Explore every episode of the podcast Thriver Stories

Most foster systems fail the very youth they’re supposed to protect—especially when it comes to LGBTQ+ young people. In this episode of Thrivers Stories, Nico—a formerly fostered trans youth from Georgia—shares raw, powerful insights into the emotional toll of being misnamed, misunderstood, and marginalized by a system meant to care. He talks about the dangerous impact of systemic refusal to honor his identity, from being denied gender-affirming clothing to having his name and pronouns dismissed. His message is clear: when your environment ignores or erases you, your act of simply existing is an act of rebellion. Perfect for social workers, foster parents, advocates, or anyone committed to transforming the foster care system, this episode challenges us to see the humanity behind the statistics. Nico’s courage reminds us that honoring identity isn’t just kindness—it’s survival. Tune in to understand how affirming a young person’s true self can be the first step toward systemic change.

In this episode, host Isabel Stasa welcomes Dejuna Rodriguez, who shares her journey through the foster care system and her mission to uplift voices with lived experiences. Dejuna discusses the challenges she faced entering foster care at 14, the impact of her mother's decisions, and the transformative power of finding community and support through organizations like Foster Success. The conversation delves into systemic issues within child welfare, the importance of compassionate leadership, and Dejuna's commitment to breaking generational cycles of foster care. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the role everyone plays in creating a supportive environment for foster youth.

In this episode of the Thriver Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa sits down with Joe Dolash, a former foster youth who shares his transformative journey from feeling burdened to believing in his potential. Joe opens up about the challenges he faced in the foster care system, the pivotal moments that reshaped his narrative, and the foster parent who helped him see beyond the labels. Join us as we explore themes of resilience, trust, and the power of a supportive community in rewriting one's story. Tune in to discover how Joe's experiences have shaped his path to becoming a psychology doctorate student and his message of hope for others navigating similar journeys.

In the premiere episode of Season 2 of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa is joined by Tai-Isha Jack to delve into the complexities of compliance as a trauma response. Join them as they explore Tai-Isha's personal journey from foster care to becoming a licensed clinical social worker. Through candid conversations, they uncover the hidden struggles behind being the "easy" case and the long-term effects of parentification. This episode offers a powerful narrative on resilience, healing, and the importance of creating spaces for authentic dialogue. Tune in to discover how past experiences shape our present and future.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, Rowan Arquette shares his journey of navigating an unconventional childhood marked by foster care and the complexities of morality and identity. He reflects on the importance of community, empathy, and understanding different perspectives, emphasizing that trauma is subjective and should not be compared. Rowan discusses the significance of forgiveness, self-acceptance, and the power of reinvention, ultimately encouraging listeners to embrace their unique stories and find purpose in their experiences.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Charissa, a passionate advocate for foster youth. Charissa shares her journey of growing up in a challenging environment, navigating identity suppression, and finding her voice through advocacy. The conversation delves into the impact of generational trauma, the importance of self-love, and the power of asking questions. Charissa emphasizes the significance of resilience and the role of advocacy in creating change for future generations. The episode concludes with a powerful message about self-worth and the journey of personal growth.

