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Explore every episode of the podcast Wards of the State

Dive into the complete episode list for Wards of the State. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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1–50 of 90

TitlePub. DateDuration
Ep: 79 "Diana"30 Jun 202500:53:18
In this episode, Karlos Dillard interviews Diana Colon, who shares her harrowing journey from being born in Russia and living in orphanages to being adopted in America. Diana recounts her traumatic experiences in the orphanage, including abuse and neglect, and the challenges she faced in her adoptive home. Despite the struggles, Diana emphasizes the importance of resilience and healing, and she offers valuable advice for future adoptees. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of sharing one's narrative.

Takeaways
Diana's early life in Russia was marked by hardship and neglect. She faced unique challenges as the only black child in her orphanages. Diana experienced severe trauma and abuse during her time in the orphanage. Adoption brought new challenges, including cultural and language barriers. Diana struggled to communicate her past trauma to her adoptive family. Therapy was difficult for Diana as she couldn't open up about her experiences. Diana's relationship with her adoptive mother was complicated and strained. She found solace in her siblings, who provided support during tough times. Diana emphasizes the importance of sharing one's story for healing. She encourages future adoptees to seek understanding and support in their journeys.

Follow her on Tiktok

Watch the Video Podcast! 

If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form. 

Ep: 78 "Shantel"17 Jun 202500:53:30
In this episode, Karlos Dillard speaks with Shantel about her experiences as a kinship adoptee. They discuss the challenges of growing up in an adoptive home, the impact of abuse and neglect, and the importance of resilience and support systems. Shantel shares her journey through teenage pregnancy, navigating relationships with her biological family, and the resources available for young parents. They also explore the concept of the 'adoption fog' and the necessity of therapy for adoptive families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sharing lived experiences to create change and support others in similar situations.


Watch the Video Podcast! 

If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here

Ep: 77 "Shana"27 May 202500:48:31
In this episode, Karlos Dillard and Shana discuss the complexities of adoption, including the importance of sharing personal stories, the trauma associated with being adopted, and the role of therapists in understanding adoptee experiences. Shana shares her own adoption story, the challenges of identity, and the impact of closed adoptions on her life. They also explore the legal implications of adoption and the emotional journey of reunification with birth family, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and reform in the adoption industry.

Watch the Video Podcast! 

If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here.



Ep: 76 "Dr. Cre"05 May 202501:31:02
Hey Lightshiners! In this engaging conversation, Karlos Dillard and Dr. Cre explore the importance of building relationships and support systems for youth, particularly those in foster care. They discuss the significance of creating safe spaces, effective communication, and the role of structure and boundaries in fostering healthy development. Dr. Cre shares insights from her experiences and emphasizes the need for adults to be open, nurturing, and willing to learn from young people. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by foster parents and the necessity of addressing their own traumas to better support the children in their care. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of love, understanding, and intentionality in guiding youth towards a brighter future. 

Please follow Dr. Cre on social media @IamDrCre and check out her website 

Takeaways
Relationships are crucial for youth development.
Creating safe spaces helps children feel secure.
Open communication fosters trust and understanding.
Foster parents must address their own traumas.
Structure and boundaries provide stability for youth.
Empowering youth through choices builds confidence.
Teaching negotiation skills is essential for independence.
Support systems are vital for overcoming challenges.
Nurturing relationships requires effort and intention.
Youth need to feel loved and respected to thrive.

Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube 

If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here

Ep: 75 "Jasmine"27 Mar 202500:48:21
Hey, Light Shiners! I am joined by Jasmine, a foster youth who shares her experience. She also speaks to us about what it is like being a kinship caregiver herself!

Watch the Video Podcast

Join me for the “Bring the Light to Truth Book Tour 2025!

If you would like to be on the show, please sign up here

Ep: 74 "Hart & Michael"28 Feb 202501:03:21
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Hart, who is a pre-birth match adoptee who is joined by their biological brother Michael. They speak about how reunification has been for them and Hart speaks about having a net-positive adoption, but still feeling the loss of their sibling 

Watch the Video Podcast!

Join me for the “Bring the Light to Truth Book Tour 2025!


If you would like to be on the show, please sign up here 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate!
Ep: 73 "Jasmine"04 Feb 202500:40:53
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Jasmine a former foster youth who has just aged out of foster care. She speaks about life in group homes and how she made a plan to make it out of the system without being institutionalized.

Watch the Video Podcast HERE! 

Check me out on Patreon and get 1 on 1 time to get your questions answered!

If you would like to be on the show please sign up HERE! 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! 

