Shows
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 minAll 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 10All 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 13All 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...
2025-07-161h 02All 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.
2025-06-241h 10All 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 02All 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 minAll 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 minAll 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 minAll 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 06All 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 10All 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 minAll 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 minAll 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 minAll 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 The Veteran Entrepreneurial Spotlight with Shawn WelshFrom 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 DressIn 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
Aged Out: The Stories that Built UsTony: From Foster Child to Father, Husband, and Champion (Part II)In part 2 of Tony's story, the focus shifts to suggestions on how the foster care system could be reformed from the perspective of someone who has lived through it. Tony shares his experiences and current involvement with aged out youth in the community and discusses the resources available to them. With the overarching message of not giving up during hard times, Tony bravely conveys the experience of being a product of the foster care system. If you are a former foster child who aged out of the system and want to share your story, email us at a...
2019-10-2825 minAged Out: The Stories that Built UsTony: From Foster Child to Father, Husband, and Champion (Part I)In part 1 of Tony’s brave story he recounts entering the foster care system at a very young age due to neglect by his mother. Tony bounced around between 18 different foster homes before being adopted with his siblings at the age of 6. Tony, however, could not escape the abuse which continued during the term of his adoption. Prior to being emancipated at the age of 17, Tony was returned to the foster care system and continued to jump between placements. Tony shares how his relationship with God grew into what fueled his ability to release the anguish of his past an...
2019-09-2030 min