All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and Community

Matt Darrah: Executive Director Panhandle Orphan Care Network
  • 3.7 (3)
  • Kids & Family
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All Things Foster is a place for foster families to learn about resources that are available to them, as well as a place to have community and connection through this difficult calling.

  1. 2d ago

    I Could Never Foster... Until I Did with Heather Cook

    What if the biggest difference between someone who fosters and someone who doesn't is simply saying "yes"? In this episode of All Things Foster, Matt sits down with Heather Cook to share her honest and encouraging foster care journey. Heather opens up about how a conversation nearly ten years ago planted a seed that eventually led her family to become licensed foster parents. She talks candidly about the licensing process, receiving their very first placement, the joys and heartbreaks of fostering, and why community makes all the difference. Whether you've considered fostering, know someone who has, or simply want to learn more about supporting children and families, this episode offers a realistic, hope-filled look at what foster care can be. In This EpisodeHow one conversation planted the seed to fosterWaiting for the "right time" to become foster parentsWhat the licensing process is really likeReceiving their first foster placementWhy no one is ever fully prepared for their first placementThe emotional reality of loving children who may leaveCommon misconceptions about foster careThe importance of community and support for foster familiesPractical ways anyone can make a difference—even if fostering isn't for themMemorable Quote"I could never do that... that's what I said too, until I did." — Heather Cook Resources Mentioned❤️ Support Panhandle Orphan Care Network Every child entering foster care deserves dignity, comfort, and hope. Your generosity helps provide placement packages filled with essentials like clothing, diapers, blankets, Bibles, teddy bears, books, toys, and more for children entering foster care across the Texas Panhandle. Donate here: 👉 https://www.panhandleorphan.org/donation Episode Sponsor🎨 Two Sisters' Studio Looking for a unique way to bring people together? Two Sisters' Studio brings the paint party to you! They offer guided painting experiences for: BusinessesCorporate eventsTeam buildingChurch groupsPrivate partiesCommunity eventsNo artistic experience required—they provide all the supplies and instruction. Learn more or book a class: 👉 https://www.2sistersstudio.com/ Connect with Panhandle Orphan Care Network🌐 Website: https://www.panhandleorphan.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/PanhandleOrphanCareNetwork Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/panhandleorphancarenetwork Enjoying the Podcast?If this episode encouraged you, please: Subscribe to All Things FosterLeave a 5-star reviewShare this episode with someone who has considered fostering or wants to support foster familiesTogether, we can build a stronger community for children and families across the Texas Panhandle.

  2. Aug 11

    When The Interview Ends, The Healing Begins (Part 3 of 3)

    Show NotesWhen the Interview Ends, Healing Begins | Part 3 of Our Bridge Series What happens after a child tells their story? In the final episode of our three-part series with The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center, we explore the critical next step: healing. Host Matt Darrah sits down with Bobbi Britto, LPC-S, Clinical Director of The Bridge, and Heather, an LPC Associate, to discuss how trauma-informed counseling helps children and families move from crisis to hope. They also share how The Bridge is addressing the shortage of trauma counselors by training the next generation of mental health professionals to serve the Texas Panhandle. In this episode, you'll learn:Why specialized trauma counseling mattersWhat happens after a forensic interviewHow abuse impacts the entire family—not just the childThe importance of supporting non-offending caregivers and siblingsHow The Bridge is training future trauma counselorsWhy healing requires relationships, safety, and communityThe vision for expanding counseling services across the Texas PanhandleHow healing today can change generations tomorrowEpisode SponsorA special thank you to Sundy Sharp with AMC Mortgage for sponsoring this episode! Whether you're purchasing your first home or looking to refinance, Sundy specializes in helping families throughout Texas navigate the mortgage process with confidence. 📞 Call or Text: 806-683-0313 🌐 https://www.buywithsundy.com 🏠 https://amcmtg.com Learn More🌉 The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center https://bridgecac.org ❤️ Panhandle Orphan Care Network https://www.panhandleorphan.org Support children entering foster care by becoming a Placement Package Partner: $100/month provides clothing for a child entering foster care$50 provides a case of diapers$10 provides a new outfit for a child in needIf you found this series helpful, please: 👍 Like the video 💬 Leave a comment 📤 Share it with someone who works with children or families 🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that strengthen families and protect children #TheBridgeCAC #ChildAdvocacy #TraumaHealing #FosterCare #ChildAbusePrevention #TexasPanhandle #AllThingsFoster #PanhandleOrphanCareNetwork #HopeAfterTrauma #HealingBegins