In this episode of the Thriving Stories podcast, Dashaan Jennings shares his journey from navigating the complexities of the New Jersey child welfare system to founding Str8 Up Employment Services. He discusses the importance of lived experience in shaping effective community support and employment initiatives for youth aging out of the foster care system. Dashaan emphasizes the need for policy reform, community engagement, and creative solutions to bridge gaps in employment access and support for marginalized individuals. The conversation highlights the critical role of empathy, understanding, and collaboration in driving meaningful change within communities.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Christina Travis, a passionate advocate for youth in foster care. Christina shares her personal journey through the foster care system, highlighting the importance of self-advocacy, the challenges she faced, and the impact of supportive adults in her life. The conversation delves into the struggles of navigating mental health, the significance of assertiveness, and the biases that youth in care often encounter. Christina emphasizes the need for youth to find their voice and seek support while navigating the complexities of the foster care system.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Elise Durham about her experiences in the foster care system, particularly focusing on the impact of being separated from her twin sister. Elise shares her journey through 32 placements over six years, the emotional toll of losing her twin bond, and the cultural context of family dynamics. The conversation delves into the instinct to protect siblings, the long-term effects of separation, and the struggles of reconnection. They also discuss the challenges of mental health treatment in foster care and the importance of honoring past selves while healing. Ultimately, the episode emphasizes the power of family beyond blood ties and the necessity of grieving lost relationships.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Jacqueline Robles, a passionate advocate for foster youth. They discuss Jacqueline's journey through the foster care system, her experiences with trauma, and the importance of healing. Jacqueline shares her insights on navigating higher education as a first-generation college student, the challenges of financial independence, and the complexities of building healthy relationships. The conversation emphasizes the significance of owning one's story while also recognizing the risks involved in sharing personal experiences. Jacqueline offers valuable advice for both foster youth and professionals working in the field, encouraging resilience and the pursuit of personal goals.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Madeline Villagrana discuss the complexities of lived experience in foster care, the importance of support systems, and the challenges faced by those advocating for others. They explore mental health issues, the need for self-advocacy, and the systemic flaws that impact foster youth. The conversation emphasizes the significance of setting boundaries, the role of community, and the necessity for empathy in support roles. Madeline shares her personal journey, highlighting the importance of recognizing one's own needs while helping others.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Alejandro Rocha, a college student who shares his journey through the foster care system and juvenile justice. Alejandro discusses his early life, family dynamics, and the challenges he faced as a child provider and protector. He recounts his experiences entering the foster care system, the harsh realities of group homes, and the impact of institutionalization on his life. The conversation delves into the struggles of seeking validation and connection amidst trauma, and Alejandro's reflections on the justice system's failures. This episode highlights the resilience of youth in the face of adversity and the importance of community support.

In this powerful episode of Thriver Stories, host Isabel Stasa sits down with youth advocate Jamarri Kane-White for an unfiltered conversation about the heart of foster care advocacy. Jamarri opens up about his personal journey, the challenges of tokenization in the movement, and why knowing your "why" is the key to sustainable change. They dive into the delicate balance of self-care and service, discussing why "healthy selfishness" is essential for long-term impact. Jamarri also shares his take on the nature vs. nurture debate, redefining success beyond accolades, and how to create space for authentic voices in advocacy work. Whether you're in the foster care community or an ally, this episode offers raw insights on purpose, resilience, and making change that lasts.

This week on Thriver Stories, Isabel Stasa sits down with Karla Padilla for a powerful conversation about:🚧 The real obstacles foster youth face in higher ed💡 Programs changing the game🔧 Fixing a broken system💛 How YOU can helpKarla’s journey from foster care to academia proves: With the right support, every young person can thrive.📚 Education is liberation. Tune in & be inspired to act! For more content like this, please join our community at https://community.fostergreatness.co/home#ThriverStories #FosterYouthEducation #BreakingTheCycle #FosterGreatness

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Elliott Hinkel discuss the pressing issues facing the LGBTQ community. They explore the importance of visibility, support for LGBTQ youth, and the significance of gender-affirming care. The conversation also delves into the impact of recent executive orders on LGBTQ rights, the resources available for community support, and Elliott’s June event 'Visible and Unstoppable.' Elliott emphasizes the power of affirming identity in youth and the role of meaningful allyship in advocating for LGBTQ rights. 

