Episode 161: Real Talk - Self Care with Matthew Blades
Release Date: 07/11/2023
Episode 198: New Year - New You?
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Happy New Year, and welcome to 2025! While the start of a new year often brings talk of resolutions, research from Pew shows that 70% of Americans skip them—mostly because they’re too easy to break. So, how can we approach personal growth in a way that truly sticks? In this episode, we explore realistic ways to make incremental changes toward the life you envision. Joining us are Toni and James McSwain, parents of six sons and founders of Divine Movement, a nonprofit dedicated to equipping individuals with the tools and mentorship needed to achieve their goals. Toni, a certified...
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Episode 197: Championing Community Change
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In the final episode of our mini-series, we explore the transformative power of community support and how it can truly change and uplift lives. Over the last two episodes, we heard from two inspiring individuals who have directly benefited from the incredible work of Foster Arizona. Now, we’re flipping the script. Today, we’re thrilled to spotlight Christian and Patrick Andrew, two dedicated supporters who exemplify how we can all make a difference in our own unique ways. Often, we think creating impact means making big, life-altering commitments like opening our homes. But the...
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Episode 196: Community Impact: Jenny's Story
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In this episode of our mini-series on the transformative power of community support, we dive into another inspiring story of connection and resilience. Last week, we heard from Joseph, who shared how the community shaped his journey from foster care to adulthood. This week, we’re thrilled to continue the conversation with Jenny Montgomery. Jenny brings a wealth of experience as someone who has dedicated her professional life to supporting children and families in the community. But her perspective is especially meaningful because she’s also been on the receiving end of that...
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Episode 195: Community Impact: Joseph’s Story
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Welcome to our podcast mini-series, where we dive into the transformative power of community support. Join us as we explore how fostering connections can truly change lives. To kick things off, we’re thrilled to welcome Joseph Layton to the show. Joseph has been a vital part of Foster Arizona’s housing initiative for over a year and a half, working tirelessly toward his goals and aspirations. Guided by host Ashley, a dedicated Foster Arizona board member and longtime advocate, we’ll uncover the inspiring journey of someone who’s making big strides toward a brighter...
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Episode 194: Refugee and International Foster Care in Arizona
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Welcome to today’s episode, where we dive into the important and often misunderstood topic of refugee and international foster care in Arizona. Misinformation around this issue tends to spread, especially around election seasons, making it hard to separate fact from fiction. Our goal is to shed light on the realities of refugee and international foster care and to offer you practical ways to support those involved. We’re thrilled to welcome two special guests to help us unpack this topic: Erin Pelley and Adan Benitez. Together, we’ll explore the unique challenges and inspiring...
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Episdoe 193: Real Talk: Public Challenges with Invisible Disabilities
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In this episode, released during Invisible Disability Awareness Week, we shine a light on the often-overlooked challenges of living with invisible disabilities. We share our personal experiences navigating a world where assumptions are based on what can be seen. From expectations about how a child should behave to judgments about what adults are capable of, these perceptions can create unintentional barriers for those with invisible disabilities. Join us as we explore how our interactions and assumptions affect others and discuss what it might look like to shift our approach. How can...
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Episode 192: Now What? How to Support Your LGBTQ Youth
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In this episode, we’re diving into an essential conversation about the role we all play—parents, caregivers, and community members—in supporting the wellbeing of LGBTQ+ youth. Even if you don’t feel this is directly relevant to your life, we encourage you to listen. Statistically, more than one in five Gen Z adults and one in ten millennial adults identify as LGBTQ+. Youth who identify as LGBTQ+ are at a significantly higher risk for homelessness, substance abuse, trauma, and suicide, with even greater risks for those who’ve experienced the foster care system. These youth...
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Episode 191: Fostered for Greatness
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In this episode, we are honored to sit down with Mari Ramsey, whose inspiring journey began when he and his brother entered foster care at the age of 14. While many teens in his situation end up in group homes, Mari was fortunate to find a loving foster family where he could thrive. Through the challenges he faced, Mari discovered his passion for music, faith in God, and a calling to share his story with others. Join us as we listen to Mari’s heartfelt reflections on his experiences, the power of resilience, and how his love for music and faith shaped his path. Resource Links:...
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Episode 190: Real Talk: Group Homes in Arizona
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: In today’s episode, we dive into the world of group homes for children in foster care. When family or foster families aren't an option, group homes become the next step for many kids. But what is life really like inside these homes? We’re joined by Shevaun Sullivan, Director of Group Home Relations at OCJ Kids, who shares her insights from years of experience. Shevaun discusses the day-to-day realities for kids in these environments and highlights the crucial role the community plays in supporting their well-being. If you’ve ever wondered how group homes function or how you can...
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Episode 189: Learning & Growing Together - On Location @ FC Training Day
Fostering Voices Podcast
Summary: Join us on location at Central Christian Church in Glendale, Arizona, for Foster Arizona’s semi-annual Foster Cooperative Training. This episode is packed with insightful talks from experts dedicated to empowering caregivers and community champions. Discover valuable knowledge and practical tools to better support the children who need us most. As we learn and grow together, we enhance our ability to make a meaningful impact in their lives. Tune in to be inspired and equipped to show up with greater purpose and compassion. Resource Links: Connect with us! Email:...
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Matthew Blades is a familiar and friendly voice known to many in Arizona from the successful Matthew and Priscilla in the Morning show on Mix 96.9 FM. Matthew's own journey of battling physical and mental health challenges led him to step away from broadcasting and embark on a healing journey. Now, he sits in front of the podcast mic, hosting the insightful "Learn From Those Who Lived It" podcast, where he engages in conversations with individuals who have overcome unimaginable circumstances and found their path to healing.
Matthew's commitment to spreading joy continues with his new podcast, "I Needed That," co-hosted with Fitness Expert Chris Powell. Drawing from his personal experiences, Matthew shares valuable lessons in his workshops and speaking engagements, touching the lives of others. Today, we dive into an important topic: self-care. This discussion resonates with everyone, particularly those involved in the foster care world. Get ready to join us as we explore the significance of self-care and welcome Matthew Blades to the podcast. Prepare to be inspired and uplifted!
Resource Links:
Learn From People Who Lived It - Podcast
2021 Top 10 Self-Care Resources - PDF
Caregivers Guide to Wellbeing - PDF
Connect with us!
Facebook: @FosteringVoicesPodcast
IG: @FosteringVoices
Chapter Markers:
00:04 - On Today's Episode
00:34 - Welcome Matthew Blades!
02:25 - Matthew's Story
04:40 - Your Super Power
05:12 - 3 Ways to Screw up Your Kids
07:10 - I am a Human FIrst!
07:41 - Shame, Fear, and Guilt
11:06 - The Recordings in our Heads
12:33 - Moving Forward
13:49 - Spinning the Plates
15:52 - It's not Control; It's Fear
16:59 - Letting Go
18:44 - You're a Transitional Character
20:44 - Speaking it Out Loud
21:47 - Redefining Success
23:59 - Your Real Life - Personal Inventory
26:43 - The Value of Self
27:51 - Having a Self Care Strategy
30:03 - Kim's Weekend
31:31 - Being Selfish
33:36 - The Blame Game
35:00 - Giving Yourself Permission
38:02 - The Takeaway
40:04 - Resources - Closing Thoughts
43:16 - You are not Broken
44:05 - Wrap Up
45:00 - Thank You!