Shows
Resilient Voices & Beyond“Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 2🎙️ Episode 49 – Season 3Title: "Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” (Part 2)Guests: Bobbi Taylor (Founder & CEO, Proximate Solution) & Tamara Dillard, MSW, CSW (Clinical Social Worker, Advocate, Foster Care Alumni)Host: Michael D. Davis-Thomas | Founder & CEO, MDDTSpeaks💥 Episode Description: In Part 2 of our ground-shifting series "Broken Systems, Funded Silence," we continue the courageous conversation that most platforms avoid—dissecting the dangerous comfort between nonprofits and government systems. This episode isn’t just a discussion. It’s an exposé. Host and systems reformer Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with two national powerhouses: Bobbi Taylor, a cross...2025-07-121h 31
Resilient Faith PodcastDating While Devoted: God, Lust, and the Wait🎙️ Resilient Faith Podcast Miniseries: Built on the RockEPISODE 2: “Dating While Devoted: God, Lust, and the Wait”Hosted by Carrie Davis | Featuring Michael D. Davis-ThomasProduced by MDDTSpeaks MediaWhat does it mean to date while devoted? In a world where hookups are easier than healing and standards are often sacrificed for attention, this episode tackles the real tension between honoring God and navigating the emotional landmines of modern dating.In Episode 2 of Built on the Rock, host Carrie Davis and guest/co-host Michael D. Davis-Thomas, CEO/Founder of MDDTSpeaks and host of the Resil...2025-06-011h 26Resilient Voices & Beyond“Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 1Season 3, Episode 48🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond PodcastTitle: “Broken Systems, Funded Silence: Deconstructing the Nonprofit-Gov Pipeline” – Part 1In this explosive Part 1 of a two-part special, Resilient Voices & Beyond dives into one of the most underexamined yet critical realities in system reform: the nonprofit-to-government pipeline. Host Michael D. Davis-Thomas, nationally recognized advocate and Founder of MDDTSpeaks, sits down with two powerhouse changemakers—Bobbi Taylor, Founder & CEO of Proximate Solution, and Tamara Dillard, MSW, CSW, clinical therapist, policy influencer, and child welfare advocate—for an unfiltered, intellectually rigorous, and emotionally grounded conversation about how broken systems are not only funded but prot...2025-05-311h 08Resilient Voices & Beyond"Your direction is more important than your speed."Season 3, Episode 47Title: “Your direction is more important than your speed.”Subtitle: From Surviving to Serving: Reclaiming Purpose Through Pain In this deeply moving episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas (MDDTSpeaks) sits down with Andrea Atkins—a single mother of four, foster care alumni, and child welfare specialist—for an unfiltered, soul-stirring conversation about survival, motherhood, healing, and the audacity to rewrite your own narrative. With raw vulnerability and unwavering strength, Andrea shares her journey through the foster care system—beginning with removal at age four, adoption at ten, and...2025-05-171h 01Resilient Voices & Beyond“Life is not what happens to you, but how you respond to it.”Season 3, Episode 46Title: “Life is not what happens to you, but how you respond to it.”Subtitle: Stepping Into the Call: From Surviving to SurrenderingIn this transformative episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas (MDDTSpeaks) reconnects with long-time friend and fellow advocate Ashley Watkins—and what unfolds is nothing short of sacred. Together, they journey through Ashley’s powerful testimony of resilience, healing, and divine surrender.Ashley Watkins, a spoken word poet, therapist, foster care advocate, and founder of Her Untold Stories Heard, opens up about her evolutio...2025-04-191h 02Resilient Voices & Beyond“Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” – Colossians 3:23 (NLT)Season 3, Episode 45Title: “Work willingly at whatever you do, as though you were working for the Lord rather than for people.” – Colossians 3:23 (NLT)In this deeply moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by author, advocate, mother, and lived experience leader Kayann Foster—a woman whose life and work exemplify faith, resilience, and radical healing.From surviving childhood trauma, homelessness, domestic abuse, and aging out of foster care, to becoming a Lived Experience Consultant for the Department of Children and Families in New Jersey, Kayann’s journey is one of ext...2025-04-191h 01Resilient Voices & Beyond"Your Story Is Your Superpower—Own It, Share It, and Let It Open Doors for You."Episode Title: "Your Story Is Your Superpower—Own It, Share It, and Let It Open Doors for You."Season 3, Episode 44In this transformative episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with powerhouse speaker, author, trauma expert, and former foster youth Dr. Danisha Keating for a deeply authentic conversation about healing, identity, and turning pain into purpose.From living in her car while navigating college, to raising her siblings while building a life rooted in impact, Dr. Keating’s story is one of resilience, grit, and radical self-determination. She shares how...2025-04-1252 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Live life to the fullest, excel despite challenges, and never let those who wish you harm dictate your path.”Episode Title: "Live life to the fullest, excel despite challenges, and never let those who wish you harm dictate your path."Season 3, Episode 43In this raw and transformative episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by Maegan “Mae” Mason, a resilient