, completing her dual Doctorate Degree in Business and Theological Studies. Juanita on FaceBook Juanita's Website Game Changer Life: The Anthology Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Patreon https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Debbie Ausburn is a social worker turned lawyer who has served as a house parent, foster parent, criminal prosecutor of crimes against children, and stepparent. She now advises, and defends youth-serving organizations. She is the author of Raising Other People's Children: What Foster Parenting Taught Me About Bringing Together a Blended Family. You can follow Debbie's blog at OtherPeoplesChildren.org. You can find her website at https://www.debbieausburn.com/ Her publisher website is at https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/666354/raising-other-peoples-children-by-debbie-ausburn-foreword-by-dr-natalie-ford/ Links to Social Media: Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Patreon https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Sarah's Links The FosterLane Website Welcome to the Foster Lane - Parenting Advice From a Coach Who's Been There Chapter 1 - When it's hard, it's hard Chapter 2 - When it's good, it's good Chapter 3 - 3 Simple strategies to take you from striving to thriving Chapter 4 - You can't do it alone Chapter 5 - Putting it all together Plus resources, references, and advice You can find Sarah @thefosterlane on all Socials Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Patreon https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Karl Smith and his wife adopted their daughter as an infant from China. He details their journey to China to pick up their daughter and their family's journey beyond. You can find his story on our website here. Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

His start in life was inauspicious. At 9 years old, he relinquished his parents' rights and entered the Russian orphanage. At the age of 12, he decided to be adopted into a new family, in a new country, halfway across the world, to start a new life. At 24 years old, he began his journey of helping others live the life they have always dreamed of, despite their hardships and misfortunes by allowing them to recognize the uniqueness and worth within their own story. Oleg on the Web: Overcoming Odds Oleg's Ted Talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/oleg_lougheed_how_to_overcome_your_odds LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oleg-lougheed-6aa2a1b5/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/oleg.lougheed IG: https://www.instagram.com/p/BqALlY7h01i/?hl=en Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/ Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/ Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

When I started this journey, I had no idea where my stories would take me. From learning to understand and appreciate entirely different cultures through our international adoptions to a rat totaling my minivan, I have thoroughly enjoyed the trips down memory lane that have helped me source stories and bits of wisdom to help others in their own journey. Though my kids may find my stories about their lives embarrassing, it all comes with the territory of honestly exploring motherhood, life, and a constantly evolving purpose. My stories define me, just as your stories define you. By sharing our stories, we learn, grow, and learn to laugh at ourselves while inspiring others to do the same. Simone's website: https://simoneknego.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UnOrdinaryYou IG: https://www.instagram.com/authorsimoneknego/ Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simone-knego-7965701a3/ Club House: @simoneknego Her Book: The Extraordinary Unordinary You Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Natalie Vecchione, Co-Founder of FASD Hope and Host of the FASD Hope podcast series is also a seasoned guest and conference presenter about the basics of FASD and life as a mom of a young adult son living an FASD. Podcast https://www.fasdhope.com/podcast/ Website https://www.fasdhope.com/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/fasdhope1/ Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fasdhope/ Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/

Gaelin Elmore Born the youngest of 5 to a struggling household, it brought many of its own complications. After spending over 10 years in the foster care system, and experiencing physical, mental, and emotional abuse, I was as good a bet as any to be just another youth chewed up and spit out by the foster system. However, I knew I didn't want to be another statistic. While battling homelessness, I continued attending school and found sports to be a great outlet. After being taken from my family again when I was 16, I became a national recruit for football. I signed to play at the University of Minnesota, graduated in 3 years with a degree in communications and started my grad degree - all while playing football and excelling on the field. I left grad school to sign a contract to play in the NFL... only to realize that that wasn't what I felt like my purpose was. I left the NFL and began working with youth from similar backgrounds to mine, assisting them in their pursuit of success. I now work closely with the foster care space, and speak professionally as an adversity expert and revisionist. What I learned through my life certainly resonates within the space of foster care, but what I learned from adversity rings true in all spaces. I love anything competitive like sports and games. I enjoy creating such as writing, drawing, painting, and building. Besides speaking, spending time in good company is one of the most rewarding ways to spend my time. Gaelin's Website Foster Care: An Unparalleled Journey Find All Our Links Here https://linktr.ee/fostercarenation Support Our Mission https://www.buymeacoffee.com/fostercare https://patreon.com/fostercarenation Website https://fostercarenation.com Connect with us on our Facebook Page https://facebook.com/7timedad Connect on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/fostercarenation/