Shows
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityEmpowerment Through Adversity: Aretha Boomer's JourneyIn this conversation, Aretha Boomer shares her profound journey through the foster care system, detailing her experiences from entering care at six years old to becoming a licensed social worker. She discusses the challenges she faced, including the lack of knowledge about her rights and the impact of her upbringing on her self-worth. Aretha emphasizes the importance of unconditional love, positive influences, and faith in overcoming adversity. She expresses her desire to empower youth in foster care, drawing from her own experiences to provide support and guidance. The conversation highlights the need for community support for foster families and...
2026-02-0359 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityWhen Family Steps In: A Kinship Care Journey of Love and Commitment with Ashley TerryIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah welcomes Ashley Terry, who shares his transformative journey into foster care and adoption. Initially living a carefree life in an RV, Ashley and his partner Brittney faced unexpected challenges when they received a call from Child Protective Services (CPS) about a relative's child needing placement. The couple had previously decided against having biological children due to health concerns but felt an immediate connection to the child, leading them to embrace the role of foster parents. Ashley discusses the emotional complexities of navigating family dynamics, the challenges of transitioning from...
2026-01-271h 05
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityLoving Them Well, Even When It’s Hard: Emily Bell’s Foster Care StoryIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah welcomes Emily Bell, a dedicated foster mom and former sponsorship director at the Christian Relief Fund. Emily shares her journey into fostering, which began after years of working in orphan care and a pivotal conversation with her husband. She discusses the emotional and logistical challenges of fostering, including the licensing process and the complexities of navigating the foster care system. Emily emphasizes the importance of community support and the need for foster parents to advocate fiercely for the children in their care, highlighting the often-overlooked trauma that even infants...
2026-01-2043 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityCreating Space for Healing: Inside Boys Ranch with Chaplain Mike WilhelmIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matt Darrah speaks with Mike Wilhelm, the director of faith-based outreach at Boys Ranch. They discuss the mission of Boys Ranch, the importance of trauma-informed care, and the challenges faced by children in crisis. Mike shares his journey to Boys Ranch, the role of a chaplain, and the significance of building trust with children. They also explore the impact of trauma on behavior and the need for community support in fostering environments. The conversation emphasizes the importance of prayer, the role of house parents, and the necessity of self-care for staff in...
2026-01-1355 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityA Voice for Every Child: Inside Amarillo Area CASA with Jarah MendozaIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matthew Darrah speaks with Jarah from CASA about the critical role of Court Appointed Special Advocates in the foster care system. They discuss the importance of CASA volunteers, the need for more advocates, and the impact these volunteers have on the lives of children in foster care. Jarah shares personal stories of success and the challenges faced by children in the system, emphasizing the need for community involvement and support. The conversation highlights the normalcy of foster children and the importance of treating them with compassion and understanding.
2026-01-0630 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHearts Open: Denise Kendrick on Fostering, Adopting and Building Embrace TexasThe conversation covers the journey of a family's decision to become foster parents, the challenges and impact of fostering, the role of the church in orphan care, and the founding of the Embrace organization. It also explores the current initiatives and support provided by Embrace to foster families and the community. The conversation covers the themes of community engagement and support, building community and connection, challenges in foster care and child welfare, addressing the needs of foster children and families, encouraging and supporting foster families, and community involvement and support for foster families. It highlights the impact of community...
2025-12-3057 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHonest Adoption: Ethical Practice, Connection, and Hope with Donna PopeIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matthew Darrah and Donna Pope discuss the complexities of foster care and adoption, emphasizing the importance of community support, compassion for birth moms, and the challenges faced by adoptive families. They explore the emotional toll of adoption, the philosophy of self-determination for birth moms, and the need for informed consent in the adoption process. The conversation highlights the generational struggles within foster care and the importance of finding purpose in pain, ultimately advocating for a more compassionate approach to understanding the experiences of all involved in the adoption journey.https...