advocate, mentor, and lived experience expert who shares her powerful story of survival, self-discovery, and growth.Mae opens up about her early life—navigating a turbulent home environment that led her into the juvenile justice system by the age of 13. Through 12 years of personal turmoil, system involvement, and instit...2025-04-0557 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Love is the work.”Episode Title: "Love is the Work.”Season 3, Episode 42In this deeply enriching episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas welcomes the dynamic State Representative Stephanie A. Young, a legislator, community leader, ordained minister, and fierce advocate for children and families. With over two decades of service in both public and private sectors, Rep. Young brings her unmatched heart, faith, and legislative impact to the forefront—guided by her life mantra: “Love is the work.” During this powerful conversation, Rep. Young opens up about her journey from aspiring nurse to one of Michigan’s most influ...2025-04-0352 minResilient Voices & Beyond" It only takes one adult to make a difference."Episode Title: "It Only Takes One Adult to Make a Difference."Season 3, Episode 41In this powerful episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas welcomes Jacob Holley, a Certified Trauma-Informed Trainer, Lived Experience Leader, and passionate foster care advocate. With firsthand experience navigating 27 different placements within Arizona’s foster care system, Jacob shares his deeply personal journey of resilience, advocacy, and the impact of trauma-informed care.Jacob opens up about his challenging upbringing in foster care, including his struggles in group homes, being written up for crying, and the lack of support fr...2025-02-011h 05Resilient Voices & Beyond"Hurt People Hurt People”Episode Title: "Hurt People Hurt People"Season 3, Episode 40In this moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas is joined by the inspiring Victoria “V” DeHart, a 24-year-old adoptee, advocate, motivational speaker, and social work student, to discuss her incredible story of resilience and healing. Born in a prison in Kaliningrad, Russia, and adopted as a baby, Victoria’s life has been marked by immense challenges, but her journey serves as a testament to the power of faith, self-love, and perseverance.Victoria shares her deeply personal experiences growing up in an abusiv...2025-01-251h 01Resilient Voices & Beyond"Life is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you respond to it">Episode Title: "Life Is 10% What Happens to You and 90% How You Respond to It"Season 3, Episode 39In this powerful episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with Tristian W. Smith, MSEM, a retired Army officer, published author, and advocate for foster youth. Tristian shares his extraordinary journey of resilience, from overcoming the challenges of a tumultuous childhood in the foster care system to achieving success as a military professional, emergency management specialist, and author of the memoir Against All Odds.Tristian opens up about his childhood in Columbus, Georgia, where...2025-01-1852 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Don't Let Your Past Struggles Define Your Future"Episode Title: "Don't Let Your Past Struggles Define Your Future"Season 3, Episode 38In this emotionally moving episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the resilient and inspiring Tashala Webster, a foster care alumna, adoptee, advocate, and nursing student, to discuss her journey of overcoming adversity, trauma, and obstacles to create a brighter future.Tashala shares her powerful life story, beginning with being removed from her biological mother’s care at the age of five due to mental health challenges and navigating through 12 foster homes in Flint, Michigan, where sh...2024-12-2855 minResilient Voices & Beyond"You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"Episode Title: "You Only Live Once, But If You Do It Right, Once Is Enough"Season 3, Episode 37In this inspiring episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas sits down with the multifaceted Chianté Lymon-Hamilton, a trailblazer and advocate for justice and equity. As the Executive Director of the Society for History and Racial Equity (SHARE), Chianté shares her life’s journey of resilience, passion, and leadership.Born and raised in Detroit, Michigan, Chianté reflects on her upbringing in a single-parent household in a low-income community and how h...2024-12-211h 07Resilient Voices & Beyond"Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect"🎙️ Episode 36: Practice Makes Progress, Not Perfect🌟 Featuring Guest: Stephanie M.V. Popper🔗 Guest Professional Titles: Farm Social Worker | MSW Student | Foster Youth AdvocateIn 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, t...2024-12-1452 minResilient Voices & Beyond“More stories = more connection and more connection = more healing.