181 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.

    It's OK to Say, "I'm Not OK."

    It's OK to Say, "I'm Not OK."

    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 dive into the spaces where our mental well-being has been profoundly affected and the valuable lessons we’ve gleaned along the way. With that, let’s begin this authentic conversation. 🌟
    Resource Links:
    Your Mental Health Today Test / Quiz
    31 Tips to Boost Your Mental Health
    11 Ways to Find and Make Friends as an Adult
    Foster Cooperative
    The Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org

    • 48 min
    How Caregiver Stress Impacts Our Bodies

    How Caregiver Stress Impacts Our Bodies

    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, leading to feelings of depression, anxiety, inadequate sleep, lack of physical activity, and imbalanced diets. These factors increase the risk of serious health conditions like heart disease and diabetes.
    But how do we address this challenge? Today, we’re thrilled to welcome back Dr. Jaime Parker, a seasoned expert with over 25 years of experience in health and wellness. Dr. Jaime wears multiple hats as a holistic health coach, fitness instructor, certified personal trainer, nutrition educator, and certified Pilates instructor. She has personally triumphed over numerous health obstacles.
    Recently, I sought Dr. Jaime’s guidance in my own healing journey. The years of accumulated stress have taken their toll on both Brian and me. Dr. Jaime’s genuine empathy and understanding resonate deeply as she navigates the delicate balance between caring for others and prioritizing self-care. Her remarkable ability to meet people where they are, infused with love and encouragement, is something we’re excited to share with you today. Tune in as we explore simple yet impactful changes that can lead to stress relief and better health. 🎙️🌟
    Resource Links:
    Caregiver stress: Tips for taking care of yourself - Mayo Clinic
    Bali Blue Wellness   (Dr. Jaime Parker) 
    Products:  
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    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org

    • 48 min
    What is Critical Memory Integration and How Can it Help?

    What is Critical Memory Integration and How Can it Help?

    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 joins us today. You might recognize one of our team members—Estefana Johnson—who shared her insights in our Valentine’s episode. Estefana is a cherished friend of Foster Arizona. Alongside Estefana, we have two remarkable psychologists: Dr. Brian Livesay and Dr. Diego Hernandez. Both experts bring extensive backgrounds in trauma care and post-traumatic stress disorder.
    Over the past two years, I’ve eagerly followed the progress of this project, and it’s truly remarkable to witness its practical implementation locally and globally.
    Resource Links:
    Critical Memory Integration (CMI) - ARISE Alliance Institute
    The trajectory of PTSD among youth in foster care: A survival analysis examining maltreatment experiences prior to entry into care.
    How We Feel
    Atlas of the Heart - Brené Brown
    Lighthouse Psychiatry
    Lt. Col Mann TEDx on Generosity of Scars
    The Generosity of Scars | Scott Mann | TEDxSantaBarbara
    Elizabeth Feldmann Barrett How Emotions are made
    How Emotions are Made (Cinematic Lecture)
    Luiz Pessoa: “The Entangled Brain: Integration of emotion, motivation, and cognition”
    Luiz Pessoa: “The Entangled Brain: Integration of emotion, motivation, and cognition”
    Connect with us!
    Email: info@fosteraz.org
    Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
    Instagram: @FosteringVoices
    Web: www.fosterarizona.org
    Chapters:
    00:00 - Opening
    00:33 - Intro
    02:03 - Dr. Brian Livesay
    03:40 - Connection is Fundamental
    04:35 - Dr. Diego Hernandez
    05:23 - Did I Make a Difference?
    06:38 - We Did Everything Together
    08:07 - Estefana Johnson
    09:57 - You were Made to Fly!
    10:46 - It Starts with the Therapist
    13:20 - Clinicians are more than Technicians
    15:42 - Survival is not Enough
    16:34 - Critical Memory Integration
    18:24 - The Deepest Conversations
    19:00 - We are Designed for Play
    19:47 - Getting Through the Bad Feelings
    21:54 - Recognizing the Signals
    22:59 - Tactical Disclosure
    25:02 - Power in Relatability
    28:55 - Where does CMI Fit?
    32:20 - Integrating CMI
    35:08 - Critical Memories
    36:14 - The Stories Movies Tell
    37:15 - Full Access to your Emotions
    40:21 - Teaching Kids to Experience Emotions
    43:33 - Stories are Wisdom
    44:18 - How to get this new Therapy
    47:10 - New Understanding
    48:03 - A Hub for Training
    50:18 - Resources
    51:15 - Final Thoughts
    55:10 - Conclusion
    55:40 - Thank You!

    • 56 min
    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

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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