178 episodes

A Foster Arizona podcast featuring Authentic Conversations with Real People talking all things Foster Care and beyond. Hosted by Kim and Brian Vehon.

Fostering Voices Podcast Foster Arizona

    • Kids & Family
    • 5.0 • 81 Ratings

A Foster Arizona podcast featuring Authentic Conversations with Real People talking all things Foster Care and beyond. Hosted by Kim and Brian Vehon.

    Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 2

    Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 2

    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 week, get ready to hear from three more remarkable human beings. They’ll share their stories, insights, and passion for fostering. 🎙️
    So, without further ado, let’s dive into this enriching conversation! Buckle up, because here we go! 🚀 
    Resource Links:
    Foster Cooperative
    PAX Arizona Initiative – PAXIS  (Frances Holguin) 
    Mercy Care  (Nichol Khan) 
    Bali Blue Wellness   (Dr. Jaime Parker) 
     
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org

    • 30 min
    Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 1

    Learning and Growing Together - On Location at Foster Cooperative Training Day: Part 1

    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 twice a year. And let me tell you, each time is a unique journey filled with eye-opening insights. Today, we're not keeping those gems to ourselves – we're bringing you along for the ride!
    Join us as we dive into various topics and explore valuable resources that shape the fostering landscape. Whether you're a seasoned advocate or just starting your journey, there's something for everyone. So, buckle up and get ready to embark on this enlightening adventure with us. Are you ready? Let's go!
    Resource Links:
    Foster Cooperative
    Learn From People Who Lived It  (Mathew Blades) 
    I Needed That Podcast - Chris Powell   (Mathew Blades) 
    Shift Happens Transformative Counseling   (Wade Cordell) 
    Lighthouse Psychiatry  (Carol Melim) 
    Internet Safety | Arizona Attorney General  (Jillian Ashby) 
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
     

    • 22 min
    Episode 176: All You Need is Love (Not!)

    Episode 176: All You Need is Love (Not!)

    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 with youth in residential treatment facilities. She’s a mover and a shaker, bringing innovative approaches to trauma therapies. Plus, she’s a favorite trainer at our semi-annual Foster Cooperative training events. And let’s not forget, she’s one of the most loving people we know. Tune in for insightful discussions and heartfelt stories! ❤️🎙️
    Resource Links:
    Trainings
    Arizona Council of Human Service Providers – Neurosequential Model in Caregiving© Webinar Series
    History | ChildTrauma Academy
    Info@fosteraz.org
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
    Chapters:
    00:12 - Opening
    00:35 - Welcome!
    01:41 - Estefana's Journey
    03:39 - Radical Acceptance
    04:46 - Moving Beyond Fear
    06:31 - Being Curious
    06:59 - Therapy
    08:07 - The Hero Complex
    09:58 - What is Love?
    11:00 - If you Loved them Better...
    13:10 - "We're on Your Team"
    14:35 - Rose-Colored Glasses
    17:40 - Your Purpose is Greater
    19:01 - The Heart Connection
    21:17 - Handling Trauma
    24:07 - Drip Drip Drip
    26:00 - Self-Judgment
    28:09 - It is not a Fault
    30:17 - Deep Connections
    32:01 - Choosing to Show Love
    36:34 - Gratitude
    36:55 - The Takeaway
    37:58 - Resources
    39:09 - Connect with Us!
    39:33 - Thank You!
     

    • 39 min
    I Want to Foster! Now What?

    I Want to Foster! Now What?

    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 licensed foster homes in 2019 to a mere 2,798 as of November 2023 – marking a nearly 50% loss.
    Against this backdrop, our guests, Elisia and Jade from Step Stone Youth Agency, shed light on the challenges and rewards of foster parenting. At a time when Arizona is fervently working to address the shortage through extensive recruitment initiatives, this podcast provides a timely and insightful conversation. If you've ever wondered about the complexities, triumphs, and heartaches involved in fostering, join us as we explore the untold stories and experiences that shape the journey of these unsung heroes. The need for foster parents has never been more urgent, and this episode aims to inspire and inform, encouraging listeners to consider making a difference in the lives of vulnerable children.

    Resource Links:
    Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety
    Arizona - StepStone Family & Youth Services
    Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
    Foster Care: Avoiding Foster Parent Burnout | Justice Resource Institute
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
     

    • 45 min
    Moms Get Real

    Moms Get Real

    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 experiences, connecting with others who share similar journeys has been both empowering and deeply meaningful. In today's episode, we're joined by the wonderful Elisia and Ally, fellow moms navigating the unique landscape of foster care and adoption. Tune in for an honest and relatable conversation that sheds light on the beauty and complexities of building families through love and compassion.
    Resource Links:
    MOMnation® AZ
    Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents
    Foster Cooperative
    Three Precious Miracles
    Connect With Us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
    Chapters:
    00:34 - Welcome!
    01:13 - Elisia's Story
    04:32 - Ally's Story
    09:37 - What have you Learned
    13:24 - Filling in the Gaps
    15:28 - Momma Joy Moments
    21:43 - Challenging Spaces
    30:05 - Tag You're In!
    32:47 - Tag You're Out!
    34:11 - Keeping Your Sanity
    39:47 - Filling Your Own Cup
    41:26 - Saying No in Love
    42:36 - Resources
    45:11 - Connect with Us!
    45:50 - ThankYou!
     

    • 46 min
    Episode 173: Kids’ Perspective on Foster Care and Adoption

    Episode 173: Kids’ Perspective on Foster Care and Adoption

    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 experiences, gaining valuable insights into the world of fostering and adoption through their eyes. Thanks for tuning in, and let's embark on this journey of understanding and empathy together!
    Resource Links:
    Authentic Voices Video Series: Sharing Our Perspective - Center for States - Child Welfare Capacity Building Collaborative
    Educate | Foster Arizona
    Foster - Step 1 and 2 - Let's Get to Know You | Arizona Department of Child Safety
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
     

    • 39 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
81 Ratings

81 Ratings

laughs Duck Irving ,

Great podcast!

As a single young adult who wants to foster/adopt at some point, I love this podcast! It’s also helpful for people working with troubles teens, as a respite worker I find the information helpful.

Sahamann ,

Thankful for your Podcast

Thankful for your all’s podcast. You’re voices speak helpful tips and truths in a gracious, gentle way. Appreciate your work. Thank you from a foster Mama in Colorado.

Khooper621 ,

You need to listen

I recently binged every episode after starting classes last spring and getting certified last September. So grateful for the Watsons!
Usually when I start hearing a lot of gospel in podcasts I end up unfollowing them because I just can’t relate at all, but this one is different. I feel like, although we have wildly different beliefs, we have so much in common! This has been such a helpful part of our foster care journey.

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