  3. Aug 4

    Community Education & Protecting Children The Bridge Series (Part 2 of 3)

    Community Education & Protecting Children | The Bridge Series (Part 2 of 3)What can every adult do to help protect children from abuse? In Part 2 of our special series with The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center, Matt sits down with forensic interviewer Emily and outreach specialist Valeria to discuss the power of prevention through education. They explain how recognizing warning signs, understanding grooming behaviors, responding appropriately to disclosures, and reporting suspected abuse can make all the difference in a child's life. In This EpisodeWhy community education is critical to child abuse preventionCommon warning signs adults should never ignoreUnderstanding grooming and online safetyWhat to do when a child discloses abuseHow forensic interviews help reduce traumaThe importance of Play It Safe educationWhy every Texan is a mandatory reporterHow one trusted adult can change a child's futureResourcesPanhandle Orphan Care Network https://www.panhandleorphan.org/ The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center https://bridgecac.org/ Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (Texas) https://www.dfps.texas.gov/contact_us/report_abuse.asp Episode SponsorThis episode is proudly sponsored by ETC Bookkeeping. Whether you're a small business owner or nonprofit, Janie Thomas provides professional bookkeeping services with integrity and excellence. https://www.etcjaniethomas.com/ If this episode encouraged or educated you, please like, subscribe, and share. The more people who know how to recognize, respond to, and report abuse, the safer our communities become for children. Join us next week for Part 3 as we explore the role of trauma-informed counseling and the future of healing at The Bridge.

  4. Jul 28

    The Heart Behind The Bridge | Part 1 of 3 |

    The Heart Behind The Bridge | Part 1 of 3What happens after a child discloses abuse? In Part 1 of this special three-part series, Matt Darrah sits down with Courtney and Leslie from The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center to explore how children and families are supported during one of the most difficult moments of their lives. Together, they discuss forensic interviews, family advocacy, trauma-informed care, and why collaboration is essential to protecting children and helping families begin the journey toward healing. In This EpisodeWhat a Children's Advocacy Center doesHow forensic interviews reduce trauma for childrenThe role of family advocates during investigationsCommon myths about child abuse casesWarning signs every adult should knowWhy every Texan is a mandatory reporterThe Bridge's vision for expanded mental health servicesHow our community can help protect childrenHelpful ResourcesPanhandle Orphan Care Network https://www.panhandleorphan.org/ The Bridge Children's Advocacy Center https://bridgecac.org/ Report Suspected Child Abuse or Neglect (Texas) https://www.dfps.texas.gov/child_protection/child_safety/report_abuse.asp Episode SponsorA special thank you to Kindred Construction for sponsoring this episode. If you have a stone-coated steel roof, schedule your free inspection and protect your investment. https://kindredconstruct.com/ If this conversation encouraged you, please like, subscribe, and share. Raising awareness is one of the most powerful ways we can protect children and support families across the Texas Panhandle. Join us next week for Part 2 of this special series on The Bridge.

  5. Jul 21

    Helping Children Find Their Voice | A Speech Pathologist's Advice for Every Parent

