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What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting

Advertise on podcast: What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting

Rating
★★★★★
4.9
from
79 reviews
This podcast has
47 episodes
Language
English
Explicit
No
Date created
2023/08/06
Latest episode
2026/05/22
Average duration
37 min.
Release period
33 days

Description

The Go-to Podcast for Christian Women Who Want to Grow Their Family through Foster Care or Adoption:   Do you struggle with constant overwhelm or have way more questions than answers while navigating the foster care system? Are you feeling like you’re losing yourself while trying to help your foster child or heal your adopted children? Do you feel completely ill-equipped with the needs of the kiddos in your home or that you took on more than you should have? What if there was a way that you could navigate the complexities of the foster care system, gain powerful insights into the adoption journey and find more peace and less chaos while balancing it all? Hi new friend, I’m Christine Marie, Christian Biblical Mindset coach, Mom of 4- Adoptive Mom of 2 and previous foster parent of 77 children. I can’t wait to share with you everything I have learned in my 10 year journey as a Foster Mom… and now adoptive mom.   On this podcast, we are going to cover- -How to grow your family through foster care and adoption while fully trusting in Gods’ plan, timing and provision. -How to navigate a complicated foster care system without losing yourself or your mind in the process. -How to balance the needs of your birth children, foster kiddos and adoptive children. -How to balance your marriage, family, career and mental health. -How I found my own personal healing through all the brokenness. I am thankful you are here and can’t wait to get started.   So, go grab your cup of coffee, make sure to reheat it and let’s jump in! XO, Christine   Connect with me personally in our Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortisol_coach Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thechristinemarieofficial Email: [email protected]

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Check latest episodes from What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast


Jen Lilley and Dr. John DeGarmo | Called to Foster — The Honest Guide to Foster Care and Adoption
2026/05/22
Jen Lilley and Dr. John DeGarmo | Called to Foster — The Honest Guide to Foster Care and Adoption Foster care. Adoption. The calling that changes everything. If you have ever felt that quiet pull on your heart — that nudge that says maybe we are supposed to do something — this episode is for you. In this episode of the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting Podcast, Christine Marie sits down with actress and foster care advocate Jen Lilley and international foster care expert Dr. John DeGarmo to talk about their brand new book Called to Foster — the honest, hope-filled guide to every stage of the foster care and adoption journey. Jen Lilley, known from Days of Our Lives, Hallmark films, and dozens of beloved family movies — has fostered and adopted children through the Los Angeles County system and has become one of the most recognized voices for foster care in America. Dr. John DeGarmo is the founder of The Foster Care Institute, a TEDx Talk presenter, international consultant, and foster and adoptive parent to over 65 children. Together they wrote the book that every foster parent, adoptive parent, and anyone considering foster care needs in their hands. Dr. John did not want to be a foster parent. He believed every myth. Until a child sex trafficking ring victimized many of his own students and he could not look away. Jen never planned to become a foster care advocate. Until she opened her home and her heart through the LA County system and could not stop. This episode is raw. It is emotional. It is deeply faith-filled. And it will challenge every person listening to examine what they are doing or not doing for the children who are waiting. Because this is a kingdom priority. And if you are listening you are part of the mission field. In this episode you will hear: What led Jen Lilley and Dr. John DeGarmo to foster care and why neither of them planned it The hardest truths about foster care that most families are not prepared for How to love a child fully knowing they may leave What the church is getting wrong about foster care and the cost of its silence The faith moments that sustained them when they wanted to quit Why Called to Foster is the guide every foster and adoptive family needs How to get the book into the hands of caseworkers and child welfare professionals who need it Get the Book Called to Foster: https://a.co/d/03razpJS Connect with Dr. John DeGarmo: Website: https://www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/john.degarmo.7 Connect with Jen Lilley: Website: https://www.jenlilley.