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Vulnerability and authenticity are explored through personal experiences of motherhood, therapy, and relationships. By unpacking the burdensome narratives around love and acceptance, the episode inspires listeners to reflect on their own stories and choose healthier paths toward autonomy.
• Navigating the complexities of vulnerability in relationships
• The impact of books on parenting and boundaries
• Confronting the stories we tell ourselves
• Understanding the significance of personal autonomy
• Embracing healing through awareness and compassion
• Invitation to explore narratives that shape our sense of selfhttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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This episode focuses on the vital role of advocacy in supporting children, particularly in foster care and educational systems. We touch on personal experiences, the importance of knowledge about rights and relationships, and strategies for effectively advocating within complex systems.
• Understanding the role and significance of PACE
• Navigating challenges in the foster care system
• Empowering oneself with knowledge of rights and policies
• The emotional landscape of advocacy work
• Building key relationships within educational and care systems
• Importance of curiosity and community support in advocacy
• Techniques for responding versus reacting professionally
• Fostering collaboration for effective outcomes.https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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The episode delves into the transformative journey of foster care and adoption, highlighting the emotional complexities and realities faced by families involved. Megan Hampton-Pusey shares her experiences as a foster mother, addressing the importance of community support, the challenges of attachment, and the often-overlooked struggles of fostering.
• Insights into the emotional and psychological impact of fostering
• Importance of community and support for foster parents
• Contrast between biological and foster parenting dynamics
• The reality of attachment styles in adopted children
• The burden of societal perceptions on foster parents
• Discussion on resilience, trauma, and growth in children
• Personal reflections on the struggles and joys of parenting
• Encouragement to reconsider assumptions about foster carehttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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Our conversation today dives deep into the joys of foster care and adoption, sharing heartfelt stories of connection and triumph amidst the challenges. We explore the significant moments that define our experiences as foster parents, offer practical parenting strategies, and celebrate the little victories that shape our family narrative.
• Navigating chaos after the holiday season
• The power of positive stories in foster care
• Celebrating small victories with our kids
• The importance of family travel and experiences
• Embracing patience and understanding in parenting
• Powerful family systems: the tradition of Sunday Sundays
• Welcoming a new puppy into our family dynamichttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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This episode highlights the transformative impact of Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) on families navigating foster care and adoption. By understanding emotional needs behind behaviors, caregivers can build stronger connections and foster healing, while also addressing their own emotional challenges in the process.
• Introduction to TBRI and its importance in parenting
• Definition and core principles of TBRI
• The role of the infant attachment cycle in development
• Understanding unmet needs behind child behavior
• Differentiating emotional age from chronological age
• Emphasizing connection over correction in parenting
• Recognizing the emotional toll on caregivers
• Real-life applications of TBRI strategies
• The significance of allowing grief in parenting journeys
• Insights on fostering healthy family dynamics through TBRIhttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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Rebecca and Courtney answer questions submitted by listeners. This episode is off the cuff, unedited and offers an unfiltered view as Rebecca answers those questions. We discuss various aspects of adoption, including timelines, processes for domestic and international adoptions, advocacy for children, and ways to support families in this journey.
• Exploring average timelines for different types of adoption
• Practical ways to support foster and adoptive families
• Sharing lighthearted stories from the foster care experience
• Advocacy tips for parents of adopted children
• Advice for road-tripping with large families and childrenhttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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Through a conversation between Rebecca Harvin and Sarah Graves, listeners explore the essential support needed in foster and adoptive families’ journeys. The episode stresses the importance of vulnerability, empathy, and community involvement to help these families thrive amidst challenges.
• Explores Sarah's background and journey into therapy and social work
• Discusses the emotional challenges faced by adoptive parents during home studies
• Highlights the complexities and feelings surrounding adoption dissolution
• Emphasizes the importance of holding space for families in need
• Introduces the role of Haven Retreats in supporting foster and adoptive familieshttps://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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Lori Serber's journey into foster care is a testament to the power of calling and the evolution of family dynamics. Lori had always felt drawn to fostering, though her husband Larry needed time to embrace the idea. Eventually, their family of five welcomed the transformative experience, navigating the multifaceted challenges and joys that fostering brings. Together, we explore how this decision impacted their children, particularly their son Wade, and the importance of fostering normalcy and familiarity for children. This episode provides a heartfelt look at how a community's influence can help foster children thrive as valued members of their new families.
