Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Empress a former foster youth that aged out. We talk about independent living programs, foster care statistics and spreading awareness. Be sure to follow the guest on social media @Empresstlove333Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Empress a former foster youth that aged out. We talk about independent living programs, foster care statistics and spreading awareness. Be sure to follow the guest on social media @Empresstlove333 Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 25 "Empress"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Intersectional adoptee who shares their experiences as an international transracial adoptee as well as a first mom. There is so much intersectionality in this episode be sure to listen!Be sure to follow the guest on social media @intersectionaladopteeWatch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Intersectional adoptee who shares their experiences as an international transracial adoptee as well as a first mom. There is so much intersectionality in this episode be sure to listen! Be sure to follow the guest on social media @intersectionaladoptee Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Biological Parents Special: "Intersectional Adoptee"

if you are aware of the story if the illegal adoption on TIKTOK that happen this week here is the truth

The Truth about Hope

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Dee also known as @HonestBirthMom on Tiktok and she shares her experienceas a first mother in private adoption. We speak about how she was lied to and coerced and what assistance birth parents need. Be sure to follow Dee on Tiktok @honestbirthmomWatch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Dee also known as @HonestBirthMom on Tiktok and she shares her experienceas a first mother in private adoption. We speak about how she was lied to and coerced and what assistance birth parents need. Be sure to follow Dee on Tiktok @honestbirthmom Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Biological Parents Special: "Dee"

Hey Light Shiners!  We have a special month of episodes this month where we will highlight first/birth parents. In this episode, I am joined by CJ a first father whose child was given up for adoption without his consent. He speaks about how this affected him and why he thinks racism was the main reason it happened. Follow CJ on Social Media at https://www.tiktok.com/@childlessparentand his website https://cjmiler105.com/Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! We have a special month of episodes this month where we will highlight first/birth parents. In this episode, I am joined by CJ a first father whose child was given up for adoption without his consent. He speaks about how this affected him and why he thinks racism was the main reason it happened. Follow CJ on Social Media at <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/</a>@childlessparent and his website <a href="https://cjmiler105.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://cjmiler105.com/</a> Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Biological Parents Special: "CJ"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Leija an adoptee whose parents were immigrants and lost custody of her. She talks about her relationship with her adoptive parents and her reunification with her biological family. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Leija an adoptee whose parents were immigrants and lost custody of her. She talks about her relationship with her adoptive parents and her reunification with her biological family. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 24 "Leija"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Angela Proudfoot a Crown Ward who suffered severe abuse at the hands of her biological parents. They speak about how the cps system in Canada failed them and how they and many others are fighting back!Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Angela Proudfoot a Crown Ward who suffered severe abuse at the hands of her biological parents. They speak about how the cps system in Canada failed them and how they and many others are fighting back! Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 23 "Angela"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Lucy, a former foster youth who was bounced between several homes. She explains the abuse she went through in those homes and how she reunified with her father in the end. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Lucy, a former foster youth who was bounced between several homes. She explains the abuse she went through in those homes and how she reunified with her father in the end. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 22 "Lucy"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Theo a queer adoptee who was adopted by religious senior citizens and they explain to me how the age gap and religious views made it hard to grow up them.Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Theo a queer adoptee who was adopted by religious senior citizens and they explain to me how the age gap and religious views made it hard to grow up them. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 21 "Theo"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by LadySnow a Bi-Racial, Transracial adoptee who was born with cerebral palsy. She speaks about reunification with her biological father but her biological mother does not want a relationship. We also speak on how adoptees like herself are medically abused by their adoptive parents. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by LadySnow a Bi-Racial, Transracial adoptee who was born with cerebral palsy. She speaks about reunification with her biological father but her biological mother does not want a relationship. We also speak on how adoptees like herself are medically abused by their adoptive parents. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 20 "Lady Snow"

Karlos Dillard, Author, Speaker, and Lived Experience Foster Care Advocate host this illuminative show about the truth of the foster care system. Joined weekly by former foster youth and adoptees, Karlos and his guest will shine a light on what it really is like being in the foster care and adoption systems. Karlos has a background in entertainment and production, so expect this show to be real, eyeopening, and sometimes funny. If you are a former foster youth and would like to share your experience with the foster system please email me karlos.r.dillard@gmail.com

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Sonya who entered foster care at 2 years old. Her parents were mentally disabled and struggled to complete their family plan so the state terminated their rights.Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Sonya who entered foster care at 2 years old. Her parents were mentally disabled and struggled to complete their family plan so the state terminated their rights. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 19 "Sonya"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Kieonna who spent the majority of their childhood in foster care with the same foster parents.  the audio on my end went wacky towards the end of the interview so I apologize in advance*Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Kieonna who spent the majority of their childhood in foster care with the same foster parents. the audio on my end went wacky towards the end of the interview so I apologize in advance* Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 18 "Kieonna"

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Lee Lee, a former foster youth who was in over 50 foster placements. She shares the horrors she survived at the hands of those who were supposed to protect her while others looked away. She also shares with us her story of overcoming the tribulations she went through and how she is giving back to the Foster Care system. Follow Lee Lee on social media! https://www.tiktok.com/@leeleeclark?lang=enhttps://risingwithhope.godaddysites.com/Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Lee Lee, a former foster youth who was in over 50 foster placements. She shares the horrors she survived at the hands of those who were supposed to protect her while others looked away. She also shares with us her story of overcoming the tribulations she went through and how she is giving back to the Foster Care system. Follow Lee Lee on social media! <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/</a>@leeleeclark?lang=en <a href="https://risingwithhope.godaddysites.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://risingwithhope.godaddysites.com/</a> Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a> Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