- Dr. Liz”🎙️ Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast: Season 3, Episode 35Title: "More Stories = More Connection, and More Connection = More Healing"In this profound and heartfelt episode, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas dives into the transformative power of storytelling and resilience with the remarkable Dr. Liz DeBetta. Together, they explore the pivotal moments that have shaped their journeys of healing and advocacy.Dr. DeBetta, an adoptee and renowned author of Adult Adoptees & Writing to Heal: Migrating Toward Wholeness, shares her inspiring story of uncovering and confronting the trauma of maternal separation. Her breakthrough moment in 2015, when she began to write about...2024-12-071h 10Resilient Voices & Beyond" The most dangerous phrase in the language is, 'We've always done it this way "In this enlightening episode of the "Resilient Voices & Beyond" podcast, host Michael D. Davis-Thomas engages with Commissioner Rebecca Jones Gaston, the visionary leader of the Administration for Children, Youth, and Families (ACYF). Commissioner Gaston shares her compelling journey from her brief experience in foster care to spearheading significant reforms in the U.S. child welfare system. Throughout the discussion, she underscores the pivotal policies she's championed, such as the final kinship role, independent legal representation, and designated placement rules for LGBTQIA+ youth. Rebecca's strategic focus on community engagement, addressing workforce challenges, and prioritizing preventive over reactive measures illuminates her approach...2024-11-221h 01Resilient Voices & BeyondResilient Voices & Beyond TrailerWelcome to Resilient Voices & Beyond, where silence transforms into strength, and personal revolutions unfold. I'm Michael D. Davis-Thomas, the founder of MDDTSpeaks, and this podcast is our commitment to amplifying the voices that were once muted. Join us as we serve as a beacon for individuals with live experience, community leaders, advocates, policymakers, and more.In each episode, we showcase the hard work of community partners, leaders, and activists, aiming to bring forth a new generation of foster care alum leaders. We delve into topics like reforms, advocacy, policies, prevention, foster care, adoption, kinship, CCIs, JJ, and the...2023-10-2821 minResilient Voices & Beyond"We all have a purpose to which we are called to; it’s up to you to answer it.”Welcome to Season Three, Episode 18 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast! 🎙️ In this episode titled "We all have a purpose to which we are called to; it’s up to you to answer it,” your host, MDDTSpeaks (Michael D. Davis-Thomas), takes a courageous step from behind the mic to share his powerful journey as a survivor, advocate, and catalyst for change. Joined by guest host Isabel Rodriguez, get ready for an intimate exploration into MDDTSpeaks' life, beyond his roles in advocacy and podcasting.🔍 Gain a deeper insight into MDDTSpeaks' story, from surviving severe abuse to navigating the foster care and juvenile...2023-10-191h 05Resilient Voices & BeyondNYTD Changed My Life Talk with Lived Experience ProfessionalsSeason 2 Finale In this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, I hosted a conversation with my fellow NYTD colleagues Teshiana S-Nichols is an Allegheny County Educational Liaison, National Foster Youth Advocate, Jim & Annie E. Casey ACOMM Member, Contracted Federal Consultant, NYTD Reviewer. Daniel Woodruff is an Employment Navigator at the National Resource Center For Youth Services & Trainer, Foster Youth Advocate, NYTD Reviewer, and NYTD Support Coach. On this podcast, we talked about the National Youth in Transition Database (NYTD), how we got involved, and the roles we play as NYTD Reviewers and NYTD Support Coache. Also, we...2023-01-071h 13Resilient Voices & Beyond“ The cycle ends with me “On this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond, I MDDTSpeaks had the pleasure of interviewing Felisha Burleson. Felisha is a Foster Care alumnus, Family Life Educator, and Doctoral Student. Please tune in to hear us walk through Felisha's experience in the care to her expertise with serval conversational pit stops I'm sure you'd want to hear.2022-12-201h 08Resilient Voices & Beyond"You only struggle because you’re ready to grow but aren’t willing to let go."In this episode, I had a deep conversation with Mialissa Dominique Flores. Mialissa is 21 and recently aged out almost a year ago now. She wears multiple hats, such as advocate, Commissioner, juvenile justice consultant, former foster youth, and friend. Tune in to hear us talk about Mialissa's Journey thus far and a few passionate topics surrounding child welfare.2022-11-231h 27Resilient Voices & Beyond"It's inside-out work."In this episode, I had a great conversation with Shenandoah Chefalo. She is an advocate, mentor, author, Trauma-Informed Specialist, and more. Tune in to hear more about Shenandoah and our deep conversation surrounding multiple child welfare-centered topics.2022-11-221h 08Resilient Voices & Beyond"Self reflection & coping are the keys"In this episode, I had a very raw conversation with Jada Davis. Jada is a Foster Care alumnus, Master Crafter & Business Mogul/Entrepreneur. Tune in to hear more about who she is and her journey and expertise.2022-11-191h 02Resilient Voices & BeyondMy past doesn’t define me God refines me to his plan in my life”I had a very deep conversation with Carolyn Darr. Carolyn is a foster care alumni turned adoptee. She also is an early childhood education director, soon to be a special education teacher, advocate, mentor, peer support, and more tune-in to hear Carolyn's journey and expertise.2022-11-191h 05Resilient Voices & Beyond“Empowering current and former foster youth to thrive “On this episode, I had a great time chatting with Aland Stamps. Aland is the founder, President, and CEO of River Jordan Inc. He is a former foster youth who grew up in foster care during the late 70s and 80s. After 11 years in foster care and 20 different placements (foster homes, group homes, and institutions), Aland aged out of foster care, into homelessness, and more. Tune in to hear more about Aland's journey and expertise.2022-11-171h 20Resilient Voices & Beyond" There is no greater agony than bearing an untold story inside of you.”I