Advertise on podcast: Wards of the State

In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard speaks with Jeanette Yoffe, a psychotherapist and advocate in the field of foster care and adoption. Jeanette shares her personal journey through the foster care system, her experiences with adoption, and the complexities of identity and attachment. They discuss the historical context of adoption, the impact of mental health on family dynamics, and the importance of therapeutic parenting. Jeanette emphasizes the need for understanding and compassion for those who have experienced trauma, and she offers valuable advice for youth navigating similar challenges. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here  www.JeanetteYoffe.com YouTube Channel:  Jeanette-ically Speaking About  Foster Care Adoption and Mental Health If you are experiencing a mental health crisis/emergency,  please contact the 24 hour-7 day a week, crisis line:  LA COUNTY ACCESS at 1-800-854-7771 NEW CHILDREN’S BOOKS:  What is Adoption? for Kids What is Foster Care? For Kids

In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard introduces Brittany, a guest with a profound story of being a foster youth and an adoptee. Brittany shares her early life in foster care, the challenges she faced in her adoptive family, and her eventual reunion with her biological family. The conversation delves into the complexities of identity, the impact of trauma, and the resilience required to navigate life as an adoptee. Brittany emphasizes the importance of asking questions about one's origins and encourages others to seek their truth. The episode concludes with reflections on the importance of love, support, and the journey of healing. Watch the Video Podcast! If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here 

In this episode of Wards of the State, host Karlos Dillard engages with Shanae who shares her profound journey through the child welfare system. Shanae recounts her early experiences with trauma, her struggles with mental health, and the challenges of motherhood. The conversation delves into the complexities of child welfare involvement, including the emotional toll of court proceedings and the importance of support services. Shanae emphasizes the need for accountability and the value of seeking help, offering insights and advice for parents navigating similar challenges. This episode serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the importance of community support in overcoming adversity.

In this episode of the podcast, Karlos Dillard engages in a deep conversation with Priscilla, an adoptee from New York City, about her experiences in the foster care and adoption system. They discuss the importance of including birth parents in adoption conversations, the complexities of the adoption process, and the need for reform in the child welfare system. Priscilla shares her personal journey of discovering her adoption at a young age, the challenges she faced, and the impact of her experiences on her mental health. The conversation also touches on the importance of reunification and the challenges that come with it, as well as advice for future foster and adoptive parents.  Watch the Video Podcast! If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here 

In this episode, Karlos Dillard and Tag discuss the often overlooked experiences of men in the foster care system. They explore the stigma surrounding men's mental health, the impact of trauma, and the importance of sharing stories. Tag shares his personal journey through neglect, abuse, and eventual adoption, highlighting the complexities of identity and relationships shaped by his experiences. The conversation emphasizes the need for open dialogue about men's experiences in child welfare and the healing power of therapy. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here 

In this episode, Karlos Dillard introduces the podcast 'Wards of the State,' focusing on the lived experiences of adoptees and foster youth. The conversation with Ron delves into his traumatic childhood, navigating the foster care system, and the complexities of family dynamics. Ron shares his experiences of abuse, neglect, and the long-lasting effects of trauma, while also discussing the importance of understanding and healing from these experiences. The episode highlights the significance of lived stories in humanizing the statistics surrounding child welfare. In this conversation, Ron shares his journey through foster care, identity struggles, and the impact of religion on his life. He discusses the importance of setting boundaries, the complexities of family dynamics, and the challenges of parenting. Ron emphasizes the need for empowerment and the significance of sharing personal stories to inspire others. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here 

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, Karlos Dillard speaks with Patricia about her tumultuous journey through the foster care system. Patricia shares her experiences of being taken from her biological family, the challenges she faced in various foster homes, and her eventual transition to a group home where she found stability and support. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice, the impact of trauma, and the resilience required to navigate life after foster care. Patricia emphasizes the need for foster children to advocate for themselves and take advantage of available resources. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here 

In this episode of the Wards of the State podcast, host Karlos Dillard speaks with Abner Sage, who shares their harrowing experiences growing up in the foster care system and later being adopted. Abner discusses the challenges they faced, including frequent separations from their siblings, the stigma of being labeled as 'special needs', and the complexities of navigating identity and trauma. They highlight the systemic issues within the foster care and adoption systems, including financial exploitation and the lack of understanding from caregivers. The conversation sheds light on the need for reform and better support for children in these systems. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here Please help us keep shining a light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! 