Fostering is not merely about providing a temporary home but about building bridges toward family reunification. Our conversation with Lori uncovers the realities, struggles, and understanding needed for this profound responsibility. We discuss the importance of setting clear expectations for prospective foster parents, emphasizing the goal of reunification whenever safely possible. Through personal anecdotes, we highlight the critical role foster parents play in supporting biological families. This section urges listeners to consider the emotional challenges and the necessity of entering fostering with a heart willing to grow and support the journey toward reunification.
Amidst the challenges of fostering, we explore how faith, community, and life's simple pleasures bring joy and support. Lori and I share stories of divine provision, where unexpected generosity, like a timely gift of a couch, has reminded us that we are never alone in our mission to nurture children. We also reflect on the beauty of simple joys, such as family gatherings, which can be easily overlooked amidst the demands of fostering. This episode is a tapestry of inspiration, offering listeners a glimpse into the profound love, resilience, and community that define the foster care experience.https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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What does it mean to truly support a birth family while fostering? In this episode, we uncover the complexities with the insightful Jordan Whitmarsh, whose journey from teen mom to foster parent offers a fresh perspective on empathy and community support. Her candid stories about navigating these challenges without a safety net highlight the incredible strength needed to face such emotional landscapes. Witness how the bonds formed outside the traditional foster care circles become just as crucial in providing the understanding and compassion needed to thrive.
The pandemic brought unprecedented trials, but also unexpected roles for many. Jordan shares her experiences of becoming a foster parent without prior training, thrust into the whirlwind of caring for a newborn and toddler during a global lockdown. It's a story of resilience, balancing the demands of sudden parenthood with work-from-home life, and finding solace in community support. As the narrative unfolds, we explore how fostering not only impacts family dynamics but also fosters personal growth, culminating in the bittersweet joy of adoption.
Adopting a child is a journey filled with challenges and triumphs, especially when navigating the foster care system. We discuss the emotional rollercoaster of being chosen over biological family members, dealing with guardians ad litem, and the ultimate relief and freedom of finalizing an adoption. Through personal anecdotes and emotional reflections, this episode highlights the importance of stability and love in a child's life, punctuated by lighter moments of worship music and community strength. Join us as we celebrate the nuances of family life, the power of faith, and the joy found in everyday moments of connection.https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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On this episode we'll share personal insights on maintaining the delicate balance between accepting our children for who they are and the natural urge to shape their world.
The heart of our discussion lies in the emotional tug-of-war between hopes and reality. Feelings of loss and sadness come into play when all the love and effort poured into creating nurturing spaces aren't always met with the enthusiasm we'd hoped for. Through candid stories, we uncover the tension between the desire to be a supportive, loving parent and the need to shield ourselves from potential rejection. We ponder the idea that good parenting is akin to revealing a masterpiece within a block of marble, allowing children to flourish naturally, without undue influence.
In our conversation we confront life's inevitable compromises and how to find peace amidst them. Sharing tools for managing emotions, we embrace the chaos while celebrating small victories, and learn to coexist with conflicting emotions. The complexities of adoption and personal growth become a tapestry woven with moments of beauty and acceptance, demonstrating that sometimes, simply being present for our loved ones, despite the mess, is the greatest achievement.https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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How does a missed meeting at Starbucks transform into a lifelong friendship that helps navigate the challenges of foster care and adoption? Join us as Danielle Browning and I share the story of our unique bond, forged through shared experiences and mutual support. We open up about the unspoken rules of friendship that have been our lifeline as we journey through the complexities of parenting children from hard places. Through candid conversations and shared laughter, our friendship has become a source of emotional stability and reassurance, illuminating the path through some of life’s most demanding moments.
