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.
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46:56
Building Community - The Impact of Storytelling
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.
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1:14:43
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1:14:43
Understand Identity in Foster Care with Antoinette Gutierrez
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.
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45:34
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45:34
Finding Hope through Storytelling with Abril Leonyvelez
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
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21:36
Understanding Your ‘WHY’ for Impact - Majd
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.
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