A Foster Kid's Tale

After almost a year away from the mic, I’m finally closing the chapter on A Foster Kid’s Tale . This podcast started as a place for me to tell my story out loud. There were a lot of rambles, a lot of venting, a few random tears, and a whole lot of figuring things out in real time. It wasn’t polished, but it was honest, and it helped me find my voice. Over the past year a lot has changed. I release...

In this episode of A Foster Kid’s Tale, I finally dust off the mic after a three-month pause. I talk imposter syndrome, not just as an author, but as a foster kid trying to find my place in a tight-knit, faith-driven circle of online advocates. I share what it’s like to feel like you missed the secret handshake. I get into Chapter 18: No Mistakes, Just Happy Accidents and Chapter 19: Battle of the...

In Chapter 16 : Beavis and Butthead, I pull back the curtain on my teenage and early adult years with Jean and William—my life givers. These relationships were a non-stop rollercoaster of drama, conflict, and emotional turbulence. From fiery verbal sparring matches to the constant weight of their problems and financial burdens, it often felt like I was the parent in the equation. In this episode,...

This year was one for the books—literally and figuratively. From publishing Rollercoaster Rides and Resilience: A Foster Kid's Tale to finally getting answers about my endometriosis, 2024 was painful, transformative, and wildly successful. Tune in as I share my wins, losses, and a whole lot of laughs, plus my big plans for 2025. If you’re chasing your own dreams or learning to set boundaries, this...

In this episode, I dive deep into Attachment Theory and how it’s shaped my journey through life. From the impact of missing early attachments to learning how to trust and build relationships as an adult, I share my personal story and insights on emotional healing. Plus, with the holidays approaching, I reflect on the absence of a supportive village and how that impacts my connection with others. T...

In this episode, we dive into Chapter 14 of Pathway to Victory , where I share the raw journey of leaving home at 16. From stepping into college at a young age to experiencing my first round of homelessness at 18, these years were filled with intense life lessons. I also get real about the beginnings of my "daddy issues" and how they impacted my sense of self. Recording this episode on the very da...

This past year wasn’t just another trip around the sun—it was a game-changer. In this episode, I’m reflecting on 35, a year that pushed me to new heights, personally and professionally. From big wins to deeper self-awareness, I’m celebrating all the ways this year helped me grow. But here’s the twist: birthdays haven’t always been easy for me, and I’m sharing why today, of all days, used to feel m...

In this episode of A Foster Kid’s Tale , I take an unexpected detour from my usual format to share some deeply personal reflections. I talk about my recent breakdown, which many of you saw on Instagram, and the emotional moment of finally saying goodbye to Jean—someone I refuse to call "Mom." I also open up about why I chose to use a pen name for my memoir, along with why I renamed everyone, inclu...

Hey everyone! This is just a quick check-in to say hi and let you know what's been going on. Can you believe how fast this summer has flown by? I haven't had a chance to record a normal episode in a while, but I promise more content is coming soon! Also, apologies for the tinny sound quality in this episode—turns out I was using my computer mic instead of my podcast mic. Oops! Thanks for s...

In this special episode of A Foster Kid's Tale, I'm focusing on you--the incredible youth transitioning out of foster care and the dedicated workers supporting you. Packed with essential advice and practical insights, this episode is your guide to navigating independence with confidence. Join me as we explore: - Understanding Extended Care and Maintenance (ECM) and similar programs across differen...

In this episode, I revisit my nine months in a secured residential treatment centre for at-risk youth from 2003-2004. I share the highs and lows, bonds formed, and lessons learned. Discover how the structured environment and unique Section 19 school ignited my passion for advocating for foster kids. This pivotal time changed my perspective and set me on the path to where I am today. Join me for a...

In this episode of "A Foster Kid's Tale," we're diving into Chapters 11 and 12 of my book. We take a raw and unfiltered look at my grade 9 experience, filled with relentless bullying and the chaos of moving to seven different foster homes in just a year and a half. Every suspension or runaway attempt led to another move—a cycle of instability and uncertainty. We also delve into Chapter 12, which d...

Join me for a quick and heartfelt break from our regular programming as I reflect on Father’s Day - a day that brings both joy and sorrow. I’ll share my journey of coping with the challenges and poignant memories this day brings, alongside finding strength in the remarkable fathers around me, especially my rockstar Lover and his dad . This episode explores the dual emotions of Father’s Day, celebr...

In this episode, we dive into Chapter eight to ten, my bio family history; the good, the bad, and the surprising. From lost connections to newfound relatives, it's a journey through the complexities of tracing family roots. Whether you're in the foster care system or just curious, tune in for some real talk and heartfelt stories. Don't miss out, listen now and share your thoughts! "Rollercoaster R...

In this week's episode of "A Foster Kid's Tale," we stumble deep into the unique rhythm of life as a foster kid. From scheduled family visits and volunteer drivers to the formalities of monthly care meetings and the ever-changing dynamics of group homes and treatment centres, we cover it all. I share my personal experiences with the ups and downs, the labels and case numbers, and the emotional rol...

Right off the hop, this whole episode is a massive trigger warning! I discuss one of my abusers and some of the events that took place. And uh oh someone get the soap out, I drop the F Bomb quite a bit lol. In this very raw and emotional (obviously haha) episode, I open up about a few of my experiences with Ghost X, one of my abusers from my childhood. After roughly 25 years of suppressing these t...

In this episode, we explore Chapters Three and Five , delving into the magic and heartbreak of childhood friendships. Early best friends shape our social skills and emotional development, teaching us empathy and communication.  But what happens when we lose these friends in the most traumatic ways? The abrupt loss can leave lasting scars, challenging our trust and security. Join me as I share the...

Join me in the latest episode as we delve into Chapter Two: "The Dark Cloud Lady," the foster "parent" with whom I spent the most time with during my party time in my care journey. In this episode we confront misconceptions about foster homes and the complexities of Mother's Day. Not all foster homes are warm and nurturing, and this episode explores the realities of navigating foster care dynamics...

Woot Woot. We are now on Part One: Darkness Falls, Chapter One: Adventures from Birth to Crown Ward. Today we explore the roots of my story- from birth into foster care and becoming a Crown Ward, where the messiness began. I share how I was born into negative generational cycles and the challenges I faced right from the very start of my life. Join me for an honest look at where it all began! A hug...

Today we chat about the preface chapter in my book. We explore my earliest memories in life. This episode delves into sensitive topics, so a TRIGGER WARNING is in place regarding discussions of abuse. In the midst of sharing these experiences, I have several raw moments of tears, but we also have exciting news about new sponsors joining the show *hahaha*. This episode leans toward the mellow and s...

Dive into my foster care journey with me, Clara, host and author of "Rollercoaster Rides and Resilience: A Foster Kid's Tale." In this episode, hear the first chapter of my book, along with an epic dad joke. Plus, grab your copy of the paperback, now on Amazon. Don't forget to visit my website for more. Thanks for joining me! Visit https://linktr.ee/iamacyclebreaker to learn more! Don't forget to...

This podcast and book is dedication to all foster kids - past, present and future. May you know there is no limit to your potential. May you know you DESERVE every ounce of happiness, strength and love on this planet. To everyone in general, who has had to fight through their own traumas.

Hey fellow foster kid pals- past and present. Also a hello to fellow trauma survivors and fighters, hello to foster parents, teachers and anyone working in social work. I spent 35 years in survival mode and decided to start unlocking my path to healing mode! I'm a huge fan of sharing and advocating. So, here I am sharing my memoir with you. What was supposed to be a personal journal become so much...