    Helping Children Find Their Voice | A Speech Pathologist's Advice for Every ParentEvery child deserves to be heard—and every caregiver deserves the tools to help them communicate. In this episode of All Things Foster, Matt Darrah sits down with Dinalynn Rosenbush, a speech-language pathologist with more than 30 years of experience. Together they discuss how foster parents, adoptive parents, grandparents, teachers, and caregivers can recognize speech delays, build trust through play, and help children develop communication skills at home. Many children entering foster care have experienced trauma or neglect that impacts speech and language development. Dinalynn explains why creating emotional safety comes before correcting speech and shares practical strategies families can begin using immediately. Chapters00:00 Welcome & Meet Dinalynn Rosenbush 00:48 How to Know When a Child Needs Speech Therapy 02:27 Why "Wait and See" Can Delay Progress 03:45 The Language of Play Explained 05:47 Speech Delays in Foster Care 07:08 Building Trust Before Building Speech 10:10 Using Books & Everyday Moments to Encourage Language 12:48 How Parent Coaching Works 15:08 Why Families Face Long Waits for Speech Therapy 17:15 Resources for Parents & Caregivers 18:45 Final Encouragement In This EpisodeHow to recognize early signs of speech and language delaysWhy foster children are at higher risk for communication delaysThe connection between trauma, trust, and communicationPractical ways to build speech skills during everyday routinesWhy play is one of the most effective teaching toolsHow parents can become their child's greatest communication coachResources available through The Language of PlayResourcesPanhandle Orphan Care NetworkSupporting children entering foster care across the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle through placement packages, Moses Closet, family support, and community partnerships. 🌐 https://www.panhandleorphan.org/ The Language of PlaySpeech and language coaching, resources, and the The Language of Play Podcast hosted by Dinalynn Rosenbush. 🌐 https://www.thelanguageofplay.com/ Connect with All Things FosterIf this episode encouraged you: 👍 Like this video💬 Leave a comment with your biggest takeaway🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that support foster, adoptive, and kinship families📤 Share this episode with a parent, teacher, therapist, or caregiver who could benefit from these practical strategies.Together, we can help every child find their voice.

  6. Jul 14

    From Foster Care to Finding Purpose

    Show NotesAll Things Foster with Matt DarrahFrom Foster Care to Finding Purpose | A Conversation with Robyn McTagueWhat does it take to overcome childhood trauma and build a life filled with purpose? In this heartfelt episode of All Things Foster, Matt Darrah sits down with Robyn McTague, counselor, coach, meditation teacher, and former foster youth. Robyn shares her deeply personal story of growing up in an abusive home, navigating foster care, overcoming adversity, and transforming her experiences into a mission of helping others heal. Together, Matt and Robyn discuss the lifelong impact of childhood trauma, the importance of emotional safety, and practical ways foster parents can create an environment where children can begin to trust, grow, and thrive. Whether you're a foster parent, adoptive parent, caregiver, or someone on your own healing journey, this conversation offers hope, encouragement, and practical wisdom. In This EpisodeRobyn's journey through childhood abuse and foster careHow instability and trauma shape a child's worldviewBreaking generational cycles of abuseWhy healing begins with understanding yourselfThe role of counseling, coaching, meditation, and the EnneagramHow Motivational Maps help identify strengths and blind spotsPractical advice for foster parents caring for children with traumaBuilding trust through consistency, boundaries, and compassionHelping children feel emotionally safeWhy every child deserves someone who believes in themKey Takeaways✨ Children from hard places often test relationships—not because they want to push people away, but because they're afraid they'll be abandoned. ✨ Foster parents can make an enormous difference simply by providing consistency, patience, and unconditional care. ✨ Healthy boundaries create security—not rejection. ✨ Healing isn't about pretending the past didn't happen; it's about learning new ways to live beyond it. Resources Mentioned🌐 Robyn McTagueA Life of Choice https://www.alifeofchoice.ca/ Learn more about Robyn's coaching, counseling, meditation, Motivational Maps, and personal development resources. ❤️ Panhandle Orphan Care Networkhttps://www.panhandleorphancare.org/ Serving children and families across the 26 counties of the Texas Panhandle through placement packages, family support, volunteer opportunities, and community partnerships. Connect with All Things FosterSubscribe for more conversations about foster care, adoption, trauma-informed parenting, and stories that inspire hope. 🎙️ Hosted by Matt Darrah 👍 Like this episode 💬 Leave a comment and share your biggest takeaway 📲 Share with someone who serves children and families Memorable Quote"Healing begins when someone finally feels safe enough to be seen." About Robyn McTagueRobyn McTague is a counselor, coach, meditation teacher, and facilitator dedicated to helping people discover greater self-awareness, resilience, and purpose. Drawing from her own experiences in foster care and years of professional practice, she helps individuals understand their motivations, overcome internal conflict, and create lasting personal transformation. Learn more at: 👉 https://www.alifeofchoice.ca/

