Episoder
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Summary:
Welcome to an extra special episode of Fostering Voices as we celebrate our 200th milestone! This journey wouldn’t have been possible without the vision and dedication of Chris and Jihae Watson, who worked tirelessly to create this impactful educational space. We’re deeply grateful to continue fostering authentic conversations within our community, tackling real issues with compassion and honesty.
In this episode, we take on a critical and urgent topic: sex trafficking. What risks do our children face? Who is most vulnerable to victimization? And what can we do to protect our communities?
To guide this vital conversation, we’re joined by Heidi Chance, a retired law enforcement professional with over 27 years of experience combating human trafficking. Heidi is not only a seasoned advocate but also an author and trainer dedicated to raising awareness and creating lasting change.
Tune in for a powerful discussion, as we learn more about the realities of sex trafficking and the actionable steps we can take to make a difference. Together, let’s continue fostering hope, education, and community.
Resource Links:
The Bark Blog
Life 360: How Does Life360 Work? | Location Tracking Guide
Gabb: Gabb.com Blog
Book: Talk To Them: Navigating Difficult Conversations With Youth In The Digital Age: Heidi Chance
Sex Trafficking in America (full documentary) | FRONTLINE
Heidi Chance Website: A Chance For Awareness
Victim Services and Resources in Arizona: Human Trafficking and Exploitation | Arizona Attorney General
Website: National Human Trafficking Hotline
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
Happy New Year, and welcome to 2025! While the start of a new year often brings talk of resolutions, research from Pew shows that 70% of Americans skip them—mostly because they’re too easy to break. So, how can we approach personal growth in a way that truly sticks?
In this episode, we explore realistic ways to make incremental changes toward the life you envision. Joining us are Toni and James McSwain, parents of six sons and founders of Divine Movement, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping individuals with the tools and mentorship needed to achieve their goals. Toni, a certified life coach and founder of “Thee Growth Coach,” also works directly with youth to help them unlock their potential.
Together, we discuss actionable strategies for setting and pursuing meaningful goals, overcoming obstacles, and staying motivated throughout the year. Whether you’re aiming for personal, professional, or community growth, this conversation will leave you inspired and equipped to make 2025 your best year yet.
Let’s dive in!
Resource Links:
Divine Movement in the News: Divine Movement Track Club Competing at NationalsThee Growth Coach
Hive - List of Goal Tracking Apps: 15 Goal-Tracking Apps & Tools To Succeed in 2024 | Hive
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In the final episode of our mini-series, we explore the transformative power of community support and how it can truly change and uplift lives. Over the last two episodes, we heard from two inspiring individuals who have directly benefited from the incredible work of Foster Arizona. Now, we’re flipping the script.
Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight Christian and Patrick Andrew, two dedicated supporters who exemplify how we can all make a difference in our own unique ways. Often, we think creating impact means making big, life-altering commitments like opening our homes. But the truth is, each of us has the power to change lives by simply sharing our gifts, skills, and influence to create opportunities for others.
Join us as we dive into their stories and discover how small acts of support can lead to big changes, inspiring all of us to find our own ways to contribute to our communities. This heartwarming episode will leave you motivated to take action and see the ripple effect of community care.
Tune in and be inspired!
Resource Link:
Foster Arizona
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In this episode of our mini-series on the transformative power of community support, we dive into another inspiring story of connection and resilience. Last week, we heard from Joseph, who shared how the community shaped his journey from foster care to adulthood. This week, we’re thrilled to continue the conversation with Jenny Montgomery.
Jenny brings a wealth of experience as someone who has dedicated her professional life to supporting children and families in the community. But her perspective is especially meaningful because she’s also been on the receiving end of that support during pivotal moments in her own life.
Join us as Jenny shares her powerful story, offering insights into how community support can be both life-changing and life-giving. Her journey reminds us that we all have the ability to make a difference and that receiving help can be just as transformative as giving it.
Tune in for an uplifting discussion that will leave you inspired to foster connection and support in your own community.
Resource Links:
Foster Arizona
Foster Cooperative
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
Welcome to our podcast mini-series, where we dive into the transformative power of community support. Join us as we explore how fostering connections can truly change lives. To kick things off, we’re thrilled to welcome Joseph Layton to the show. Joseph has been a vital part of Foster Arizona’s housing initiative for over a year and a half, working tirelessly toward his goals and aspirations.
Guided by host Ashley, a dedicated Foster Arizona board member and longtime advocate, we’ll uncover the inspiring journey of someone who’s making big strides toward a brighter future. Ashley’s insight into Foster Arizona’s mission brings a unique perspective, helping us better understand the impact of communal support on those who need it most. Joseph’s story offers a firsthand look at what’s possible when people come together to create positive change.