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jen_lilley Connect with Christine: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cortisol_coach If this episode blessed you: Leave a review on Apple Podcasts it helps other foster and adoptive families find this show Share this episode with someone who has been praying for a breakthrough in their journey Buy an extra copy of Called to Foster and take it to your local child welfare office and give it to a caseworker who needs a ray of hope SEO Keywords and Tags: Jen Lilley foster care, called to foster book, Dr John DeGarmo foster care, foster care podcast, foster care adoption guide, how to become a foster parent, foster care and adoption journey, foster parenting advice, foster care Christian families, foster care faith, adoption journey podcast, foster care system, what to expect foster care, foster parent resources, foster care book 2025, foster to adopt, foster care calling, church and foster care, foster care community, Christine Marie podcast, what to expect while fostering and adopting, Jen Lilley book, Days of Our Lives Jen Lilley, foster care advocate, called to foster guide
The Heart Work of Foster Care: Adoption, Birth Family Relationships, and Trusting God Through your Fostering Journey
2026/02/19
Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie, adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach. Whether you’re considering foster care, navigating adoption, supporting birth families, or trying to hold it all together in the middle of the unknown, you’re in the right place. In today’s episode, I sit down with Jeremy Walden, foster and adoptive dad, college professor, ministry leader, and co author of The Heart Work of Foster Care. Jeremy shares his family’s powerful journey through foster care and adoption, including adopting one child and later welcoming her siblings, building relationships with biological parents, and witnessing restoration, reunification, and healing unfold over years of faithful obedience. This is one of those conversations that reminds you foster care isn’t a moment. It’s a long road of love, patience, boundaries, and trust in God. Jeremy opens up about: • The real challenges of foster parenting and adoption • Supporting birth families with compassion and humility • How foster care impacts marriage and biological children • Saying yes, saying no, and protecting your family while keeping your heart open • Why foster care is truly heart work, caring deeply, loving deliberately, and trusting God when outcomes aren’t guaranteed Jeremy and his wife have adopted three children from foster care and have cared for many more over the past decade. With over 25 years of ministry experience and 15 years as a college professor, Jeremy brings both practical wisdom and deep faith to this conversation. He also shares about their book, The Heart Work of Foster Care: A Hopeful and Honest Guide to Foster Parenting, a Christ centered resource filled with real stories, encouragement, and practical insight for anyone walking the foster care journey. Jeremy is currently conducting an anonymous survey to better understand how fostering impacts foster parents’ marriages. If you’d like to participate, you can find it here: 👉 https://auburn.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_behFvYEixlsZ2kK You can also find Jeremy and Jara’s book here: 👉 https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Work-Foster-Care-Parenting-ebook/dp/B0F7Z44NQY Whether you’re new to foster care, deep into adoption, or simply want to understand how faith sustains families through trauma and uncertainty, this episode will encourage you, challenge you, and remind you that God is always working, even in the waiting. ☕ Grab your coffee and settle in — this one will stretch you, strengthen you, and remind you why love is always worth it. 💕 PS Want to join a supportive space for women who are navigating foster care, adoption, or just want to love others well? Come join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen
Adopting a Child with High Needs: Mental Health, Medications, and Trusting God Through the Unknown with Donna Kirkwood
2026/02/11
Welcome to Season Two of the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie — adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach. Whether you're navigating foster care, adoption, or parenting a child with trauma or mental health challenges — you’re in the right place. In this season premiere, I’m joined by Donna Kirkwood — former special education teacher, adoptive mom, author, and woman of deep faith — as she shares her family’s journey of saying “yes” to adopting a child with high needs. From the early days of behavioral challenges and medication decisions to the later diagnosis of schizoaffective bipolar disorder, Donna walks us through how faith, structure, and community helped them navigate trauma-informed parenting and deep unknowns. We talk about: Adopting a child with high needs and complex diagnoses Parenting through mental health challenges with grace and structure Medications and behavioral support through a trauma-informed lens Why boundaries, faith, and consistency matter Donna’s book, He Is the Vine, as a source of spiritual encouragement during hard seasons Whether you're parenting a child with trauma, navigating mental health in adoption, or walking through uncertainty with God — this episode will speak to your heart. ☕ Grab your coffee and settle in — this one will stretch you, strengthen you, and remind you why love is always worth it. 