2025-12-161h 18All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHealing Trauma: How Parents Can Help Kids from Hard Places Find Hope and WholenessSummaryIn this episode, Matthew Darrah speaks with John Moore, a licensed professional counselor, about the challenges and strategies for helping foster and adoptive children heal from trauma. They discuss the impact of trauma on a child's development, the importance of connection and self-regulation for parents, and practical strategies for creating a safe and nurturing environment. John emphasizes the need for parents to do their own therapeutic work, maintain healthy boundaries, and approach parenting with curiosity and compassion. The conversation also touches on the role of faith and community support in the healing process.
2025-11-2653 minAll Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityNow I Am Known: How One Man Turned Pain into Purpose with Peter MutabaziThe conversation explores the concept of temporary parenting in foster care, emphasizing the importance of providing a safe and loving environment for children while their biological parents work towards reunification. It highlights the emotional complexities of attachment in foster care and how it can be a strength rather than a weakness.Episode Sponsor:Andcore Services - 806-678-9494Incontinence Supplies:https://aeroflowurology.com/https://petermutabazi.com/https://www.panhandleorphan.org/
2025-11-1859 minAll Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHealing Forward: The Reversibility of TraumaIn this episode of All Things Foster, the conversation revolves around the theme of trauma, its reversibility, and the power of hope in the healing process. Matt Darrah, along with guests Hannah and Loretta, explore the complexities of trauma, the importance of emotional intelligence, and practical strategies for fostering resilience. They share personal stories and insights on how safe, consistent adults can significantly impact the lives of children in foster care. The discussion emphasizes that healing is a non-linear journey, filled with challenges, but ultimately, there is hope for recovery and growth. Episode Sp...
2025-11-041h 13
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHolding Space: Navigating Vicarious Trauma, Self-Awareness, and Anticipatory GriefIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matt Darrah and Hannah discuss the complexities of vicarious trauma, self-awareness, and anticipatory grief, particularly in the context of foster care. They explore how emotional intelligence can serve as a protective factor against the effects of trauma, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness in recognizing signs of burnout and compassion fatigue. The conversation also highlights the often-overlooked concept of anticipatory grief experienced by foster parents and caregivers, as they navigate the emotional challenges of fostering children who may eventually return to their biological families. The episode concludes with key takeaways on the importance...
2025-10-281h 02
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityTrauma vs. Stress: Breaking Down the Differenceshttps://www.panhandleorphan.org/Episode Sponsor:https://designsbynoteworthy.com/home In this episode, Matt Darrah and guest Hannah discuss the complexities of trauma, its definitions, and the differences between stress and trauma. They explore personal experiences, the neurobiology of trauma, and the various responses individuals may have to traumatic events. The conversation emphasizes the importance of understanding trauma in the context of foster care and the needfor trauma-informed care. They also highlight the significance of self-reflection and seeking help for stress and trauma, ultimately providing hope for healing and recovery.
2025-10-071h 10
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityThe Transformative Impact of FosteringIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matthew Darrah speaks with Deidra Avendasora, a seasoned foster mom who shares her journey and insights into the world of foster care. Deidra discusses her motivations for fostering, the emotional roller coaster of welcoming children into her home, and the lessons learned along the way. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, the challenges faced by foster families, and the need for better resources and recognition for foster parents. Deidra emphasizes the transformative impact of fostering on both the children and the foster parents, advocating for a more professional approach...
2025-09-3046 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityWhy Foster Care: Stories from A World for ChildrenThis conversation explores the mission and operations of A World for Children, a foster care agency in Texas. The hosts discuss their personal journeys into foster care, the importance of community support, the challenges faced in the foster care system, and the processes involved in becoming a foster parent. They also highlight the significance of respite care and ways for the community to get involved in supporting foster families.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/Sponsor: Ennis Inspectons(806)672-1928ennisinspections.com
2025-09-1650 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityTrauma, Community, and Compassion in Parenting with Robyn GobbelIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matthew Darrah speaks with Robyn Gobbel about the importance of connection and community in parenting, especially for those dealing with trauma. They discuss Robyn's journey into trauma work, the impact of her book, and the metaphors of the owl, watchdog, and possum to explain emotional responses. The conversation emphasizes the significance of co-regulation, the creation of a supportive community through the club, and the immersion program for professionals. Robyn shares insights on how to navigate parenting challenges and the importance of compassion for both parents and children.https://www.panhandleorphan...