Tune in as we discuss Joseph’s path, the challenges he’s faced, and the powerful role of organizations like Foster Arizona in helping individuals thrive. Get ready to be inspired by the stories, the resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of a community that cares.
Resource Links:
Foster Arizona: Foster Arizona
Foster Arizona Housing Project: Get Involved
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the important and often misunderstood topic of refugee and international foster care in Arizona. Misinformation around this issue tends to spread, especially around election seasons, making it hard to separate fact from fiction. Our goal is to shed light on the realities of refugee and international foster care and to offer you practical ways to support those involved.
We’re thrilled to welcome two special guests to help us unpack this topic: Erin Pelley and Adan Benitez. Together, we’ll explore the unique challenges and inspiring stories within the foster care system for refugee children, as well as the ways community members can provide support and make a lasting impact. Tune in to learn, dispel myths, and discover how you can be a part of positive change.
Resource Links:
Catholic Charities: Unaccompanied Minor Program | Catholic Charities.
Best Practices for Working with Unaccompanied Migrant Children - UNICEF: Best Practices for Working with Unaccompanied Migrant Children in Humanitarian Contexts
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In this episode, released during Invisible Disability Awareness Week, we shine a light on the often-overlooked challenges of living with invisible disabilities. We share our personal experiences navigating a world where assumptions are based on what can be seen. From expectations about how a child should behave to judgments about what adults are capable of, these perceptions can create unintentional barriers for those with invisible disabilities.
Join us as we explore how our interactions and assumptions affect others and discuss what it might look like to shift our approach. How can we create space for more understanding, allowing people to be seen for who they truly are? What happens when we let down our guards and give each other room to breathe? This episode invites listeners to reflect on how we can cultivate a more compassionate society—one that acknowledges the realities of invisible disabilities and fosters more mindful, inclusive connections.
Resource Link:
Programs 4 People - Invisible Disabilities® Association
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In this episode, we’re diving into an essential conversation about the role we all play—parents, caregivers, and community members—in supporting the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth. Even if you don’t feel this is directly relevant to your life, we encourage you to listen. Statistically, more than one in five Gen Z adults and one in ten millennial adults identify as LGBTQ+. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a significantly higher risk for homelessness, substance abuse, trauma, and suicide, with even greater risks for those who’ve experienced the foster care system.
These youth could be our neighbors, friends, children, or our kids’ friends, making it crucial for us to put down our guard and open our hearts.
To guide this discussion, we’re joined by Rochelle Rippy and Hira Ismail from one•n•ten, a nonprofit organization dedicated to serving LGBTQ+ youth and young adults ages 11-24. They provide critical services that promote self-expression, self-acceptance, leadership development, and healthy life choices. Let’s explore how we can all play a part in creating a more supportive, inclusive world for the LGBTQ+ youth in our lives.
Resource Links:
one•n•ten: one•n•ten
Tips for Parents of LGBTQ+ Youth: Tips for Parents of LGBTQ Youth | Johns Hopkins Medicine
Embodied: Transgender Identities, the Church, and What the Bible Has to Say: Sprinkle, Preston: 9780830781225: Amazon.com
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In this episode, we are honored to sit down with Mari Ramsey, whose inspiring journey began when he and his brother entered foster care at the age of 14. While many teens in his situation end up in group homes, Mari was fortunate to find a loving foster family where he could thrive. Through the challenges he faced, Mari discovered his passion for music, faith in God, and a calling to share his story with others. Join us as we listen to Mari’s heartfelt reflections on his experiences, the power of resilience, and how his love for music and faith shaped his path.
Resource Links:
Fostered for Greatness - Mari Ramsey - Fostered For Greatness
Foster and Adopt Information: Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In today’s episode, we dive into the world of group homes for children in foster care. When family or foster families aren't an option, group homes become the next step for many kids. But what is life really like inside these homes?
We’re joined by Shevaun Sullivan, Director of Group Home Relations at OCJ Kids, who shares her insights from years of experience. Shevaun discusses the day-to-day realities for kids in these environments and highlights the crucial role the community plays in supporting their well-being. If you’ve ever wondered how group homes function or how you can help make a difference, this conversation is a must-listen!
Resource Links:
OCJ Kids
What adolescents (or teenagers) need to thrive | Charisse Nixon | TEDxPSUErie
Gestures - Changing Minds, by Futures Without Violence
Dr. Bruce Perry: How the Neurosequential Model Can Be Used to Meet Children Where They Are
Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
Join us on location at Central Christian Church in Glendale, Arizona, for Foster Arizona’s semi-annual Foster Cooperative Training. This episode is packed with insightful talks from experts dedicated to empowering caregivers and community champions. Discover valuable knowledge and practical tools to better support the children who need us most. As we learn and grow together, we enhance our ability to make a meaningful impact in their lives. Tune in to be inspired and equipped to show up with greater purpose and compassion.