💕 PS — Want to join a supportive space for women who are navigating foster care, adoption, or just want to love others well? Come join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen Connect with Donna Kirkwood: 📘 He Is the Vine: From the Vineyard to the Tasting Room 📔 Companion Study Guide also available 📧 Email: www.DonnaKirkwood.com
When Your Adoptive Child Walks Away: Trusting God When You’ve Done All You Can
2025/09/25
Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast. I’m Christine Marie — adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach. Whether you’re in the early stages of foster care, navigating adoption, or standing in a season of unknowns — this space was created for you. Today’s episode is different. It’s not polished or perfectly planned — it’s real. It’s raw. It’s what I’m walking through right now. Last night, my daughter chose to leave. And after years of fighting, praying, loving, and believing for healing, I came to a place I never thought I’d be: surrender. Not because I stopped loving her — but because love doesn’t force. Love releases. Love trusts. This episode is a reflection on what it means to surrender your child to God when nothing makes sense. It’s for the mama who’s exhausted. The one who’s grieving. The one who has done everything “right” and still feels like it’s falling apart. If you’ve ever had to release control, grieve what could have been, or trust God with the child you love — I pray this message meets you in that sacred space. ☕ Grab your coffee and settle in — this one will stretch you, strengthen you, and remind you why love is always worth it.   XO-Christine 💕 PS — Want to join a supportive space for women who are navigating foster care, adoption, or just want to love others well? Come join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen
The Truth About Open Adoption: A Birth Mom’s Story of Loss, Love, and Reform with Sydney Curtin
2025/08/02
This week’s episode is one I hope every adoptive and foster parent listens to - and listens with an open heart. I’m honored to sit down with Sydney Curtin - birth mom, author of Courageous Considerations, speaker, life coach, and founder of Curtin Call - as she shares the raw and painful truth about her adoption story, and why she’s now advocating for ethical reform across the entire industry. In 2019, Sydney made what she believed was the most loving and selfless decision a mother could make - placing her daughter for adoption. What followed was a heartbreaking unraveling of promises made to her and her child. From being coerced into signing away her rights to experiencing the gut-wrenching reality of an unenforceable open adoption, Sydney’s story exposes what many don’t realize about the current adoption system. Together, we talk about: • The myth of open adoption • Why adoption must be treated as a lifelong relationship, not a transaction • How faith, courage, and grief shape the journey for birth moms • What it looks like to center the child while honoring both families involved Sydney’s book, Courageous Considerations, is a powerful tool designed to help both adoptive and natural families ask the hard questions before, during, and after placement. Because adoption, when done right, is not the severing of one family - it’s the joining of two. Whether you’ve adopted, are considering adoption, or want to better understand the full picture of what ethical, relational adoption can look like - this conversation will challenge you, stretch you, and invite you into something deeper. ☕ Grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in. XO, Christine Marie 💕 PS — Want to join a supportive space for women who are navigating foster care, adoption, or just want to love others well? Come join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen   Connect with Sydney Curtin: 🌐 Website: www.coachcurtin.com 📘 Courageous Considerations – now available on her website 📲 TikTok & Instagram: @Coach_SydneyCurtin 📘 Facebook: Sydney N. Curtin
How to Navigate College Admissions & Scholarships for Foster and Adoptive Children
2025/06/20