had a great conversation with Amnoni Meyers. Amnoni is a motivational speaker and author of You Are the Prize: Seeing Yourself Beyond the Imperfections of Your Trauma.2022-11-161h 02Resilient Voices & Beyond"float like a butterfly sting like a bee"I had a wonderfully thought-provoking conversation with my guest Tamara Vest. Tamara is a Child welfare consultant, advocate, and more.2022-11-1555 minResilient Voices & Beyond“FIGHT FOR THE THINGS THAT YOU CARE ABOUT, BUT DO IT IN A WAY THAT WILL LEAD OTHERS TO JOIN ”I had a blast talking with April Barcus. April is a child welfare and disability lived experience expert, Future JD/Ph.D., and Paralegal. Tune in to hear more about their experience and expertise.2022-11-131h 24Resilient Voices & Beyond“Hope anchors the soul. Hebrews 6:19. “On this episode, I had a great time talking to Jada Cuttriss. Jada is a family case manager, assessment worker, advocate, and Foster Care Alumni and more tune in to hear more about her lived experience and expertise.2022-11-121h 10Resilient Voices & Beyond"We delight in the beauty of the butterfly but rarely admit the changes we have gone through to achieve that beauty"I had a great time talking with Bianca Bennett-Scott. Bianca is a foster care alumni, advocate, Program Manager for You Gotta Believe, Child Welfare Consultant, and MPA Fellow at Cornell University. Tune in to hear us talk about her journey in care to her expertise and work now in child welfare.2022-11-091h 04Resilient Voices & Beyond“ Who's life did you touch and what difference did you make “On this episode of the Resilient Voices & Beyond podcast, I interviewed Melvin Roy. Melvin, founder of Foster-U, a foster care alumni, renowned advocate, role model, and more. Tune into this episode to hear more about Melvin and his journey.2022-11-0845 minResilient Voices & Beyond"The Child Who is Not Embraced by the Village Will Burn it Down to Feel its Warmth "I had a blast talking with Jarred Vermillion. Jarred is a Peer/Wraparound Transformation Change Champion, Founder/Director at Heroes Initiative Inc, and more. Tune in to hear more about his journey.2022-11-041h 05Resilient Voices & Beyond“The price of love is loss”I had the distinct pleasure of interviewing Isabel N. Rodriguez on this great episode. Isabel is a powerhouse advocate and consultant for child welfare practices and policies that impact foster youth across the United States. Her personal experiences guide Isabel's passion and purpose-driven life within the child welfare system. Currently, Isabel is studying Sociology: Law, Justice, and Social Change and Intergroup Relations at the University of Michigan. She plans to continue into higher education with interest in pursuing a Master's in Public Administration and a Juris Doctor Degree. Isabel's long-term goal is to influence and develop policies impacting stakeholders within...2022-10-311h 11Resilient Voices & Beyond“The most committed wins“I had a wonderful deep conversation with Forest Lang. He is an author, tattooer, alumni of care, advocate, father, and veteran. Forest walked us through his life journey from his experience in care to his expertise and life now, Tune in to hear more about this conversation.2022-10-211h 01Resilient Voices & Beyond“Note to self: Patience is a virtue that leads to a payoff“I had a wonderful time talking with Cortez L. Carey. Cortez is an MSW, Advocate, and former Congressional Coalition on Adoption Institute intern; he is in the US Air Force Reserve and the Director of the Congressional Caucus on Foster Youth and more. Please tune in to hear about his life experience in care and expertise.2022-10-111h 21Resilient Voices & Beyond" You can choose courage or you can choose comfort, you cannot have both“I had a wonderful time chatting with Chuck Price. Chuck is a former health and human services director, changemaker entrepreneur/business owner, and more. Chuck Price has filled leadership roles in several counties and private agencies throughout his 27 years of working in child welfare, health, and human services. Chuck's career has been dedicated to making drastic improvements in the lives of children and families. Chuck's career has been dedicated to making drastic improvements in the lives of children and families. He has been brave and selfless in his pursuit of excellence, often pioneering pathways not yet traveled by his peers...2022-09-2257 minResilient Voices & Beyond"We will be really misled if we think we can change society without changing ourselves"I had a blast talking with Elliott Hinkle. Elliott is the Principal and Founder of Unicorn Solutions, a Person with lived experience in child welfare, Youth Mental Health/ LGBTQ+ Consultant, and Transmasculine non-binary. In this episode, they shared their lived experience and expertise, so listen in to hear more.2022-09-171h 04Resilient Voices & Beyond“Pulse Results into Purpose, The Proof is in the Print”Such a fantastic episode. I had the privilege and honor of speaking with Emilio Carranza-Davis. Emilio is a first-generation graduate, advocate, public speaker, entrepreneur, Alumni of Care, mento, and more. In this episode, we walked through his lived experience, navigating our way to his expertise and life. Listen in to hear more about Emilio Carranza-Davis.2022-09-141h 03Resilient Voices & Beyond"You are the author of your story." -Lisa NicholsIt was such an honor and privilege to talk with Eshontee’ Rowe. Eshontee’ is an advocate, public speaker, mentor, singer/songwriter, author, and creative & business consultant. She talked to us about her experience and expertise so tune in to hear more about her life's journey.2022-09-121h 