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest host Rimy Morris engage with the Foster Greatness Storyteller Collective ambassadors, who share their experiences in foster care and the impact of storytelling. The conversation explores themes of vulnerability, mental health awareness, community support, and the importance of taking control of personal narratives. The Storytellers reflect on their journeys, the challenges of sharing their stories, and the power of community in fostering growth and resilience. They discuss the role of social media in advocacy and the lessons learned throughout their collective experience, emphasizing the significance of authenticity and connection in their storytelling efforts. In this conversation, participants reflect on their experiences in the Storyteller Collective, discussing the valuable mindsets and habits they've developed. They emphasize the importance of community, validation, and the need for ongoing advocacy in foster care. The discussion includes hot takes on various aspects of advocacy, highlighting the complexities and challenges faced by foster youth. Participants express their hopes for the future and the impact of their work, underscoring the significance of sharing stories and continuing the dialogue around foster care.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, Isabel Stasa and Antoinette Gutierrez discuss the emotional journey of revisiting court records as a foster care alumni. They explore the healing process, the importance of understanding family dynamics, and the impact of foster care on identity and relationships. Antoinette shares her experiences of vulnerability, self-compassion, and the significance of establishing non-negotiables in self-care. The conversation emphasizes the need for forgiveness, self-worth, and finding joy amidst challenges, while also providing tools for processing trauma and building resilience.

In this inspiring new episode of Thriver Stories, host Isabel Stasa sits down with Abril Leonyvelez from the Storyteller Collective for an unforgettable conversation about turning struggle into strength.

Abril shares her powerful journey from foster care to becoming a fierce advocate, highlighting how storytelling transformed her pain into purpose. Discover how the Guardian Scholars program offered Abril vital support, helping her overcome barriers and empowering her to become a voice for change.

In this candid talk, Abril emphasizes why storytelling can be lifesaving, offering advice on how to reclaim your narrative and live unapologetically. She also sheds light on the importance of year-round support for foster youth, because advocacy shouldn't just be limited to Foster Care Awareness Month.

Abril’s story is a testament to the incredible strength foster youth possess when given the community and courage to thrive.

✨ Listen now and get inspired to rewrite your own future!

#ThriverStories #FosterGreatness #FosterYouthVoices #StorytellerCollective #SC25

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa interviews Majd Abdallah, a member of the Foster Greatness Storyteller Collective and founder of Foster Friendz.

Majd shares his personal journey as a foster care advocate and the inspiration behind his business, Foster Friendz, which provides stuffed animals to children in foster care.

The conversation explores the importance of storytelling, community, and authenticity in advocacy, as well as practical advice for those looking to share their own stories.

Majd emphasizes the need for boldness in taking steps toward change and the significance of understanding one's motivations in the storytelling process.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Taylor Rockhold discuss the importance of storytelling in the context of foster care awareness. They explore Taylor's personal journey through foster care and incarceration, the healing power of sharing one's story, and the challenges of vulnerability in a public space.

The conversation also addresses the risks and rewards of using social media for advocacy and the significance of community support in personal growth and empowerment. In this conversation, Taylor Rockhold shares her journey from adversity to achievement, emphasizing the importance of accountability in relationships and the true meaning of resilience.

She reflects on her experiences in foster care, the misconceptions surrounding resilience, and the significance of having a supportive figure in her life. Taylor's story is a powerful testament to the idea that one's current situation does not define their future, and she encourages others to pursue their dreams despite challenges.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, Isabel and Jennifer Tai discuss the importance of the Storyteller Collective, a program designed to empower individuals with lived experience in the foster care system.

Jennifer shares her personal journey of advocacy, resilience, and the significance of community support. They explore the complexities of resilience, the power of storytelling, and the impact of sharing one's narrative.

The conversation emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding towards foster youth, encouraging listeners to engage and support this vulnerable population.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel engages with Chyenne Santini, a Storyteller Collective Ambassador and former foster youth, discussing her journey from foster care to becoming an advocate. They explore themes of resilience, the importance of sharing personal stories, and the impact of the Storyteller Collective. Chyenne emphasizes the need for authenticity in storytelling and the significance of fostering greatness in others. The conversation also addresses the risks of vulnerability in the digital age and the importance of supporting foster youth through understanding and compassion.

