Resilient Voices & Beyond  By  cover art

Resilient Voices & Beyond

By: Michael D. Davis-Thomas Aka MDDTSpeaks
  • Summary

  • Resilient Voices & Beyond is a podcast that amplifies the voices of those who were once silenced and aims to empower a new generation of foster care alum leaders. Through conversations with community partners, leaders, advocates, and activists, this podcast educates listeners on reforms, policies, and advocacy related to foster care, adoption, kinship, CCIs, JJ, and the child welfare system. The podcast challenges stigmas and labels surrounding these topics and creates a dialogue on reform and advocacy that is already happening or needs to happen. The core values of Resilient Voices & Beyond include empowerment, inclusivity, education, collaboration, authenticity, and innovation. The mission of the podcast is to create a platform for silenced voices to be heard and received, while the vision is to inspire and empower a new generation of leaders committed to making a positive change in the world.
    Copyright MDDTSpeaks
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Episodes
  • "Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"
    Feb 5 2024
    "Be the Difference for a Child: The Joan E. Ulsher Story"

    Episode Description:

    In this deeply inspiring episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," we sit down with Joan E. Ulsher, a figure of resilience, hope, and unwavering dedication to child advocacy. From surviving child abuse and navigating the challenges of foster care to serving as a beacon of light for countless children in the foster care system, Joan's life journey embodies the essence of making a significant difference in the lives of the most vulnerable.
    Join us as Joan shares her remarkable story, chronicled in her new memoir, "Misplaced Childhood: A True Story of Resiliency and Child Advocacy." This episode is not just a narrative of overcoming adversity but a call to action, urging each of us to explore how we can contribute to the well-being and future of children in foster care.

    Guest Bio:

    Joan Ulsher's life is a testament to the power of resilience and advocacy. A retired U.S. Army Major, award-winning child advocate, and a San Antonio-based writer and philanthropist, Joan has turned her harrowing experiences into a force for good. Through her work as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) in Bexar County, Texas, and her hands-on DIY projects for children entering foster homes, Joan is a living example of how one person can truly be the difference for a child.

    In This Episode, You'll Discover:
    • Joan's personal journey from a child abuse survivor to a champion for children in the foster care system.
    • The inspiration behind her memoir, "Misplaced Childhood," and how it aims to illuminate the crucial role of CASA volunteers.
    • Insights into Joan's multifaceted career, from her military service to her advocacy work, and how these experiences have shaped her mission.
    • Joan's unique approach to supporting foster children through her DIY projects, including the story behind her 40th custom-painted dresser.
    • How listeners can get involved and support children in foster care, inspired by Joan's example.
    Connect with Joan E. Ulsher:
    • Follow Joan on Instagram: @joan_ulsher
    • Discover Joan's DIY projects and advocacy work on Pinterest: @joanakitas
    • Learn more about Joan, her memoir, and how you can support Child Advocates San Antonio at www.joanulsher.com
    Tune in to this powerful episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond" to hear Joan E. Ulsher's incredible story and learn how you, too, can make a meaningful impact in the lives of children in foster care.



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    1 hr and 6 mins
  • "My Story Matters Because I Matter. I Am Absolutely Enough."
    Jan 27 2024
    In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," 🎙️ we delve into the inspiring journey of Miranda Mizla, from her challenging beginnings in foster care 🏠 to her remarkable transformation into a Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) 💼. Join us as Miranda shares her story of resilience, determination, and the belief in one's inherent worth, encapsulated by our episode title, a poignant quote from Bréne Brown: "My story matters because I matter. I am absolutely enough." ✨

    Certainly! Here's the revised podcast episode description with added emojis for a more engaging and visually appealing touch:Title: "My Story Matters Because I Matter. I Am Absolutely Enough." - Bréne Brown 🌟Episode Description:In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," 🎙️ we delve into the inspiring journey of Miranda Mizla, from her challenging beginnings in foster care 🏠 to her remarkable transformation into a Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) 💼. Join us as Miranda shares her story of resilience, determination, and the belief in one's inherent worth, encapsulated by our episode title, a poignant quote from Bréne Brown: "My story matters because I matter. I am absolutely enough." ✨Miranda Mizla, a proud alumna of Wayne State University, 🎓 has not only achieved academic and professional success but has also been a beacon of hope and change. Her extensive work with the Annie E. Casey Foundation as a Jim Casey Fellow and her active participation in the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative highlight her commitment to advocacy and her passion for reforming the child welfare system. Through her journey, Miranda represents the voice of countless individuals navigating the foster care system and illustrates how resilience can lead one from merely surviving to truly thriving. 💪

