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.
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56:31
Validation Hunting: How the "Bad Crowd" Recruits Foster Youth
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.
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The Healthy Selfishness of Sustainable Change-Making
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.
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Empowering Foster Youth through Education with Karla Padilla
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
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The Importance of Visibility for LGBTQ+ Youth - Thriver Stories w. Elliott Hinkle
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.
Welcome to Thriver Stories, the podcast series brought to you by the Foster Greatness Community! I’m your host, Isabel Stasa, and I’m thrilled to be your guide through these inspiring tales of resilience and triumph. And the not so sweet parts, too.
In each episode, we spotlight incredible individuals who share a common thread: they’ve all navigated the foster care system. These are not just stories; they’re powerful testaments to strength, hope, and the determination to thrive against all odds.
Ireland