In this episode of Thrive Our Stories, Isabel interviews Emmerald Evans, a member of the Storyteller Collective, discussing her journey as an advocate for foster youth.

They explore the importance of sharing personal stories, the definition of resilience, and the role of community support in fostering greatness among young people.

Emmerald emphasizes the need for authenticity in storytelling, the challenges of navigating social media, and the significance of leaning in to support foster youth.

The conversation highlights the power of lived experiences and the ongoing need for systemic change in the foster care system.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Ray Barboza, a first-generation college student navigating the challenges of higher education after experiencing foster care. They discuss the importance of support systems like the RISE program at Ohio State University, the transition from smaller colleges to larger universities, and the misconceptions surrounding college life. Ray shares his journey of overcoming personal struggles, the significance of scholarships and financial aid, and the life skills he learned through foster care programs. The conversation emphasizes the need for mentorship and community support for first-gen students, particularly those from foster backgrounds, as they prepare for and navigate college life.Takeaways:Ray found the RISE program later in his college journey, which provided essential support.Transitioning from a small college to a large university was overwhelming for Ray.Ray initially doubted his ability to succeed in college due to his background.Graduating from Columbus State was a significant achievement for Ray.Ray emphasizes the importance of self-care and maintaining relationships during college.Finding resources and asking questions were key strategies for Ray in college.Ray's experience highlights the unique challenges faced by first-gen students from foster care.Financial aid and scholarships played a crucial role in funding Ray's education.Life skills classes in foster care helped prepare Ray for college life.Ray encourages others to take it day by day and believe in their potential.

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa speaks with Latasha Williams, a former foster youth and current doctoral student, about her journey through the foster care system. Latasha shares her 'rise strong story,' emphasizing the importance of self-love, faith, and resilience in overcoming challenges. She discusses the complexities of her identity, the emotional turmoil of re-entering foster care, and the stigma associated with being a foster youth. The conversation highlights the need for understanding and support for young people navigating similar experiences. In this conversation, Latasha Jean Williams shares her journey through the foster care system, highlighting the challenges of navigating stress, the importance of self-advocacy, and the complexities of transitioning to adulthood. She reflects on her college experience, the emotional weight of achievements, and the necessity of creating one's own narrative. Latasha emphasizes the importance of resilience and empowerment for foster youth, encouraging them to push beyond societal expectations and define their own stories.

In this episode of Thrivers Stories, MK Sills shares her profound journey through the foster care system, detailing her experiences from a seemingly normal childhood to the traumatic events that led her into care. She discusses the challenges of transitioning into foster care, navigating high school, and the impact of media exposure on her identity. MK emphasizes the importance of redefining oneself and the power of sharing her story, especially during National Foster Care Awareness Month. As she prepares for her next chapter in education and independence, she offers valuable advice to current and former foster youth.

Join us for an inspiring episode of Thriver Stories with host Isabel Stasa as she sits down with Taylor Rockhold, a passionate youth advocate and former foster youth. In this conversation, Taylor shares her experiences within the juvenile justice system, her challenges growing up in foster care, and her ongoing journey toward healing and independence. Through her personal story, Taylor highlights the critical role of resilience, education, and support in helping foster youth find their footing. She also offers hope and valuable insights—reminding each of us that no matter how tough our circumstances may be, our current situation does not define our future. If you or someone you know has been touched by the foster care system, you won’t want to miss Taylor’s powerful message of perseverance and self-discovery. Let’s come together to support one another and continue moving forward on the path to thriving.