Sign up for our monthly newsletterhttps://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0PWFLf8bZ1Vyx6j74oG5swf-3BA_DiX3S7bHsm82ZBPF11w/viewform?usp=previewThe Ward Connection.
Ep: 72 "Lisa"25 Jan 202501:04:50
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Lisa an adoptee who didn’t find out she was adopted until she was 7 or 8. She also shares about the abuse she survived at the hands of her stepbrother. We share reunification stories and end the podcast with advice for one another. 

Watch the Video Podcast! https://www.youtube.com/@KarlosDillard 
www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 71 "MGD"14 Jan 202500:50:45
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by MGD a former foster youth. She speaks about her struggle with her identity and how a DNA test helps discover who she truly is. 

www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true 
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 70 "Tara"01 Jan 202501:07:05
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Tara who is a transracial adoptee and she shares her experience with dealing with religious trauma from the Mormon church. She also speaks about how she still loves her white adoptive parents but struggles with her racial identity.

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true 

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeZwdv6RQrI49p0kqtzBblV5eQIGAE81dV3Ey3ZQRgmWOeS1A/viewform?usp=preview 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
EP: 69 "Cassidy"17 Dec 202400:59:16
Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Cassidy a former foster youth who was being abused by her birth brother in their home. She speaks about how hard reunification can be and how child abuse can cause lifelong trauma in families.

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true 

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
We Are Back!25 Nov 202400:02:11
I am so excited to share with you more stories of lived experiences so we can all learn and grow! 

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Parents Special: Laura18 Jun 202400:28:31
Hey Light Shiners!  I am joined by Laura a birth mom who almost lost her kids to the system because of a mental health crisis. She speaks about co-parenting with an abusive Ex-spouse and how she was alienated as a mom.
 
Follow the guest on social media! @Iwinnard1982 also check out her business at Crystal Hope Creations
 
Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Parent Special: CJ (update)05 Jun 202400:51:32
Hey Light Shiners!  I am joined by CJ a birth father who was on the show 2 years ago. He gives us an update and how he has been advocating for himself and his daughter. 

Follow the guest on social media! @Childlessparent

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
 
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Family Special: ShaVonnda16 May 202401:29:36
Hey Light Shiners!  I am joined by ShaVonnda, a birth aunt who helped her brother fight the family policing system and tried to adopt his daughter out to foster parents. They fought for 8 years and won! 

Follow the guest on social media! @kinship.is.care (tiktok) @Emily_brooks_foundation

Support this family and fight back! https://www.gofundme.com/f/u2prd-bringing-emily-home?qid=64b886178566f29b75ddd2a49f67e4c7

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 68 "George"18 Apr 202400:40:03
Hey Light Shiners!  I am joined by George a native adoptee who had a net positive adoption experience. He talks about how his adoptive parents keep his birth family and culture involved while growing up and why ICWA is so important.

Follow the guest on social media! @Ibakedinupiaq
 
Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 67 "Scottie"03 Apr 202400:48:26
Hey Light Shiners! THERE IS A SUICIDE TRIGGER WARNING in this episode. I am joined by Scottie a same-race Black adoptee who shares about their net-positive adoption experiences and religion trauma. We do speak about assisted suicide so please use caution listening and speak to mental health professionals If you are having suicidal thoughts. Always Shine Your Ligjht.

Follow the guest on social media! @scottieslittlelife 

   Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 66 "Petrea"25 Mar 202400:39:54
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Petrea an international adoptee who was adopted from Russia. She speaks on her net-positive adoption and how isolating it was to grow up in a single-mother household.

Follow the guest on social media! @dosvidaniyababy6669    

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true 

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Come march with me ! https://www.blackmothersmarch.com/
Ep: 65 "Tiffany"11 Mar 202400:48:56
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Tiffany and adoptee who shares her story about her adoption, her adoptive parents divorce and how that affected her life.
 
Follow the guest on social media! @Sistatiph     

Join the BLACK MOTHERS MARCH! https://www.blackmothersmarch.com/

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true 

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url 

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
EP: 64 "Shellie"27 Feb 202401:02:56
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Shellie who speaks about how her adoptive parents paid for her and how that made her feel.

Follow the guest on social media! @ShellBell

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 63 "Sandra"05 Feb 202401:09:31
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Sandra a foster youth and adoptee whose story will shock you. She shares her experience of being adopted twice...will at least she THOUGHT she was adopted.

