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

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

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

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

***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/

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: james@generationziglar.com Instagram: @Generation__Youth Facebook: @GenerationYouth 🎙 Podcast: The Generation Youth Show

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: booknow@stevewormer.com • Website: www.stevewormer.com • Facebook: Steve Wormer • LinkedIn: Steve Wormer • YouTube: Steve Wormer

Welcome to the What to Expect While Fostering and Adopting podcast—a space created to provide guidance, encouragement, and real talk for foster and adoptive moms navigating the challenges of the system.

In this episode, we’re tackling one of the biggest struggles in this journey: fear. It’s so easy to let worry and uncertainty take over, but today, I’m sharing how to shift from a fear-based mindset to one grounded in love and trust in Jesus.

With experience fostering 77 children, I’ve learned firsthand how overwhelming this path can be. But I’ve also learned how to surrender control, release the stress, and find true peace in God’s plan—no matter what comes our way.

You’ll walk away from this episode with practical strategies to break free from anxiety, build unshakable faith, and create a home filled with grace and peace. You’re not in this alone—let’s do this together!

☕ 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