Join us on Thrivers Stories Podcast for a powerful conversation with the amazing Michael D. Davis-Thomas (@MDDTSpeaks). 🎙️We delve into Michael's incredible journey of:➡️ Overcoming adversity and trauma➡️ Finding resilience through faith 🙏➡️ The importance of self-care and forgiveness➡️ Healing from grief and navigating family relationships 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦➡️ Turning pain into purpose ✨This episode is packed with wisdom and inspiration for anyone seeking healing and growth.Join the community for more content like this! community.fostergreatness.co

Ever wondered what it's like to navigate life's transitions after foster care? 🤔Join us as we chat with the incredible Tay Lee (@taystunnaaaa), a former foster youth who bravely shares her journey through the system and into adulthood. 💪We dive deep into:➡️ Entering foster care as an older youth➡️ Adapting to structured environments➡️ The emotional rollercoaster of transitioning to college 🎢➡️ The power of advocacy and support systemsTay's story is one of resilience, determination, and hope. ✨ Don't miss this insightful episode!See more content like this on community.fostergreatness.co!

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, host Isabel Stasa and guest Jas Snell delve into the complexities of relationships, particularly in the context of the foster care system.

They explore how early experiences shape perceptions of trust and vulnerability, the importance of informal relationships, and the shifts in mindset needed to foster healthy connections.

The conversation emphasizes the significance of community, the impact of giving, and the necessity of recognizing the value of relationships in personal growth and healing.

Summary

In this episode of the Thrivers Stories podcast, Isabel Stasa and Rimy Morris discuss the complexities of relationships within the foster care system.

They explore how unique family dynamics can flourish despite societal expectations, the importance of communication and grace, and the role of older siblings in navigating the child welfare system.

Rimy shares her experiences and insights from her own family background, emphasizing the need for forgiveness and understanding in building strong relationships.

The conversation also highlights the resources offered by Rimy's business, The Collective, aimed at supporting families in the foster care system.

In this conversation, Isabel Stasa and Carloe Moser explore the complexities of relationships, particularly in the context of trauma and foster care. They discuss how relationships shape our identities, the importance of empathy and forgiveness, and the role of vulnerability in building lasting connections.

Carloe shares his personal journey of navigating relationships after experiencing trauma, emphasizing the need for community and support. The conversation highlights the often overlooked aspects of relationships, such as grief and the impact of past experiences on current connections. In this conversation, Carloe Moser and Isabel Stasa explore the depth of relationships, contrasting transactional interactions with transformative connections.

They discuss the importance of compassion, vulnerability, and forgiveness in building meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally. Carloe shares his journey of healing from trauma and the internal work required to foster authentic connections. The episode emphasizes the significance of relationships in life and encourages listeners to reflect on their own relational dynamics.

In this episode, Isabel Stasa and Faith Sharp delve into the complex topic of grief, exploring its various forms and the challenges of navigating relationships while grieving. They discuss the societal perceptions of grief, the importance of community support, and the necessity of acknowledging and processing grief, even in the context of living relationships. The conversation highlights the role of humor as a coping mechanism and emphasizes the need for open discussions about grief to foster understanding and healing.

In this conversation, Isabel Stasa and Faith Sharp explore the complexities of grief, particularly in relation to physical spaces, relationships, and the emotional challenges that arise during significant life events. They discuss how grief can manifest in unexpected ways, such as during weddings or birthdays, and the importance of acknowledging these feelings.

The dialogue emphasizes the need for vulnerability in discussing grief and the healing that comes from acceptance and open communication about loss.

Summary

In this episode of Thrivers Stories, Isabel Stasa and Rhiannon Matulewich discuss the critical intersection of mental health and foster care. Rhiannon shares her personal journey through foster care, her experiences with bipolar disorder, and the importance of understanding and empathy in navigating mental health challenges. They explore the systemic issues within foster care, including the impact of placement disruptions, the role of medication, and the necessity of creating safe environments for youth. The conversation emphasizes the need for professionals and caregivers to listen actively and provide support to foster youth, highlighting that kindness and understanding can significantly influence their healing and development.