11Resilient Voices & Beyond" What you come from doesn’t have to dictate what you become “In this episode, I had a wonderful time talking with Tai-Isha Watson-Jack. Tai-Isha is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Former Kinship Parent, Foster Care Alumni, and more. throughout this episode, she walked us through her life experience and expertise to express her passion to make a change and be a difference.2022-09-091h 06Resilient Voices & Beyond"Why shoot the breeze about it...when you can be about it." Nasir JonesI had a blast speaking with Lindsay W. Huddleston II. Lindsay is a Policy and Program Associate with Michigan's Children. He shared his background and his expertise throughout this episode. Lindsay also talked about the work Michigans Children is getting ready to embark on to bring forth a tuition waiver for live experience foster youth/alumni in the state of Michigan. Tune in for more!2022-09-0849 minResilient Voices & Beyond" Preserving Families & Securing Futures “In this first round table episode, I had the great privilege of speaking with Charisse Penn, Ed.D.Parent Partner Manager and Deanna Binner Parent Partner at SAFY. Tune in to hear both of their wonderful and informative life experiences/expertise and more.2022-08-3056 minResilient Voices & Beyond"There is so much power in your voice “-Sylvia LivingstonIn this episode I had a blast talking with Xandra R.Vaughn. Xandra is a Foster Care alumnus, recent college graduate, Social work Major, Foster Youth Advocate, and more. Tune in to hear her story and expertise.2022-08-271h 04Resilient Voices & Beyond" If not you then who and if not now then when“In this episode I had a blast interviewing Joshua Christian Oswald. Joshua is the Policy Coordinator For the Indiana Association of Resources and Child Advocacy. He has done great work nationally and in his home state of Indiana. Tune in to hear more about his journey.2022-08-251h 06Resilient Voices & BeyondTAY Talk Episode 3 | Obtaining Higher education & kinship |For an estimated 32,000 homeless youth, and 22,000 foster youth aging out of the system every year, struggling to support themselves, college is often a distant idea. Due to increased school mobility, histories of trauma and abuse, and lack of adequate support and services to succeed in school, many of these youth lack the academic foundation to apply and be admitted to a two- or four-year college or university. For others, attaining the required documentation to verify their independent status to receive federal funding is difficult. These youth are united, however, in the struggle to attain accessible resources and information to make...2022-08-0950 minResilient Voices & Beyond" Find your comfort people and love them with everything you have “I had a wonderful time talking with Danielle Campbell. She is MPA, Adoptee, MDHHS Foster Care Specialist, advocate, and more. Danielle walked us through her experience in care also her experience while being an adoptee and more.2022-08-091h 09Resilient Voices & BeyondTAY TALKS Ep. 2 | Sibling Separation & Mental Health |All too often, children in the child welfare system are also separated from their siblings. Many sibling groups are separated upon entry into the foster care system; less frequently, siblings are placed together in out-of-home care initially and later separated. Some siblings are adopted by different families.2022-06-1551 minResilient Voices & BeyondTAY TALKS Ep. 1 | Foster Care to Homeless Pipeline |This pipeline to homelessness has existed for decades in the U.S. Designed to get youth through childhood, the foster care system does very little to sustain a future for these youth. Youth aging out of the foster care system, however, rarely have any resources or support at all. Combined with other risk factors, this means foster youth often transition directly into homelessness. About 26,000 young people age out of the foster care system every year. Statistics show a large percentage of these youth will become homeless. By better understanding the factors causing foster youth to become homeless, we can prevent...2022-05-3141 minResilient Voices & Beyond"A good Christian makes a good citizen"In this episode, I had a great time talking with Ricardo Ortega Martinez Jr.Ricardo Ortega Martinez Jr is an active Commissioner for the Immigration Commission, under Assemblymember Mike A. Gipson 64th District in the State of California, and the youngest appointed Commissioner in the Assembly District's history.He is currently the National Director of Community & Government Relations for the Light of the World, inaugural Los Angeles County Youth Commissioner, and California Youth Connection Member Executive Commission.He previously served as a member of the Mental Health Board, for Transitional Age Youth, in the...2022-05-271h 28Resilient Voices & Beyond“ With grit, grace and gratitude” FosterStrongIn this episode, I had a wonderful time talking with Constance Iannetta. She is a foster care alumna, foster/kinship/adoptive parent, and national child-welfare advocate. After aging out at eighteen with too many struggles, she found healing in peer support and purpose in helping others. She is “heart-driven” in making improvements to the system that has impacted her family for many generations. In 2014, she founded FosterStrong.org to inspire kindness and healing, elevate community awareness, and ensure accessibility of resources for the foster care community. From legislative testimony to state/national board affiliations, Constance has used her voice and live...2022-05-251h 20Resilient Voices & Beyond“You Are Not Your Circumstances.”In this episode, I had