    Discover Miranda's unique perspectives and insights as we explore her life's trials and triumphs, emphasizing the power of self-worth and resilience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or understanding the transformative power of self-acceptance and perseverance. 🌈

    Certainly! Here's the revised podcast episode description with added emojis for a more engaging and visually appealing touch:Title: "My Story Matters Because I Matter. I Am Absolutely Enough." - Bréne Brown 🌟Episode Description:In this empowering episode of "Resilient Voices & Beyond," 🎙️ we delve into the inspiring journey of Miranda Mizla, from her challenging beginnings in foster care 🏠 to her remarkable transformation into a Licensed Master Social Worker (LLMSW) 💼. Join us as Miranda shares her story of resilience, determination, and the belief in one's inherent worth, encapsulated by our episode title, a poignant quote from Bréne Brown: "My story matters because I matter. I am absolutely enough." ✨Miranda Mizla, a proud alumna of Wayne State University, 🎓 has not only achieved academic and professional success but has also been a beacon of hope and change. Her extensive work with the Annie E. Casey Foundation as a Jim Casey Fellow and her active participation in the Michigan Youth Opportunities Initiative highlight her commitment to advocacy and her passion for reforming the child welfare system. Through her journey, Miranda represents the voice of countless individuals navigating the foster care system and illustrates how resilience can lead one from merely surviving to truly thriving. 💪Discover Miranda's unique perspectives and insights as we explore her life's trials and triumphs, emphasizing the power of self-worth and resilience. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration or understanding the transformative power of self-acceptance and perseverance. 🌈

    Connect with Miranda Mizla:
    • LinkedIn: Miranda Mizla 💼
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    1 hr and 12 mins
  • "Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through"
    Jan 20 2024
    Title: "Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through"

    🎙️ Join us for a heartfelt and inspiring journey on episode 28 of Resilient Voices & Beyond Podcast, titled "Never Lose Faith and You Will Make It Through." In this powerful episode, we sit down with the incredible Tamisha Macklin, a woman of many titles and a beacon of resilience.

    Tamisha Macklin wears many hats - Wife, Mother, Foster care/Juvenile Justice Alumni, System Change Maker, Advocate for Youth, Life Coach, Mentor, Motivational Speaker, Author, and Poet. At 35 years old, she's not just a survivor but a true force of change.

    In this episode, Tamisha opens up about her remarkable life story. She spent her formative years in the child welfare system and later found herself entangled in the Juvenile Justice system. Against all odds, she aged out of care at 19. Tamisha's tenacity led her to complete her undergraduate degree at Metropolitan State University of Denver, earning a bachelor's degree in Cross-System Youth Services. But she doesn't stop there; she aspires to attain a master's degree to continue her mission.

    For over 15 years, Tamisha has dedicated herself to improving the child welfare and Juvenile justice systems. She has graced youth panels, held positions on various boards, and traveled as an advocate for organizations that support children and youth. Tamisha's "lived experience" is her driving force, empowering her to assist other youth in their journeys.

    Tamisha's journey is marked by recognition and achievement. She was twice nominated for the Spirit of Youth Award by the Coalition for Juvenile Justice. She also presented at the Georgetown University Training Institutes children's mental health conference in 2014, sharing her insights on being a leader and advocate within systems of care.

    Her involvement extends to projects like HYPE (Helping Youth on the Path to Employment) through Rutgers University, where she worked on developing a Manual and Training Program for Transition Age Youth and Young Adults with Psychiatric Conditions. Tamisha is also actively contributing to Elevating Connections INC, a non-profit organization supporting siblings separated in foster care.

    Before embarking on her journey as a mother, Tamisha actively participated in various councils, boards, and committees, making significant contributions to the National Policy Council for Foster Youth and Alumni, the Colorado COACT systems of care steering committee, and more.

    Recently, Tamisha made a significant life change, leaving Denver for a new beginning in Michigan, all while contemplating her next career endeavor and taking time to write her story.

    Connect with Tamisha and be inspired:
    📧 Email: Tamisha.Macklin-Clark@outlook.com
    🔗 Guest's Facebook Profile
    🔗 Guest's LinkedIn Profile

    Tune in now for a podcast episode that will leave you motivated and believing in the strength of the human spirit. #ResilienceJourney #BelieveInYourself #NeverLoseFaith #YouthAdvocacy #LifeAfterAdversity #PodcastEpisode #TamishaMacklin 🎧
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    45 mins

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