2025-09-091h 05
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityTrauma, Community, and Compassion in Parenting with Robyn GobbelSummaryIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matthew Darrah speaks with Robyn Gobbel about the importance of connection and community in parenting, especially for those dealing with trauma. They discuss Robyn's journey into trauma work, the impact of her book, and the metaphors of the owl, watchdog, and possum to explain emotional responses. The conversation emphasizes the significance of co-regulation, the creation of a supportive community through the club, and the immersion program for professionals. Robyn shares insights on how to navigate parenting challenges and the importance of compassion for both parents and...
2025-09-021h 05
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityJoseph's Project: Building Strong Beginnings for Foster FamiliesIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matthew Darrah speaks with Monica Sullivan from Joseph's Project, a pregnancy resource center under Catholic Family Charities. They discuss the importance of community support, the services offered by Joseph's Project, and the journey of establishing the organization. Monica shares real stories of families impacted by their services, emphasizing the significance of building relationships and providing comprehensive support to families in need. The conversation highlights the intersection of Joseph's Project with foster families and the broader mission of Catholic Family Charities in serving the community.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/
2025-08-2635 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityWalking With Moms: Foster Wisdom & Holistic Health SupportIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah speaks with Kristen Bostic from Coalition Health Services about the importance of supporting first-time mothers through the Nurse-Family Partnership program. They discuss the critical early years of a child's development, the challenges faced by vulnerable families, and the impact of community support in fostering. Kristen shares her personal journey with foster care and the significance of building a supportive network for families in need. The conversation highlights measurable outcomes of the program and the need for continued resources and funding to support these initiatives. Coalition H...
2025-08-1241 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityFostering Through Every Season: Shelby Graham’s Journey of Compassion and CommitmentSummaryIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah speaks with Shelby Graham, a dedicated foster parent and educator, about her journey in the foster care system. Shelby shares her unique experiences, from her background in social work to her personal journey of fostering children. The conversation delves into the challenges and rewards of fostering, the heartbreak of letting go, and the importance of community support for foster families. Shelby emphasizes the need for compassion and understanding from both the community and caseworkers, as well as the significance of building a supportive...
2025-07-291h 10
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityHealing Forward: The Reversibility of Trauma and the Power of Hopehttps://www.panhandleorphan.org/donateIn this episode of All Things Foster, the conversationrevolves around the theme of trauma, its reversibility, and the power of hope in the healing process. Matt Darrah, along with guests Hannah and Loretta, explore the complexities of trauma, the importance of emotional intelligence, and practical strategies for fostering resilience. They share personal storiesand insights on how safe, consistent adults can significantly impact the lives of children in foster care. The discussion emphasizes that healing is a non-linear journey, filled with challenges, but ultimately, there is hope for recovery and growth. ...
2025-07-221h 13
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityA Foster & Adoption Journey: Jamie Allen’s Storypanhandleorphan.org/donate https://www.panhandleorphan.org/Episode Sponsor:https://www.run.biz/Bob Talley - 806-322-2937In this episode, Matt Darrah speaks with Jamie Allen abouther journey through fostering and adoption. They discuss the challenges and heartbreaks faced during the process, including the loss of a child and the fight to reunite with another. Jamie shares her insights on love, attachment, and the importance of community support for families in the foster care system.The conversation emphasizes the complexities of parenting adopted children and the o...