Danielle and I dig into the profound freedom our friendship offers, a space where we can express difficult truths without fear of judgment. Whether it’s a road trip filled with anxiety or the everyday struggles of post-adoption life, we stand by each other as unwavering pillars of support. Our bond is the epitome of a "ride or die" partnership, showcasing the importance of having someone who truly understands the intricacies of the adoption and foster care community. We navigate the unpredictable paths together, celebrating the resilience and strength found in our shared journey.
From the pride of watching our children reach significant milestones to grappling with dreams that didn’t turn out as expected, our conversation touches on the highs and lows of motherhood and friendship. We reflect on the complexities of relationships, the evolving bonds with our teenagers, and the joy that comes from supportive connections amidst life's challenges. The episode wraps up with a lighthearted lightning round, sharing what brings joy to our everyday lives, from delightful homemade treats to inspiring podcasts. Tune in to experience the warmth and wisdom of a friendship that is as rewarding as it is resilient.https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Jacksonville/BiscuitsandBubbles5kmandFunRun
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Embark on an unexpected journey with Ted Stackpole, a pastor who, alongside his wife Angie, opened their hearts and home to foster care and adoption, transforming their lives and those of the many children they've welcomed. Initially hesitant, their adventure began through a connection with a church family and an exploration of adoption ministry. Their path led to the formation of a supportive community that helped navigate the complex world of fostering and adoption, ultimately expanding their family to 11 children. Ted and Angie now serve as missionary chaplains, dedicating their lives to fostering and adoption communities across the nation.
Our conversation shines a light on the powerful role that church-based ministries play in supporting foster families. With the leadership of experienced foster and adoptive families, these ministries offer a lifeline, providing wraparound care systems that include meal deliveries and house cleaning, preventing burnout among foster parents. We explore the impact of such ministries, where five families fostered 50 children and completed 18 adoptions in three years, and discuss how the church can be a beacon of support for vulnerable populations, even if not everyone feels called to foster or adopt.
We also delve into the spiritual dimensions of fostering and adoption, viewing these acts as services to Jesus while navigating the challenges of family dynamics. From managing the complexities of fostering multiple children to creating nurturing environments for those who have experienced trauma, we discuss the vital support systems that make these journeys possible. Innovative approaches, such as online classes and Project One Home, offer valuable resources for foster families, fostering connections and stability. We conclude by emphasizing the importance of community champions in sustaining these efforts and the need for personal spiritual reflection to maintain balance and growth.Haven Retreats Biscuits and Bubbles 5k and Fun Run Registration:
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Imagine embarking on a journey that fundamentally reshapes your notion of family. That's what my husband, Brad Harvin, and I, Rebecca Harvin, experienced when we decided to embrace foster care and adoption. Through raw and heartfelt exchanges, Brad opens up about the surprise and commitment he felt when I first shared my unwavering intention to foster and adopt. His spontaneous decision to join me on this path has deeply impacted our lives. Therapy has played a crucial role in navigating this transformation, as we unpack the challenges and growth it has brought to our relationship. Our story offers a candid peek into our partnership, touching on our mutual support and shared vision for creating a loving family and community.
Adopting and fostering are accompanied by emotional highs and lows, especially as we welcome new children into our lives. We unpack the excitement, uncertainty, and emotional burdens that come with managing trauma and maintaining a peaceful home environment. Brad and I bring to light how we handle these challenges differently yet strive to balance our roles as partners, supporting each other and our children. By sharing our personal experiences, we highlight the importance of emotional resilience, mutual understanding, and the complex dynamics that shape our family life.
Our journey would not be complete without the supportive community we've built around us, particularly for Brad as a dad and husband. Forming meaningful connections with other men in similar situations, like our friend Dave, has been vital. We discuss the comfort in sharing experiences and navigating the nuances of parenting within the foster and adoption context. Additionally, we explore the transition from foster care to adoption, reflecting on attachment, permanency, and the emotional intricacies of family dynamics. Through these honest conversations, we aim to foster a community where listeners feel connected, understood, and inspired to share their own experiences.Haven Retreats Biscuits and Bubbles 5k and Fun Run Registration:
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What happens when a birth kid grows up in a foster and adoptive family and becomes an advocate for others in similar situations? Daniela Coates, a licensed social worker, adoptive mother, and foster parent, shares her personal and professional journey with us. Through her organization, With Siblings, Daniela is doing groundbreaking work by focusing on the voices and experiences of birth children in foster and adoptive families. Her insights shed light on the complex emotional landscape that these kids navigate and the importance of support systems that truly see and hear them.