If the college admissions process feels overwhelming… you’re not alone. And if you’re a foster or adoptive parent? There are even more layers to navigate. This week on What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with Cynthia Nash, a college admissions and financial aid coach with over 20 years of experience at top-tier universities like Northwestern and Vanderbilt- and friend, this conversation is packed with gold. Cynthia has helped students earn millions in scholarships and grants, including: • Five students admitted to Vanderbilt- four on full rides • Three students at Johns Hopkins- two attending completely free • A Posse Scholar at Middlebury- with all four years fully covered And that’s just the beginning. Whether you’re parenting a child from foster care, adoption, or not—you’ll walk away from this episode equipped with tools and insight to help your teen step into a future they didn’t think was possible. In this episode, we talk about: • How to navigate the college admissions process with clarity • How foster and adoptive kids need different support • Where to find scholarships and financial aid that most families miss • The power of vision, mentorship, and strategy in shaping a child's future • And why education can be one of the most powerful generational tools of healing Whether your child is in 9th grade or nearing graduation- this episode will give you real steps, renewed hope, and a fresh vision for what’s possible. Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting   Get Cynthia’s Free College Admissions Guide: Download now: www.amazingjourneycollegecounseling.com Contact Cynthia Nash Email: [email protected] Learn About Her Coaching Programs: • Group Coaching for rising seniors (starts 6/1/25) • Elite Coaching for pre-med & engineering students (Junior–Senior year) Email Cynthia for details and availability: [email protected]
Helping Adoptive Families Heal: A Conversation with April Ficklin, TBRI® Practitioner
2025/06/16
This week on What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting, I had the absolute honor of sitting down with April Ficklin, a TBRI® Practitioner, adoptive mom, and the Director of Family Support Services for Flourishing Families of South Carolina. April brings both professional wisdom and personal experience to this conversation. Her work is centered on helping adoptive families find real connection, healing, and hope through Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) and her heart for trauma-informed care is nothing short of powerful. In this episode, we talk about: • The realities adoptive families face behind closed doors • How trauma impacts connection and what we can do about it • Why adoptive moms often feel unseen, and how to change that • How April is equipping families and organizations across South Carolina • And how faith plays a vital role in every part of this healing journey Whether you’re new to adoption or knee-deep in the hard parts, this conversation will remind you that healing is possible and you don’t have to do this alone. ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting Connect with April Ficklin: Instagram: www.instagram.com/april_ficklin Facebook: www.facebook.com/april.ficklin Learn more: www.flourishingfamiliessc.org Email: [email protected]
Adoptee to Adoptive Mom: Rebecca Del Pozo’s Powerful Adoption Story
2025/06/15
In this episode of What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting, I’m sitting down with my friend Rebecca Del Pozo- an adoptee, an adoptive mom, and a fierce advocate for families who’ve walked this road from every angle. This conversation is honest, vulnerable, and deeply encouraging. Rebecca doesn’t just talk about adoption- she’s lived it in every form. From the unexpected twists and tender moments to the hard decisions and holy perspective shifts, she shares how the Lord has used adoption to shape her family, her faith, and her purpose. If you’ve ever wrestled with the "why" behind your story, or wondered if you’re the right person for the calling in front of you, Rebecca’s story will meet you right where you are- and lift your eyes higher. ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen 🎙️ More from Rebecca: Ready to stop winging it and start leading your life on purpose? Grab her book here: https://amzn.to/3XyAqWv Moms in Real Estate—join her community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/millionairerealestatemoms Want Rebecca to train your team? Email: https://www.facebook.com/Rebecca.Volden.DelPozo Website: www.RebeccaDelPozo.com
Inside Foster Care: Mental Health, Trauma-Informed Parenting & Real Solutions with Dr. John DeGarmo
2025/05/13
