Advertise on podcast: Bonus Babies

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with former foster youth, adoptive mom, and equine therapist Stacy Grenier. Stacy Grenier is a widow, mother of three, and proud grandmother of three whose life has given her a rare perspective on the child welfare system. She has experienced it a a foster and juvenile child, as an at-risk foster parent, and as the parent of a child who later entered residential treatment. Those experiences have given her insight into every side of the system. For more than 30 years, Stacy has worked with individuals with developmental disabilities. She has also dedicated the past 25 years to the therapeutic horseback riding community and is a PATH International Certified Therapeutic Riding Instructor (CTRI). Inspired by her own journey, Stacy founded UNSEEN (Understanding Natural Survival through Equine Eyes and Nature), a program offered through Ride To Fly that connects at-risk teens with horses. As a teenager in foster care, horses were the only thing that truly reached her. Today, she is committed to giving young people the same opportunity to experience trust, healing, and hope through the powerful bond between humans and horses. Support UNSEEN & Ride To Fly UNSEEN and Ride To Fly are volunteer-driven, donation-supported programs dedicated to serving at-risk youth and individuals with disabilities. Every donation helps provide life-changing equine-assisted experiences for those who need them most. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia talks with former foster youth, Michael Custos. Michael Custos is a writer and father who grew up in group homes throughout Southern California. His life changed when Kelly, a Court Appointed Special Advocate, entered his case and remained long after her temporary assignment ended.  So he wrote a book about her. Michael went on to spend more than a decade in sales while building a career and a family from the ground up. His book, "Her Name Was Kelly", published in September, 2026, tells how Kelly became his legal guardian and remained his family for the next two decades. He wrote the book to honor her and to carry forward what her life proved: consistency is not a small act when a child has learned to expect everyone to leave. Michael hopes the story reaches the adults who wonder whether their presence truly matters, and the children who need to know that their beginnings do not decide their endings. THE STORY "By nine, Michael had lived in more homes than birthdays. Violence from the people meant to protect him. Indifference from the people paid to care. Group homes where silence kept you safer, and the only constant was the next move. Survival wasn't given. It was negotiated. Kelly entered his life as a Court Appointed Special Advocate. A temporary role. Document the case. Attend the hearings. Move on. She didn't. The assignment ended, but Kelly remained. Birthdays. Court dates. The visits nobody required her to make. Within a few years she was his legal guardian, and she stayed for the next two decades. Loyalty that outlasted every failure along the way, including his own. In a life defined by leaving, she was the exception. Then she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. As an adult and now a father, Michael faced losing the one person who chose him, every day, when no one else did. "Her Name Was Kelly" is the story of what one person can mean to a life the system wasn't equipped to save, and what it means to be chosen." "Her Name Was Kelly" website. "Her Name Was Kelly" can be purchased here, as well as other book outlets. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with Dr. Lucretia “Cre” Taylor,  a seasoned strategist and consultant with over two decades of experience leading and supporting organizations across the nonprofit and public sectors. Her expertise spans strategic planning, program design, evaluation, organizational development, and capacity building—particularly for organizations advancing equity, healing, and access for historically marginalized communities. Dr. Cre is the founder of Strategic Choices Consulting, where she works closely with nonprofits, funders, and coalitions to strengthen infrastructure, align programs with outcomes, and move from vision to impact. While deeply committed to youth-serving organizations, Dr. Cre’s portfolio includes a wide range of mission areas—from education and mental health to justice reform, housing, and leadership development. Her consulting work focuses on helping organizations sharpen their strategy, build sustainable programs, design meaningful partnerships, and increase their readiness for funding and growth. She has supported over 200 organizations nationwide through technical assistance, training, and implementation support—facilitating organizational assessments, strategic planning retreats, program audits, and leadership coaching. A former foster youth turned scholar-practitioner, Dr. Cre draws on both personal experience and research expertise to inform her work. She holds a Ph.D. in Education with an emphasis in Policy, Reform, and Evaluation from Claremont Graduate University, a Master’s degree in Urban Affairs & Public Policy with an emphasis in Nonprofit Management and Evaluation from the University of Delaware, and a Bachelor’s degree from Spelman College. Dr. Cre was recognized as an “American Champion” by PBS for her contributions to education and community transformation. She is also a sought-after speaker and facilitator known for her engaging, affirming approach to leading conversations on systems change, trauma-informed practice, and community-led design. Whether helping organizations develop a strategic roadmap, align programs with community needs, or build internal capacity, Dr. Cre brings thought partnership, clarity, and care to every engagement. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia Larson talks with performer and former foster youth,  Renée Santos. Renée is a fierce multi-hyphenate performer — actor, writer, comedian — whose work lives at the intersection of raw truth and bold humor. In 2025, she’s been touring nationally with her critically-acclaimed one-woman dramatic solo show, CROSSROADS — a gripping, emotionally honest theatrical journey about her experience growing up in the foster care system. Through powerful storytelling and unflinching vulnerability, the show explores identity, survival, and what it means to reclaim your narrative. Best known for her sharp wit and fearless presence, Renée first made her mark in stand-up comedy and continues to bring her signature mix of social commentary and edgy charm to comedy stages nationwide. Whether she’s bringing audiences to tears with deeply human storytelling or tears of laughter with a perfectly timed punchline, Renée is committed to using her voice — and her full artistic range — to spark connection, healing, and hilarity. Visit her website here. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with social activist, entrepreneur, and foster turned adoptive father, Mark Daley. Mark has over two decades of experience in message development, communication strategy, and public policy, including as a communications director and spokesperson for then-Senator Hillary Clinton’s 2008 presidential campaign. He has worked with more than thirty members of Congress, numerous governors, and other elected officials. He is the founder of One Iowa, the state’s largest LGBTQ+ equality organization, and TheFosterParent.com, a national platform to connect interested families with foster organizations. He's written a wonderful  book about his family's growing journey: "Safe: A Memoir of Fatherhood, Foster Care, and the Risks We Take for Family." Find about more about his book and work here:  Mark Daley  and  TheFosterParent.com See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with Greg Brake, the Executive Director and Co-Founder of Foster Warriors. Greg has built companies including a 200+ person legal & technology team that have handled some of the nation's most critical matters such as the World Trade Center disaster. He created the initial model to determine the value of a life lost in 9/11 and handled numerous regulatory inquiries which include but are not limited to: NYSE & Archipelago, Oracle & Peoplesoft, Harrah's & Ceasars. He built global litigation systems, cyber security, and data breach response and remediation solutions  Greg loves solving complex problems that others don't want to tackle.  In 2019, he reached out to his longtime friend and former business partner Chuck Rubac, former US Navy SEAL,  to help him build a program to change foster children's lives and create a positive way forward for great Americans who served this country.  The underlying mission is suicide prevention but Greg and Chuck wanted to focus on the opposite framework of Veterans having a mission and purpose in life to materially change the lives of a forgotten population, foster youth that have aged out of the system. Foster Warriors held its 1st 24-hour challenge in September 2023 and it was a resounding success. Greg most enjoys spending time with his family and coaching youth lacrosse. Foster Warriors - Bringing Navy Seals and their allies together to mentor Foster Youth See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with attorney, child advocate, and bestselling author Andrew Bridge. Andrew spent 11 years in Los Angeles County foster care, before earning a scholarship to Wesleyan University and graduating from Harvard Law School. He is a Fulbright Fellow and a Rockefeller Foundation Bellagio Writing Resident. His work has garnered coverage in The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angeles Times, Showtime, The Observer, The CBS Early Show, NBC Nightly News, Time Magazine, PBS, Psychology Today, NPR, and Observer Magazine. He began his legal career representing children against the State of Alabama. His work resulted in the closure of one of the most notorious psychiatric institutions in the country, the Eufaula Adolescent Center. After that, he returned home to Los Angeles as CEO of The Alliance for Children’s Rights. He defended children at MacLaren