2025-06-171h 02
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityMental Health Support in the Texas Panhandle with McHur CareIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrahspeaks with Tippie and Sydni from McChur Care about the urgent mental health needs of children in foster care. They discuss the significant shortage of foster families in Texas, the impact of trauma on children, and the innovative approaches McChur Care is taking to provide behavioral health services. The conversation highlights the importance of consistency in care, the role of Qualified Mental Health Professionals, and the need for community support to empower foster families and improve outcomes for children in care.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/Episode...
2025-06-1043 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityManaging Mental & Emotional Health in Foster Families with Rory SheppardIn this episode, Matt Darrah and Rory Shepherd discuss thecritical topic of managing mental and emotional health in foster families. They explore the unique stresses faced by foster parents, the importance of recognizing early warning signs of burnout, and practical self-care strategies to maintain emotional well-being. Rory shares frameworks and tools that can help foster families navigate their challenges, emphasizing the need for community support and the importance of self-awareness in fostering resilience.Assessment: https://westtexas.actioncoach.com/assessment/Rory Sheppard’s email: rorysheppard@actioncoach.com https://www.panhandleorphan.org...
2025-06-0354 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityWrapping Community Around Foster Care: The Amarillo Angels Storyhttps://www.panhandleorphan.org/https://www.amarilloangels.org/Episode Sponsor:https://classiccleaning101.com/ In this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah discusses the vital role of community support in foster care with Serena Carpenter, executive director of Amarillo Angels. They explore the Love Box program, which provides tailored support to foster families, and the Dare to Dream mentorship program for youth aging out of the system. The conversation highlights personal experiences, the challenges faced by foster families, and the importance of collaboration among nonprofits to create a s...
2025-05-2737 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityS1E6: Interview with Julian Diaz – Mission 991 & Child Trafficking AwarenessIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrahspeaks with Julian Diaz, founder of Mission 991, about the urgent issue of child trafficking. They discuss the various forms of human exploitation, the importance of proactive measures, and the role of community in protecting vulnerable children. Julian shares insights on the grooming process, thedangers of digital exploitation, and resources available for parents and communities. The conversation emphasizes the need for awareness, education, and collective action to combat trafficking and support at-risk youth. https://www.panhandleorphan.org/https://polarisproject.org/https://www.missingkids.o...
2025-05-201h 06
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityS1E5 A Three Year Journey of Faith, Family, & Fostering with Bob TalleyIn this episode of All Things Foster, Matt and Bob Talley discuss the journey of fostering and adopting their daughter, Annie. They explore the emotional rollercoaster of the fostering process, the challenges faced during the licensing process, and the impact of trauma on foster children. Bob shares the story of the day Annie came into their lives, the adjustments their family made, and the importance of community support. They emphasize the need for understanding and compassion towards foster families and encourage listeners to consider how they can help.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/
2025-05-131h 10
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityS1E4 Managing Stress in Foster FamiliesIn this episode of All Things Foster, Dr. Robin Ure discusses the impact of stress on the body, particularly in the context of foster families. She explains the three T's of stress: thoughts, traumas, and toxins, and how they affect physical health. The conversation delves into the role of the nervous system in managing stress and the importance of routines and organization for both parents and children. Dr. Ure also introduces the Neuro Spinal Scanner, a tool for assessing the body's response to stress, and shares practical tips for stress management, including breathing techniques and the significance of movement.
2025-05-0648 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityS1E3: Supporting Foster Families with Medication NeedsIn this episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah speaks with Nicole McGill from Infinity Specialty Pharmacy about the unique medication needs of foster families. Nicole shares her journey from being a caseworker to working at Infinity, highlighting the challenges foster families face in managing medications. The conversation delves into the comprehensive services offered by Infinity, including personalized support and delivery of medications, and emphasizes the importance of empowering families in their healthcare decisions. Nicole also shares success stories from foster families and group homes, illustrating the positive impact of their services.takeawaysFoster parents need support...