Resource Links:
Foster Cooperative
Taproot Therapy
Pure Phoenix
Lighthouse Psychiatry
Connect with us!Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In today’s episode, we’re diving deep into the concept of building resilience, particularly in children. We often hear about the importance of resilience, but what does it really mean? And more importantly, how can we help our kids develop this crucial skill? Resilience isn’t just about surviving challenges—it’s about learning to bounce back and thrive in the face of adversity. While there are many ways to nurture resilience, today, we’re focusing on a powerful and perhaps unexpected tool: art.
Art can be a transformative medium for children, offering them a way to process emotions, express themselves, and find healing. To explore this topic further, we’re excited to welcome Matt Sandoval, the Executive Director of Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona. This incredible local nonprofit is dedicated to providing trauma-informed programs that connect the community to the healing power of the arts. Matt brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to our discussion, and we’re grateful to have him with us as we explore how art can be a successful tool in building resilience in children.
Resource Links:
Free Arts for Abused Children of Arizona -
Free Arts
Video: 3 Art Therapy Activities to Boost Resilience Made from Dollar Tree Materials
3 Art Therapy Activities to Boost Resilience Made from Dollar Tree Materials
BOOK - I Can do Hard Things - Mindful Affirmations for Kids
I Can Do Hard Things: Mindful Affirmations for Kids: Garcia, Gabi, Russell, Charity: 9780998958088
Resilience Guide for Parents and Teachers
Resilience guide for parents and teachers
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In our last episode, we shared how our family embraces summer adventures. This time, we're diving into the real struggles we face, not just in summer, but every day. Join us as we explore the challenges and interventions that work for us.
We tackle road trips and outings, discussing how the struggle is real and how we manage in-car and outing behaviors, handling nighttime routines when you're the only adult or with another adult. We then shift our focus to home life, addressing challenges like out-of-control behaviors, unsafe car habits, dysregulation, and lack of sleep. We'll cover prevention strategies, therapy, additional supports, practice drills, preparing conversations, and identifying triggers. We also look at tips for taking care of yourself both on vacation and in everyday life, ensuring you can be present and supportive for your family.
Tune in for practical insights and relatable stories to help navigate family life with confidence and resilience.
Resource Links:
Raising Kids with Big, Baffling Behaviors: Gobbel, Robyn: 9781839974281: Amazon.com: Books
Lighthouse PsychiatryFoster Cooperative
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
As summer blazes in Arizona, we’re constantly on the move, seeking cooler escapes to preserve our sanity. Traveling with a family of nine is no small feat, and we’ve gathered a treasure trove of tips and tricks to make it smoother.
In this episode, we dive into Intentional Travel. Fresh from a recent timeshare presentation, we discuss the joys and challenges of discovering new experiences together and the importance of adventure in our family. We’ll share our favorite adventures and how we align them with our family goals.
Next, in The Planning Behind the Fun, we break down the essentials of gearing up for family trips. From our favorite Shacke Paks to specific bags for medications, bug spray, sunscreen, and more, we cover it all. Learn how we manage kid bags, hygiene kits, and day bags to keep everyone organized. We’ll also share tips on cooler prep, using Stasher Bags and Mason Jars, and our go-to kitchen bucket.
Our clothing plan includes an emergency washing kit and a portable clothing rack, plus how to plan laundry stops on the road. We’ll guide you through planning the fun with tools like the Road Tripper app and Google Docs for seamless travel details.
Lastly, we touch on the essentials of permits, advance tickets, seasonal activities, and international travel tips. And when things don’t go as planned, we’ll share our go-to interventions to keep the fun alive.
Join us for an insightful episode packed with practical advice for memorable family travels!
Resource Links:
Shacke Pak!: Shacke 5 Set Packing Cubes for Travel Lightweight Luggage Organizer (Precious Pink)
Wise Owl Towel: Amazon.com : Wise Owl Outfitters Camping Towel - Camping Accessories, Quick Dry Microfiber Towel for Travel, Hiking, Yoga, Workout, and Backpacking, Blue
Stasher Bags: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Stasher/page/72A85B6D-96FA-4F49-9D3D-156FABEC9DB6?ref_=ast_bln&store_ref=bl_ast_dp_brandLogo_sto
Portable Camping Kitchen Organizer: Portable Camping Kitchen Utensil Set-27 Piece Cookware Kit, Stainless Steel Outdoor Cooking and Grilling Utensil Organizer Travel Set Perfect for Travel, Picnics, RVs, Camping, BBQs, Parties and More
Water Dispenser: Water Bottle Pump 5 Gallon Water Bottle Dispenser USB Charging Automatic Drinking Water Pump Portable Electric Water Dispenser Water Bottle Switch (White) - Amazon.com
Roadtrippers app: Roadtrippers
Bonus Content:
Copy of Vehon 2023 Summer Trip Itinerary and Meal List: LINK TO DOWNLOAD FROM DRIVE: Copy of Vehon 2023 Summer Trip Itinerary & Meal List.pdf
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In this week's episode, we continue the important conversation started in Episode 184 “The Link Between Foster Care and Social Disparities”. If you haven’t had a chance to listen to it yet, we highly recommend checking it out to gain a deeper understanding of today’s discussion. June is Family Reunification Month, a time to celebrate families coming back together after separation due to child protective services. But what if reunification wasn’t necessary? What if we could focus more on prevention and support within our communities to keep families together in the first place? This week, we explore these critical questions with our returning guest, Claire Louge. Join us as we examiine how every one of us can play a role in supporting our neighbors and fostering stronger, more resilient communities. Don’t miss this insightful and thought-provoking episode!