the great pleasure of talking to Jamerika Haynes-Lewis. She is a journalist and advocate for foster care children. She studied Communication at the Edward. R. Murrow College of Communication. She is the reigning titleholder USA Ambassador Ms. 2021. Her platform is “A Chance to Succeed: Empowering Youth in Foster Care.” She owns and operates Clever Jam Communications, a consulting firm offering strategic communications guidance, motivational speaking, and facilitation. Tune in to hear more about her experience and expertise.2022-05-2433 minResilient Voices & Beyond“There are two ways of spreading light: to be the candle or the mirror that reflects it.”In this episode, I had a great time talking with Shannon L. Urbon. She is the Executive Director of The New Foster Care. Shannon has spent a lifetime supporting and helping people throughout her journey so tune in to hear more about her experience and expertise.2022-05-2459 minResilient Voices & Beyond“We are the change that we seek.”In this episode, I had the honor of speaking with Demetrius Starling. He is executive director for the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS) Children's Services Agency (CSA). Director Starling, oversees the state's child welfare system, including Children's Protective Services (CPS), the foster care system, adoption services, family preservation services, and juvenile justice programs. He has worked in the child welfare field for more than 20 years, beginning with his career as a CPS specialist at Wayne County MDHHS. He has since served in numerous managerial positions at MDHHS, including the director for Sanilac and St. Clair counties' MDHHS...2022-05-2049 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Be the change 🤍”In this episode, I had a great conversation with Natalie Nicole Clark BSW. She is an Alumni of Care Adult Living Assistant Coordinator at DCFS, FosterClub Allstar, Advocate, mentor, and more. In this episode, she walked us through her lived experience to her expertise tune in for more.2022-05-191h 09Resilient Voices & Beyond“How you finish is how you start”I had a great time talking with Derrick McCree. Derrick is the director, of the Division of Juvenile Justice at the State of Michigan (MDHHS). He is also a mentor and advocate for change. Director McCree has spent 3 decades in the child welfare arena and more, tune in to hear his journey and expertise.2022-05-0559 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Be the change you wish to see in the world”I had a wonderful time talking with Rachel Willis. Rachel is the Director of the Bureau of out of home services for the State Of Michigan (MDHHS). tune in to hear about her background and expertise and more...2022-05-0251 minResilient Voices & Beyond"If people laugh at your dream, good. Dream big." Part 2This is part two of "If people laugh at your dream, good. Dream big." with Brina Williams. In this episode, we talked about education, advocacy, her journey with FSM(Fostering Success Michigan), and the transition from student to professional tune in for more.2022-04-281h 02Resilient Voices & Beyond"If people laugh at your dream, good. Dream big." Part 1In this episode, I had a wonderful conversation with Brina Williams, BSW. Brina is Foster Care Alumni, Advant Advocate, Fostering Success Michigan Intern, and more. Brina talked to me about her experience and journey through mental health so tune in for more...2022-04-2558 minResilient Voices & Beyond“We believe”In this episode, I had a great time talking with Alexander and Angela Marquez. They're Pastor and First Lady, adoption/foster advocates, Trauma-Informed Parenting Co-Facilitator, Special Needs advocates, Mentors, and more .... Tune in to hear about their journey and expertise.2022-04-201h 08Resilient Voices & Beyond“Seek first to understand, then to be understood”In this episode, I had the honor of speaking with Tony Rivera, MBA, MS. Tony is the CEO\Founder Fostering Minds, LLC, Foster Youth Alum, School Counselor, Mentor, Advocate, Motivational speaker, and more... Tune in to hear about his journey and expertise.2022-04-191h 19Resilient Voices & Beyond“Know the healing Power of Story and the destructive power of an unknown one.”In this episode, I have the honor of speaking with Alisa Matheson. Alisa is the Founder and Executive Director of Power of Story, Since 2010, Alisa Matheson has been involved in child welfare as a child-specific recruiter, educator, and foster and adoptive parent. In every role, she has championed communication, relationship building, and respect for the personhood and rights of everyone involved. Tune in to hear more about her journey and expertise.2022-04-121h 07Resilient Voices & Beyond"Be great in the ordinary so that you are prepared for the extraordinary"I had blast on this episode with Anna Koehle, HS-BCP, CCTP. Anna is a consultant/Child Welfare SME, advocate, foster turned adoptive parent and more. Tune in to hear about her journey and expertise.2022-04-0941 minResilient Voices & BeyondGod's plans for you are bigger than your plans for yourself.I had A blast on this episode talking with Deborah D. Denzel, LLMSW. Deborah is a Foster Care Alumni, Consultant, mentor, and more. Tune in to hear her journey/expertise.2022-04-021h 07Resilient Voices & Beyond"Good, better, best. Never let it rest, until your good is your better and your better is your best."In this episode I had a blast talking with Scout Hartley, MPA. Scout is the Senior Policy Manager with NFYI, a Ph.D. student at Rutgers University, an advocate, scholar, teacherFoster Care Alumni and more...2022-03-261h 16Resilient Voices & Beyond“it is what it is”I had