In this episode, Karlos Dillard interviews Diana Colon, who shares her harrowing journey from being born in Russia and living in orphanages to being adopted in America. Diana recounts her traumatic experiences in the orphanage, including abuse and neglect, and the challenges she faced in her adoptive home. Despite the struggles, Diana emphasizes the importance of resilience and healing, and she offers valuable advice for future adoptees. Her story is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the power of sharing one's narrative. Takeaways Diana's early life in Russia was marked by hardship and neglect. She faced unique challenges as the only black child in her orphanages. Diana experienced severe trauma and abuse during her time in the orphanage. Adoption brought new challenges, including cultural and language barriers. Diana struggled to communicate her past trauma to her adoptive family. Therapy was difficult for Diana as she couldn't open up about her experiences. Diana's relationship with her adoptive mother was complicated and strained. She found solace in her siblings, who provided support during tough times. Diana emphasizes the importance of sharing one's story for healing. She encourages future adoptees to seek understanding and support in their journeys. Follow her on Tiktok Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form. 

In this episode, Karlos Dillard speaks with Shantel about her experiences as a kinship adoptee. They discuss the challenges of growing up in an adoptive home, the impact of abuse and neglect, and the importance of resilience and support systems. Shantel shares her journey through teenage pregnancy, navigating relationships with her biological family, and the resources available for young parents. They also explore the concept of the 'adoption fog' and the necessity of therapy for adoptive families. The conversation emphasizes the importance of sharing lived experiences to create change and support others in similar situations. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here

In this episode, Karlos Dillard and Shana discuss the complexities of adoption, including the importance of sharing personal stories, the trauma associated with being adopted, and the role of therapists in understanding adoptee experiences. Shana shares her own adoption story, the challenges of identity, and the impact of closed adoptions on her life. They also explore the legal implications of adoption and the emotional journey of reunification with birth family, emphasizing the need for greater awareness and reform in the adoption industry. Watch the Video Podcast!  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here.

Hey Lightshiners! In this engaging conversation, Karlos Dillard and Dr. Cre explore the importance of building relationships and support systems for youth, particularly those in foster care. They discuss the significance of creating safe spaces, effective communication, and the role of structure and boundaries in fostering healthy development. Dr. Cre shares insights from her experiences and emphasizes the need for adults to be open, nurturing, and willing to learn from young people. The discussion also highlights the challenges faced by foster parents and the necessity of addressing their own traumas to better support the children in their care. Ultimately, the conversation serves as a powerful reminder of the impact of love, understanding, and intentionality in guiding youth towards a brighter future.  Please follow Dr. Cre on social media @IamDrCre and check out her website  Takeaways Relationships are crucial for youth development. Creating safe spaces helps children feel secure. Open communication fosters trust and understanding. Foster parents must address their own traumas. Structure and boundaries provide stability for youth. Empowering youth through choices builds confidence. Teaching negotiation skills is essential for independence. Support systems are vital for overcoming challenges. Nurturing relationships requires effort and intention. Youth need to feel loved and respected to thrive. Watch the Video Podcast on YouTube  If you would like to be on the show, please fill out the form here

Hey, Light Shiners! I am joined by Jasmine, a foster youth who shares her experience. She also speaks to us about what it is like being a kinship caregiver herself! Watch the Video Podcast Join me for the “Bring the Light to Truth Book Tour 2025! If you would like to be on the show, please sign up here

Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Hart, who is a pre-birth match adoptee who is joined by their biological brother Michael. They speak about how reunification has been for them and Hart speaks about having a net-positive adoption, but still feeling the loss of their sibling  Watch the Video Podcast! Join me for the “Bring the Light to Truth Book Tour 2025! If you would like to be on the show, please sign up here  Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate!

Hey Light Shiners! I am joined by Jasmine a former foster youth who has just aged out of foster care. She speaks about life in group homes and how she made a plan to make it out of the system without being institutionalized. Watch the Video Podcast HERE!  Check me out on Patreon and get 1 on 1 time to get your questions answered! If you would like to be on the show please sign up HERE!  Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate!  Sign up for our monthly newsletter The Ward Connection.