2025-04-2927 min
The Dapper Barbarian ShowSupporting Foster Families: Insights and Stories from Matt Darrah of Panhandle Orphan Care NetworkIn this episode of the Dapper Barbarian Show, host Julian interviews Matt Darrah, the Executive Director of the Panhandle Orphan Care Network. Matt shares his personal journey growing up in the foster system, his transition into fostering, and the founding of his organization in 2017. The conversation delves into the pressing needs of foster families, especially during the initial days of receiving new placements, and how Panhandle Orphan Care Network provides immediate support through placement packages.
Matt also discusses the importance of community support, continuous learning in parenting, and the role of faith in his work. With over 600 children entering care a...
2025-04-2246 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityAll Things Foster: A Place for Coffee, Connection, and Community: Aging Out: The Challenges Foster Youth Face & How We Can HelpThis episode of All Things Foster explores the challenges faced by foster youth as they age out of the system, featuring Jazlyn's personal journey and the support provided by Fostering Independence. The conversation highlights the importance of community support, mentorship, and the unique programs designed to assist young mothers transitioning out of foster care. Amber, the executive director, shares her vision for creating a nurturing environment that fosters independence and success for these young women.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/https://www.fosteringindependence.org/Episode...
2025-04-2252 min
All Things Foster: A place for Coffee, Connection, and CommunityAll Things Foster IntroductionIn the inaugural episode of All Things Foster, host Matt Darrah introduces the podcast's mission to support foster and adoptive families through connection, community, and resources. He shares the story behind the Panhandle Orphan Care Network, emphasizing the importance of community support in fostering. The episode discusses the challenges faced by foster families, the impact of trauma, and the need for volunteers to assist in various capacities. The podcast aims to provide a platform for sharing experiences, resources, and hope for those involved in the foster care system.https://www.panhandleorphan.org/
2025-04-1518 min
VET S.O.S. Presents Operation StartupFrom Marine to Mission: Matt Darrah’s Fight for Foster Kids | Panhandle Orphan Care NetworkFrom Marine to Mission: Matt Darrah’s Fight for Foster KidsWhen Matt Darrah transitioned from the Marine Corps to civilian life, he never expected to find his next mission in foster care advocacy. But after fostering children himself, he saw firsthand how many kids enter the system with nothing. That realization led him to create Panhandle Orphan Care Network (POCN)—a nonprofit serving 26 Texas counties with essential placement packages for foster children.In this episode, Matt shares how POCN has nearly doubled its impact in just one year, the challenges of funding and expansion, and...
2025-03-2714 min
Stronger Than You ThinkS2 - Ep.1 : Keeping Gratitude First with DarrahGrowing up, Darrah was the strong one. From a young age, her mother’s mental illness forced her to be the adult of the household. For Darrah, entering the foster care system and experiencing structure for the first time was a relief; but even then, she was on her own. After achieving academic and professional success, Darrah was still confronted with the question: “Who’s going to take care of me?” The answer had been the same all along. Learn how you can be your own greatest ally through the practice of positive affirmation and remember, “You got this!” Links...
2023-02-1536 min
Choosing Your ReflectionSentimental Dress In this week’s episode of Choosing your Reflection, Darrah recounts the role that family played in the process of finding her perfect outfit. Her vision of the dream dress was clear, but her heart was open to beautiful surprises. Our guest shares the tenets of comfort and confidence she held close while on her journey, and describes a happy accident on her special day that created the perfect picture with her future husband.
2020-07-2914 min
Choosing Your ReflectionSentimental Dress - Darrah PilieriIn this week’s episode of Choosing your Reflection, Darrah recounts the role that family played in the process of finding her perfect outfit. Her vision of the dream dress was clear, but her heart was open to beautiful surprises. Our guest shares the tenets of comfort and confidence she held close while on her journey, and describes a happy accident on her special day that created the perfect picture with her future husband.Special Guest: Darrah Foster.
2020-07-1514 min