Ep: 17 "Lee Lee"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Penny who was Transracially adopted into an older Caucasian family. Her parents came from a generation of Jim Crow but did not see color, and that ended up being detrimental for her. She also shared her experience with reunification with her biological family and how that process was. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Penny who was Transracially adopted into an older Caucasian family. Her parents came from a generation of Jim Crow but did not see color, and that ended up being detrimental for her. She also shared her experience with reunification with her biological family and how that process was. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 16 "Penny"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Valeria, who only has experience in group homes both open and closed facilities. The facilities were St Johns home in Grand Rapids and Wedgwood’s residential home in Grand Rapids. At Wedgwood, a friend in there un-alived themselves and their mother wasn’t much better. We speak about how their time in these facilities has affected their life.Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Valeria, who only has experience in group homes both open and closed facilities. The facilities were St Johns home in Grand Rapids and Wedgwood’s residential home in Grand Rapids. At Wedgwood, a friend in there un-alived themselves and their mother wasn’t much better. We speak about how their time in these facilities has affected their life. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 15 "Valerie"

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Issac, a transracial adoptee. Isaac has used his story of being adopted and growing up in a white world to curate deep conversations about race in America. With his unique insight on racial tensions between the white and black communities, they have been able to curate impactful conversations where everyone learns to value each other and their experience, while learning about systemic racism, privilege, and their role in it.Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Issac, a transracial adoptee. Isaac has used his story of being adopted and growing up in a white world to curate deep conversations about race in America. With his unique insight on racial tensions between the white and black communities, they have been able to curate impactful conversations where everyone learns to value each other and their experience, while learning about systemic racism, privilege, and their role in it. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 14 "Isaac"

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Nina an adoptee. We talk about her adoption and her journey reunifying with her biological family!Watch the video of episodes only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

Hey Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Nina an adoptee. We talk about her adoption and her journey reunifying with her biological family! Watch the video of episodes only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a> Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

Ep: 13 "Nina"

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Josh, a former ward of the state who is currently a foster parent. We speak about his lived experience in the Indiana foster system, Teens in the system, black trash bags, the system in general. There is a beautiful special surprise so make sure you tune in!Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Josh, a former ward of the state who is currently a foster parent. We speak about his lived experience in the Indiana foster system, Teens in the system, black trash bags, the system in general. There is a beautiful special surprise so make sure you tune in! Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 12 "Josh"

What’s good light shiners! In this episode, we get Shahems lived experience in kinship care. We discuss how similar foster care and kinship care is and the effects it’s had. Shahem is a licensed therapist and social worker and focuses on advocating for the Black and brown youth in his community. Teaching about the disparities they face. We also discuss Tiktok and how it is a useful tool to educate people about the foster care system but how racist it can be.Follow Shahem on social media:IG https://www.instagram.com/5hahem/Tiktok https://www.tiktok.com/@5hahem?Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

What’s good light shiners! In this episode, we get Shahems lived experience in kinship care. We discuss how similar foster care and kinship care is and the effects it’s had. Shahem is a licensed therapist and social worker and focuses on advocating for the Black and brown youth in his community. Teaching about the disparities they face. We also discuss Tiktok and how it is a useful tool to educate people about the foster care system but how racist it can be. Follow Shahem on social media: IG <a href="https://www.instagram.com/5hahem/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.instagram.com/5hahem/</a> Tiktok <a href="https://www.tiktok.com/" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.tiktok.com/</a>@5hahem? Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a> Please be sure to leave a 5-star rating and review to keep more amazing episodes coming!

Ep: 11 "Shahem"

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Monique, a former Crown Ward who is currently involved in a lawsuit against The Crown for failure to inform foster children of their rights to sue for abuses. We discuss the similarities and differences between being a foster child in Canada vs the USA as well as the ongoing battles of former foster children to secure housing, education, employment, and the general battle to transition into society after being a Ward. Be sure to follow Monique on social media @beauty_cakes. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=trueIf you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e

Light Shiners! In this episode, I am joined by Monique, a former Crown Ward who is currently involved in a lawsuit against The Crown for failure to inform foster children of their rights to sue for abuses. We discuss the similarities and differences between being a foster child in Canada vs the USA as well as the ongoing battles of former foster children to secure housing, education, employment, and the general battle to transition into society after being a Ward. Be sure to follow Monique on social media @beauty_cakes. Watch the video of this episode only on Patreon! <a href="https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://www.patreon.com/user?u=45714095&amp;fan_landing=true</a> If you would like to be on the show please fill sign up here <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://docs.google.com/forms/d/1v7bvzVA12m64Ujr-I9eQcR5UKO8vOIMjDdNic0YYLFg/prefill</a> Please help us keep shining light on the truths of the foster care system by donating. Please click the link to donate! <a href="https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e" rel="noopener nofollow" target="_blank">https://karlosdillard.com/checkout/donate?donatePageId=611ab8be7dbb68767abf984e</a>

Ep: 10 "Monique"

Karlos Dillard, Author, Speaker, and Lived Experience Foster Care Advocate host this illuminative show about the truth of the foster care system. Joined weekly by former foster youth and adoptees, Karlos and his guest will shine a light on what it really is like being in the foster care and adoption systems. Karlos has a background in entertainment and production, so expect this show to be real, eyeopening, and sometimes funny. If you are a former foster youth and would like to share your experience with the foster system please email me <a href="mailto:karlos.r.dillard@gmail.com">karlos.r.dillard@gmail.com</a>

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