such an amazing time talking with the Tasco Family. They are Advocates, Mentors, Foster parents, Adoptive Parents, Guardians, and more... Tune in to hear their journey and expertise.2022-03-261h 07Resilient Voices & Beyond“Not all storms are meant to disrupt your life. Some come to clear your path”I had a great time talking with Jacob Dinzik. Jacob is a phenomenal young man he is a recently aged-out foster care alumni on a mission. Tune in to hear his story and journey thus far.2022-03-2422 minResilient Voices & Beyond"There is an after this. There's life after the detour”In this episode, I had a great time talking with Deanna Jones. She is a Foster Care Alumni, Policy Fellow for Alliance for Children's Rights, an author, podcast host, advocate, and more...2022-03-241h 13Resilient Voices & Beyond"Shake the Dirt of your past to reach your full potential."In this episode, I had an awesome time talking with Michael Arterberry. Michael Dynamic Motivational Speaker, Author, and Executive Director and more....2022-03-2152 minResilient Voices & Beyond"A woman is like a tea bag; you never know how strong it is until it's in hot water.”In this episode, I had a great time talking with Jenn Martinez. Jenn is foster care alumni, Foster Youth Advocate, and more tune in to hear about her journey and expertises.2022-03-2139 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Every Tomorrow Is A Second Chance”On this episode, I had one of the most amazing time talking with Kathleen Hoehne. Kathleen is the Foster Care Consultant at the Michigan Department of Education. She oversees almost 900 school districts throughout the state of Michigan. Tune in to hear about her journey toward her expertise and more...2022-03-1549 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Every Day Is An Interview”On this episode I had a great time talking with Mario Mclean. Mario Is a Foster Care Alumni, District Manager, Author, Motivational Speaker, Father and more. Tune in To hear about his experience in care and jounery toward his expertises.2022-03-1550 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Inhale courage, exhale fear”On this episode I had a wonderful time talking to Erica Hickey. Erica is a foster care alumni, Policy Fellow for Alliance for Children's Rights , Advocate and more. Tune in to hear about her experience and expertise.2022-03-131h 11Resilient Voices & Beyond"Never allow life to just happen, you happen to life!On this episode of Resilent Voices & Beyond I had the great pleasure of speaking with Cherish Fields. Cherish is the owner of Cherish Fields Solutions LLC , the host of Child Welfare Leaders Podcast, a Wife, a Mom, a Mentor, a foster care alumni and more. Tune in to hear her story/experience in care and more....2022-03-121h 09Resilient Voices & Beyond"Your present circumstances don't determine where you can go, they merely determine where you start"In this episode, I had the great pleasure of talking with Tony Parsons. Tony is foster care alumni, Federal Policy Specialist/Young Adult Consultant, Advocate, and more...2022-03-1259 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Be who you needed when you were younger”In this episode, I had a wonderful time talking with Grace Marshall about her experience in care. Grace is a foster care alumni, advocate, mentor, social work student, and more..2022-03-1145 minResilient Voices & BeyondWe envision a world where every person has the conditions they need to Heal, Develop, and Thrive.In this episode, I got the great opportunity to talk with Think Of Us CEO & Founder Sixto Cancel. Tune in to hear about his personal experience but also why this work is important to him and more...2022-02-2348 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Seek to accomplish what others think is difficult to achieve"In This episode, I got to touch on a lot with my guest Mattew Wollack a 3rd generation child welfare social worker. Matthew is the Founder and CEO of Enoble and a huge child welfare advocate tune in for more...2022-02-2159 minResilient Voices & Beyond“ self discipline is self love”IN this episode I had the great pleasure of talking with Angela Quijada-Banks. She Is a foster care alumni, CEO /Founder of Soulful Liberation, Author, Transformational Speaker, Holistic Health Coach, advocate, and more tune in...2022-02-2157 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Not a victim, but a Warrior”In this episode, I got to speak with LT. Christina Meredith. Christina is FCA, Author, Former Miss CA, foster care activist/advocate, and mental health advocate. She also is the founder of the nonprofit Christina Meredith Foundation and a Signal Intelligence officer in the US ARMY. Christina took us through her life journey while dropping knowledge and wisdom for us to take along with us and more...2022-02-211h 03Resilient Voices & Beyond"Life has no limitations, except the ones you make"In this episode, I had a great time talking with Makeda James who is a BSW student, foster care alumni, advocate, veteran, and more. Makeda took us through her foster care experience and journey to adulthood while dropping knowledge and wisdom.2022-02-1954 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Changing ourselves, creates change in others"On this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond I had the distinct pleasure of talking with Dinah Lee Schaller, LCSW, SSW, CDCI. Dinah Is the lead social worker at the Lenore Croudy Family Life Center. She also is an education and social work champion she has had over 20 years of experience working with many different demographics and more...2022-02-1855 minResilient Voices & Beyond"It