Welcome back to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie — adoptive mom, former foster parent, and biblical mindset coach — and today’s guest is someone whose voice and impact in the foster care space cannot be overstated. I’m honored to sit down with Dr. John DeGarmo, founder and director of The Foster Care Institute, international speaker, best-selling author of 10 books, and foster/adoptive dad to over 60 children. Dr. DeGarmo has worked alongside child welfare agencies across the globe and is a leading voice for system change and trauma-informed parenting. In this conversation, we dive into the realities of foster care that few are willing to talk about — from the mental health crisis and over-medication of foster youth to the growing burnout among caregivers. We also talk about practical tools and mindsets that can help foster and adoptive parents stay grounded, effective, and full of hope even in the hardest seasons. Whether you’re currently fostering, considering it, or simply want to better support foster families in your community, this episode is packed with insight, encouragement, and truth. ☕ So grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in. XO, Christine Marie 🎧 In this episode, we cover: The over-medication crisis in foster care How trauma shows up in children and how to respond with connection The importance of mental health support for foster families What foster parents need most (and why many are walking away) Dr. DeGarmo’s personal journey and why he still believes in the system, despite its flaws About Dr. John DeGarmo: International keynote speaker and trainer Best-selling author of 10 books on foster care and parenting TED Talk presenter and media contributor Expert witness for foster care and child welfare legal cases Recipient of the Good Morning America Ultimate Hero Award and the Heroes of the Homeless Award Connect with Dr. DeGarmo: Website: www.drjohndegarmofostercare.com More Resources: The Foster Care Institute 💕 Join Our Free Community of Christian Foster & Adoptive Moms: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen 🎥 YouTube Channel
You Left the 99 to Save the 1: Devin Schubert’s Story of Fatherhood, Foster Care, Adoption, Trauma & Redemption
2025/04/20
This one is for the foster and adoptive parents carrying the weight no one sees—who keep showing up, even when it feels like everything is falling apart. Today, I’m sitting down with Devin Schubert—an adoptive dad of three—for a conversation about the cost of obedience, the depth of trauma, and the God who restores what we thought was lost forever. After adopting his son, Devin walked through five years of chaos: -Explosive trauma -Daily police calls -System after system that failed -And the heartbreak of watching his marriage fall apart When his wife left, Devin stepped into solo fatherhood, determined to fight for his son—alone. Until the fight nearly killed him.  Diagnosed with trauma shock  Given 3 months to live Flat on his back, ready to give up, Jesus walked in and said: “You left the 99 to save the 1. Now I’m giving you the 99 to tell your story to the nations.” And now—four years later—his son is being reunited with him and moving back home in just 4 months. This episode is a story of resilience, radical love, and full-circle redemption for every parent who’s ever wondered, “Is it worth it?” Tune in now and be reminded: God sees your sacrifice. He restores what was lost. And the story isn’t over yet. ☕ Grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in. XO, Christine Marie 📌 Connect with Devin: www.facebook.com/schubertdevin www.storiestostages.com 🎥 Watch on YouTube: youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting 💕 Join our community: facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen
Behind the Scenes of Foster Care: DJ Noble on Faith, Family & Embracing the Journey
2025/04/19
Today, I’m joined by the incredible DJ Noble, a former radio host, teacher, and long-time foster parent with a powerful 15-year journey that spans across Virginia and Kansas. In this episode, we’re talking about the REAL side of foster care—the emotions, the relationships, the red tape, and the redemption. Together, we unpack: ✨ What it’s like navigating two different state systems ✨ How to honor and embrace biological families ✨ The impact fostering can have on your own bio kids ✨ Practical advice for navigating relationships, grief, and growth DJ brings so much wisdom—not just from his professional background in sociology, urban affairs, and theology—but from living this life every single day. With his wife, Sanna, they’ve raised two biological sons and fostered dozens more. Right now? They’ve got three boys in their home and are still showing up with heart, humor, and purpose. This conversation is full of real talk, practical insight, and encouragement for anyone currently fostering or considering the call. Listen now to hear how DJ balances faith, family, and fostering—and why the way we view biological families could change everything. Check out DJ’s podcast “Off The Grid” at www.IndiesCollective.com for more of his powerful voice and mission. ☕ Grab your coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 📌 Follow for more faith-based foster care conversations: @cortisol_coach 💕 Join the community: facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen 📺 Watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting
Trauma-Informed Parenting & TBRI: Foster Care & Adoption with Nicole Barlow
2025/04/09
Welcome back to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast — a Christ-centered space for foster and adoptive moms navigating the complex, beautiful, and often messy journey of parenting children from hard places. I’m Christine Marie, an adoptive mom and certified Biblical mindset coach, and I’m so thankful you’re here. In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Nicole Barlow — fellow adoptive mama of six, Host of Foster Parent Well podcast, TBRI® practitioner, and wellness coach — as we dive into the heart of trauma-informed parenting. Nicole shares her family’s story of adopting through foster care and how Trust-Based Relational Intervention (TBRI) became the game-changer in helping her children heal. If you’re new to TBRI, it’s a trauma-informed, connection-centered parenting model designed to meet the needs of children who have experienced abuse, neglect, or trauma. It helps parents build trust, strengthen attachment, and bring safety and regulation to kids from hard places. Nicole offers practical tools, mindset shifts, and powerful encouragement for adoptive and foster moms who are feeling overwhelmed or unsure of how to help their children heal. Whether you're considering foster care, currently fostering, or in the thick of post-adoption life, this episode will bring hope, clarity, and a renewed sense of purpose. ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of Christian foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is full of real talk, support, prayer, and resources for women walking this road. Join us here: facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting   Connect with Nicole Barlow: Instagram: @nicoletbarlow Podcast: Foster Parent Well
From Trauma to Triumph: A Journey through Foster Care, Adoption, Abuse & Redemption with Joseph Pedroza
2025/03/15
***SENSITIVE CONTENT WARNING.*** In this powerful episode of the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast, I sit down with Joseph Pedroza, a man whose story will leave you speechless. His journey is one of pain, resilience, and divine transformation—a true testimony to the power of God’s redemption. Joseph’s childhood was marked by deep trauma—placed in foster care, experiencing horrific abuse after adoption, and facing multiple arrests both as a youth and as an adult. He endured some of life’s darkest moments, but his story didn’t end there. A life-changing encounter with the Holy Spirit radically transformed his life, setting him on a path of healing, faith, and restoration. Together, we dive deep into faith, healing, and the adoption journey. Joseph opens up about discovering his true identity in Christ and how that revelation brought him incredible breakthrough. If you’re navigating the complexities of foster care, adoption, trauma, or your own healing journey, this episode is for you. ✨ Get ready for a raw, eye-opening conversation about faith, resilience, and stepping into the fullness of who God created you to be. 🎧 Don’t miss this episode! Hit play now and be inspired. ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen 📺 Subscribe on YouTube for more faith-filled encouragement: https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting 💬 Want to connect with Joseph Pedroza personally? 🔗 Book a breakthrough session with Joseph: https://calendly.com/ephesians6coaching/breakthrough 📺 Follow his journey on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@ephesians6coaching?si=7vdR4IDUsWmzxtvM 📍 Connect on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BWnMP83FU/
What to Expect in Private Adoption: James McLamb’s Story of Faith & Family
2025/03/12
Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast! I’m Christine Marie, an adoptive mom and former foster parent, and I’m so glad you’re here. In today’s episode, I’m joined by James McLamb, the visionary founder and CEO of Generation Youth, known as America’s Youth Coach. With a background in Agricultural Education and Youth Development Leadership, James has dedicated his life to empowering and transforming the lives of young people. As a dynamic speaker, trainer, and the acclaimed author of Tomorrow’s Youth, James has a remarkable ability to connect with and inspire the next generation. His impact extends even further through The Generation Youth Show, a record-setting podcast where he shares powerful insights and interviews that motivate countless listeners. Beyond speaking and coaching, James is an innovator in youth development. He has pioneered groundbreaking programs like the Ziglar Youth Certification and the Generation Youth Coach Certification, equipping young individuals with the tools and confidence to thrive. But today, we’re diving into a deeply personal side of his journey—his experience with private adoption. James opens up about the challenges, triumphs, and unexpected blessings of adopting his two children. This conversation is a powerful testament to faith, trust, and the unconditional love that forms a family. Join us as we explore the intersection of faith and adoption, offering encouragement and insights for those on a similar path. Whether you’re considering adoption, in the midst of the journey, or simply looking for inspiration, this episode is for you! ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen https://www.youtube.com/@fosteringandadopting 📩 Connect with James McLamb: Email: [email protected] Instagram: @Generation__Youth Facebook: @GenerationYouth 🎙 Podcast: The Generation Youth Show