Follow the guest on social media! @chickanddog

PRESELL for BOOK @ HERE

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
The Truth About Will26 Jan 202401:04:01
Hey, Lightshiners! In this episode, I am interviewing Will Powerrr an adoptive father who went viral on TikTok for brushing his Transracial adoptee's hair. After going viral and facing backlash Will came onto my Tiktok Live to share his lived experience.

Please be sure to check out the 2024 Black Mothers March on Washington Black Mothers March
Ep: 62 "Rosie"17 Jan 202400:54:14
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Rosie who speaks about her childhood and reuniting with her birth family. She explains that reunification is not easy and explains why.

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate!
https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 61 "Ginger"28 Dec 202300:52:53
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Ginger, a foster youth bounced between many foster placements and group homes. She speaks about how she could age out and access the resources but how difficult that process was.

Follow the guest on social media! @gingerchaney07

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 60 "Holly"20 Dec 202300:37:51
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Holly who explains to us how she was illegally adopted and how that affected her life.

Follow the guest on social media! @YAYA

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 59 "Keziah"30 Nov 202300:55:07
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Keziah an adoptee who was separated from her twin sister at birth. She speaks about the death of her adoptive mother and how her adoptive father supported her. Keziah also talks about how it is growing up without her Romani culture.

Follow the guest on social media! @ Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 57 "David"08 Nov 202300:37:33
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by David a foster youth who shares his experiences bouncing between group homes and foster homes as a child growing up. He shares how he created safety nets for himself like going to college to become successful/

Follow the guest on social media! @

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 56 "Barbara"04 Nov 202300:46:43

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Barbara a former foster youth and adoptee. With over 25 years of private practice as a ministerial counselor, Barbara Lane has dedicated herself to serving individuals and families. Her educational background in human development, social sciences, and family psychology, with a specialization in child abuse, fuels her passion for sharing expertise on topics close to her heart.

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 55 "Diamond"24 Oct 202300:36:21
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Diamond who aged out of foster care. She shares her experience entering the foster care system and how it has affected her.


Follow the guest on social media! @Theelevenshop_ Watch the video of this episode only on

Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 54 "Kristyn"10 Oct 202300:54:37
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Kristyn an adoptee who was given up at birth by her biological mother. She speaks about how her adoption was positive overall but had an issue with reunification as an adult.

Follow the guest on social media! @ThaNuggetsMom17

Do you want to see Karlos speak as a Keynote Speaker in Virginia in November? Check out the Identity Theft Conference. Get more info here https://e.givesmart.com/events/wGC/

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 53 "Cult Adoptee"28 Sep 202300:40:08
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Cult Adoptee who was adopted into a religious cult… hence their name! They tell us about their experience as a young child being brainwashed into a cult that made them think that everything they did wrong would send them to hell.

Follow the guest on social media! @cultadoptee

Wanna see Karlos speak as a Keynote Speaker in Virginia in November? Check out the Identity Theft Conference.
Get more info here https://e.givesmart.com/events/wGC/
Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep 52: "Cammie"21 Sep 202301:04:06
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Cammie a fictive kin adoptee whose birth mother died of cancer and was placed for adoption. Cammie talks about the trials she experienced as a Black child growing up in a white household. This is a POWERFUL episode.
Follow the guest on social media! @Thespeckled1

Do you want to see Karlos speak as a Keynote Speaker in Virginia in November? Check out the Identity Theft Conference. Get more info here https://e.givesmart.com/events/wGC/

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 51 "Carrie"05 Sep 202300:45:14
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Carrie who grew up in kinship care. She shares her experience with her birth parents and her family guardians. We speak about mental health and how she has been able to navigate the trauma she experienced as a child.

Do you want to see Karlos speak as a Keynote Speaker in Virginia in November? Check out the Identity Theft Conference. Get more info here https://e.givesmart.com/events/wGC/

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

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Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
2 Year Anniversary!17 Jul 202300:02:47
See you in September! Always Shine Your Light!
Ep: 49 "Jen"29 Jun 202300:38:13
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Jen an adoptee adoptee who was left in the hospital as an infant was started the first couple years of her life in and out of foster care until she was adopted at 5.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @TranceJen

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard

As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard *just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 48 "Mack"20 Jun 202300:53:06
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Mack a Former Foster youth and adoptee who shares his experience of being adopted with his twin living with an abusive adoptive mother.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @mackthemuser

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

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Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Parents Special "Carlos"01 Jun 202300:48:34
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Carlos a biological father whose daughter was unjustly taken from his custody. This is a very emotional episode because we speak to this father as he is going to the CPS to pick up his daughter for the first time since she was removed.