Hall, where he was once confined. Under Andrew’s leadership, The Alliance successfully sued Los Angeles County over its practice of not visiting foster children. The victory gave every foster child the right to see and speak with their social worker at least once a month. ​Andrew chaired Los Angeles County’s Blue Ribbon Foster Care Task Force, which called for an end to the disproportionate removal of African-American babies from their parents. He is the co-founder of National Adoption Day. He went on to lead California’s largest recruiter of LGBT+ foster and adoptive parents. ​A sought-after expert in his field, he has advised senior federal and state officials on reforming our foster care system to meet the needs of families living in poverty. His educational work resulted in the establishment of New Village Girls Academy, California’s first all-girls high school for pregnant and parenting teens. He regularly consults with child welfare systems, children’s facilities, and private foundations. As a member of Arizona’s Foster Care Review Board, Andrew advises Arizona’s Juvenile Court on the safety and well-being of individual children in the state’s care. His website is here and his best-selling books: Hope's Boy The Child Catcher n this episode we talk about: *Growing up in Los Angeles foster care and his early experiences that shaped his perspectives *His journey to becoming an attorney and child advocate, including earning degrees and professional milestones *Discussion of his new book The Child Catcher, which offers a critique of the child welfare system and calls for transformative reforms *Reflections on how storytelling and personal narrative can ignite change in foster care policies and practices See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with former foster youth Alexis Longmire who is an entrepreneur and fashionista. Lex is a fashion journalist, stylist, traveling wardrobe consultant and a proud Los Angeles native. When she was 10, she discovered her passion for styling and has never looked back! As she gained experience, Lex immersed herself in runway fashion, fashion magazines, cutting edge designers, and Instagram influencers. She graduated from the University of Arizona with degrees in Fashion Retailing and Consumer Science. Lex has styled music videos, photo shoots, album covers, fashion shows, events, and red carpets for over 4 years. Her experience includes assisting Celebrity Stylist Okera Banks, interning under Celebrity Stylists Jill Jacobs and Morgan Pinney, and working as an intern at The Honeyman PR Agency. She also worked as a personal stylist in luxury boutique settings, helping everyday women feel confident. Lex has expanded her services to include wardrobe reorganization, capsule collection consultations, and personal shopping for men and women. Featuring fashion, fun, style, industry insights, tips for curating your own personal style, shopping smarter, and looking cute everyday, Lex Styles Mag is a magazine with a unique twist! Here you’ll discover her favorite looks of the season and thoughts on life in the fashion industry. You’ll also find outfit suggestions that take the stress out of getting dressed and more! Aside from fashion, Lex loves helping others in her community. In her free time, she spends time with her fur baby, visits local coffee shops, and spends hours at the library. LEX STYLES Magazine ALL THINGS FASHION, FUN, AND STYLISH Established in 2017 and emerging as a fashion magazine in 2022, Lex Styles Mag looks to inspire, empower and inform both men and women on creating the life they want through fashion and style. Dedicated to Honoring the importance and impact of fashion on everyday life, self-esteem, careers, music and as a display of passions. Curated by experts with unique perspectives and understanding writers and using education and creation as a tool to make fashion and a style accessible to everyone and helping to enhance everyday moments. In this episode we discuss: *Childhood & Creativity Alexis talks about discovering her passion for fashion at age 10 and how creativity became her anchor. *Professional Journey Alexis  details stepping into couture—runway fashion, photo shoots, red carpets—and working under celebrity stylists like Okera Banks, Jill Jacobs, and Morgan Pinney.  *Lex Styles Mag She shares her vision for a style magazine that empowers confidence and accessible fashion for all. *Practical Style Advice She shares tips on cultivating personal style, smarter shopping, wardrobe organization, capsule collections, and getting dressed with ease. *Giving Back Alexis describes her local involvement: supporting her community, spending time in coffee shops and libraries, and loving her “fur baby." Alexis on LinkedIn here. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with former foster mom, Shimeka D. Lott. Shimeka is the visionary Founder and CEO of the Ashlynn B. Jackson Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to uplifting the lives of young people and underserved communities. With over 25 years of experience volunteering and leading community-driven initiatives, Shimeka’s passion for service runs deep. Whether it’s feeding the unhoused, supporting annual Thanksgiving and Christmas drives, or distributing hygiene kits on Skid Row, she is a constant presence in her community, driven by a mission to make a tangible difference.  