  7. Jul 7

    The 5-Minute Habit That Changed Everything

    The 5-Minute Habit That Changed Everything | Featuring Mo CooperWhat if just five minutes every morning could transform your health, your mindset, and your relationships? In this episode of All Things Foster, Matt Darrah sits down with Mo Cooper, wellness coach, and speaker to discuss how small, intentional habits can create lasting change. Mo shares her powerful story of overcoming multiple sclerosis, navigating single motherhood, placing a child for adoption, and discovering that true healing begins with finding peace within yourself. Whether you're a foster or adoptive parent, a caregiver, or simply someone feeling overwhelmed by life, this conversation is filled with practical encouragement and hope. In This Episode:Mo's journey from MS diagnosis to living a thriving, healthy lifeWhy your nervous system is the foundation of your healthThe power of starting your day with just five intentional minutesHow gratitude and "I Am" statements can reshape your mindsetWhy lasting transformation starts with small, consistent habitsThe connection between emotional healing and physical healthFinding purpose through difficult seasonsHow choosing peace impacts not only you—but everyone around youConnect with Mo Cooper🌐 Website: https://momindbodysoul.com Connect with All Things Foster🌐 Learn more about Panhandle Orphan Care Network: https://www.panhandleornetwork.org 👍 If you enjoyed this episode: Like this videoSubscribe to All Things FosterShare this conversation with someone who needs encouragement today#AllThingsFoster #MoCooper #Wellness #MentalHealth #Healing #FosterCare #Adoption #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #HealthyHabits #Faith #Gratitude #NervousSystem #TraumaHealing #Podcast

  8. Jun 30

    From Career to Calling: Building a Business with Purpose

    From Career to Calling: Aligning Faith and Business with Dale YoungIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matt sits down with Dale Young, a Christian business coach, author, and former IT professional who spent nearly five decades in the technology industry before stepping fully into his God-given calling. Dale shares his journey from a successful career in IT to helping Christian entrepreneurs align their businesses with their faith. Through personal stories of transformation, loss, growth, and redemption, he explains why understanding your identity, gifts, and calling is essential to building a business that creates lasting impact. The conversation explores the difference between simply having a career and living out a calling, how faith should influence every area of life—including business—and what it means to leave a legacy that truly matters. In This EpisodeDale's transition from a 48-year IT career into Christian business coachingThe life-changing moment that made him realize he wanted more than just a jobWhy faith and business should not exist in separate worldsCommon mistakes Christian entrepreneurs makeUnderstanding your God-given gifts and strengthsThe importance of identity and community in discovering your purposeHow to uncover your calling and "why"The difference between an inheritance and a legacyBuilding a business that creates impact for future generationsResources MentionedDale YoungWebsite: coachdale.comFree Spiritual Gifts Assessment available on his websiteBookThe Power of Aligning Your Faith in Business A proven way to create clear direction, fulfilling results, and joyful peace. Available on Amazon. About Dale YoungDale Young is a Christian business coach who helps entrepreneurs align their faith and business to create greater purpose, impact, and fulfillment. After spending 48 years in the IT industry, Dale transitioned into coaching and now equips Christian business owners to discover their God-given identity, strengths, and calling. Connect With All Things FosterIf you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with someone who could benefit from this conversation. All Things Foster is a place for coffee, connection, and community as we support foster and adoptive families and those who care about children and families in need. Panhandle Orphan Care Network #AllThingsFoster #ChristianEntrepreneur #FaithAndBusiness #DaleYoung #Leadership #Purpose #Calling #Legacy #BusinessCoach #ChristianLeadership #FosterCareCommunity

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All Things Foster is a place for foster families to learn about resources that are available to them, as well as a place to have community and connection through this difficult calling.

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