🎙️ Episode 36: Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect
🌟 Featuring Guest: Stephanie M.V. Popper
🔗 Guest Professional Titles: Farm Social Worker | MSW Student | Foster Youth Advocate

In this inspiring episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the dynamic and compassionate Stephanie M.V. Popper to explore the profound resilience required to turn life’s adversities into opportunities for growth. Stephanie shares her deeply personal journey, transitioning from a challenging childhood into becoming a powerful advocate and a future clinical social worker. Her work as the Community Program Coordinator at Allaire Community Farm highlights how unique, therapeutic environments—like those involving rescued animals—can foster healing and hope for at-risk youth, veterans with PTSD, and families battling cancer.

Throughout their heartfelt conversation, Stephanie and Michael discuss pivotal themes, including:

✅ Overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing your true value
✅ The role of self-care and mental health in building resilience
✅ Breaking cycles of adversity through faith, community, and advocacy
✅ The therapeutic power of individualized support and positive reinforcement

Stephanie also sheds light on her advocacy work shaping child welfare policies at both the state and federal levels, emphasizing the importance of incorporating lived experience into systemic reform. Michael reflects on his own journey, from homelessness to authoring the inspiring book "Resilient Faith", as well as his ongoing mission to uplift underserved communities. Together, they explore how progress—not perfection—fuels the path to resilience and empowerment.

🔑 Key Highlights:

• Stephanie’s experiences with EMDR therapy and the significance of allowing the body to process trauma
• Michael’s practical tips on self-publishing and writing as a form of healing
• The transformative impact of supportive communities in advocacy and personal growth
• Actionable insights for finding small moments of peace and self-care in daily life

🌟 Quote from the Episode: "Resilience isn’t about perfection—it’s about showing up for yourself every day and trusting the process."

📚 Ways to Connect with Stephanie:

👉 LinkedIn
👉 Social Media: Facebook, Instagram @stephaniepopper 

Listen Now: Be inspired by Stephanie and Michael as they share their hard-won wisdom and actionable advice for embracing progress over perfection.