Adoption & Foster Care: An Inspiring Journey to Creating our Forever Family with Steve Wormer
2025/02/24
Welcome to my latest episode of the "What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting" podcast. I’m excited to share this heartwarming conversation with my special guest, Steve Wormer—a proven leader who embodies integrity, strength, and compassion in every area of his life.   Steve’s journey is nothing short of inspirational. He was a proven leader in corporate america, is the executive director of a nonprofit organization, and served in three churches, currently ministering at The Memphis Church. Following Jesus drives everything he does, and he’s dedicated his life to helping others process unhealed emotions like unforgiveness, bitterness, anxiety, and relationship challenges. As a John Maxwell-certified speaker, coach, and trainer, Steve not only shares his powerful personal story but also reveals his eight steps for getting unstuck and taking the next steps toward achieving one’s dreams. During this episode, Steve opens up about his unique path—from a turbulent youth to becoming a devoted husband, father, speaker, author, and executive director of the nonprofit “Hurt to Hope.” He candidly discusses the heartache he and his wife Rebecca faced, including five miscarriages and six failed adoption attempts, before God blessed them with three amazing children through adoption. His testimony is a moving reminder that prayer, persistence, and faith can transform even the most challenging circumstances into a story of hope. I am so excited for you to hear his story today and I am confident you will be as inspired as I was. ☕ Now, grab your cup of coffee, get comfy, and let’s dig in! XO, Christine Marie 💕 Join Our Community! After you listen, I’d love for you to come be part of our inner circle of foster and adoptive mamas! Our Facebook group is your gateway to valuable resources, support, and connection with other women who truly get it. Join us here: 👉 facebook.com/groups/fostercareandadoptionforchristianwomen Also, check out our YouTube channel: Fostering and Adopting   Connect with Steve Wormer: • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.stevewormer.com • Facebook: Steve Wormer • LinkedIn: Steve Wormer • YouTube: Steve Wormer

Podcast reviews

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4.9 out of 5
79 reviews
★★★★★
master recruiter 🧲 2025/08/15
Amazing podcast
As a retired marriage and family therapist, I think this resource is invaluable for families, considering fostering or adopting.
★★★★★
Kajshchhcodpdodh3 2025/08/13
As an adoptee
As an adoptee and former chair on an adoption agency board, this is such a blessing you have created! This is the side no one wants to talk about… yet...
★★★★★
Lsn2mepc 2025/08/13
What a wealth of knowledge!
If you are looking to adopt while fostering this is the right podcast for you. This has been very helpful during this time for my wife and I!!! Thank ...
★★★★★
stacynich 2025/08/12
So much useful information packed in here 💕💕
Love the honesty clarity, and the insight that this show gives listening to her just feels my heart and her guest oh my goodness .. over the top 💕
★★★★★
Manda081117 2025/08/12
Everything I didn’t know I needed!
What a refreshing podcast! In a world where there is so much hype and smoke and mirrors, this is raw and so authentic! Much needed!
★★★★★
Coach GraveDigger 2025/06/21
Top notch!!
As a foster adoptive dad!! Truly encouraging to have someone else who gets it
★★★★★
Aubree | Mold Free Mom 2025/03/18
This is jam packed with hope!
This podcast is so helpful if you are considering fostering or adopting!! I have often felt overwhelmed with all of the information in the world and I...
★★★★★
My2kidsarefun 2025/03/12
Thank you for your honesty
Being a foster parent comes with its reward, but you have to go through all of the challenges to get there. One of the biggest challenges is learning ...
★★★★★
Mntcheer 2025/02/26
So helpful
Christine does such a great job of helping mamas not feel alone! Her passion for her kids and for the Lord is contagious!
★★★★★
Wellduh325 2025/02/23
Love this podcast
Please keep making more episodes. I’ve devoured all your episodes in just a few days. I’ve learned so much! Thank you for your honesty, openness , and...
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