Resource Links:
“Considering Yourself a Mandated Supporter” training: For Mandated Reporters - Prevent Child Abuse Arizona
Arizona - Triple P Parenting Education: Triple P Arizona
Non-Arizona Triple P Parenting Education: Triple P - Positive Parenting Program
Family Resource Centers: Arizona Family Resource Network - Find a Resource Center
Foster Cooperative: Foster Cooperative
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In honor of June being Family Reunification Month, today's episode sheds light on a crucial yet often overlooked issue in our community: the challenges and misconceptions surrounding birth families involved in the foster care system. As foster parents, we initially held unfair biases towards these families. However, through our journey, we've learned that various factors make some families more at risk of system involvement than others.
To deepen this conversation, we are thrilled to welcome Claire Louge, the Executive Director of Prevent Child Abuse Arizona. Claire is dedicated to strengthening families and protecting children. She is passionate about creating a supportive and welcoming community where everyone can access the resources they need. Her insights and dedication to family reunification will inspire and inform our discussion.
Join us as we explore the complexities of the foster care system, challenge our preconceptions, and learn how we can all contribute to a more understanding and supportive environment for families in need. We are grateful to have Claire share her expertise and heart with us, and we hope this episode fosters greater awareness and compassion within our community. Tune in and be part of this important conversation.
Resource Links:
Article: Contact with Child Protective Services is pervasive but unequally distributed by race and ethnicity in large US counties | PNAS
Protective Factors Framework - Center for the Study of Social Policy
“Considering Yourself a Mandated Supporter” training: For Mandated Reporters - Prevent Child Abuse Arizona
Community Opportunity Map
Blink by Malcolm Gladwell: https://a.co/d/1zrvSxg
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In honor of Foster Care Awareness Month, join us for an inspiring episode featuring a heartfelt conversation with my sister-in-law, Tara Armstrong. Tara played a pivotal role in our family's foster care journey, guiding us as we transitioned from having two kids to seven. Now, she has embarked on her own remarkable path. As a single mom of two, Tara opened her heart and home, adopting two children from the foster care system who were searching for their forever family. This episode delves into the challenges and triumphs of fostering and adoption, offering real talk and personal insights that highlight the profound impact one person can make. Tune in to hear Tara's story of love, resilience, and the transformative power of family.
Resource Links:
Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
Foster Cooperative
Arizona Association for Foster and Adoptive Parents
ASA Now
Families | Arizona 1.27
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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Summary:
In today's episode, we explore the profound impact of connections on well-being, particularly in the context of foster care. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention highlights the pivotal role of social connections in fostering healthy choices and better mental and physical health outcomes. However, many children entering foster care face profound disconnection from their familiar support networks, exacerbating challenges like stress, anxiety, and depression.
In Arizona, where the average foster child experiences two or more placements, the need for stable, nurturing relationships is starkly evident. Our guest, Freddie Hernandez, a former foster youth, shares his remarkable journey of resilience and transformation. With a degree in Digital Film and Video Production from The Art Institute of Phoenix, Freddie defied the odds, emerging as a beacon of hope in his community.
Join us as Freddie sheds light on how one caring adult can alter the trajectory of a young person's life. Through his passion for digital storytelling and filmmaking, Freddie exemplifies the power of connection and the ripple effect of mentorship. His story serves as a testament to the transformative potential inherent in human connection. We extend our gratitude to Freddie for lending his voice and invaluable experience to today's conversation. Tune in as we explore the profound impact of connection and the pathways to support and empower those navigating the foster care system.
Resource Links:
Foster Arizona | Foster & Adobt
Child Welfare Statistics: Arizona Children in Out-of-Home Care
Voices for CASA Children
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona
Get Involved
How Does Social Connectedness Affect Health? | CDC
Volunteer at Family Involvement Center
Book: Tattoos on the Heart
Connect with us!
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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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: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
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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: [email protected]
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
Instagram: @FosteringVoices
Web: www.fosterarizona.org
- Se mer