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Parents Special "Stâurm"26 May 202300:59:55
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Stâurm a biological parent who is disabled and fighting for her children. She has faced many challenges but says she will never give up.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @OperationRhiannon

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard *just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Biological Parents Special "Ebony"02 May 202300:56:40
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Ebony a former foster who is a 32-year-old Afro-Caribbean mother of 4 children, her Afro-Indiginous Son ( my eldest) was apprehended in 2016 by Family and Children Services. They refused to turn the file over to Native Child and family services and did not offer a placement in the Native community as an option.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @operationbringisaiahhome

Support this Parent here! (https://gofund.me/208ea305)

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 47 "Tracey"20 Apr 202300:45:26
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Tracey an adoptee whose adoptive mother died and she was displaced with her siblings. She speaks about how awful it felt to hear her adoptive extended family says they didn't want them and how she survived.
Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @traceyhughes

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing It's for under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?
u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 46 "Outspoken Adoptee"13 Apr 202300:58:06
PLEASE SUPPORT THIS ADOPTEE WITH THEIR MOVE! bio.site/TheOutspokenAdoptee

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Outspoken Adoptee who is a Transracial adoptee who shares her experience with us. She speaks about the childhood sexual assault she survived at the hands of her adoptive father and we hear her question him and hold him accountable for his actions.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @theoutspokenadoptee

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard *just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 45 "DNA Picasso"04 Apr 202301:15:27
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Devin AKA DNA Picasso, a Black adoptee who was on the Maury Show with his twin brother to advertise them for adoption. He informs us about that experience as well as growing up and reunifying with his biological family. This episode completely blew my mind!!!!!

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @DNAPICASSO

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard *just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 44 "Jenny"26 Mar 202301:04:56
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Jenny an adoptee adopted at birth. She speaks about growing up in a household of adoptees and how she has been able to deal with the anger toward her adoptive mother.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @bellatora

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*pay shipping and Processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 43 "Karpoozy"14 Mar 202301:10:10
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Karpoozy an adoptee adopted at birth. She shares her troubling experience growing up with a medically fragile adoptive mother who used her as a live in nurse aid. She also speaks about how great her relationship is with her adoptive father and being rejected as an adult but her biological father. You don’t want to miss this one!
Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @Karpoozy

Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard

As a listener you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing Its under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 42 "DA"22 Feb 202300:49:43
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by DA a kinship adoptee who later in life found out that her cousin was actually her mother. DA’s story lets us know that Kinship placements aren’t always better. She also speaks about reunification and how hard but rewarding it can be.
Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @difficultadoptee


Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 41 "Caitlin"16 Feb 202300:51:35
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Caitlin who was adopted at birth. We speak about adoption trauma, bio-parent trauma, and corruption in the adoption industry. She shares some really touching experiences.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @Riley.and.scout


Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and Processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 40 "Mia"08 Feb 202300:48:35

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Mia an International Transracial Adoptee from Haiti who shares her experience of being adopted into a white family. She shares how her adoptive parents have learned to address the racism she faced as a child and what she faces today as a Black woman and a mother herself. Mia also shares her experience with her reunification and how she found her biological family.

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @Miathaicha


Check out Macy's Wine Shop here https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
As a listener, you will receive 3 FREE bottles of wine using my custom link! https://glnk.io/qzv16/karlosdillard
*just pay shipping and processing It's under $20!

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true

If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 39 "Meg"26 Jan 202300:54:07
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Meg who is a transracial adoptee who speaks about her transracial adoption, loss of cultural identify and reconnecting to ancestral roots.
Be sure to follow the guest on social media: South_skyclan
Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 38 "Sadie"17 Jan 202300:55:46
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Sadie who was in foster care for 1 month and then kinship care for 10 years. She explains the difficulties she faced with her kinship carer and tells me how I helped her reunite with her brother who was adopted at birth. This is a very special episode for me I usual never see how my help brings a family back together and now I have!


Be sure to follow the guest on social media:@Sadie.hough

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
Ep: 37 "Mireille & Marielle"10 Jan 202301:00:33
Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Marielle & Mireille who are identical twin sisters who were crown wards adopted by white parents on a small island. Their lived experience is straight out of a Disney movie how they found their birth mother and how they reunited with their father's side from another country. You don't want to miss this episode!

Be sure to follow the guest on social media: @housecoatmommy @mireilleadele

Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&fan_landing=true
If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdFZxNnCSntbuvjrxjjvZco3BmsCVNELmU1WzlYPCOongNNiA/viewform?usp=pp_url

Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e
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