In this episode of Thriver Stories, Isabel Stasa and Ash Barcus discuss the critical intersection of mental health, disability, and the foster care system. Ash shares their personal experiences navigating care with disabilities, highlighting the systemic issues that lead to misdiagnosis, lack of healthcare access, and the internalization of harmful messages about disability.

The conversation emphasizes the need for better training for care workers, the importance of listening to disabled voices, and the urgent need for systemic change to support youth in care.

Takeaways

Disability in the context of child welfare is a significant gap that needs addressing.

The phrase 'nothing about us without us' is rooted in disability rights movements.

Healthcare access for disabled youth in foster care is often inadequate.

Misdiagnosis in the foster care system can lead to long-term health issues.

Internalizing disbelief from caregivers can impact self-advocacy.

The system often treats disabled youth as dangerous rather than providing support.

There is a need for trauma-informed care in healthcare settings.

Disabled individuals should be seen as experts in their own experiences.

The foster care system needs to track disability accurately for better support.

Advocacy for policy changes is essential to improve the lives of disabled youth in care.

In this episode, Isabel Stasa and Brandon Youngblood discuss the importance of education for individuals with lived experience in foster care. They highlight the barriers and challenges that these individuals face, such as placement disruptions, unstable housing, and lack of financial resources.

They emphasize the need for consistent support systems and mentors to help navigate the educational journey. They also discuss the importance of raising awareness about foster care and dispelling stereotypes. Overall, the conversation highlights the need for greater support and resources to ensure educational success for individuals in foster care.

Takeaways

Individuals with lived experience in foster care face unique barriers and challenges in pursuing education, such as placement disruptions and unstable housing.

Consistent support systems and mentors play a crucial role in helping individuals navigate the educational journey and overcome obstacles.

Raising awareness about foster care and dispelling stereotypes is important to create a more supportive and inclusive educational environment.

Greater support and resources are needed to ensure educational success for individuals in foster care.

In this episode of Thrivers Stories, Isabel Stasa interviews Eugenia Wallace, an NFYI delegate and advocate for foster youth.

They discuss the challenges and barriers that people wiht lived experience in foster care face in higher education and the importance of providing resources and support. Eugenia shares her personal journey through higher education and the difficulties she encountered as a young youth in foster care.

They also discuss the College Housing Affordability Act, a piece of legislation that aims to expand housing options for foster youth in college campuses. Eugenia emphasizes the need for awareness, support, and advocacy to address the barriers faced by youth in foster care in higher education.

Brina Williams shares their experience transitioning into higher education as a young person with lived experience in foster care. They discuss the importance of campus-based support programs and how they provide holistic support in various life domains.

Brina also highlights the challenges and barriers that young people in foster care face when pursuing higher education, such as financial assistance and lack of support networks. They emphasize the need for more accessible resources and networks to help young people navigate the college application process and succeed in their educational goals.

The conversation explores the barriers and challenges faced by young people with lived experience in foster care when it comes to accessing higher education. The lack of knowledge about available resources and support is identified as a major barrier for both young people and professionals in the child welfare system. The importance of organizations like Fostering Success Michigan (FSM) and Fostering Academic Achievement Nationwide (FAN) in providing support and resources is highlighted. The need for collaboration and interstate cooperation is emphasized to improve access to education for foster youth.

The conversation concludes with a call to create quick guide sheets and fact sheets to help professionals navigate the resources available and support young people in their educational journey.

Summary

In this episode of Thriver Stories, host Isabel Stasa interviews Stormy Lucas Savage, a foster care advocate, about the experience of being tokenized in the foster care advocacy space and the need for equitable opportunities. Stormy shares his journey into advocacy and the pros and cons he encountered along the way. He emphasizes the importance of breaking through the glass ceiling of advocacy and creating more equitable access to opportunities. The conversation also explores the competitive nature of the foster care advocacy space and the impact of trauma Olympics. Stormy and Isabel discuss the need for organizations to be intentional in bringing people with lived experience to the table and equipping them with the necessary skills and support.

