Thriver Stories

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