Join us as Daniela opens up about the struggles she faced as a child, feeling invisible amid new family dynamics and grappling with the challenges of being a pastor's child. She recounts the poignant memories of saying goodbye to foster siblings and how these experiences led her to embrace fostering formally. Daniela’s story is one of resilience, highlighting the balance and fulfillment that fostering can bring, even in the face of temporary relationships.
As the conversation continues, we delve into the universal emotions of feeling unseen, as depicted in Daniela's book "The Day Lily Turned Uninvisible." We explore the duality of emotions birth kids experience, the importance of empowering their voices, and the need for open dialogue about the hard truths in foster care narratives. Daniela's journey from agency work to creating a global support network underscores the significance of addressing these nuanced family dynamics with empathy and understanding. Tune in to learn how Daniela's work can inspire more comprehensive conversations about the mental health and well-being of all children in the foster care system.Haven Retreats Biscuits and Bubbles 5k and Fun Run Registration:
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How do you find the strength to open your heart and home to children in need? Danae Bunso, the Florida State Director for Isaiah 117 House in Duval County, joins us to share her and her husband Carl's incredible journey of fostering and adopting children. With 30 foster experiences and two adoptions alongside their six biological children, Danae provides an intimate look at the emotional and spiritual path to embracing foster care, touching on the power of surrender, the challenges of adoption, and the importance of being present for children on their hardest days.
Danae opens up about the deep spiritual journey that foster care has led her family on, where the balancing act between fighting for justice and surrendering control becomes a daily practice. We explore transformative encounters that mirror the kingdom of God at work, highlighting moments of heartache, hope, and joy. Through these stories, listeners will gain insight into the often chaotic yet profoundly rewarding experience of fostering, the importance of community support, and the mission behind Isaiah 117 House to reduce trauma for children entering foster care.
Rooted in faith, Danae's reflections on hope and rest offer a sense of community and encouragement to those who listen. She shares personal anecdotes about seeking solace in spiritual practices and engaging activities, revealing how these moments bring nourishment beyond physical stillness. Through heartfelt discussions, we underscore the shared challenges and victories within the fostering circle, inviting everyone to connect, share, and support one another on this journey. Tune in for a message of hope, commitment, and the transformative impact of opening one's home and heart to children in need.Haven Retreats Biscuits and Bubbles 5k and Fun Run Registration:
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What happens when the pursuit of perfection meets the messy reality of motherhood and adoption? Join us for an intimate conversation with Tanya Hardaker, who opens up about her journey through foster care, adoption, and self-discovery. Tanya's raw honesty sheds light on the societal pressures faced by women, especially in the Southern evangelical context, and the liberation found in embracing imperfection. Together, we share personal experiences, challenging the notion of the "perfect" mom and exploring how authenticity can lead to genuine connections and a deeper understanding of faith and community.
Tanya and I take you on a heartfelt journey into the complexities of foster care and adoption, revealing the unexpected beauty and challenges that come with it. We reflect on how adopting a sibling set reshaped our notions of family and spirituality, pushing us beyond the bounds of traditional church life into a more authentic, albeit messier, faith. The emotional toll and sacrifices are real, yet they are met with the unwavering commitment and support needed to navigate this path. Our candid dialogue uncovers the profound impact of community involvement in supporting foster and adoptive families, emphasizing the necessity of a supportive network during challenging times.
Building a supportive community is a lifeline, and through initiatives like Seek Refuge, we find strength in coming together. We discuss the importance of creating a welcoming environment for caregivers, the power of community-driven efforts like Christmas toy drives, and how tangible support can prevent unnecessary family separations. This episode is a testament to the resilience fostered through open, honest conversations, and the hope found in everyday struggles. Join us as we celebrate the small victories and the profound difference community support can make in the lives of those navigating the foster and adoption journey.Haven Retreats Biscuits and Bubbles 5k and Fun Run Registration:
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