Dr. Danisha Keating discusses the concept of story thieves, which refers to individuals who take other people's stories for their own benefit without giving credit. She shares her personal experience of encountering story thieves in the foster care advocacy space.

Dr. Keating highlights how fear and distrust impact advocates' ability to have collective power and take collective action. She emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, valuing one's own story, and vetting individuals before collaborating with them. The conversation explores the pattern of story theft and competition within the foster care advocacy community. It highlights the harm caused by individuals stealing stories and voices, which not only affects individuals but also diminishes collective power.

The conversation emphasizes the need for unity and collaboration among advocates, rather than competition and gatekeeping. It discusses the fear of uplifting each other and the tendency to view fellow advocates as threats to one's own success. The conversation also addresses the issue of ageism in advocacy and the importance of intergenerational collaboration.

It concludes with a call to prevent story theft and competition by standing up against harmful practices and creating inclusive spaces for advocacy.

In this episode of Thrivers Stories, Faith Sharp discusses her experience as an advocate in the foster care space and the need for improvement in the advocacy experience. She shares how she got involved in advocacy and the various opportunities she has pursued.

Faith emphasizes the importance of community and connection among advocates and the need for authentic engagement and support from organizations and agencies. She highlights the trauma and pressure that advocates often face and the need for programs to be designed with the input and needs of young advocates in mind.

Faith also calls for a shift in the way organizations engage with advocates, moving beyond just collecting feedback to actively collaborating and implementing changes.

In this conversation, host Isabel Rodriguez interviews Scout Hartley, a longtime advocate and public administration scholar, about the foster care movement and the importance of intergenerational collaboration.

They discuss the need to burst the bubble of the movement and expand its reach beyond the child welfare space. They highlight the power of lived experience and the value of including older advocates in the conversation.

They also explore the role of government and agencies in sustaining and driving the movement forward. Overall, they emphasize the need for collective action and the democratization of the movement.

In this episode, host Isabel Rodriguez interviews Tony Parsons, an advocate and expert in the child welfare space. They discuss the harms of tokenization in advocacy and the importance of authentic engagement and lived expertise.

Tony shares his journey into advocacy and the lessons he has learned along the way, including the emotional toll of the work and the need for self-care. They also explore the need for diverse voices in the advocacy space and the impact of tokenization on individuals' sense of self-worth and the overall movement for change.

In this conversation, Isabel Rodriguez and Tony Parsons discuss the professionalization and tokenization of young advocates in the child welfare system. They explore the pressure to curate one's story to meet the agenda of organizations and the expectations of audiences. They also discuss the importance of authenticity and the need to challenge the traditional standards of professionalism.

They highlight the need for more inclusive and equitable advocacy programs and opportunities, and the importance of amplifying the voices of those who are often overlooked.

The conversation emphasizes the power of unvarnished and undiluted stories in creating meaningful change.

Takeaways

Tokenization in advocacy can devalue individuals' experiences and limit their contributions to their personal stories.

The emotional toll of advocacy work highlights the need for self-care and support.

Diverse voices and experiences are essential in the advocacy space to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the issues and effective solutions.

Organizations should actively work to avoid tokenization and create spaces that embrace individuals who may not fit the traditional mold of an advocate.

Empathy and compassion are important skills for advocates, but they should not be the sole criteria for inclusion in the advocacy space. Advocates in the child welfare system often feel pressure to curate their stories to meet the agenda of organizations and the expectations of audiences.

The traditional standards of professionalism in advocacy can be exclusionary and silencing, leaving out the voices and experiences of many young advocates.

Advocacy programs and opportunities should be more inclusive and equitable, considering the diverse backgrounds and experiences of young advocates.

Authenticity is crucial in advocacy, and advocates should not feel the need to water down their stories or change who they are to be accepted in professional spaces.

The power of unvarnished and undiluted stories is essential in creating meaningful change and reform in the child welfare system.