One of her most cherished achievements is partnering with Mt. Sinai Church of Los Angeles to launch a youth academic initiative that led to the creation of the Ashlynn B. Jackson Scholarship Fund. Through her leadership, over $190,000 in scholarships has been awarded to ambitious youth over a five-year span, empowering them to pursue higher education and professional success. Shimeka played a critical role in establishing the program’s online application process, setting qualifications, and developing structured guidelines to ensure its impact. Recognizing the importance of academic support, she also formed a partnership with UCLA to deliver an annual tutoring program focused on college readiness and career development for students. Leading a team of 15 volunteers, Shimeka was instrumental in expanding program outreach, organizing impactful fundraising events, and securing endorsements from city officials and celebrities. Her efforts culminated in the highly successful Annual Scholarship Gala, which attracted donations and sponsorships from major brands like Nike, the Dodgers, Lakers, Clippers, and Angels. Beyond her nonprofit work, Shimeka brings over 25 years of accounting expertise to her foundation, managing financial operations, event sales, and strategic marketing with precision. As a licensed Realtor and Inglewood area specialist, her extensive network and community ties enable her to foster meaningful connections that further the foundation’s mission. Whether in business or philanthropy, Shimeka Lott embodies her mantra of “impacting one heart at a time,” continuously leveraging her skills and influence to create lasting change. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Part II - Jayne Amelia talks with Colonel (Retired) Gregory J. Rosenmerkel who is a CASA in Colorado and was recently assigned a sibling set of three boys. Rosie grew up in Waukesha, WI and earned his commission and degree in Civil Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1988.  He spent over 25 years as an Air Force officer/engineer with assignments to 11 different locations in the US and overseas.  He commanded units at both squadron and group levels and he led teams on deployments to Somalia, Panama, Haiti, Iraq, Afghanistan and several other locations.  He's earned a Master of Science in Management from Colorado Christian University, a Master of Science in Civil Engineering/Construction from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and a Master of National Security and Strategic Studies from the US Naval War College in  Newport RI. In his last military assignment, then Colonel Rosenmerkel was the Commander, 11th Mission Support Group, (similar to a City Manager) at Joint Base Andrews, MD.  The group was over 1,200-people strong and provided base services to the Andrews community, the Pentagon and over 50 other units in the National Capital Region.   His awards and decorations include: the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with five oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Outstanding Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, Organizational Excellence Award with oak leaf cluster, Aghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Korea Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, NATO Medal and many others.         In their 13th move, he and his family settled in Glenwood Springs CO where he was the Engineering, Minerals and Fleet Staff Officer for the White River National Forest from 2013-2022.  He led a team of engineers and technicians to provide professional services in support of sustainable operations and multiple-use management of 2.3 million acres of public land.  His wife of 33 years, Linda, is also a USAF Academy graduate and retired AF officer, currently working as a civilian for the Secretary of the Air Force’s office.  Their son Ray is a Cadet Second Class (junior) at USAFA and their daughter Allison graduated the University of California in Santa Cruz in 2024.  He is a licensed realtor, works part time as a bridge inspector and mentor for the USFS, teaches sporting clays shooting, and works at Ironbridge Golf Club.  He volunteers for the Western Slope Veterans Coalition and the Knights of Columbus as well as being a CASA.  He and Linda enjoy biking, skiing, fitness, golfing and visiting family and friends all over the country.   *A few things from early life not in this bio--Rosie grew up in the same town as both sets of grandparents, most of his aunts, uncles and cousins and graduated from the same high school as his Mom and Dad.  He has two sisters and a brother, and he's #2. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia talks with foster mom, Nicole Goswami, hoping to adopt a baby who she has raised since weeks old. Nicole  does many things but most importantly a foster mom. This is her first time fostering and Jasmyn has filled her heart with so much love and joy. Nicole works in many different fields including marketing and advertising and provides executive support as well. Nicole has been the Head Coach for the Bennington Marauders Swim Club since 2005 and is passionate about teaching and coaching. As a former member of the Marauders as a child, Nicole is dedicated to this team and its growth. She enjoys baking in her spare time and does custom orders for friends and family. Nicole also enjoys exercising, cooking, reading, traveling, and spending time with her family.  See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia talks with Colonel (Retired) Gregory J. Rosenmerkel who is a new CASA in Colorado and about to start his CASA training.  Rosie grew up in Waukesha, WI and earned his commission and degree in Civil Engineering from the United States Air Force Academy in 1988.  He spent over 25 years as an Air Force officer/engineer with assignments to 11 different locations in the US and overseas.  He commanded units at both squadron and group levels and he led teams on deployments to Somalia, Panama, Haiti, Iraq, Afghanistan and several other locations.  He's earned a Master of Science in Management from Colorado Christian University, a Master of Science in Civil Engineering/Construction from the University of Colorado at Boulder, and a Master of National Security and Strategic Studies from the US Naval War College in  Newport RI. In his last military assignment, then Colonel Rosenmerkel was the Commander, 11th Mission Support Group, (similar to a City Manager) at Joint Base Andrews, MD.  The group was over 1,200-people strong and provided base services to the Andrews community, the Pentagon and over 50 other units in the National Capital Region.   His awards and decorations include: the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Meritorious Service Medal with five oak leaf clusters, Air Force Commendation Medal with oak leaf cluster, Army Commendation Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Outstanding Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, Organizational Excellence Award with oak leaf cluster, Aghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Korea Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, NATO Medal and many others.         In their 13th move, he and his family settled in Glenwood Springs CO where he was the Engineering, Minerals and Fleet Staff Officer for the White River National Forest from 2013-2022.  He led a team of engineers and technicians to provide professional services in support of sustainable operations and multiple-use management of 2.3 million acres of public land.  His wife of 33 years, Linda, is also a USAF Academy graduate and retired AF officer, currently working as a civilian for the Secretary of the Air Force’s office.  Their son Ray is a Cadet Second Class (junior) at USAFA and their daughter Allison graduated the University of California in Santa Cruz in 2024.  He is a licensed realtor, works part time as a bridge inspector and mentor for the USFS, teaches sporting clays shooting, and works at Ironbridge Golf Club.  He volunteers for the Western Slope Veterans Coalition and the Knights of Columbus as well as being a CASA.  He and Linda enjoy biking, skiing, fitness, golfing and visiting family and friends all over the Country.   *A few things from early life not in this bio--Rosie grew up in the same town as both sets of grandparents, most of his aunts, uncles and cousins and graduated from the same high school as his Mom and Dad.  He has two sisters and a brother, and he's #2. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with CASA Christine Goddard shortly after the Eaton Fire in Los Angeles took the foster home of her CASA kiddo as well as her bio family's home. Christine Goddard, has been a Court Appointment Special Advocate (CASA) for ten years, working on vital tasks like appropriate placements, health care and educational rights for foster youth. While advocating on behalf of foster youth in court, along with her bachelor’s degree in Child Development and Juvenile Delinquency through a trauma-informed lens, she developed hope and understanding of pathways to positively impact underserved youth. Born in Australia to Polish immigrant parents, who as children survived deportation to Stalin’s labor camps, she moved to the U.S when she was 19 years old. Here she began career in commercial production. After many years of working as a Producers and co-owning her own production company with her husband, Aaron, Christine pivoted and joined the nonprofit space in child advocacy and social justice.  Travelling to experience new parts of the world are Christine’s favorite activity. She is a mother of two grown daughters, who will forever be her heart and soul.  *In this episode Christine Godard, a CASA (Court Appointed Special Advocate) for 10 years, shares her experiences and challenges in supporting foster children. Christine reflects on her journey and the importance of dedication, compassion, and perseverance in the role. She highlights a specific case involving a five-year-old girl whose family is grappling with multiple crises, including losing their home to a fire. Despite the difficult circumstances, Christine remains committed to providing support and advocacy, emphasizing the positive impact of CASA work on both the children and society as a whole. Christine also discusses the emotional challenges of the role and the support needed from the community to ensure such advocacy continues. See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with former foster youth and now child advocate Dr. Danisha Keating. In this conversation, Danisha shares her challenging journey from being a child in the foster care system to earning her PhD. She discusses the significant obstacles she faced, including experiencing homelessness from ages 18 to 24, moving frequently, and dealing with an unsupportive family. Danisha recounts her educational journey that began with difficulty completing her bachelor's degree, which took eight years due to numerous hurdles. She also talks about her familial background, being one of eleven children in a family that eventually separated, and the challenges of being an older sibling thrust into a caretaker role. Danisha reveals the continuous battle of having her intellectual property stolen and being labeled a 'problem' by various authorities. Yet, she remains dedicated to advocating for foster youth and educating others about the complexities and needs of those in the foster care system. Dr. Keating's story highlights the importance of recognizing individual struggles and accomplishments of foster youth, showing that everyone’s journey and needs are unique. Danisha calls herself a "boot-strap girl" who knows what it means to have GRIT, find purpose, and making a name for herself.  She is a public speaker and author of two best selling books, "Taking My Voice Back" and  "From Foster to PhD".  She holds a bachelor's in Psychology, a master's in Leadership and Organizational Studies, and a PhD in Psychology. She also has a background in trauma informed practices and foster care. She believes in empowering others to find their purpose, on purpose, and to get back into the ring. Danisha has been featured in Women's Journal, Wall Street Times, KFrog & more.  Please visit danishakeating.com dkeducationconsulting.com From Foster to PhD: Letters from a SuitcaseSee bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast

Send us Fan Mail Jayne Amelia speaks with Jeanette Yoffe, M.A., M.F.T., who is a therapist specializing in adoption and foster care and the Director and Founder of Celia Center, the non-profit she named after her first mother, Celia.   *In this episode we talk about: Treating the Whole Family - Emphasis on the importance of treating the entire family unit, not just the child. - Benefits of a holistic approach by acknowledging all members and including the constellation of all family in addressing the root causes of trauma, grief, and loss. Open Adoption and Open Foster Care Services Generational Foster Care Discussion of the Underlying Causes of Stress, Loss, and Trauma Addressing Multigenerational Trauma Providing Support and Resources and Preventive Measure Breaking the Cycle of Generational Foster Care Jeanette treats children, teens, and adults with serious psychological problems secondary to histories of abuse, neglect, adoption, and /or multiple foster care placements. She has specialized for the past 20 years in the treatment of children and teens who manifest serious deficits in their emotional, cognitive, and behavioral development. Celia Center Inc is a non-profit organization in Los Angeles supporting all members of the foster care and adoption constellation which includes birth parents, foster youth, adoptees, foster and adoptive parents as well as professionals working in the field. ​She is also the Clinical Director of Yoffe Therapy Inc., a mental health center in Los Angeles provides services to families, children, teens, and adults connected by foster care and adoption. Learn more here. Jeanette’s desire to become a therapist with a special focus on adoption and foster care issues derived from her own experience of being adopted and moving through the foster care system. Her personal experience has informed her education and provided insight into the unique stresses involved with these issues.  In 2006 she was awarded the Los Angeles Foster Care Hero Award for her dedication to children and families in foster care.  Please learn more at JeanetteYoffe.com Jeanette's has many courses and programs on Pesi.com and her new book can be found on their website:  The Traumatized and At-Risk Youth ToolboxOver 160 Attachment-Informed Interventions for Working with Kids and Families in Foster Care and Beyond See bonusbabies.org to learn more about what we are doing and please donate to support us by making a 100% tax-deductible contribution. EVERY PENNY OF YOUR CONTRIBUTION GOES TO RECORDING AND PLATFORMING THESE STORIES.  Yeah! IG@bonusbabiespodcast TW@BonusBabiesPod FB@BonusBabiesPodcast