is time to align hope with action."In this episode, I had a blast taking with the one and only Maddy Day. She is a woman of many hats and titles but I know her most for her advocacy work around education for foster youth and so forth. Maddy lead us through her story and journey but also talked about some very strong points about our child welfare system and more....!2022-02-121h 25Resilient Voices & Beyond"BEATING THE ODDS"In this episode, I had the great honor of speaking with Cordelia Cranshaw Coach, Author, & Miss District of Columbia USA 2019, advocate, LCSW... and more! She took me through her experience in care to transition into being on her own and more...2022-02-1154 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Providing supports and resources to alumni of the foster care system and underserved youth."In this episode, I had a wonderful time and experience talking with the CEO and Founder of Fosterpreneur Erica Myers. Erica explain her personal journey but also dropped some knowledge and wisdom while educating us on her program and more...2022-02-101h 07Resilient Voices & Beyond“Always remember that your Present situation is not your Final destination.” The best is yet to come.In this episode, I had a wonderful time talking to Davoncia Pharr about her experience in care and her journey into college, and more...2022-02-0917 minResilient Voices & Beyond“When you Foster Youth, You Foster Success!”In this episode, I had the great pleasure of talking with Cedric Riley a powerful motivational speaker, Tv show host ( America's Next Motivator! ), Resiliency Expert, and more...2022-02-0955 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Healing makes room for us to fight in the places where it's necessary and love in the places we long to."In this episode, I had a wonder time talking with Sonia L. S. Aldape, LCSW she shared her story and expertise, and more...2022-02-0551 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Without community there is no liberation"In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Kara Bissen about her journey and story. She also gave us some deep insight into her experience as a youth care worker and social worker and more...2022-02-0439 minResilient Voices & Beyond“You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have.”This episode had an awesome time talking to Whitney Snow about her journey to adulthood and many success but also the struggles she had to persevere through along the way.2022-01-3041 minResilient Voices & Beyond“Education is around us every day, providing us with opportunity…Be wise enough to see it, take action.....“Education is around us every day, providing us with opportunity…Be wise enough to see it, take action, and live out your wildest dream.”In this episode, i had the great pleasure of talking with Shanell Lavallie about her story and journey to being an educator and more...2022-01-2929 minResilient Voices & Beyond"All statistics have outliers"In this episode, I had a very special guest Heaven Shaman. She took us through her story/journey to adulthood and more...2022-01-291h 05Resilient Voices & Beyond“This too shall pass”In this episode, I had the distinct pleasure of talking with Miyah Louis a Fellow Michigan FCA. She took us through her journey and experiences and more.....2022-01-2839 minResilient Voices & Beyond"I believe we are called to serve and once you accept the calling the purpose becomes clear."In this episode, I had the great pleasure of speaking with Travis Davis. He is a foster/adoptive parent, President: Miami Dade County Foster & Adoptive Association, advocate, mentor, role model, and more. Tune in to hear about his story/journey persuing his calling than working in his calling.2022-01-2758 minResilient Voices & Beyond“What you do is valid and crucial in times of need in life. Sometimes all it takes is you planting a seed in someone else's life even if youIn this episode, I had the great pleasure of talking with Jessica Ray an MSW student. In this episode, She shares her story and journey as a social work student and more...2022-01-2638 minResilient Voices & Beyond“I can be changed by what happens to me. But I refuse to be reduced by it.”In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Rebecca Kinard. A foster care alumni and social worker. She shares her story and journey to being a social worker and more tune in.....2022-01-2543 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Children are the living messages we send to a time we will not see."On this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond I had the great pleasure of talking to Marcus Batson aka Brotha Encouragement. We dived deep into his story and journey as a foster care alumni, advocate, and professional that has worked in and around the child welfare system.2022-01-221h 05Resilient Voices & Beyond"Empowering Youth & Unlocking Hidden Potential"On this episode of Resilient Voices & Beyond we have a special guest my former Life Skills coach Darius Pettway President Darius Pettway Life Skool. He is a mentor, youth advocate, author, and more...2022-01-1549 minResilient Voices & Beyond"Launching Youth To New Heights"In this episode, we interviewed Kelly Ryan. She is the founder and Executive Director of EOY Foundation, Foster Care Advocate, and Mentor.2022-01-1426 minResilient Voices & Beyond#FosterYouthVoices "Fighting to reform the child welfare system.This episode is an in-depth interview with the Executive Director of NFYI Rebecca Louve Yao. In this episode, she shares her experiences as a foster care alumni, social worker, advocate, mentor, child welfare champion, and more...2022-01-0835 min